Now that the holidays are over and a new year has begun, join more than 15,000 participants, 200,000 spectators and 5,000 volunteers and take to the streets on Sunday, Jan. 16. On this day, Houstonians have the chance to raise money for more than 30 charities through what has been called Houston’s largest single-day sporting event – the HP Houston Marathon.
If you want to burn off some of those holiday calories, the HP Houston Marathon, the Aramco Houston Half Marathon and the Houston Press 5K can help you do just that. Participants are encouraged to “Run for a Reason” by raising money for local Houston charities. Sponsorships and other donations will go to nonprofit organization that help cancer, Alzheimer’s and AIDS patients; children; victims of abuse; senior citizens; injured peace officers; the homeless; and abused or neglected animals. Not interested in running? Helping with registration, setup or refreshments are just some of the ways to volunteer from Wednesday, Jan. 12, until the day of the race.
The marathon combines a competitive athletic event with a citywide festival of community spirit. Runners and spectators will enjoy miles of nonstop entertainment provided by the “Hoopla Brigade.” Professional and not-so-professional performers ranging from jump-rope squads to jazz bands to belly dancers encourage runners to keep their feet moving in the right direction.
For more information about the HP Houston Marathon and to register, visit www.hphoustonmarathon.com or call (713) 957-3453. H
