Last year a sudden cancelation due to bad weather caused the Mississippi Blues Marathon to take a year off, but this year they are back for their 11th annual event. Downtown Jackson will play host the Boston Marathon qualifier on Saturday, January 27.
“The marathon course takes runners on a scenic tour of the capital city, passing historic landmarks, centers of education and numerous residential areas conveying the personality of Jackson.”
The marathon’s website says that live music will be hosted throughout the course to honor Mississippi’s rich Blues history.
“The Blues were born in Mississippi and they are also a big part of the race! Local Mississippi Blues artists provide the soundtrack to the entire race weekend beginning with the pre-race Expo and continuing through the finish line. In addition to music at the start/finish area, live musicians will be stationed all along the race course.”
A portion of the proceeds from the marathon benefit the Mississippi Blues Commission’s Musicians’ Benevolent Fund.
Runners are coming from all over to participate in this year’s race with 47 states and seven countries represented in this year’s field.
If you’re looking to run you can register online, here. If you’re not looking to run the full 26.2-mile marathon, the event will also feature a half marathon, a “quarter note” race which is 6.5 miles, a 5k, and marathon relay where a team of five will complete a marathon in stages.
Awards will be presented following each of the races.
For more detailed information, click here to view the athlete’s guide.
