Over 300 runners came out on a beautiful Saturday morning to compete in the 2026 Steel Magnolia Run held in beautiful downtown Natchitoches on Saturday, March 21. This year’s edition of the popular event featured a course taking runners through our picturesque city. Runners had a choice of a one mile “fun run” or a 5K race.
This event, in its 8th year and sponsored by the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center Foundation, was more than a chance for fun and competition. The race is a major fundraiser for the NRMC Foundation’s various initiatives to improve the health of the parish’s citizens. This year’s race is raising funds for the NRMC Cancer Center.
The annual race is a true community effort. The Natchitoches police department directed traffic and ensured a safe environment for the runners. The NSU Volleyball and Soccer teams cheered on the runners as they started the race and as they crossed the finish line. Cadets from NCHS’ Army JROTC Chiefs Battalion presented the NRMC Foundation with a $500.00 donation.
One notable feature of the Steel Magnolia Race is that the top trophies are pieces of art! NSU Assistant Professor of Art, Corbin Covher, sculpted the awards for the top male and female runners. His handcrafted trophies helped make the race a special experience. The NRMC Foundation makes our community a better place. Let us help them as they help us!
