The Mercy Health Paducah Iron Mom Half Marathon kicks off on May 13, 2023. This race is a Mother’s Day tradition and is proudly in its 12th year!
Here are the top three reasons to participate in the Paducah Iron Mom race.
First, it’s a great way to get active.
A cardiovascular workout, such as running and walking, has many mental and physical health benefits. Exercising has been proven to reduce high blood pressure, lower risk of heart disease and help manage stress and anxiety, among many other benefits.
“I personally find that signing up for a race creates motivation – motivation to stay in shape and motivation to contribute to a wonderful cause,” Seth Barlage, director of rehab medicine in our Paducah market, says. “Plus, I get to run as a proud employee of Mercy Health.”
Are you unable to run the full 13.1 miles? There are plenty of other options available: a 5K race or two- and four-person relay teams.
“My advice to other runners is you can do this!” Seth adds. “No matter your experience, you will be able to finish this event. It is perfectly OK to do an Iron Mom race at your pace and comfort level.”
Second, it’s for a good cause.
Proceeds from the Paducah Iron Mom go to Family Service Society. They are the second-oldest nonprofit in Paducah, Ky. and aids residents in the area by helping with basic needs such as food, clothing, prescription medications, emergency dental, utility assistance, personal hygiene items, household goods and Christmas food assistance.
“We are thrilled with the record amount of money raised by Iron Mom each year,” Candace Melloy, executive director of Family Service Society, says. “Every dollar raised directly impacts a family in need in our community. Summer is the hardest time of the year for families because their children are out of school, therefore the pressure on the family is greater. The timing of Iron Mom could not be better, as it enables us to provide vital services to the community at a critical time of year.”
And third, it celebrates the women in your life on Mother’s Day Weekend.
Many participants run this race each year to honor their mothers, daughters or women in their lives. There are many mother-daughter combinations running the race together as well.
Don’t forget – there are many ways to participate other than running!
The Paducah Iron Mom takes a true community effort to be successful – involving first responders, city government and sponsors, like our ministry. The race would also not happen without the support of the city and many volunteers dedicating their time.
“My favorite part of Iron Mom would have to be the feeling of accomplishment and a job well done after crossing the finish line,” Seth adds.
If you’d like to volunteer or form a spectator group for this year’s race, there’s still time! Sign up to volunteer or spectate.
Spectator groups help make this race exciting for runners. Anyone can form a spectator group and it’s free! Spectators will set up along the route and cheer on runners with signs, noise makers and fun outfits.
Also, a $300 award is offered to the best spectator group. Be sure to capture your photo on race day and submit it to the Paducah Iron Mom Facebook page. Photos will be posted after the race, and the picture with the most engagement will be the winner.
Learn about the sports medicine services we offer at Mercy Health.
