Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend back for 17th year

The Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend, one of the Southeast’s premiere running events, returns to Linn Park downtown, Friday, Feb. 9, through Sunday, Feb 11.

The event, in its 17th year, draws about 13,000 participants to five races -- the Mercedes-Benz Marathon, Half Marathon and Marathon Relay, as well as the Regions Superhero 5K and Kids Mercedes-Benz Marathon, according to race director Kim Gillikin.

This variety makes the weekend special, according to Gillikin. “That sets us apart from some of the normal marathon Sundays,” she said.

“We’re also known for our Southern hospitality,” Gillikin said, citing the Jim ‘n Nick’s Bar-B-Q Post-Race Party & Awards Ceremony at Boutwell Auditorium, with food, beer and live music.

The full marathon is capped at 1,000 runners, and about 30 percent of them come from outside of Alabama, according to Gillikin.

“Every year we have between 42 and 50 states represented,” she said.

There are often foreign runners, as well, according to Gillikin. “The most we had in one year was six countries,” she said.

The weekend raises money for The Bell Center in Homewood, which works with children from birth to three years of age who are at risk for developmental delay.

The event also helps to raise public awareness of The Bell Center and what it does, according to Kelly Peoples, the facility's marketing and development director

“We have quite a big presence there,” Peoples said. “Our families come out every year and spend the weekend. They love seeing the runners and the people supporting, and they know The Bell Center is the beneficiary, and they enjoy it.”

Due to ongoing construction on the I-20/59 interstate, there will be some small course changes this year, according to Gillikin.

“There will be a few miles with some different scenery that I think (runners) will enjoy,” she said.

At press time, Gillikin was awaiting final approval of the race route from the city and was unable to discuss details.

The St. Vincent’s Health System Health and Fitness Expo & Packet Pickup will be held at the BJCC on Friday and Saturday.

Saturday events include the 5K and the Bell Center Children’s Run.

The marathon, half-marathon and marathon relay take place Sunday.

For details, including a complete schedule, call 870-7771 or go to mercedesmarathon.com.