DEGRAY LAKE, Arkansas — One of the largest 5K races in South Arkansas is scheduled for Saturday, July 27, 2024, at DeGray Lake. That Dam Night Run began in 1988 and will celebrate its 36th anniversary this year.
Year after year over 800 participants and their supporters congregate at the spillway on Skyline Drive to run, walk, and cheer everyone on. Hardman Lumber trucks bus runners and walkers up across the dam to the start line, and the race kicks off at 8 p.m. Due to the late start, participants are treated to scenic views of the sunset over the lake throughout the course. The finish line includes cheering crowds, music, and a water cannon.
That Dam Night Run draws runners and walkers from Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. Each year high schools from across these states also bring approximately 100 cross country runners to vie for the girls and boys team championships. Campgrounds around the lake and local hotels are packed with race participants and fans.
That Dam Night Run is almost entirely run by volunteers who just enjoy the fun of the day and the opportunity to give back. The Arkadelphia Running Club, Clark County Sheriff’s Department, Iron Mountain Marina, US Army Corps of Engineer, Veolia, and Hardman Lumber Company make up some of the people it takes to make this event happen. Many other volunteers and friends help as well.
The event is also supported by funding through many area businesses and organizations, including the Caddo Valley Advertising & Promotions Commission.
Each year the Arkadelphia Running Club takes proceeds from the race and donates them back into the community. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library, The CALL, and CASA of Clark and Pike Counties are annual recipients. Additionally, funds raised from That Dam Night Run are used to help support local running groups including Arkadelphia and Ouachita school districts’ cross country programs and Badgers On The Run.
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