After receiving an overwhelming response and encouraging pre-registration numbers for the Hoptown Half Marathon this weekend, Hopkinsville Parks and Recreation officials announced the race will be part of a three-race series next year.
In 2020, runners and walkers will have an opportunity to participate in a trio of 13.1-mile events, including the Planters Bank Hoptown Half, David Taylor Chrysler Murray Half Marathon and the Mercy Health Iron Mom Half Marathon in Paducah. The three races will be sponsored by Fleet Feet Clarksville. Officials say no exact dates have been set for the 2020 races.
This year, Hoptown and Murray teamed up to offer a two-race Double Dare Challenge. As of last week, Parks and Rec officials reported nearly 350 runners have signed up for the Planters Bank Hoptown Half Marathon, which will run in conjunction with the Jennie Stuart Health Hoptown 5K. Combined, officials indicate the Hoptown Half and 5K has attracted a total of 550 runners and walkers from 16 different states and 99 different cities.
The first-ever Hoptown Half and 5K next Saturday will benefit the non-profit partners of the United Way of the Pennyrile. In addition, the event will allow the participants to enjoy Hoptown Harvest Fest in downtown, which includes the Bourbon Mashoree, Vintage Craft Fair and Military Affairs Committee Chili Cook-Off and Grilled Cheese Challenge.