Farm Bureau Watermelon Classic will celebrate 20 years

Posted on: June 17,2016

The Farm Bureau Watermelon Classic, one of Mississippi’s largest road races and a Magnolia State Independence Day tradition, will enjoy its 20-year anniversary July 4.

Calvin Smith starting 2015 race.

A fund-raiser for the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, the race is designed to be a family-friendly event with categories for all ages. The main event is a 5-kilometer (3.1 mile) walk and run. Ice-cold watermelon is available for all walkers and runners — or crawlers. The race begins at 7:30 a.m.
Bolton native Calvin Smith, formerly the world’s fastest human and a two-time Olympic medalist, returns for his second straight year as the race’s official starter. Smith recently co-authored a book: “It Should have Been Gold: The Silent Runner Speaks” and he will be signing it after the race, which begins and ends at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.
Besides, the 5K walk and run competitions, there will be a one-mile fun/wellness run for all ages and and Tot Trot for toddlers under 3.
Last year’s overall winners were Joseph Chebet and Kristi Hall. The Watermelon Run, which as had as many as 1,800 entrants. Race officials are preparing for more than 1,500 this year.
You can register online here.