Hope Watermelon 5K
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Hope Watermelon 5K
The Hope Watermelon 5K is a long-standing running event in Hope, Arkansas, first established in 1978. Hosted by the Melonvine Striders, the event features a 3.1 mile course that is USATF certified. The race has been a part of the Arkansas RRCA Grand Prix Series since 1994. Participants in all categories receive a locally grown Hope watermelon.
The event includes the following distance options:
- 3.1 Miles for runners
- 3.1 Miles for walkers
- 3.1 Miles for wheelchair participants
- Melon Mile fun run for children aged 3 to 12
The course begins at Fair Park, moving east on Park Drive. The route is primarily flat with some winding turns before turning north onto Elm Street and merging onto Main Street. This section features a long straightaway followed by a small, gradual downhill toward the 1.5 mile mark. Between the 1.5 and 2 mile points, the route experiences a gradual incline along Main Street and 16th Street. The final portion of the race follows Grady Street and 7th Street before turning back onto Park Drive for a level finish back at Fair Park.
Competitions are held for various categories, including a high school track team division for groups of five girls or boys. Awards are presented to the top three male and female finishers in Open, Masters, Grandmasters, and Senior divisions. Recognition is also provided for the top three walkers, wheelchair participants, and winners in age groups ranging from 0-9 to 80 and over. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
