Hernando Water Tower 10K and Half Marathon

On October 11th, running enthusiasts from the Mid-South and beyond are invited to “Mississippi’s Front Porch” to participate in Hernando’s 16th Annual “Water Tower 10K  and Half Marathon"  road race which will highlight the city’s historic districts as well as one of its most-beloved local landmarks. For 2025, we have added a Half Marathon distance that will not only provide a tour of the historic districts of  Hernando, but also showcase the scenic areas surrounding the city. 

The Half Marathon will start Saturday, October 11th at 8 a.m. with a  5 minute delay to start the 10K race. Both events will start in the heart of the city at Hernando’s Town Square, featuring a course that will wind through the city’s scenic, tree-lined streets in the shadow of the Hernando Water Tower. Built in 1925 and officially designated a Mississippi Landmark.

Any runner still on the Half Marathon course after the finish line closes at 12:00 PM must follow all state and local traffic signals and will be proceeding at their own risk. To ensure safety and operational efficiency, all participants must reach the 10-mile marker by 11:00 AM. After that time, runners remaining on the course are doing so at their own risk. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping race day safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Proceeds from the race benefit Hernando Excel By 5's Dolly Parton Imagination Library (DPIL) with a goal to improve early childhood education by making sure kids have access to age appropriate books. Every child who is enrolled in DPIL between the ages of one month old to five years old, will receive one book a month until their fifth birthday.