Mississippi Blues Marathon
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi has teamed up with the Mississippi Blues
Commission to create the world-class Mississippi Blues Marathon to re-inspire
the Mississippi Blues tradition. The marathon emphasizes the history of the
Mississippi Blues culture in an environment that promotes a healthy lifestyle
with an emphasis on physical activity.
The inspiration for the marathon came
from a long-standing tradition started in the Capitol City back in 1976 by the
Mississippi Track Club.
A similar marathon was held in the Jackson and the
Jackson-Metro region that lasted until 1999 when the venue was changed to the
historic Natchez Trace, just outside of Jackson. This tradition ended shortly
thereafter in 2006.
The Mississippi Blues Marathon & Half Marathon made its
inaugural run in early 2008, attracting more than 1,400 runners from throughout
the United States and a host of onlookers cheering all the way to the finish
line. The event offers a full marathon for experienced runners, a half marathon,
marathon relay, as well as a kids’ marathon for children ages 6-13.
The full
marathon route winds through the art-inspired Fondren district, Jackson’s
historic downtown region, and up Lakeland Drive into the City of Flowood before
turning back to Fondren for the finish. The race is concluded with an after-race
celebration at Hal & Mal’s in downtown Jackson featuring the sounds of the
Mississippi Blues.
The 2009 Mississippi Blues Marathon is scheduled for January
3rd. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Mississippi Blues
Commission.
For more information or to register, please visit the marathon
website at www.msbluesmarathon.com