It is more than a race. It is a way to showcase Roanoke Rapids and help the Roanoke Canal Commission, the city’s parks and recreation director, John Simeon, said today.

The Roanoke Canal Trail Half Marathon is March 9 and begins at 8 a.m. at the Lake Park in Roanoke Rapids where more than 300 runners from across the country as well as Canada take off in a staggered start on a 13.1-mile race to the aqueduct in Weldon and then back to the Lake Park.

An 8K race begins at 8:30 a.m.

There is still time to register, Simeon said, a process that can be done on the race’s website.

“Last year we had runners from 12 states and Canada,” Simeon said. “It’s looking like we’ll have the same or better.”

In its third year, the marathon is run by Tar River Running, which also puts on a race at Medoc Mountain State Park. The group wanted to have a race in Roanoke Rapids, Simeon said, and, after approaching the city and county tourism, decided to use the historic Canal Trail. “Trail running has become very popular because of the scenic views and challenge of a true cross country course rather than running on mundane roads or a hard surface.”

The runners will cross the Jackson Street Extension and Roanoke Avenue as well as River Road and Simeon advises staying away from those areas because of the congestion.

The race generally generates about $1,500 for the Canal Commission, Simeon said. That money has been used to repair the bridge in Weldon that runners will cross. The money can also be used for repairing washed out areas, placing dirt or crush and run.

With the number of runners coming, the Hilton Garden Inn is the host hotel, said Simeon. “With 12 states being represented it’s an economic boost to the community and gives an opportunity to showcase Roanoke Rapids.”

In addition to medals, runners will receive Canal Trail and Museum Memorabilia.