Hero 5k Walk / Run

🏅 Introduction

Real heroes, ordinary people, extraordinary courage.

The SouthArk Outdoor Expo will once again host the Hero 5k Run/Walk sponsored by South Arkansas Regional Hospital. Runners and walkers of all ages, abilities, and experience levels are encouraged to come out and participate in a supportive and fun 5K event that honors our military and first responders.

This race honors our local courageous heroes – healthcare professionals, military personnel, and first responders. Its purpose is to raise awareness of the sacrifices made daily by these heroes and to unite in their honor. The community is invited to honor our hometown heroes and those who have served in the military while paying tribute to the heroes of today who are working on our frontlines.

The Hero 5k Run/Walk grew in memory of Major Ronald Wayne Culver, who died in Iraq on May 24th, 2010. Major Culver served multiple combat deployments throughout his military career and served on countless programs and organizations in our local community. He was a true American hero who courageously sacrificed his life for our country.

This race also honors Leslie Darden, a hero & inspiration to so many in the racing world. She pushed people to be the best they could be through her steadfast encouragement, uplifting cheers, and empowering guidance! Leslie was an alumna of SouthArk and worked in the healthcare industry for 12 years.

It is an honor for us to recognize the courageous spirit of all of our hometown heroes including healthcare professionals, firefighters, military, and law enforcement who serve and protect our community! We wish to raise awareness of the sacrifices made daily by these heroes and unite to honor all those who have stepped up to earn the title of HERO.

📅 Date

Saturday, September 6th, 2025

⏰ Race Start Time

7:30 a.m.

📍 Start/Finish Location

Corner of E. Cedar St. and S. Jefferson Ave. (107 East Cedar St., El Dorado, Arkansas)

🎟️ Packet Pickup

Saturday, September 6, 2025 – Race Day

• Time: 6:15-7:15 a.m. Race day registration and packet will be available at the start location
• Awards Ceremony: 8:30 a.m. at the Main Stage

📝 Registration

• Pre-registration: by August 27, is $30
• Registration: after August 27, is $35

👟 T-Shirts

Must register by Friday, August 29th, to guarantee a race shirt.

Sizes Available: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL

🏃 Route

Start at Corner of E. Cedar St. and S. Jefferson Ave. – Proceed North on S. Jefferson Ave. – Turn left onto Griffith St. – Turn left onto Mall parking lot/access road – Turn left onto E. 13th St. – Turn right onto N. Jefferson Ave. – Finish at E. Cedar St. and S. Jefferson Ave.

🏆 Awards - 5k Runners

• First Place Overall: $100 cash prize and award to first place overall male and female
• Divisions: First place overall male and female will not receive age division awards
• Awards: given to the top 3 finishers in each age and gender division

🎁 Race Swag

All registered runners will receive a swag bag including a commemorative performance t-shirt, official race bib, athletic race goodies, and much more!

🌧️ Inclement Weather Policy

The race will go on regardless of precipitation. In the event that weather conditions present an imminent danger to participants, the race will be canceled. No refunds will be given.

Due to reasons beyond our control, it may become necessary to change some of the event locations, start times, etc. Please visit the race website periodically to check for any updates: www.southarkexpo.com

📞 Contact Information

For more information, contact the SouthArk Foundation office at Foundation@southark.edu or 870.864.7130.