Harlingen Marathon returns to Lon C. Hill Park Sunday

And, they’re off.

The Harlingen Marathon is back, and if you want to qualify for the big one in Boston, this is a good place to start.

Registration for the event Sunday is open until Saturday for runners who’d like to do a full marathon (26.2 miles), the half marathon (13.1 miles) the four-person relay, two-person relay, and the 5K can go to the website myharlingenmarathon.com.

The city of Harlingen is hosting the event at Lon C. Hill Park and is promoting it as “A Run For Everyone.” The race is an annual event which begins early with all kinds of fan fare — music, cheers and general excitement — and runners in their colorful clothing fill the streets of downtown.

Students and teachers from Vernon Middle School assisted runners with hydration, fresh fruit and pickle juice at the intersection of Morgan Boulevard and Grimes Avenue Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, during the Harlingen Marathon. (G. Zulema Phillips | El Extra)

“Rediscover the beauty of Downtown Harlingen and its landmarks,” says the marathon website.

“Experience the hospitality of the community as they cheer you on towards your goal,” the website says.

Individual runners and team runners in years past have come to the marathon from the Valley, other parts of Texas and the rest of the country and even foreign places. It has attracted the very young as well as senior citizens who refuse to let age slow them down.

The race is especially important in the Valley because, traditionally, healthy lifestyles have not been a high priority among many residents. Any discussion with local healthcare professionals about chronic diseases quickly focuses on the need for regular exercise.

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