Ellington

If you are going to run a marathon in January in Jackson, you better dress in layers and expect any type of weather. The 5th annual Mississippi Blues Marathon Saturday, Jan. 7, might be the brisk start to your new year.

The Mississippi Blues Marathon began in 2008 and gives a portion of its proceeds each year to the Mississippi Blues Commission.

These proceeds have netted more than $40,000 for the commission and shines positive attention to the state's rich musical history.

The Blues Marathon is open to walkers and wheelchair athletes as well, and kids can participate in a one-mile fun run.

A group of individuals can form a relay group. If a team has five members, the first four members run five miles, each passing off timing chip. The final runner completes the last 6.2 miles of the course. Relay teams can come together at the final half-mile from the finish to complete the race together.

To learn more or register, visit http://www.msbluesmarathon.com.