Mike Garrity

Little Rock Marathon entering 22nd year

KUAR | By Josie Lenora

Hundreds of runners from around the world will take part in the 22nd annual Little Rock Marathon this weekend.

The route is designed to take runners across some of the most prominent sites in the city including the Arkansas Governor's Mansion, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Little Rock Central High School. There are also two shorter half marathons at 10 and five kilometers each, in addition to the main 26.2-mile race.

Marathon director Mike Garrity says several things make this year's race stand out. The race, he says, is designed to be inclusive of different skill levels. Runners have eight hours to complete the route; less experienced runners can start 30 minutes early, and the more experienced runners can start at the front of the line when the marathon starts.

Little Rock Marathon entering 22nd year

Mary Schwalm/AP

Runners cross the starting line of the 125th Boston Marathon in Hopkinton, Mass.