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It’s time to lace up those running shoes for the Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend‘s very last race in Birmingham, February 10-12. Over 21 years, this unforgettable event has helped The Bell Center provide essential support in its mission to provide crucial therapy services to local children and families. Whether you join the race or cheer from the sidelines, here are five reasons you’ll want to experience this unforgettable event before it’s gone.

1. You’ll support The Bell Center & local children/families

It’s always fun to pick out your snazziest shoes and show off your athletic abilities, but nothing tops the feeling of running for a great cause.

Get ready for all the feels because the Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend benefits The Bell Center—a local early development center dedicated to maximizing the potential of children from birth to three years of age who are at risk for developmental delay.

On Saturday, February 11, prepare for your heart to grow three sizes during The Bell Center’s Run at Linn Park. This special race shines a spotlight on the true reason for the Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend—the kids!

From 10-11AM, children from The Bell Center show off their superpower potential as they cross the marathon finish line and receive their Mercedes-Benz medals.

“The crowd really looks forward to this part of our event—there isn’t a dry eye among the thousands of spectators. Seeing the children walk, run, cycle or be pushed in strollers to that finish line is one of the most rewarding moments for us all. It shows the determination and perseverance of the children and their families.”
Valerie McLean Cuddy, Founder, Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend of Events

Sign up to be a BellRunner. You’ll raise funds in the name of a child who’s receiving early intervention therapy at The Bell Center.

2. It’s the Mercedes-Benz Marathon’s very last race

During its 21 years, the Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend became Alabama’s premier running event and the country’s largest kids’ marathon. It also:

Attracted more than 200,000 runners
Helped local charities raise over $5M
Provided more than $60M in direct economic impact for the Greater Birmingham Region

After an unforgettable journey, 2023 will be the very last Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend in Birmingham.

Whether you lace up those tennis shoes and run your heart out or choose to cheer on participants as they whiz by, this is your last chance to take part in this epic event.

Want to run? Choose your race and register now.

3. The race course is a game-changer

Love a good race, but need an exciting course to keep you motivated? The Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend is for you, my friend. Each race begins and ends at Linn Park with courses leading through historic downtown Birmingham, UAB’s campus, Five Points South, Highland Park, Avondale and Lakeview. Now that’s a roadmap worth following.

4. You can choose from a variety of races

One of the best parts of the Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend is the variety of races you can participate in. Whether you’re a marathon pro wanting to take on a 5K or you prefer a spirited relay race with friends, there is something for you.

Here are the races you can take part in (and be sure to sign up!):

Regions SuperHero 5K: Saturday, February 11, 8-9:30AM
Mercedes Marathon (26.2 miles): Saturday, February 12, 7AM-1PM
Mercedes Half Marathon (13.1 miles): Saturday, February 12, 7-11AM
Mercedes Marathon 5 Person Adult Relay: Saturday, February 12, 7AM-1PM
Mercedes Marathon 5 Person Middle/High School Relay: Saturday, February 12, 7AM-1PM

Choose your race and register.

5. You can cheer on runners & participate in fun activities all weekend long

Running not your fave? I hear ya. The good news is you can still take part in the Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend.

Throughout the marathon weekend, you’ll discover lots of family-friendly and wellness activities, awards ceremonies and even a Jim ’N Nick’s Post Race Block Party with food, beer garden, live entertainment and more.

You can also watch the races and cheer on the runners. Be sure to make a sign to encourage them as they whiz past!

Want to attend the Jim ’N Nick’s Post Race Block Party? Check it out at Boutwell Auditorium from 9AM-2PM on Sunday, February 12.

Can’t participate, but still want to show your support? Donations are a great way to help!

For info, updates + more about the Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend, February 10-12, visit the race’s website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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