Just in time for those "get healthy" New Year's resolutions, the Methodist Mansfield Run With Heart is back for its fifth year. The half marathon, 5K, and one-mile fun run honors those living with heart disease, their loved ones, and emergency responders, all while supporting cardiology services at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center.
Here are 5 important things to know before January 27:
1. Registration fees increase as the day gets closer
The cost to sign up for the 5K ($25) and fun run ($15) remain the same up until January 25, but if you're ready to tackle the chip-timed half marathon then you should register by January 22. After that, the fee increases from $55 to $65.
2. The race is good for you heart — and the community's
All proceeds from the race go toward helping support cardiology services at the hospital, as well as sustaining the Heart of the Community Program, which helps improve the cardiovascular health of the communities through heart disease education, prevention, and encouraging a heart-healthy lifestyle. A portion will also go to the Tarrant County American Heart Association.
3. There are awards
Running as part of a team? Then you have the chance to go home in glory as the winner of any of these categories: fastest emergency responders team, fastest school team, fastest open team, fastest corporate team, and largest teams based on the number of registered participants across all events. If you're jogging solo, you can still win the top overall masters (male and female) or be one of the top three finishers in your age group for both the 5K and the half marathon. Everyone who crosses that half marathon finish line receives a participant medal.
4. Kids are encouraged to run too
If you're making that Saturday a family affair, know that there's even an awards age group for those who are 10 and under. Pop the babies in a stroller and jog along too — just make sure you're placed appropriately in the crowd. But leave the pups at home, since no four-legged friends are allowed.
5. The morning is like a party
Expect fresh fruit, muffins, coffee, water, and heart-healthy goodies prior to and following the race at the Methodist Mansfield Finish Line Celebration. And bonus: Parking is free. Look for lots on the east side of Methodist Mansfield Medical Center and at Mary Orr Elementary and Mansfield High schools.
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Register here for the Methodist Mansfield Run With Heart on January 27.
