About the Race
The Hero Half Marathon is a fundraising race and community event hosted by The Spark Foundation in partnership with Fayetteville Firefighters’ IAFF – Local 2866. Race proceeds benefit organizations that meet important community needs, increase fitness opportunities for the community, and make Fayetteville and Arkansas a great place to live, work, and play. Click here for updates to our 2020 race.
Firefighter Challenge
Each year, firefighters and first responders participate in full bunker gear. That's 40-60 lbs. of additional weight including air pack and helmet!
Requirements
- Eligible participants must be active duty firefighters (volunteers accepted)
- Must run in bunker gear provided by participant: Helmet, Coat, Pants, & Air-Pack (liners optional)
- Wildland gear acceptable
- Running shoes encouraged
Perks
- $20 OFF your half marathon entry fee, $10 OFF your relay entry fee, or 50% off your 5K entry!
- Firefighter-themed finisher medal
- Chance to win Top Firefighter Finisher Prizes
- Bragging rights

The Spark Foundation
The Hero Half Marathon is produced by Spark Foundation in partnership with the Fayetteville Firefighters Association - IAFF Local 2866.
The Spark Foundation is a local Northwest Arkansas non-profit organization with a mission to create a positive impact in the community by providing increased access to health and fitness education and opportunities. We do this through our annual race series, outreach programming through local schools and community events, and mini-grants to further support building the habits for a healthy, active lifestyle.
IAFF Local 2866 serves the community through its volunteer projects. The race supports the Firefighter Children Scholarship Fund.

Spark Board

IAFF Members