2nd Annual “Run to the Latin Beat” 5K  2017

The Mississippi Hispanic Association’s 2nd Annual  “Run to the Latin Beat” 5K event is anticipated to be a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-aged “fiesta” that all will be sure to enjoy and look forward to for years to come. The event will be held at the Old Trace Park on the Reservoir located in Ridgeland from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in order to commemorate National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th – October 15th). There will be live music, dancing, as well as a Zumba class to try out after the race.

Participants are encouraged to walk/run in their most creative costume/outfit representing any Hispanic nationality or U.S.A. nationality. In addition to the individual 5K awards, an award will be a presented to the most original national outfit. We are also excited to announce $100 CASH PRIZE to the 1st place overall male and female 5k run winner. Tons of door prizes will be given away including a $150 CASH PRIZE drawing!

Why does the Mississippi Hispanic Association need your support?

The MHA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which is publicly supported by its members and interested individuals/companies.  None of the Board members, officers, or administrative personnel receives any monetary compensation for their work and service.  The MHA has been promoting the Hispanic culture for 20 years, and “Run to the Latin Beat” 5K will be MHA’s main fund-raising event for the year.  Proceeds from the run will be used to fund the three programs essential to supporting the Hispanic community:

• MHA Paco Rosales Scholarship
• MHA Reading Program
• MHA Folkloric Dance Group

Additionally, MHA will donate 15% of the proceeds to the Excel Community & Learning Center located in Morton, MS, an exemplary community service program which also aims to help Hispanics.

Event details and schedule

Race Day Schedule of Events

6:45 – 7:55 a.m. Registration
8:00 a.m. Run/Walk
8:00 – 11 a.m. Kid’s Fun Area
9:00 a.m. Kid’s Fun Run
9:30 a.m. 5K Awards & Door Prizes
10 – 10:30 a.m. Latin Zumba Class
8 – 12 p.m. Health Fair and Latin Music

Awards

• Awards will be given to the overall male and female winners in Open, Master’s and Grand Master’s division for 5k run and 5K walk.
• One award will be given to most original costume/outfit representing any Hispanic nationality or U.S.A. nationality.
• Awards for walkers are limited to overall male and female First, Second and Third Place.
• Awards for runners for First, Second, and Third Place will be awarded in the following age groups.

Male & Female 5K run:
13 & under, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69,70 & up

Race timing provided by SISU.ms.  Results will be posted HERE

Door Prizes

Many door prizes, including several gift cards from local businesses, $100 CASH PRIZE for the overall 1st place Male and Female 5K run winners, and a $150 CASH PRIZE will be drawn from all race entries after all awards are given. Must be present to win.

Directions & Race Route

Old Trace Park is located in the southwestern corner of the reservoir.

From Interstate 55:
Take I-55 North towards Ridgeland or I-55 South towards Jackson. Take exit 105A for Natchez Trace Parkway. Turn right onto Natchez Trace Parkway. Take the exit toward Madison/Ridgeland/Ross Barnett Reservoir. Turn right onto Old Canton Road. Turn left onto Rice Road. Veer right onto Post Road. Turn right onto Madison Landing Circle.

Click HERE for map of course and parking/registration locations.

Registration Fees

Pre-registration Entry Fee $25
Race Day Entry Fee $30

Pre-registration Fun Run $10
Race Day Fun Run $15

All registration fees are non-refundable.
Registration the day of the race is cash and credit card only and there is no guarantee of a t-shirt.
T-shirt included with 5K Run/Walk fee. Fun Run registrants may purchase T-shirt separately.

Packet Pick-Up

October 13th 2 to 6 p.m. Fleet Feet
October 14th 6:30 to 7:45 a.m. Old Trace Park

Sponsorship Opportunities

MHA still needs sponsors! Our Hispanic community and the general public want to know about your business and what you have to offer. Businesses nationwide aim to expand their market to a flourishing Hispanic populace. No doubt, your assistance will enhance this event; yet, MHA also aims to benefit you by promoting your products and/or services to an untapped market.
Click HERE for a 5K sponsorship packet.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are much appreciated both before and on the day of the race. Volunteer credit can be issued. Please contact Victoria Scantlebury at [email protected].
Click HERE for a 5K volunteer registration form.