Registration is open for the 12^th Annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon & 10K scheduled Saturday, Oct. 19, in Conway.

This will be the last chance for participants to soar as Soaring Wings officials have decided this will be the final year for the half marathon and 10K, according to race directors Amanda Castillo and Marla Watson. Marla took over as race director in 2013 and Amanda joined her in 2014 as co-race director.

“It has been a fantastic 12 years and we appreciate the wonderful support we have received from the running community, our faithful sponsors and our hard-working volunteers,” said Marla.

“Let’s make this year our best yet as we SOAR together one last time,” added Amanda.

The event benefits Soaring Wings, a Christ-centered ministry that serves children who are in crisis through no fault of their own. Soaring Wings provides a loving and stable home where children can grow up spiritually, emotionally, intellectually and socially. The children of Soaring Wings receive hope and healing through educational development, counseling, a loving family environment and the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ.

“The race has been a tremendous fundraiser for Soaring Wings over the last 11 years and it has helped us to care for over 300 kids who needed a chance,” said Marla.

Thousands have participated in the event over the years. “The Soaring Wings Half Marathon has a history of fast growth in the early years, eventually selling out at 2,000 participants for several years in a row,” said Amanda. However, with so many new half marathons now in the state and surrounding area, numbers have declined in recent years.”

About 300 volunteers are involved in the event.

WINGED WARRIORS

Individuals can earn a free entry to the Soaring Wings race of their choice by raising $200. Additional prizes are available based on the amount raised.

TRAINING

A training schedule is available online and participants will begin logging miles Monday, July 29. The Conway area 12-week training program will begin with the first group long run at 6 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3. Participants will hit the pavement for five miles and leave from the south parking lot of Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center. The cost is $15 and includes a training shirt (tank or tee).

There are military, police, 50 States, Half Fanatic and Marathon Maniac registration discounts available.

For more information or to register, visit swmarathon.com. 501 LIFE is the official media sponsor for the event.