Hitting the pavement for the Inaugural State 47 Marathon

Official New Mexico race for the Road Runners Club of America

Participants are strapping on their running shoes at 7 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7 for the Inaugural State 47 Las Cruces Marathon.

The State 47 Las Cruces Marathon returns for its second year and adds a full marathon road race. Last year’s event included a half-marathon, 10 kilometer and 5-kilometer road races and those will be run again this year. The event has also been named the official New Mexico race for the Road Runners Club of America.

Shane Asbury who owns Wanderlust Running Unlimited, based in Arizona, is in Las Cruces acting as the race director.

“Whether it’s your first marathon or your 50^th states marathon come run this scenic course and enjoy the views in this unique region of New Mexico,” Asbury said. “The flat, fast out-and-back course is perfect for those looking for a 2023 Boston and New York Marathon qualifier.”

The course travels along the area’s scenic agricultural areas and pecan orchards, near the Rio Grande, with views of the Organ Mountains.

Packet pick-up is from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6 at Holiday Inn Express Las Cruces North, 2142 Telshor Court. Day-of race registration begins at 7 a.m. Jan. 7 at the Field of Dreams track, 2300 Tashiro Drive, the location of the start and finish line.

The top three runners will be awarded in each age group. Marathon awards will begin at 11:45 a.m.

La Llorona Park will be closed from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday during the marathon.

For information visit www.lascrucescvb.org/lascruceshalf.

Nestled in southern New Mexico’s Mesilla Valley, between the Rio Grande and Organ Mountains, Las Cruces is the state’s second largest city with a population of more than 100,000 – encompassed by thriving retirement, student, and family living. Las Cruces is nationally recognized for its diverse landscapes, agricultural industry, affordability, hospitality, farmers market, food and more. It offers convenient access to White Sands National Park and multiple national monuments and state parks and has close connections to space tourism as the gateway to Spaceport America.

Featured Photo: Tara Glaser, Unsplash