The 19th annual 3M Half Marathon has reached 6,024 runners as of Jan. 7, moving closer to its 7,000-participant cap. Jane Kovacs, public relations supervisor for race host 3M, said the race has sold out every year since 3M decided to limit the number of participants, and she expects to reach the 7,000 mark this year. Last year's event was capped at 6,000 participants.
"We realize the race is growing, and there were people who were unable to register last year," Kovacs said.
The 13.1-mile race starts at 6:45 a.m. Jan. 13 at the corner of Stonelake Boulevard and Capital of Texas Hwy. The first runner is expected to cross the finish line around 7:45 a.m. Kovacs said some of the aspects of the race that make it unique include its mostly downhill course, bus service provided for participants to get back to their vehicles and the goody bags given to runners. The goody bags contain 3M products including super glue, tape, Post-it products and Scotch-Brite sponges.
The race benefits Communities in Schools Central Texas, a nonprofit focused on encouraging students to stay in school through programs and projects involving volunteers, social services, businesses and community resources. Last year, the organization received $30,000 from the event, and this year the donation has been increased to $40,000.
