[02/27/01] With only four days remaining until race day, the number of runners expected for the 22nd annual Run Thru History is looking to be about average, race officials say.

Hays Latham, the race’s Entries and Treasurer Chairman, said about 530 people had signed up as of late last week, slightly ahead of last year’s pace. As more mail-in registrations pour in this week, and late runners register on Friday and Saturday, the final tally should approach a combined 1,100-1,200 runners for the 10K run, 5K walk and Blue/Gray 1-Miler.

“We’re about even or a little bit ahead of last year, and that’s good because last year was a little down,” Latham said.

The 2000 RTH drew 1,150 people, but was the lowest total in five years. The 1999 RTH drew a record 1,548 runners, and in the three previous years the lowest total was 1,392.

“We’re hoping it to be bigger than last year. I don’t think we’ll get to 1999’s record, but you never know,” Latham said.

Runners can pre-register at Battlefield Inn or The Athlete’s Foot in Pemberton Square mall until Wednesday.

The race begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Memorial Arch in the Vicksburg National Military Park.

Pre-registered runners can pick up their race packets at Battlefield Inn on Friday, 5-8 p.m., or Saturday, 7-8 a.m.

Latham encouraged locals to pick up their packets early.