HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK, Arkansas — Did your parents ever say you were “slow as molasses” in getting your chores done? If so, you could be a contender in the Fifth Ever Zero-K race set for Sunday, March 16, as part of the two-day revelry surrounding the First Ever 22nd Annual World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas.
The race, which honors lack of speed and endurance, benefits Tri-Lakes CASA, supporting Court Appointed Special Advocates for foster children in Garland, Hot Spring and Grant Counties. The race starts at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 16.
The Zero-K course is 299 feet long, beginning on 98-foot Bridge Street and ending across the intersection on Convention Boulevard.
“The main point is to cover the 299 feet as slowly as you can,” Visit Hot Springs Marketing Director Bill Solleder said. “The slowest racer wins. Is that cool or what?”
The $25 entry fee gets participants a coveted Zero-K T-shirt; a shiny finisher’s medal (because you’re a winner, duh); a swag bag full of fun surprises, and a legit race bib to show off their “athleticism.”
Those who register by Sunday, March 9, get the full swag haul. Late registrations will still get a swag bag and bib — just no T-shirt or medal.
There will also be awards for best costume in the Leprechaun Dash category and
slowest finish in the Last Place Shootout.
Registration for the Zero-K is at https://runsignup.com/Race/AR/HotSpringsNationalPark/WorldsShortestStPatricksDayZEROK.
“Come celebrate the art of taking your time,” Solleder said. “This race is perfect for kids, pets and the most laid-back ‘runners.’”
Suzanne Herron, CASA’s executive director, said, “The Zero-K is more than just a unique and fun event — it’s a celebration of hope and community. Every step you take — or skip — helps ensure children in foster care have the strong, compassionate advocates they need. Together, we’re making a lasting difference, one slow step at a time!”
“It’s not every day you can say you participated in a race that doesn’t require running,” she said. “More importantly, your involvement in the Zero-K helps Tri-Lakes CASA provide crucial advocacy for children in our community.”
Early packet pickup begins Thursday, March 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and continues Friday, March 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at a location to be announced later. Day of race packet pickup starts at 2 p.m. on Bridge Street.
“The Zero-K is proof that making a difference can be fun, quirky and powerful, Herron said. “By showing up, you’re giving children in foster care the chance to have a dedicated advocate in their corner.
“Four years of the World’s Shortest Zero-K have shown us the power of community. Whether you’re here for the fun or the mission — or both — your participation makes a difference. Together, we’re helping children in foster care find stability and hope for a brighter future.
“Each year, Zero-K brings together over 500 participants from across 16 states,not just for fun but to support a mission that changes lives. By joining us, you’re not only celebrating the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day but also standing with Tri-Lakes CASA in our commitment to advocate for children in need. We are looking forward to this being our biggest year our biggest and best yet.”
Race sponsors are Michelob Ultra, Arkansas Beverage and Sigma Supply.
Following the race there will be a free public concert on the Bridge Street Stage by rock legends Grand Funk Railroad.
The world-famous 98-foot parade on Bridge Street, the shortest street in the world in everyday use, began in 2003 and annually attracts crowds of upwards of 30,000 people to watch an insanely zany collection of Irish Elvis impersonators, marching units such as Paddy O’Furniture, Irish belly dancers and the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, as well as other unique units cover the 98-foot length of Bridge Street in the heart of downtown Hot Springs.
This year’s celebrity grand marshal will be beloved star Valerie Bertinelli, and the official parade starter will be hip-hop legend Flavor Flav.
For more information call Steve Arrison at 501-321-2027.