TEXARKANA -- Run the Line half-marathon will be celebrating its 15th anniversary this year as it takes runners through both sides of the state line on a 13.1-mile tour.
Runners from at least 16 states will line up at 7:30 a.m. on Feb. 19 in downtown Texarkana, Texas, before quickly crossing into the Arkansas side, where it will finish. Right now, 5 miles of the path are finished around Bringle Lake on the Texas side with the final two miles expected to be completed later this year.
Run the Line is the yearly fundraiser for Partnership for the Pathway, a nonprofit organization that promotes exercise in both cities. To date, the race has donated about $150,000 to Partnership for the Pathway. Last year, race officials were able to donate more than $85,000 dollars.
"Those who participate in our race have a direct impact on both cities," race director Julie-Ray Harrison said. "This race goes beyond the economic boost on race weekend. Race fees allow us to make these contributions to the Texarkana trail system.
"Runners from across the country have had a hand in making Texarkana Arkansas and Texas a better place to offer safe, outdoor paths for walking, running, biking and playing."
Run the Line offers a two-person and four-person relay team for those who want to still participate without traversing the more than 13-mile course. Children can participate, too, with a special 1-mile race on Saturday.
"Our race is truly unique, offering runners a variety of terrain," Harrison said. "Running through two parks, residential neighborhoods and city streets. We love the opportunity to showcase our great southern town."
For more information or to register, visit runsignup.com/RuntheLineHalfMarathon.