Jackson Free Press

The 20th running of one of Mississippi's oldest road races takes place at 7:30 a.m. on Friday July 4, 2003 in front of the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum at 1152 Lakeland Drive in Jackson, MS. Registration forms are currently available at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, Fleet Feet stores and all Baptist Fitness Centers for The Baptist Health Systems Watermelon Classic 5K Run & Walk. Entry fees for the race are $15 for pre-registration, $20 on race day. Entry fees for the fun run are $10 in advance, $12 on race day. Advance team and family entries are welcome.

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"Some people have run in almost of the Watermelon races," said Race Coordinator Margaret Ferriss, "so we're giving a prize to whoever wears the oldest Watermelon Classic t-shirt that has the most character." The late Bill Johnson, an early running guru in Jackson, organized the first Watermelon Classic in 1983.

Free ice-cold watermelon and Cokes are available to all at the end of the race. Gail Pittman awards will be presented to the winners. The race is certified by the Mississippi Track Club.