New half marathon run at Marion Arts Festival

Hundreds of runners and walkers have traditionally opened their racing season at the Marion Arts Festival. For those who have been asking for a longer, more challenging early season race, the MAF introduces the half marathon event at this year's festival on Saturday, May 19.

The course will expose runners to a variety of Marion city features including parks, trails, the historic district, as well as some of the newer parts of the city, according to race organizer John Snitko of JMS Racing Services. “For those who want a good race time, start out fast as there's a single file bridge about three-quarters of a mile out,” Snitko says. [Race Map]

The 5K race and walk will again feature a fun and competitive course around the residential area near uptown Marion. Both the 5K run and half marathons will feature the Ultra RFID Race Timing System, the latest technology that utilizes a small chip on the back of the bib number. The chip is disposable so once you cross the finish line, you can immediately head for the post-race activities.

Race sponsor, Benchmark, is donating $1,300 to be awarded to the top finishers of the half marathon, and $1,100 for the top winners of the 5K race. Prizes will be awarded in cash or purchase prize certificates to spend on art at the festival.

To register or for more information, go to www.pigmantri.com/maf.