America on the Move in Tennessee

The Inaugural Dogwood Mile

Those attending the 2009 Dogwood Arts Festival’s annual parade down Gay Street will see something unexpected this year when the parade ends as hundreds of runners are expected to participate in the inaugural Dogwood Mile.

On April 24 at approximately 8:30 p.m., amateur and professional runners will race – with “spring” in their steps – from the intersection of Gay St. and Summit Hill Blvd. to the historic Gay St. Bridge. From the bridge, runners will turnaround and dash to downtown Knoxville’s Wall St. and end their one mile run in Market Square. As soon as the first runner crosses the finish line, Party on the Square will begin with live music from Brendon James Wright and the Wrongs, food and refreshments – including beer for sprinters 21 years of age and older. Party on the Square will conclude at 11 p.m.

The Dogwood Mile is open to everyone age seven and up and is a USA Track & Field sanctioned event. Preregistration entry fees range from $15 for adults and $10 for children age seven to 12. Those who wish to preregister and find more about start times and competition rules may do so by visiting http://www.racedayevents.net/Dogwood_Mile.html.

Day of race registration will take place on Gay St. from 5:30 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. and will cost $20 for adults and $15 for children.

Awards will be given to first, second and third place winners in the following age groups: 13-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+. Children seven to 12 will not be timed, but all will receive finisher medals. Additionally, all runners in all age groups will receive a Dogwood Mile t-shirt and goody bag.

The Dogwood Mile and Party on the Square, in conjunction with the 2009 Dogwood Arts Festival and the Knoxville Sports Center, is sponsored by Covenant Health and produced in partnership with Young Professionals of Knoxville with timing by Race Day Events.

The Dogwood Arts Festival, in its 49th year, transforms downtown Knoxville into a month long springtime celebration with a “blue jean to black tie” festival offering something for everyone – dance, film, literary arts, music, theatre and visual arts.

Show Time: Apr 24th 5:30 PM
Tickets: $20 for adults and $15 for children