(This article was written by Lisa Campos and appeared in the February 2024 issue of the Explore Harlingen Magazine.)
The Harlingen Marathon, to be held on February 11, 2024, a Boston Marathon qualifier, is touted as “a race for everyone” with distances to accommodate all fitness levels (26.2 miles, 13.1 miles, 2- or 4-person relay, and 5K). The race is sponsored by the City of Harlingen and Visit Harlingen. It begins and ends at Lon C. Hill Park at 1204 Fair Park Blvd. Start times are 6:30 am for the 26.2-mile marathon and 4-person relay; 7 am for the 13.1-mile marathon and 2-person relay; and 8 am for the 5K.
The first half-marathon was held on November 16, 2014, with the first full marathon held on February 25, 2018. It has expanded and improved each year since then. A combined total of 1,051 participants completed the marathon races in February 2023. Approximately 1,250 participants are expected for the 2024 marathon.
The route is flat and takes runners through the city, passing by notable landmarks such as the Iwo Jima monument, city lake, and downtown Harlingen. Students from the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District host 14 hydration stations located throughout the route. These hydration stations provide water, snacks, and encouragement for runners throughout the day.
Early bird registrants for the full and half marathon qualified for finisher jackets, while other participants will receive t-shirts, bibs, drawstring bags, and finisher medals.
Registrants will be able to pick up their race packets at the Harlingen Convention Center, located at 701 Harlingen Heights Drive, on Friday, February 9 from 5 pm to 9 pm and Saturday, February 10 from 12 noon to 5 pm. Those who haven’t yet registered can do so during the packet pickup dates on February 9 and 10.
After the race, participants can enjoy a post-race celebration with music, food, and awards. Awards will be presented to the Top 3 Male and Female Finisher for the full marathon, half marathon, and 5K. The Top Male Team, Top Female Team, and Top Co-ed Team for the 26.2 Relay (4-person) Teams and 13.1 Relay (2-person) Teams will all receive awards. Awards will also be given to the top 3 in each age category for the full marathon, half marathon, and 5K.
For more information, contact Visit Harlingen at cconsiglio@harlingentx.gov. To register, go to www.myharlingenmarathon.com.