5Ks are a dime a dozen in Arkansas in the spring and summer. The Easter Seals Rock Run thinks so too, and so it offers runners the chance to set a record on an almost 5-mile course.
The Easter Seals Rock Run 8K will take place 7:30 a.m. Saturday along part of the Arkansas River Trail in Little Rock that rises above most floods. This raised but fairly flat course will take riders west from Murray Park's Pavilions 1 and 2. The course follows the River Trail over Jimmerson Creek bridge and along the trail to the turnaround at an old traffic circle.
The race is part of the Arkansas Grand Prix series, so racers who are representing their running clubs on Grand Prix teams will earn points based on how they place. Being part of the 20-race series means Rock Run has a certified course, a lot of awards in five-year age divisions and other amenities.
Register online for $25 through eastersealsar.com or the morning of the race for $30 ($15 for children). Registration opens at 6 a.m. near Pavilion 2 at Murray Park off Rebsamen Park Road. Preregistration and packet pickup will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday at Go! Running. For more information, call (501) 227-3709.
NORTHWEST MUD RUN
The Pig Trail Mud Run is not for the faint of heart or those without a washing machine. This 5K, put on by the Springdale Rotary Club, has a muddy course of 15 obstacles, and while it is physically and mentally tasking, the event focuses on teamwork and fun.
The run begins at 8 a.m. Saturday at Ecclesia College, 9653 Nations Drive. Check-in opens at 7. The race is open to ages 14 and older, but children 8 to 13 can sign up for the Piglet Challenge, a 1-mile obstacle course.
Teams are encouraged, and the best dressed team will receive an award. Admission is $80 ($100 on race day). Preferred parking passes are $10, and regular passes are $5. Register online at pigtrailmudrun.com and visit for more information.
ActiveStyle on 05/25/2015