Run the Line race could see record numbers next week

Proceeds help fund walking trails; volunteers are needed

Run the Line Half Marathon organizers are expecting a record number of racers when the event kicks off at 7:30 a.m. Feb. 17.

Currently, 550 people from 13 states have registered, up from 478 in 2018.

One of the event's main attractions is its bi-state route.

"Run the Line is easily our biggest fundraiser for walking and bicycling trails around Texarkana. Each year, we're able to make our city more beautiful because so many locals and new friends from all over the nation come to run in our city," said Melinda Vammen,

Partnership for the Pathway board member and co-race director with Julie-Ray Harrison.

"We're so proud of our local runners and appreciative of the Texarkana community members that support this event. I think out-of-town athletes talk highly about us because so many organizations and both cities come together to support a unique fundraiser for local walking trails."

The race will follow its traditional route starting at Broad and Main streets in downtown Texarkana, in front of the Bi-State Justice Building, and finishing at Third and Wood streets in Texarkana, Ark.

Volunteers are needed to help along the race route. To volunteer, contact [email protected].

Runners can register online at txkruntheline.org until race day. Participants can run as individuals or as part of a two-person or four-person relay team.

Run the Line Half Marathon was founded in 2006 as a fundraiser for Partnership for the Pathway, an all-volunteer nonprofit organization committed to helping the cities build a safe walking and bicycling trail system throughout Texarkana. It also is included in the Arkansas Grand Prix Series and the Natural State Running Series.

To learn more, visit txkruntheline.org or the Run the Line Facebook page at facebook.com/txkruntheline.

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