Hope Watermelon 5K State Championship

The event, hosted by the Melonvine Striders, is a USATF-certified race offering every participant a locally grown Hope watermelon. High school track teams can compete with five members required for each team. Available awards include distinctions for the top three male and female participants in multiple categories, as well as team and age group awards. The race begins at Fair Park in Hope, AR, and features a mostly flat course with gradual inclines and declines. Established in 1978, the event has been part of the Arkansas RRCA Grand Prix Series since 1994.