Jason Kelling's Staging Area

About Me

Running club(s):
RWB, KC Running Co., KC Smart Running
Rave race:
Running With The Cows, Tough Ruck Boston, MiniIndy MegaMini
Race that's calling my name:
Running With the Cows (Half) and Tough Ruck Boston (again) and MiniIndy MegaMini
I run because:
- I had a heart attack. They told me I was dying. I have rescue kittens to watch after, so I said that’s not going to work for me. I’m a back-of-the-packer, but I do all my races in body armor, so if you see me say hi as you pass me on the course.
- I enjoy races. I enjoy the community. I enjoy the swag as a tangible memory of where I’ve been. Sometimes a TBI comes out of nowhere and you don’t remember it…the tangible things sometimes help restore the memories because you can engage more than one sense at a time. I enjoy the people who have helped motivate me along the way, and I especially enjoy those who I can motivate to attempt or finish a new distance or set a new PR, or up the weight they carry a couple more pounds for a ruck. I enjoy the knowledge that of all the hobbies we could have, at least this one is good for our health, and that keeps me around longer to spend time with my rescue kittens.
- People have asked me about my ratings in the past. For me a 5-star (shoe) race is one where I will forsake all other races to do that race, year after year. The ones I click refresh on their signup page when I know it’s too early, because…maybe… I hold their medals in the slow season and think back to the great memories of those races and the great people there and look forward to the time of year when I’ll be out early at the starting line again. There’s a lot of great races out there that I want to try, so it DOES actually take a lot to get me there, but like I said, there’s a lot of great races out there, which is why I can honestly say I have as many as I do. 4-star races are the ones I thought were exceptional. It was an excellent race from production to execution. I may try a different one next year when there are two (or more) on the same date, since I’m within driving distance to over 1000 a year. 3-star races…I’m glad I did it. That was a fun race. Nothing went horribly south. Checked that box, doubt I’ll find need to go back unless it quite literally is the only one that weekend and I can’t find a virtual in time. 2-star races are an “I want my money back” sort of event. Maybe not literally as in I’m going to call and demand a refund because that’s petty and Terms always spell out for you how that’ll play out…not that people don’t try… Barring a new RD, course overhaul, reboot of the event, you won’t catch me there again next year. A 1-star event is not only “I want my money back” but “I want those x hours of my life back.” I cannot legitimately imagine a race by professionals going that south unless they publish the wrong location and don’t let anybody know or there are tons of blind turns on the course with no markings and a bunch of us get lost. Running out of medals or not having water on the course, that’s a 1-star event, but even the mediocre inaugural events I’ve been to can top that. Still…it’s out there.

My Races

Organize, track & review your races and personal bests here.

50 States Map

Half Marathon

Marathon

Ultramarathon

(Marathon or Ultra) + Half

Marathon + Ultra

Other

Future Races

Race	Distance	Location	Date	Paid
RanchFIT Ruck	20K	Easton, KS	Dec 21, 2024	✓
Hangover Half Marathon & 10K	Half Marathon	Overland Park, KS	Jan 1, 2025	✓
Time Travel Half Marathon Kansas City	Half Marathon	Parkville, MO	Jan 4, 2025	✓
Alternate Chili Run	10 Miler	Kansas City, KS	Jan 12, 2025
Battle of the Bean	5K	Kansas City, MO	Jan 18, 2025
Groundhog Run	15K Challenge (5K + 10K)	Kansas City, MO	Feb 2, 2025	✓
Couple Shuffle Independence	10K	Independence, MO	Feb 15, 2025	✓
Psycho Wyco Run Toto Run	20 Miler	Kansas City, KS	Feb 22, 2025	✓
Running From Yeti Kansas City, MO	Half Marathon	Kansas City, MO	Mar 1, 2025	✓
Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 Kansas City	Half Marathon	Kansas City, MO	Mar 8, 2025
Bataan Memorial Death March	Marathon	White Sands, NM	Mar 22, 2025
Liberty Half Marathon & Jewell 5K	Half Marathon	Liberty, MO	Mar 29, 2025	✓
Donot Stop 5K & 10K Kansas City	10K	Lenexa, KS	Apr 19, 2025
Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon & Half Marathon	5K	Oklahoma City, OK	Apr 26, 2025
Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Oklahoma City, OK	Apr 27, 2025
TopCity Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Topeka, KS	May 3, 2025	✓
Lincoln Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Lincoln, NE	May 4, 2025	✓
Running with the Cows	Half Marathon	Bucyrus, KS	May 10, 2025	✓
Marine Corps Historic Half	Half Marathon	Fredericksburg, VA	May 17, 2025
DAM to DSM	Half Marathon	Polk City, IA	May 31, 2025
1/2 Sauer 1/2 Kraut Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Philadelphia, PA	Jun 7, 2025
Hometown Half Marathon Kansas City	Half Marathon	Parkville, MO	Jun 14, 2025
All American 4 & 8 Miler Kansas City	8 Miler	Independence, MO	Jun 28, 2025
Summer Sizzler Kansas City	15K	Shawnee, KS	Aug 23, 2025
Spooky Sprint Kansas City	Half Marathon	Lee's Summit, MO	Oct 25, 2025
Turkey Trails KC	10K	Independence, MO	Nov 22, 2025
Tulsa Run	5K	Tulsa, OK	2025
Tulsa Run	15K	Tulsa, OK	2025
Run for Raptors Trail Race	10K	Kansas City, MO	2025
Critz Tybee Run Fest	Half Marathon	Tybee Island, GA	2025
Secret City Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Oak Ridge, TN	2025
Good Life Halfsy	Half Marathon	Lincoln, NE	2025
Fort Hill Brewery Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Easthampton, MA	2026
Indy Half Marathon at Fort Ben	Half Marathon	Indianapolis, IN	2026
Wine Run 5K Fence Stile Vineyards	5K	Excelsior Springs, MO	2026
IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon (#IndyMini)	Half Marathon	Indianapolis, IN	2026
Possum’s Revenge	56K	Graford, TX	2027
Gasparilla Distance Classic	8K	Tampa, FL	2027
Gasparilla Distance Classic	Half Marathon	Tampa, FL	2027
Gasparilla Distance Classic	15K	Tampa, FL	2027
Gasparilla Distance Classic	5K	Tampa, FL	2027
Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon	3-Way Challenge (22.4 Miles)	Cincinnati, OH	2027
Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon	3-Way Challenge (22.4 Miles)	Cincinnati, OH	2028
Arctic Prairie Dog Half, 10K & 5K	Half Marathon	Louisville, CO	TBD
100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Kailua-Kona, HI	TBD
7 Bridges Marathon & 4 Bridges Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Raleigh, TN	TBD
9 Hours for 9 Lives Ultra	9 hr	Victor, NY	TBD
A Midsummer Night’s 10K and 5K	10K	Joplin, MO	TBD
Achill Half Marathon & 10K	Half Marathon	Keel, Ireland	TBD
Chesapeake Bay Bridge Run	10K	Annapolis, MD	TBD
Air Force Marathon	Half Marathon	Wright-Patterson AFB, OH	TBD
Angkor Wat International Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Siem Reap, Cambodia	TBD
Army Ten-Miler	10 Miler	Washington, DC	TBD
Army Ten-Miler	10 Miler	Washington, DC	TBD
Bacchus Wine Half Marathon & 10K	Half Marathon	Dorking, United Kingdom	TBD
Bagan Temple Marathon	Half Marathon	Bagan, Myanmar	TBD
Baltimore Running Festival	Half Marathon	Baltimore, MD	TBD
Baltimore Running Festival	5K	Baltimore, MD	TBD
Baltimore Running Festival	Half Marathon	Baltimore, MD	TBD
Baltimore Running Festival	Half Marathon	Baltimore, MD	TBD
Bataan Memorial Death March	Marathon	White Sands, NM	TBD
Battle of the Bean	5K	Kansas City, MO	TBD
Battleship 12K	12K	Mobile, AL	TBD
Bears Ears Marathon	Half Marathon	Blanding, UT	TBD
Beaver Canyon Half & 10K	Half Marathon	Beaver City, UT	TBD
Berry Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Mount Berry, GA	TBD
Berry Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Mount Berry, GA	TBD
Bienwald Marathon	Marathon	Kandel, Germany	TBD
Bird in Hand Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Bird In Hand, PA	TBD
Bird in Hand Half Marathon & 5K	5K	Bird In Hand, PA	TBD
Blackwater Canyon Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Thomas, WV	TBD
Blueberry Cove 13.1	Half Marathon	St George, ME	TBD
Bobcat Trail Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Glouster, OH	TBD
Boilermaker Road Race	15K	Utica, NY	TBD
BOLDERBoulder	10K	Boulder, CO	TBD
Boulderthon	Half Marathon	Boulder, CO	TBD
Bound for the Hounds 6 Hour Ultra	6 hr	Shortsville, NY	TBD
Bozeman Half Marathon & 10K	Half Marathon	Gallatin Gateway, MT	TBD
Bridge of the Gods Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Cascade Locks, OR	TBD
Bridge of the Gods Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Cascade Locks, OR	TBD
Bubbletown What The Duck Ultra	12 hr	Boiling Springs, PA	TBD
Bucharest Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Bucharest, Romania	TBD
Cannonball Run	Half Marathon	Greensboro, NC	TBD
Capital City Race (MO)	Half Marathon	Jefferson City, MO	TBD
Capital Pursuit	10 Miler	Des Moines, IA	TBD
Carlsbad 5000	20K	Carlsbad, CA	TBD
Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run	10 Miler	Washington, DC	TBD
Chevron Houston Marathon & Aramco Houston Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Houston, TX	TBD
China Coast Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Sai Kung, Hong Kong	TBD
Clare Burren Marathon Challenge	Half Marathon	Ballyvaughan, Ireland	TBD
Clare Burren Marathon Challenge	Half Marathon	Ballyvaughan, Ireland	TBD
Coeur d’Alene Marathon (CDA Marathon)	Half Marathon	Coeur d'Alene, ID	TBD
Denver Colfax Marathon	Half Marathon	Denver, CO	TBD
Colorado Marathon	Half Marathon	Bellvue, CO	TBD
Connemara International Marathon	Half Marathon	Connemara, Ireland	TBD
Cooper River Bridge Run 10K	10K	Charleston, SC	TBD
Cork City Marathon	Half Marathon	Cork, Ireland	TBD
Cork City Marathon	Half Marathon	Cork, Ireland	TBD
Corkscrew Wine Run	15K	Bullard, TX	TBD
Critz Tybee Run Fest	Half Marathon	Tybee Island, GA	TBD
Critz Tybee Run Fest	10K	Tybee Island, GA	TBD
Critz Tybee Run Fest	5K	Tybee Island, GA	TBD
Critz Tybee Run Fest	2.8 Miler	Tybee Island, GA	TBD
BMW Dallas Marathon Festival	10K	Dallas, TX	TBD
BMW Dallas Marathon Festival	Half Marathon	Dallas, TX	TBD
Dandelion Run	Half Marathon	Derby, VT	TBD
Daufuskie Island 100 Mile & 50 Mile Ultra	50 Miler	Daufuskie Island, SC	TBD
Daufuskie Island Marathon & Half Marathon	Marathon	Hilton Head Island, SC	TBD
Daufuskie Island Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Hilton Head Island, SC	TBD
Daytona 2 Beach Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Daytona Beach, FL	TBD
Derby 50K	50K	Ellerbe, NC	TBD
Des Moines Marathon	Half Marathon	Des Moines, IA	TBD
Detroit Free Press Marathon	Half Marathon	Detroit, MI	TBD
Detroit Free Press Marathon	5K	Detroit, MI	TBD
Detroit Free Press Marathon	Half Marathon	Detroit, MI	TBD
District Dash Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Washington, DC	TBD
Dog Days Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Westminster, CO	TBD
Doggone Tired Ultra	50K	Vinton, IA	TBD
Dublin Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Dublin, Ireland	TBD
Duck River Trail Run 5K & 15K	15K	Columbia, TN	TBD
Eagle Chase Fire on the River	Half Marathon	Sauk City, WI	TBD
Easley’s Uncorked Wine Festival 5K	5K	Indianapolis, IN	TBD
Easter Egg 5K & 10K	10K	Overland Park, KS	TBD
Edinburgh Marathon Festival	Half Marathon	Edinburgh, Scotland	TBD
Edinburgh Marathon Festival	5K	Edinburgh, United Kingdom	TBD
Egyptian Marathon	22.2K	New Valley Governorate, Egypt	TBD
Eisenhower Marathon	Half Marathon	Abilene, KS	TBD
Emporia Freedom Fest	10K	Emporia, KS	TBD
End of the Road Half Marathon & 4 Miler	Half Marathon	Waterfall, PA	TBD
End of the World Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Placencia, Belize	TBD
Evansville Half Marathon & 5 Miler	Half Marathon	Evansville, IN	TBD
Fallen Soldiers Memorial 5K, 10K & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Potomac, MD	TBD
Fargo Marathon	Half Marathon	Fargo, ND	TBD
Fargo Marathon	5K	Fargo, ND	TBD
Fayetteville Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Fayetteville, AR	TBD
First State Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Newark, DE	TBD
Fort Bliss Iron Soldier Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Fort Bliss, TX	TBD
Frisco Railroad Run	Marathon	Willard, MO	TBD
Frisco Railroad Run	50K	Willard, MO	TBD
Fueled By Fine Wine: Half, Quarter, and 5K	Quarter Marathon	Dundee, OR	TBD
Garmin Olathe Marathon in the Land of Oz	Half Marathon	Olathe, KS	TBD
Gettysburg Festival of Races (North-South Marathon & Blue-Gray Half)	Half Marathon	Gettysburg, PA	TBD
Glacier Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Kiowa, MT	TBD
Gopher to Badger Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Stillwater, MN	TBD
Governor’s Cup	Half Marathon	Helena, MT	TBD
Grand Circle Trailfest: Kanab	19 Miler	Kanab, UT	TBD
Grand Circle Trailfest: Kanab	Half Marathon	Kanab, UT	TBD
Grand Circle Trailfest: Kanab	Half Marathon	Kanab, UT	TBD
Grand Teton Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Wilson, WY	TBD
Grand Teton Half Marathon & 5K	5K	Wilson, WY	TBD
Grand Teton Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Wilson, WY	TBD
Grand Teton Half Marathon & 5K	5K	Wilson, WY	TBD
Grandma’s Marathon & Garry Bjorklund Half	Half Marathon	Two Harbors, MN	TBD
Grandma’s Marathon & Garry Bjorklund Half	5K	Two Harbors, MN	TBD
Great Santa Run 5K Kansas City	5K	Leawood, KS	TBD
Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Townsend, TN	TBD
Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon	5K	Townsend, TN	TBD
Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Townsend, TN	TBD
Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Townsend, TN	TBD
Hy-Vee Greater Kansas City Half Marathon, 10K & 5K	Half Marathon	Lee's Summit, MO	TBD
Greenbrier River Trail Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Cass, WV	TBD
Greenbrier River Trail Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Cass, WV	TBD
Greenbrier River Trail Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Cass, WV	TBD
Greenville Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Greenville, SC	TBD
Half Marathon Firenze (Florence)	Half Marathon	Florence, Italy	TBD
Hangover Half Marathon & 10K	Half Marathon	Overland Park, KS	TBD
H.C. Andersen Marathon	Half Marathon	Odense, Denmark	TBD
Hapalua Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Honolulu, HI	TBD
Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon	Half Marathon	Nashville, TN	TBD
Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon	Half Marathon	Nashville, TN	TBD
Haunted Wine Run 5K Golden Road	5K	State Rd, NC	TBD
Marabana Cuba (Havana Marathon)	Half Marathon	Havana, Cuba	TBD
Havasu Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Lake Havasu City, AZ	TBD
Havasu Half Marathon	5K	Lake Havasu City, AZ	TBD
Heartland Spirit of the Prairie 100	Marathon	Cassoday, KS	TBD
Hell Creek Half & 50K	Half Marathon	Sylvan Grove, KS	TBD
Heritage Park 5K, 10K & 15K	10K	Olathe, KS	TBD
Heritage Park 5K, 10K & 15K	15K	Olathe, KS	TBD
Hitchcock Experience Endurance Runs	Half Marathon	Honey Creek, IA	TBD
Holloman Ace of Races Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Alamogordo, NM	TBD
Hometown Half Marathon Kansas City	Half Marathon	Parkville, MO	TBD
Choice City Running Festival (fka Human Race)	Half Marathon	Fort Collins, CO	TBD
Huntersville Half Marathon, Hustle 10K & Holiday 5K	Half Marathon	Huntersville, NC	TBD
Huntersville Half Marathon, Hustle 10K & Holiday 5K	5K	Huntersville, NC	TBD
I Just Want to be a Unicorn Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Knoxville, TN	TBD
Indy Half Marathon at Fort Ben	Half Marathon	Indianapolis, IN	TBD
Indy Half Marathon at Fort Ben	Half Marathon	Indianapolis, IN	TBD
Indianapolis Monumental Marathon	Half Marathon	Indianapolis, IN	TBD
Polar Bear Winter Classic	15K Challenge (5K + 10K)	Indianapolis, IN	TBD
Island Vines 5K & 10K	10K	South Hero, VT	TBD
Jack & Jill’s Downhill Marathon & Half	Half Marathon	Snoqualmie Pass, WA	TBD
Java Jog 5K & 10K Greensboro	10K	Greensboro, NC	TBD
Jay Peak Trail Running Festival	5K	Jay, VT	TBD
Jay Peak Trail Running Festival	11 Miler	Jay, VT	TBD
Jay Peak Trail Running Festival	25K	Jay, VT	TBD
Jay Peak Trail Running Festival	22 Miler	Jay, VT	TBD
Jekyll Island Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K	Half Marathon	Jekyll Island, GA	TBD
Jell-O Half Marathon & 7K	Half Marathon	Le Roy, NY	TBD
John Brown Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Osawatomie, KS	TBD
Jordan Impact Marathon (Run the Ancient Desert)	Half Marathon	Wadi Rum Village, Jordan	TBD
KCCC Twilight Trek 5K	5K	Overland Park, MO	TBD
Kansas City’s Big 12 Run	12K	Kansas City, MO	TBD
Kauai Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Koloa, HI	TBD
Dingle Marathon	Half Marathon	Dingle, Ireland	TBD
Kosmos 3-in-1	Half Marathon	Secunda, South Africa	TBD
Kosmos 3-in-1	Marathon	Secunda, South Africa	TBD
Kilimanjaro International Marathon	Half Marathon	Moshi, Tanzania	TBD
Koala Bottle Harbison Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Columbia, SC	TBD
Konquer the Konza	25K	Manhattan, KS	TBD
Kooky-Spooky Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Golden, CO	TBD
Kosice Peace Marathon	Half Marathon	Kosice, Slovakia	TBD
Lake Maggiore Marathon	33K	Verbania, Italy	TBD
Lake Powell Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Page, AZ	TBD
Lake Powell Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Page, AZ	TBD
Leon’s Triathlon	Sprint	Whiting, IN	TBD
Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon	Marathon	Snoqualmie Pass, WA	TBD
Little Apple Marathon	Half Marathon	Manhattan, KS	TBD
Little Rock Marathon	Half Marathon	Little Rock, AR	TBD
Little Rock Marathon	Marathon	Little Rock, AR	TBD
Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of Running	Marathon	Inverness, United Kingdom	TBD
Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of Running	10K	Inverness, United Kingdom	TBD
Royal Parks Half Marathon	Half Marathon	London, United Kingdom	TBD
Longford Marathon	Half Marathon	Longford, Ireland	TBD
Lost City Marathon	Half Marathon	Palenque, Mexico	TBD
Urban Bourbon Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Louisville, KY	TBD
Urban Bourbon Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Louisville, KY	TBD
Maah Daah Hey Trail Run	Half Marathon	Grassy Butte, ND	TBD
Mad Marathon	Half Marathon	Waitsfield, VT	TBD
Mainly Marathons Prairie Series Day 3 (KS)	Marathon	Hiawatha, KS	TBD
Marathon 2 Marathon	Half Marathon	Marathon, TX	TBD
Marburg Nachtmarathon (Night Marathon)	Half Marathon	Marburg, Germany	TBD
Marine Corps 17.75K	17.75K	Triangle, VA	TBD
Marine Corps Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Jacksonville, NC	TBD
Marine Corps Historic Half	Half Marathon	Fredericksburg, VA	TBD
Maui Oceanfront Marathon	Half Marathon	Lahaina, HI	TBD
Meijer Festival of Races (Chateau Grand Traverse Half Marathon)	Half Marathon	Traverse City, MI	TBD
Middle Creek Meltdown	15 Miler	La Cygne, KS	TBD
Mighty Niagara Half Marathon & Hospice Dash 5K	Half Marathon	Lewiston, NY	TBD
Mile 0 Flint Hills Trail Race	20 Miler	Osawatomie, KS	TBD
Millinocket Marathon & Half	Half Marathon	Millinocket, ME	TBD
Mind the Ducks 12h	12 hr	Webster, NY	TBD
Mind the Ducks 12h	12 hr	Webster, NY	TBD
Queen Bee Montana Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Billings, MT	TBD
Jesolo Moonlight Half Marathon (Venice)	Half Marathon	Venice, Italy	TBD
Mt. Fuji International Marathon	29K	Fuji-Kawaguchiko, Japan	TBD
Mount Rushmore Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Hermosa, SD	TBD
Muddy Paws 5 and 10 Miler	5 Miler	Peninsula, OH	TBD
Badger Trail Races	50K	Belleville, WI	TBD
My Better Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Seattle, WA	TBD
Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Napa, CA	TBD
Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon	5K	Napa, CA	TBD
Napoli City Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Naples, Italy	TBD
New River Gorge Trail Festival Winter Edition	Half Marathon	Fayetteville, WV	TBD
New Years Double – Allen, TX	Half Marathon	Allen, TX	TBD
Newport News One City Marathon	Half Marathon	Newport News, VA	TBD
Newport News One City Marathon	5K	Newport News, VA	TBD
Niagara Falls Marathon	Half Marathon	Niagara Falls, Canada	TBD
Night Hawk	20 Miler	Lawrence, KS	TBD
Night Wolf 5K & 10K	Double 15K (10K + 5K)	Kansas City, KS	TBD
Notre Dame Holy Half	Half Marathon	Notre Dame, IN	TBD
Ollie’s Ultra	9 hr	Chanute, KS	TBD
OmaHalf	Half Marathon	Omaha, NE	TBD
Osaka Marathon	8.8K	Osaka, Japan	TBD
Outlaw 100	Half Marathon	Wilburton, OK	TBD
Conquer the Canyon Marathon Race Festival	Half Marathon	Ansonia, PA	TBD
Panther City Half Marathon, 10K & 5K	Half Marathon	Fort Worth, TX	TBD
Panther City Half Marathon, 10K & 5K	Half Marathon	Fort Worth, TX	TBD
Pelee Island Winery Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Kingsville, Canada	TBD
Pi Day River Rotation	Half Marathon	Lawrence, KS	TBD
Piggyback Dash 10K, 5K, 2K	10K	Union, MO	TBD
Piggyback Dash 10K, 5K, 2K	10K	Union, MO	TBD
Pisa Marathon	Marathon	Pisa, Italy	TBD
PolarNight Marathon	Half Marathon	Tromso, Norway	TBD
Prairie Fire Marathon	Half Marathon	Wichita, KS	TBD
Prairie Fire Marathon	Half Marathon	Wichita, KS	TBD
Prairie Fire Spring Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Wichita, KS	TBD
Primiero Dolomiti Marathon	26K	Fiera di Primiero, Italy	TBD
Psychodelic 5K – Ice Version	5K	Kansas City, KS	TBD
Purdue Boilermaker Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	West Lafayette, IN	TBD
REVEL White Mountains	Half Marathon	Conway, NH	TBD
Race to the Cave Half Marathon & 10K	Half Marathon	Woodville, AL	TBD
Race to the Cave Half Marathon & 10K	10K	Woodville, AL	TBD
Raleigh City of Oaks Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Raleigh, NC	TBD
Red Mountain 50K, 30K & Dirty Hurty Half Marathon	50K	Ivins, UT	TBD
Red Mountain 50K, 30K & Dirty Hurty Half Marathon	55K	Ivins, UT	TBD
Red Mountain 50K, 30K & Dirty Hurty Half Marathon	30K	Ivins, UT	TBD
Regal Beagle Ultra	25K	Bath TWP, OH	TBD
Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon	Half Marathon	Richmond, VA	TBD
Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon	Half Marathon	Richmond, VA	TBD
Rock Island Trail Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Pleasant Hill, MO	TBD
Rocket City Marathon	5K	Huntsville, AL	TBD
Rocket City Marathon	10K	Huntsville, AL	TBD
Rocket City Marathon	Front Half Marathon	Huntsville, AL	TBD
Rocket City Marathon	Back Half Marathon	Huntsville, AL	TBD
Rocket City Marathon	Marathon	Huntsville, AL	TBD
Rocky Mountain Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Estes Park, CO	TBD
Rocky Run 10 Mile & 5K	Italian Stallion Challenge (10 Mile + 5K)	Philadelphia, PA	TBD
Run Rome the Marathon	Marathon	Rome, Italy	TBD
Betsy Farris Memorial Run	Half Marathon	Columbia, MO	TBD
Rubber Ducky Half	Half Marathon	Burnaby, Canada	TBD
Ruck ‘N’ Run	7.6K	Republic, MO	TBD
Rugged Raccoon Night Trail Race	25K	St. Marys, Canada	TBD
Run Bentonville Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Bentonville, AR	TBD
Run Holden Beach (BAM! Race Series)	Half Marathon	Holden Beach, NC	TBD
Run Into the New Year	10K	Franklin, WI	TBD
Run Oak Island (BAM! Race Series)	Half Marathon	Oak Island, NC	TBD
Run Ocean Isle Beach (BAM! Race Series)	Half Marathon	Ocean Isle Beach, NC	TBD
Run Sunset Beach (BAM! Race Series)	Half Marathon	Sunset Beach, NC	TBD
Run The Bluegrass	Half Marathon	Lexington, KY	TBD
Run At The Rock	Half Marathon	Burlington, NC	TBD
Run for Raptors Trail Race	10K	Kansas City, MO	TBD
Run the Rock 6 Miler & 3 Miler	6 Miler	Ridgedale, MO	TBD
Running From Squatch – Springfield, MO	Half Marathon	Springfield, MO	TBD
Running From Squatch – Springfield, MO	10K	Springfield, MO	TBD
Running From Squatch – Springfield, MO	5K	Springfield, MO	TBD
Running From Squatch – Springfield, MO	1 Miler	Springfield, MO	TBD
Saguaro Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Tucson, AZ	TBD
Secret City Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Oak Ridge, TN	TBD
Seven Hills of Edinburgh	22.5K	Edinburgh, United Kingdom	TBD
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon	Half Marathon	Virginia Beach, VA	TBD
Shamrock Shuffle (Lawrence, KS)	10K	Lawrence, KS	TBD
Shawshank Hustle	7K	Mansfield, OH	TBD
Shenandoah Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Stanley, VA	TBD
Six Tunnels to Hoover Dam St. Patrick’s Day Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Boulder City, NV	TBD
Skidaway Island Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Savannah, GA	TBD
Skunk Ape Trail Run	10 Miler	Huntsville, AL	TBD
Florida Skydive Ultra Run	Half Marathon	Clewiston, FL	TBD
Florida Skydive Ultra Run	10K	Clewiston, FL	TBD
Skyline Scramble	6 hr	Topeka, KS	TBD
Skyline Scramble	12 hr	Topeka, KS	TBD
Sparkasse 3-Country Marathon	Half Marathon	Lindau, Germany	TBD
Sparkasse 3-Country Marathon	Half Marathon	Lindau, Germany	TBD
Spartan Trifecta Colorado Springs	Sprint	Fort Carson, CO	TBD
Spartan Trifecta Colorado Springs	Super	Fort Carson, CO	TBD
Spartan Trifecta Colorado Springs	Beast	Fort Carson, CO	TBD
Spirits Run 5K	5K	Kansas City, MO	TBD
Split Marathon	Half Marathon	Split, Croatia	TBD
Spooky Sprint Kansas City	Half Marathon	Lee's Summit, MO	TBD
Prague Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Prague, Czech Republic	TBD
St. Jude Memphis Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Memphis, TN	TBD
Stars & Stripes 5K	5K	Overland Park, KS	TBD
Statesman Cap10K	10K	Austin, TX	TBD
Steamtown Marathon	Marathon	Forest City, PA	TBD
Storm the Castle Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Blue River, OR	TBD
Stramilano	Half Marathon	Milan, Italy	TBD
Strutt With Your Mutt	5K	Kansas City, MO	TBD
Suicide Hill Trail Run	10K	Little River, KS	TBD
Summer Georgetown 5K, 10K & Half	Half Marathon	Washington, DC	TBD
Tunnel Vision Marathon	Half Marathon	Snoqualmie Pass, WA	TBD
Tacoma City Marathon	Half Marathon	Tacoma, WA	TBD
Ragnar Road Bourbon Chase	200 Mile Relay	Lexington, KY	TBD
The Cowtown	10K	Fort Worth, TX	TBD
The Cowtown	Half Marathon	Fort Worth, TX	TBD
The Cowtown	5K	Fort Worth, TX	TBD
Runtastic HAUNTED SLC	Half Marathon	Salt Lake City, UT	TBD
Hawk Hundred	Marathon	Lawrence, KS	TBD
The Kan 50K	50K	Mead, WA	TBD
Antarctica Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	King George Island, Antarctica	TBD
Antarctica Marathon & Half Marathon	Marathon	King George Island, Antarctica	TBD
Lost Dutchman Marathon	Half Marathon	Apache Junction, AZ	TBD
Lost Dutchman Marathon	10K	Apache Junction, AZ	TBD
The Pistol Ultra & Pistol Creek Marathon	50K	Alcoa, TN	TBD
The Pistol Ultra & Pistol Creek Marathon	50K	Alcoa, TN	TBD
The Pistol Ultra & Pistol Creek Marathon	Marathon	Alcoa, TN	TBD
The Pistol Ultra & Pistol Creek Marathon	50 Miler	Alcoa, TN	TBD
The Pistol Ultra & Pistol Creek Marathon	100K	Alcoa, TN	TBD
TimberRidge Adventure Race	2 hr	Olathe, KS	TBD
Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 Kansas City	10K	Kansas City, MO	TBD
Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 Kansas City	Half Marathon	Kansas City, MO	TBD
Tortoise & Hare 5K Run, Walk & Roll	5K	Excelsior Springs, MO	TBD
Tower 2 Tower 5K	5K	Lenexa, KS	TBD
Tunnel Hill 10 Miler	10 Miler	Vienna, IL	TBD
Tunnel Hill Marathon	Marathon	Vienna, IL	TBD
Tunnel Light Marathon	Marathon	Snoqualmie Pass, WA	TBD
Urban Cow Half Marathon	5K	Sacramento, CA	TBD
Urban Cow Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Sacramento, CA	TBD
Urban Cow Half Marathon	5K	Sacramento, CA	TBD
Urban Cow Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Sacramento, CA	TBD
Utah Valley Marathon	5K	Wallsburg, UT	TBD
Utah Valley Marathon	Half Marathon	Wallsburg, UT	TBD
Victoria Falls Marathon	Half Marathon	Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe	TBD
Viking Dash Trail Run Raleigh	Half Marathon	New Hill, NC	TBD
Istanbul Marathon	15K	Istanbul, Turkey	TBD
Istanbul Marathon	Marathon	Istanbul, Turkey	TBD
Wandering Wolves	25K	Kansas City, KS	TBD
Waterford Viking Marathon	Half Marathon	Waterford, Ireland	TBD
West Point Fallen Comrades Half Marathon	Half Marathon	West Point, NY	TBD
West Point Fallen Comrades Half Marathon	Half Marathon	West Point, NY	TBD
West Virginia Trilogy	50K	Seneca Rocks, WV	TBD
NorthShore Run (St. Luke’s Half & Tunnel 10K)	Half Marathon	Duluth, MN	TBD
Wilderness Trail Trek 5K & 10K	10K	Lawson, MO	TBD
Williams Route 66 Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Tulsa, OK	TBD
Williams Route 66 Marathon & Half Marathon	26.5 Miler	Tulsa, OK	TBD
Williams Route 66 Marathon & Half Marathon	5K	Tulsa, OK	TBD
Wilmington Historic Half Marathon, 10K & 5K	Half Marathon	Wilmington, NC	TBD
Wilmington Historic Half Marathon, 10K & 5K	5K	Wilmington, NC	TBD
Christmas Wine Run 5K at Serre Vineyards	5K	Mt Airy, NC	TBD
Wine Run 5K Van Till Farm	5K	Rayville, MO	TBD
Wine Run 5K Z&M Twisted Vines	5K	Lawrence, KS	TBD
Wineglass Marathon & Half Marathon	5K	Bath, NY	TBD
Wineglass Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Bath, NY	TBD
Wineglass Marathon & Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Bath, NY	TBD
The Woodlands Marathon	Half Marathon	The Woodlands, TX	TBD
Woolly Hollow Trail Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Greenbrier, AR	TBD
Motus Panther Creek Trail Run	Half Marathon	Morristown, TN	TBD
Yellowstone Half Marathon	Half Marathon	West Yellowstone, MT	TBD
Yellowstone Half Marathon	5K	West Yellowstone, MT	TBD
Yellowstone Half Marathon	Half Marathon	West Yellowstone, MT	TBD
Yippee-Ki-Yay 50K, Half Marathon & 10K	Half Marathon	Council Bluffs, IA	TBD
Yosemite Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Oakhurst, CA	TBD
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon	8K	Virginia Beach, VA	TBD
Zion Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Virgin, UT	TBD
Zion Ultras & Trail Half	Half Marathon	Virgin, UT	TBD
Zionsville Half Marathon and 5K	Half Marathon	Zionsville, IN	TBD
Zombie Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Anchorage, AK	TBD
Zou-Mania	1 Miler	Columbia, MO	TBD
Zou-Mania	2.8 Miler	Columbia, MO	TBD
Zou-Mania	5K	Columbia, MO	TBD
Zou-Mania	10K	Columbia, MO	TBD
Zou-Mania	10K	Columbia, MO	TBD

Race	Distance	Location	Date
Candy Cane Course North KC	12K	Liberty, MO	Dec 15, 2024
Westport Santa Dash	5K	Kansas City, MO	Dec 14, 2024
Jingle Bell Run Kansas City	5K	Overland Park, KS	Dec 8, 2024
Nolan Davidson Champion’s Run	10K	Kansas City, KS	Dec 7, 2024
Greensboro Gobbler 5K	5K	Greensboro, NC	Nov 28, 2024
Gobbler Grind Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Overland Park, KS	Nov 24, 2024
Lagerhead Marathon and Half	Half Marathon	Ottawa, KS	Nov 23, 2024
Holiday Luminary 5K	5K	Overland Park, KS	Nov 22, 2024
Turkey Trails KC	10K	Independence, MO	Nov 17, 2024
KU Vet’s Day 5K	5K	Lawrence, KS	Nov 10, 2024
Parkville Veterans Day 5K & 10K	10K	Parkville, MO	Nov 9, 2024
Bass Pro Shops Conservation Marathon & Cohick Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Springfield, MO	Nov 3, 2024
Salina Crossroads Marathon	Half Marathon	Salina, KS	Nov 2, 2024
Weston Bluffs Trail 5K & 10K	10K	Weston, MO	Nov 2, 2024
Kansas Rails-to-Trails Fall Ultra Extravaganza	50K	Ottawa, KS	Oct 26, 2024
Des Moines Marathon	Half Marathon	Des Moines, IA	Oct 20, 2024
Kansas City Marathon	Half Marathon	Kansas City, MO	Oct 19, 2024
Frontier Freedom 5K & 10K	10K	Fort Leavenworth, KS	Oct 13, 2024
Run for Paws 5K	5K	Olathe, KS	Oct 12, 2024
Oktoberfest 5K (MO)	5K	Martin City, MO	Oct 6, 2024
Brett’s Bands 5K for SUDEP Awareness	5K	Parkville, MO	Oct 5, 2024
Louisburg Cider Run	10K	Louisburg, KS	Oct 5, 2024
City of Roses Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Cape Girardeau, MO	Sep 29, 2024
St. Joseph, Missouri Marathon	Half Marathon	St. Joseph, MO	Sep 28, 2024
Boulevard 10K Kansas City	10K	Kansas City, MO	Sep 22, 2024
Kansas City Zoo Run	4 Miler	Kansas City, MO	Sep 21, 2024
Woodstock 10K	10K	Overland Park, MO	Sep 15, 2024
Do Hard Things 5K Run/Walk & 9.11-Mile Run or Ruck	9.11 Miler	Columbia, MO	Sep 14, 2024
Plaza 10K	10K	Kansas, MO	Sep 8, 2024
Hat Trick Trot 5K & 10K	10K	Saint Joseph, MO	Sep 7, 2024
Leawood Labor Day 5K	5K	Leawood, KS	Sep 2, 2024
5K-9 and Family Fun Run	5K	De Soto, KS	Sep 1, 2024
Wathena River Walk & Run	10K	Wathena, MO	Aug 31, 2024
Head for the Cure 5K Kansas City	5K	Overland Park, KS	Aug 25, 2024
Tiblow Trot	5 Miler	Bonner Springs, KS	Aug 24, 2024
Hearts For RMHC 5K & 10K	10K	Parkville, MO	Aug 18, 2024
Glow Run 5K Kansas City	5K	Kansas City, MO	Aug 17, 2024
Rexy Run & Walk	8K	Lawrence, KS	Aug 17, 2024
Depot Dash 5K	5K	Leawood, KS	Aug 10, 2024
Rock Island Trail Half Marathon	5K	Pleasant Hill, MO	Jul 27, 2024
Amelia Earhart Fun Run & Walk	8K	Atchison, KS	Jul 20, 2024
Donot Stop Half Marathon, 10K & 5K St. Joseph	Half Marathon	St. Joseph, MO	Jul 14, 2024
Sunglasses Run 5K	5K	Kansas City, MO	Jul 13, 2024
Ward Parkway Four on the Fourth	4 Miler	Kansas City, MO	Jul 4, 2024
Night Hawk	10 Miler	Lawrence, KS	Jun 29, 2024
All American 4 & 8 Miler Kansas City	8 Miler	Independence, MO	Jun 29, 2024
I Wanna Rock 5K	5K	Overland Park, MO	Jun 22, 2024
Hometown Half St Joseph, MO	Half Marathon	Saint Joseph, MO	Jun 16, 2024
Clinton Historic Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Clinton, MO	Jun 15, 2024
Heroes For Hospice 5K	5K	Overland Park, KS	Jun 8, 2024
Night Flight 5K	5K	Lee\'s Summit, MO	Jun 1, 2024
Hospital Hill Run	10K	Kansas City, MO	Jun 1, 2024
Going the Distance for Brain Injury Run	10K	Kansas City, MO	May 27, 2024
Joplin Memorial Run	Half Marathon	Joplin, MO	May 18, 2024
Running with the Cows	Half Marathon	Bucyrus, KS	May 11, 2024
IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon (#IndyMini)	5K	Indianapolis, IN	May 4, 2024
IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon (#IndyMini)	Half Marathon	Indianapolis, IN	May 4, 2024
CCVI Trolley Run	4 Miler	Kansas City, MO	Apr 28, 2024
TopCity Half Marathon	Half Marathon	Topeka, KS	Apr 27, 2024
Wine Run 5K Fence Stile Vineyards	5K	Excelsior Springs, MO	Apr 21, 2024
Garmin Olathe Marathon in the Land of Oz	Half Marathon	Olathe, KS	Apr 20, 2024
Tough Ruck	Marathon	Concord, MA	Apr 14, 2024
KC Pet Project 5K	5K	Kansas City, MO	Apr 13, 2024
Rock the Parkway Half Marathon & 5K	Half Marathon	Kansas City, MO	Apr 6, 2024
Wine Run 5K TerraVox Vineyards	5K	Kansas City, MO	Mar 30, 2024
Liberty Half Marathon & Jewell 5K	Half Marathon	Liberty, MO	Mar 23, 2024
Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 St. Joseph	Half Marathon	St. Joseph, MO	Mar 17, 2024
St. Patrick’s 5K at Park Place	5K	Leawood, KS	Mar 16, 2024
B.E.A.R.D. 5K & 10K	10K	Lenexa, KS	Mar 10, 2024
KC Running Club St Patrick’s Day 4 Miler & Kids Run	4 Miler	Kansas City, MO	Mar 9, 2024
Running From Yeti Kansas City, MO	Half Marathon	Kansas City, MO	Mar 2, 2024
Spring Break 5K & 10K	10K	Parkville, MO	Mar 1, 2024
Psycho Wyco Run Toto Run	10 Miler	Kansas City, KS	Feb 24, 2024
Couple Shuffle Independence	10K	Independence, MO	Feb 11, 2024
Sweetheart Run 5K & 10K	10K	Overland Park, MO	Feb 10, 2024
Couple Shuffle Saint Joseph	10K	St. Joseph, MO	Feb 4, 2024
Groundhog Run	15K Challenge (5K + 10K)	Kansas City, MO	Jan 28, 2024
Hangover Half Marathon & 10K	10K	Overland Park, KS	Jan 1, 2024
Time Travel Half Marathon Kansas City	10K	Parkville, MO	Dec 31, 2023
RanchFIT Ruck	10K	Easton, KS	Dec 30, 2023
Candy Cane Course North KC	12K	Liberty, MO	Dec 17, 2023
Candy Cane Course Lee’s Summit	12K	Lee\'s Summit, MO	Dec 16, 2023
Westport Santa Dash	5K	Kansas City, MO	Dec 9, 2023
Jingle Bell Run Kansas City	5K	Overland Park, KS	Dec 3, 2023
Running of the Turkeys (NC)	5K	Greensboro, NC	Nov 23, 2023
KU Vet’s Day 5K	5K	Lawrence, KS	Nov 12, 2023
Ruck ‘N’ Run	5.5K	Republic, MO	Nov 11, 2023
Parkville Veterans Day 5K & 10K	10K	Parkville, MO	Nov 11, 2023
Yeti Endurance Weekend (fka Longview Half Marathon)	Half Marathon	Lee\'s Summit, MO	Nov 5, 2023
Yeti Endurance Weekend (fka Longview Half Marathon)	10K	Lee\'s Summit, MO	Nov 4, 2023
Red Ribbon 5K	5K	Belton, MO	Oct 29, 2023
Cliff Hanger Run	10K	Kansas City, MO	Oct 28, 2023
Mileage Monsters 5K	5K	Olathe, KS	Oct 22, 2023
Kansas City Marathon	Half Marathon	Kansas City, MO	Oct 21, 2023
Military Matters VeteRUN 5K	5K	Kansas City, MO	Oct 15, 2023
Great ‘Pupkin’ 5k Run	5K	Overland Park, KS	Oct 14, 2023
Frontier Freedom 5K & 10K	5K	Fort Leavenworth, KS	Oct 8, 2023
Louisburg Cider Run	10K	Louisburg, KS	Oct 7, 2023
Run for Paws 5K	5K	Olathe, KS	Oct 7, 2023
Oktoberfest 5K (MO)	5K	Martin City, MO	Oct 1, 2023
Weston Bluffs Trail 5K & 10K	10K	Weston, MO	Sep 30, 2023
Watkins Mill Get Outdoors 6.6K	6.6K	Lawson, MO	Sep 30, 2023
Boulevard 10K Kansas City	10K	Kansas City, MO	Sep 24, 2023
Kansas City Zoo Run	4 Miler	Kansas City, MO	Sep 23, 2023
KC Hustle Run 5K & 10K	10K	Overland Park, MO	Sep 17, 2023
Rugged Maniac Kansas City	5K	Drexel, MO	Sep 16, 2023
Plaza 10K	10K	Kansas, MO	Sep 10, 2023
KCCC Twilight Trek 5K	5K	Overland Park, MO	Sep 9, 2023
Onesie Funsie Rhino Run	5K	Kansas City, MO	Sep 9, 2023
Leawood Labor Day 5K	5K	Leawood, KS	Sep 4, 2023
5K-9 and Family Fun Run	5K	De Soto, KS	Sep 3, 2023
Wathena River Walk & Run	10K	Wathena, MO	Sep 2, 2023
Hearts For RMHC 5K & 10K	10K	Parkville, MO	Aug 27, 2023
Lunartic 5K	5K	Smithville, MO	Aug 26, 2023
Summer Sizzler Kansas City	15K	Shawnee, KS	Aug 26, 2023
Restoration Run 5K	5K	Gladstone, MO	Aug 19, 2023
Carry A. Nation 5K	5K	Belton, MO	Aug 12, 2023
Night Train (KS)	20 Miler	Garnett, KS	Aug 5, 2023
Spencer C Duncan Make It Count 5K	5K	Gardner, KS	Aug 5, 2023
Foam Glow Kansas City	5K	Bonner Springs, KS	Jul 29, 2023
Amelia Earhart Fun Run & Walk	8K	Atchison, KS	Jul 22, 2023
Ward Parkway Four on the Fourth	4 Miler	Kansas City, MO	Jul 4, 2023
Stars & Stripes 5K	5K	Overland Park, KS	Jul 2, 2023
All American 4 & 8 Miler Kansas City	4 Miler	Independence, MO	Jul 1, 2023
Hometown Half Marathon Kansas City	Half Marathon	Parkville, MO	Jun 24, 2023
Hilltop Hustle	5K	Lawrence, KS	Jun 17, 2023
KC Pet Project 5K	5K	Kansas City, MO	Jun 10, 2023
Night Flight 5K	5K	Lee\\\'s Summit, MO	Jun 9, 2023
Hospital Hill Run	10K	Kansas City, MO	Jun 3, 2023
Brandon Russell’s Flash Dash	5K	North Kansas City, MO	May 22, 2023
Mainly Marathons Prairie Series Day 3 (KS)	Marathon	Hiawatha, KS	May 14, 2023
Heritage Park 5K, 10K & 15K	5K	Olathe, KS	May 13, 2023
Running with the Cows	5K	Bucyrus, KS	May 13, 2023
CCVI Trolley Run	4 Miler	Kansas City, MO	Apr 30, 2023
Wine Run 5K Z&M Twisted Vines	5K	Lawrence, KS	Apr 22, 2023
Run/Walk for the Paws 5K	5K	St Joseph, MO	Apr 15, 2023
Wine Run 5K Fence Stile Vineyards	5K	Excelsior Springs, MO	Apr 15, 2023
Wine Run 5K TerraVox Vineyards	5K	Kansas City, MO	Apr 8, 2023
Liberty Half Marathon & Jewell 5K	5K	Liberty, MO	Mar 25, 2023
St. Patrick’s 5K	5K	Leawood, KS	Mar 18, 2023
Kansas City’s Big 12 Run	5K	Kansas City, MO	Mar 11, 2023
Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 Kansas City	5K	Kansas City, MO	Mar 4, 2023
Groundhog Run	5K	Kansas City, MO	Jan 29, 2023

My Raves

Those two categories aside, the production I can easily give a 5 to. There was a manned aid station on the way out, at the turnaround, then visiting the first one again. The food selection was honestly too numerous to even try to list, but highlights were half a dozen sodas, quesadillas, peanut butter, PBJs, soup, oranges, candy, banana, sports drink, and pickle juice (I’m getting addicted). Tables and tables of food. If you like to have it when you run, it was probably there. The pre/post race was inside a hangar/barn-style building. Space heaters kept it cozy but wasn’t so warm that you got shocked when you went outside, zero gravity chairs, plenty of places to sit and eat afterwards, I will seriously be looking at whatever other races these people do. They are not messing around. The eggs and bacon at the end were amazing.

The awards double as belt buckles, as is the normal way for long trail runs. It’s nicely designed, and the ribbon meshes well with the design. So many times, it appears as if the ribbon was an afterthought, maybe just the name on there in boring font. This was well integrated. The longer distances got larger belt buckles. I think we all got the same Tshirt, but other swag was available to buy such as a hoodie or mug and a few other things. The hoodie was especially high quality when I rubbed it, but I’ve got so many hoodies this year already I couldn’t pick up another one.

DIFFICULTY

PRODUCTION

SCENERY

SWAG

Des Moines Marathon

I wanted to give this 5 shoes, but...

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | Oct 21, 2024

Overall Rating:

Des Moines Marathon

...but then a friend reminded me of check-in... So we did the I-35 Challenge. With that came a personalized BIB that we picked up at Des Moines Expo. Because none … MORE

…but then a friend reminded me of check-in…

So we did the I-35 Challenge. With that came a personalized BIB that we picked up at Des Moines Expo. Because none of us knew our bib number because we didn’t get the email that supposedly had it (got all the other prerace email…) they just assigned us new ones instead of looking for the ones with our names on it. Might be a small thing to some people but for me bibs are almost as good as medals, and easier to look through a book than the 70 or so medals I’ve earned this year (with challenge medals). It always irks me when you just get a generic bib and then I have to write on there what it was so when it goes in my bib book for the year…but I digress. While my friend did manage to track down the bib I should have had after the conclusion of the race, everyone wasn’t so lucky, and if you’re just going to assign new ones as opposed to looking up the originals (or if you can’t for whatever reason, then your process needs adjusting. I took off a shoe for that, but I ended up adding it back due to the “extra credit” bringing the average back up. More on that later.

People say the expo is small, but you know what, I say it’s just concentrated. There aren’t any roofers and water filter crap there. It’s all about racing and recovery and that’s the expo I’d rather see than something twice that size where half of it is siding or some other nonsense. It’s outside, which is a nice change of pace, and it’s where the post-party is located. If you hang out there the morning of the race the portajohn line can get long though, so Pro Tip: half a block behind the chute on the left is an entire block of portajohns….no waiting even right up until the opening bell. Great job to Des Moines on that one for sure.

The course itself is super fast. There’s a mild uphill from mile 3.5-5, but it’s only about 150 feet of gain. From around mile 5.25 through 6 you’re going back down the hill, then it’s flat the rest of the way, save a dip and a bridge or two at the end. The final stretch back to the finish line comes after a slight left turn. It’s nice and long enough to really have some time to let the “home stretch boost” carry you through the energy of the finish without being so long that the boost wears off and you still have 50m to go. Then take a hard left to medical or right down the extended chute to get your medal/medals as appropriate (I-35 Challenge). Both medals were really nicely designed and there will absolutely be more of them in my collection in future years.

So…this extra credit I spoke of came in the form or roving aid station volunteers in bright yellow-orange shirts on bikes who were riding both directions, dropping off candy and water to those who needed it, and being available to get medical for the people who went down. It was amazing. Not one or two, they must have had a fleet out there because I don’t think I ever made it a half mile without seeing one. I know I never went a full mile. While I didn’t take them up on the offer, I did hand off a water bottle to my buddy in the group who needed one, and part of me wanted to grab a piece of candy just because. When runner cramped up and went down they swarmed them like (friendly) Pirahna until EMT could get there, and runners would report to them when they saw someone in trouble and off they went. Maybe with the shirts, little bicycling bees would be a better analogy…
I hate to see racers go down. I pains my soul every time, but when I saw it here, and saw the rapid reaction, I knew they were in good hands. To the young ladies a mile and some change from the finish, just before the bridge. Thank you for sticking by your buddy. It pained me so much to watch her go down but I was already past you when I noticed and the bike people were going to make it to you far sooner than I (also a first responder) could. I hope she’s okay and I hope you both got to finish together. You are strong. I’m proud of you both.

Anyway, I’ve been to some truly great races with excellent support, IndyMini, Running With The Cows (RWTC), Tough Ruck Boston, well now add Des Moines, who really brought their A-game and hit well above their weight class on this category. I wish I could give them 6 shoes for production, despite the hiccup with the bibs (if my buddy hadn’t managed to retrieve mine I might not have been so forgiving). The medal and challenge medal were nice and I always like when the exit chute is a little long…seems to prevent celebratory activity from crowding the timing mats.

The full marathon came with a puffy red jacket, the half with a rubberized interior raincoat, and I’m sorry I don’t know what the two shorter distances got. Honestly I like the raincoat more, because I’ve never got one of those from a race, so this is in my car for my default raincoat now. There was no tshirt at this length race. The I-35 challenge shirt was cotton with a decent design on it. It’ll be a great addition to my end-of-year quilt.

DIFFICULTY

PRODUCTION

SCENERY

SWAG

Kansas City Marathon

Still an exciting PR

Half Marathon | Repeat Runner '24 | Oct 21, 2024

Overall Rating:

Kansas City Marathon

I've done flat half marathons. This isn't one of them. I PRed on it a year ago and of the nearly 20 that I did in the interim, I couldn't … MORE

I’ve done flat half marathons. This isn’t one of them. I PRed on it a year ago and of the nearly 20 that I did in the interim, I couldn’t touch my time at KC, until this year where I raised the bar pretty significantly. The energy at this race is amazing, and it remains in my top three races. It is one of only two races locally that I will do every year, and that I would fly back for if I was out of town. (Shout out to RWTC!)

I wish I could give 4.5 stars. We hade VIP parking and were supposedly supposed to get an email (as opposed to it being tied to our registration). None of us got that email. I didn’t take off any points (after a long contemplation) because they let us in the VIP parking anyway with no back-and-forth about it when we explained what happened. That’s speaks highly of them. The 2-day expo was great as always and other than the parking issue, pre race communication was wonderful.

The prerace had free coffee the VIP tent, but none inside, unlike former years. Honestly the VIP section had gone downhill a little bit, but the private bathroom trailer was nice. All the same. Would it kill you to have some coffee there so we don’t have to keep leaving and coming back? With the thousands of dollars that tent generated…you’d think…

I thought the chute went pretty smoothly, but I heard complaints that it was too crowded. I think most of that was people in the wrong place (despite more than ample pacers with their poles up to indicate). I personally had no problems passing the slower people in front of me, but I always stick to the sides so plan accordingly if this is a concern. I did miss the fireworks at the start like 2023 had, and the announcer wasn’t as well heard towards the back. Might have been something worth hearing, but with all the energy in the crowd, you gotta have that volume turned UP if you’re going to talk over us. 1291 Marathoners and 3176 Half Marathoners took the chute first, with the 1221 10kers and 1204 5kers who signed up starting a half hour later or so. That worked out well in getting the course thinned out quickly, and by the first hill I didn’t see overly dense packs getting bottlenecked in front or behind me.

Aid stations were decently spaced, though some of my friends complained about the lack of GU. On a half I’m not taking any GU anyway, so didn’t matter to me, but I guess bring your own if you need calories/sugar on the race. Aid station staff was all quick and efficient in their operations, and pretty good at cheering everybody on. The Westport group especially brought the heat, so props to them.

This race hits all the great sites that downtown KC has to offer. There will be hills, so don’t come expecting a flat race, but this is always such an easy race to make a friend on (or run into one for prior years) that it’s easy to get a fire lit under you and start stepping it out before you even realize it.

Tracking stats are great on this race, with the number of people you passed and the number that passed you being reported and the last quarter mile comes with distinct stats as well (thanks Garmin!). The post-race is nice, and there are pork BBQ sandwiches and portobello sandwiches, though I sure wish there was some brisket out there or at least some decent sauce on the portobello. We did the I-35 Challenge this year so we didn’t get to stick around, but it seemed like the band was nice as well.

We’ll have a new course next year since we can’t cross the streetcar line (don’t get me started…) so I hope to see you out there exploring the new course. I’m the guy wearing body armor. Say hi when you pass me.

DIFFICULTY

PRODUCTION

SCENERY

SWAG

Frontier Freedom 5K & 10K

Unexpected PR

10K | Repeat Runner '24 | Oct 14, 2024

Overall Rating:

Frontier Freedom 5K & 10K

So this is the third year of the race and the first year of the 10k (Did they read my review from last year?). I hope this addition sticks around. … MORE

So this is the third year of the race and the first year of the 10k (Did they read my review from last year?). I hope this addition sticks around. When I signed up I thought it would be two laps of the 5k course, which I hate, but I would rather do a 10k than a 5k so I would have done it. Instead, I got the 5k course with two different out and backs added on and it was great. The addition of the little loop inside the old DB was great (especially since I used to work there) and while the out and back to the range could get a little boring, it was the only flat part of the course, so enjoy those two miles. My only gripe is that in doing the 10k, you do miss out on a small bit of the 5k course, so you get to go by the DEERS place but not FMSO. Your mileage may vary on how big of a detriment that is, but I liked being able to go by the front of Bldg 47 (FMSO) since I also worked there. For the 10k you turn off at the corner for the long out and back but come back a slightly modified way to bypass the Old DB on the return. The medal was wonderful and built off the theme of last year (though it was a touch smaller, it’s an appropriate size for a 10k or large for a 5k). The cotton shirt was nice and soft. The only possible gripe I have is I think the 5 and 10k had the same medal, but I didn’t get to actually look at the 5k so I’m not positive on that. It’s a nice medal, so that’s not a complete slam, but I am taking off a shoe for that and the lack of any portajohns on course. I know some people were thinking there’d be one at the turnaround at the range, but this is one of those races where I guess you just have to hold it. That’d be a real easy fix for them to get a full 5 shoe rating from me though. Next year folks. I say that because without fail I will be there next year. The race is blocked off for 3 hours (9-12) on RunSignup, though obviously nobody took that long. Since I got my wishlist granted from last year, I say how about you block off 4 hours so it’s back-of-the-pack friendly and add a half marathon, bring in a lot more people (and money) that way. Worth a shot.

Anyway, this is not an expensive race and the views are amazing, particularly along the high hills overlooking the river and throughout the historic parts of base. The motivation is high on this one, and despite the hills I managed to PR. If I can do it, you can, too. Hope to see you there next year. I’m the guy in body armor in the back. Say hi when you pass me.

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Run for Paws 5K

Still a winner

5K | Repeat Runner '24 | Oct 14, 2024

Overall Rating:

Run for Paws 5K

This 5k is for such a wonderful cause (Lantz Tucker Memorial Fund) to help little critters how could you not love it? The energy at the prerace is like a … MORE

This 5k is for such a wonderful cause (Lantz Tucker Memorial Fund) to help little critters how could you not love it? The energy at the prerace is like a big family reunion with dogs and puppies galore. The course itself is through and beside a park, none of it on the road, either sidewalk or paved trail. Despite some small hills it runs faster than a flat 5k and a buddy of mine “accidentally” PR’ed while staying with me for this race. The medal was adorable and the shirt was a very nice soft cotton. My only gripe is I wish the ribbon was a little thicker so it could hold up to the medal better, but that’s just a design preference I have against the thinner ribbons. It IS a beautiful medal. I don’t get super excited about 5ks all that often, but this is one I clear the calendar for. Even though I spend more time getting there than on the course, I will absolutely be here again next year, and hope you will too. Say hi when you pass me on the course.

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Oktoberfest 5K (MO)

Block party vibe

5K | First-timer '24 | Oct 6, 2024

Overall Rating:

Oktoberfest 5K (MO)

This race always has the vibe of a block party or a cookout or something where everybody is familiar (or close enough) and the ones you don't recognize are just … MORE

This race always has the vibe of a block party or a cookout or something where everybody is familiar (or close enough) and the ones you don’t recognize are just friends you haven’t met yet. Race goes through “downtown” Martin City on their “main street’ (Boulevard), loops through residential area, then crosses back over Boulevard for a windy out and back. There’s a slow inline shortly after the start and the out and back is basically a bowl, so down and up going out and again coming back, with a long final stretch downhill right into the finish line. This was a 5k PR for a while but today I was still working through an injury.

One of the local celebrity race dogs that’s really popular on the circuit had his 50th race today, so minicupcakes with 50 on them were passed around in addition to the pretzels, beer, muffin tops and one or two other treats. For a 5k this thing really hits hard in the after party, which of course also includes a live German band playing appropriate music (with accordion!). In cool weather this is a great course. In less cool weather it’s still a pretty great course. This race is worth the drive for a fun little race of about 350 people.

The medal was nicely designed and hefty and the tshirt was a white cotton one that feels VERY soft.

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Louisburg Cider Run

Smaller than last year

10K | Repeat Runner '24 | Oct 6, 2024

Overall Rating:

St Jo can bring it!

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | Sep 30, 2024

Overall Rating:

St. Joseph, Missouri Marathon

St Jo knows how to party. Great setup in front of city hall. Massages, IVs, grilled food, energy drink and a local band. Lots of incentive to stick around after … MORE

St Jo knows how to party. Great setup in front of city hall. Massages, IVs, grilled food, energy drink and a local band. Lots of incentive to stick around after the race. MC (also a board member) did well to keep the energy pumped.

Medal was wonderfully designed with a horse around the logo of the race, which was the original medal from last year. Date is on the medal and the ribbon is nicely integrated. Honestly, I can’t do it justice here, but it is very well designed, not something that was thrown together by someone who doesn’t even race. Shirt was nice — Long-sleeved medium to heavy weight for a T. Not sweatshirt heft though by any chance, so I could see wearing it on a cold race.

Now the race itself was redesigned this year to avoid a much-hated hill from what I’m told. The unfortunate side effect is the race measured long which they assured me will be fixed for next year. I had 13.4, some people had .3 and .5. At 13.1 according to strava I was withing reach of a PR, so despite the hills it can be a fast course. Save some in the tank thought, because what goes out on this out-and-back/loop combo must come back and the opening hill is much less fun on mile 12 when you’re now going UP it. A great deal of fun from beginning to end, and this is absolutely a repeat race. Because it was long, I did have to deduct a shoe for production, which I hated to do since they had a good reason for redesign, which I suspect will be fixed next year and back up to properly reflect how great this race is.

Special shout out to the lovely lady who made her own aid station with Fireball. Sure came in handy nursing that injury. And I almost PR’ed because of you.

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Boulevard 10K Kansas City

Pretty flat out and back

10K | Repeat Runner '24 | Sep 22, 2024

Overall Rating:

Boulevard 10K Kansas City

So it's not a pancake, but it's the flattest 10k you're going to find in these parts that doesn't involve laps on a track. It's a tree lined 4-lane split … MORE

So it’s not a pancake, but it’s the flattest 10k you’re going to find in these parts that doesn’t involve laps on a track. It’s a tree lined 4-lane split median road, short out and back to the west, then longer out and back to the east. There’s not a lot to look at on this race, but you can congratulate/motivate the other runners going the opposite direction twice here. Nobody does this race because it’s scenic, they do it because the medals are always awesome, and as a Heartland 30k series race, you gotta be here to finish the series, which also always comes with a great medal and great shirt, so two great medals and two great shirts and a possible PR time, that’s why we’re all here. We’ll all be at the one next year as well. Parking can be a little weird based on the GPS directions. It’s across the street from the location listed. Cross a vehicle bridge (4-lane) and look for the fountain on your left. Then you’re at the right place.

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Kansas City Zoo Run

It pains me not to be able to 5-shoe it

4 Miler | Repeat Runner '24 | Sep 21, 2024

Overall Rating:

Kansas City Zoo Run

So I love this race. I love that the money goes to better the enclosures for the animals. The race sells out every year and I love that, too. It's … MORE

So I love this race. I love that the money goes to better the enclosures for the animals. The race sells out every year and I love that, too. It’s still my PR for a 4-mile, despite some choke points where the zoo pathways narrows. All the sentiment and nostalgia aside, this is the 21st running. The shirts are a little bigger than last year (for better or worse) but the medal last year just blows this out of the water. Every year it’s a different animal being sponsored and they feature on the medal. Last year was a sea otter jumping through the 0 in “20”, glitter in the “0”, a nice heft, and could easily pass for a mid-to-low half marathon medal. This year was simply a sea lion with a ball on his nose, is smaller, has no flair like the glitter, and honestly looks like a 5k medal from 10 years ago. I hope whoever used to do the medals comes back for the lions next year.

The after party never disappoints. Shatto milk has their truck out there (free), there’s a coffee truck (paid), a breakfast burrito I didn’t wait in line for, but it smelled great, a handful of vendors and merchandise from the other parts of the zoo, such as paintings by the various animals. There are round tables and chairs set up, and an MC keeps the reception fun and engaging. If the weather hadn’t been so unbearably muggy I’d have stuck around longer, but I missed my PR by 20 seconds thanks to a buddy keeping me steady with my pace, lest I would have missed it by far more. The energy is wonderful at this race and everybody in the race community is probably out there. I know at least 2 people who PR’ed today despite the rough weather, and both cited the high energy of the crowd and participants as what pushed them hard enough to PR. This little 4-miler punches well above its weight class, and were it not for the medal (come on folks let’s get this corrected by next year) it’d be a 5-shoe easily.

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Woodstock 10K

Rebranded middle race

10K | Repeat Runner '24 | Sep 15, 2024

Overall Rating:

Woodstock 10K

Overall Rating:

Hat Trick Trot 5K & 10K

Tiblow Trot

This course was mainly a loop with a little loop of about a mile attached to it. Nice and hilly with some real doozies in there, but gorgeous scenery and … MORE

This course was mainly a loop with a little loop of about a mile attached to it. Nice and hilly with some real doozies in there, but gorgeous scenery and the overcast day made it more than tolerable. Enough interspersed trees that there would have been shade if it was nasty outside. The metal is nicely designed and the cotton t-shirt is comfortable. This race starts off a town festival that had tons of stands setting up along a couple of the streets downtown. I would have loved to stick around if I didn’t have other engagements. Will absolutely do this one again.

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Hearts For RMHC 5K & 10K

Great view and a great cause

10K | Repeat Runner '24 | Aug 18, 2024

Overall Rating:

Hearts For RMHC 5K & 10K

So racing down by the river front is never horrible. It was muggy, and I was on my third race in just over 24 hours, so it was difficult to … MORE

So racing down by the river front is never horrible. It was muggy, and I was on my third race in just over 24 hours, so it was difficult to push hard. A food truck and massage stand was on standby and thankfully they did the alternate course which only involves the dog park once. The medal was a little simplistic though, which seemed a letdown since so much was put into the start/finish line area. This is always a great production so I’m sad to see it was sort of mixed this year, but I will absolutely be back next year and hope to see you there. Say hi when you pass me.

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Glow Run 5K Kansas City

Daytime glow run

5K | First-timer '24 | Aug 18, 2024

Overall Rating:

Glow Run 5K Kansas City

This may be me unclear on the concept. I've done Foam Glow runs, but this was my first Glow Run. We started and (most of us) finished before the sun … MORE

This may be me unclear on the concept. I’ve done Foam Glow runs, but this was my first Glow Run. We started and (most of us) finished before the sun went down, so it was a bit odd to all be wearing glow in the dark sunglasses and bracelets. At any rate, it was a reverse course of a common track along one of the lakes here, and the switch up there was nice, especially since it had been used in the opposite direction the month prior.

Production was about what you’d expect. Race pictures, cotton tshirt, decent sized (if generic looking) medal for a 5k. The course was extremely muggy, which of course they couldn’t do anything about, but shortly after we finished the humidity did drop considerably as it grew dark. There’s maybe a suggestion in there…

All in all, night races are rare, this one is cheap, and lots of people showed up in the circuit, as well as about 350 other people. Probably be out there again next year.

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Rexy Run & Walk

Welcome to the picnic!

8K | First-timer '24 | Aug 17, 2024

Overall Rating:

Rexy Run & Walk

....because that's how this race felt afterwards. Great energy from everyone. Nice loop with an out-and-back added for the 8k. That stretch was a little boring as it ran parallel … MORE

….because that’s how this race felt afterwards. Great energy from everyone. Nice loop with an out-and-back added for the 8k. That stretch was a little boring as it ran parallel to the road and the only thing there was a retaining wall blocking the wind and a lot of heat on the other side not being blocked. No trees on this course so it could be rough in a hot year, but the medal and tshirt (cotton) were excellent and unique and snacks a plenty (prepackaged and from local vendors) were available at the end. This race was a lot of fun. The scenery I was torn between 3 and 4 shoes. It’s around a small lake/large pond with a wetlands vibe to it. It’s pretty, but there’s not a tree out there, so it can get repetitive. Some of the path is paved and some is loose small gravel, so I did lose some time on the gravel, but it’s a fast course overall. If I could PR there (which I did) then you can, too. This will be a do-again race for me (and it benefits a great cause.)

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Depot Dash 5K

Unique course format

5K | First-timer '24 | Aug 10, 2024

Overall Rating:

Depot Dash 5K

So I hate lap courses. This wasn't really. It's a circle. You leave the start line, go in a loop to just shy of the finish line, then turn around … MORE

So I hate lap courses. This wasn’t really. It’s a circle. You leave the start line, go in a loop to just shy of the finish line, then turn around and do it in reverse. Like an out-and-back and a loop course had a baby that avoided having to do laps. It was weird, and while I usually find it demotivating when you go by/near/past the finish line and turn back, somehow since this was the halfway mark it actually wasn’t, and was a fine way to mix things up.

The shirt is a very nice soft cotton and the medal was honestly beautiful. There’s a high contrast 3d relief and a very hefty feel to the medal. It’s honestly better than some of the 10k medals and on par with the cheaper (but not crappy) half marathon medals. For someone who doesn’t do many 5ks because the 10 and half medals are usually so much nicer, this was a real treat.

The course was small elevation rolling hills that you get to experience both directions, and while none were particularly big I didn’t feel like I had many actual straightaways for long, barring the one leading up to the turnaround point. The scenery was a nice office complex’s perimeter road. Felt more like a university campus than a boring-architecture-chunky-block-fest. The weather was in the low 60s and overcast, but with no real natural shade on the course that might have been less fun 20 degrees higher, so we did get somewhat lucky compared to a week ago. In any event, I’ll be rolling the dice with the weather again next year for the 3rd annual running of this event. Hope to see you there. Say hi to the guy in body armor when you pass him.

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Rock Island Trail Half Marathon

First time on a hot course

5K | First-timer '24 | Jul 27, 2024

Overall Rating:

Rock Island Trail Half Marathon

It is rare when I do a 5k if there is any other length available. I elected to skip the half and do the 5k here because everyone I talked … MORE

It is rare when I do a 5k if there is any other length available. I elected to skip the half and do the 5k here because everyone I talked to said it was an unbearably hot course, and with a bad ankle I knew my time would be lousy. The start of the race is on the road and transitions to dusty trails and eventually a brief rails-to-trail section, which I understand is what most of the race consists of if you do the half. What I saw was incredibly pretty and it did feel cooler under the canopy of the rails-to-trail part. Snacks at the end included watermelon and reasonably low fat bars. The tshirt (cotton for the 5k and tech for the half) were nice and the medal (same size, different ribbon) was large for a 5k (typical half marathon size). Maybe a cooler year I go back and give the half a shot.

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Amelia Earhart Fun Run & Walk

Second time's a charm

8K | Repeat Runner '24 | Jul 20, 2024

Overall Rating:

Amelia Earhart Fun Run & Walk

So if you want to PR an 8k, here's an opportunity... There are some hills out here. Small one at the start, gradual incline, and two big ones towards the … MORE

So if you want to PR an 8k, here’s an opportunity…

There are some hills out here. Small one at the start, gradual incline, and two big ones towards the end. I’ve raced here in oppressive heat (last year) and light rain (this year), and the latter was far more enjoyable.

They added a (small) medal this year and the shirt is a nice tech shirt. This was a super cheap race $30, 2 days out, so I do really feel like we got a good deal. I raced it alone last year and brought three friends this year and we all had a good time in this cozy little small town race. Great energy despite some sleepy weather and the volunteers were all smiling and well stocked. Don’t expect something like the Mini Indy or RWTC, but for the smaller production it is, it’s actually quite good. Looking forward to next year’s.

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Donot Stop Half Marathon, 10K & 5K St. Joseph

Earn Those Doughnuts!

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | Jul 20, 2024

Overall Rating:

Donot Stop Half Marathon, 10K & 5K St. Joseph

I've done this course a lot but never for this race. It's a double out-and-back bowl-shaped course. You. Will. Get. Hill work. Here. It is not an easy course but … MORE

I’ve done this course a lot but never for this race. It’s a double out-and-back bowl-shaped course. You. Will. Get. Hill work. Here. It is not an easy course but it is exceptionally pretty, and there’s a feeling of accomplishment after this one like few local races can bring. Bodies Race company brought it, as always, with a great DJ and motivated volunteers at the aid stations. The staff on hand was quick to correct cup shortages at the water point that was getting low and everybody is just really focused on having a great time at a challenging race.

The race IS largely at a park, so if you’re looking for crowd support, there’s just not any, but the views are great. The medal was a cool doughnut and sprinkles and the sprinkles can move around inside it. The shirt was a nice cotton tshirt with a really great design to it. It’s black with high contrast graphics. I almost wish it was a tech shirt. I know some people are really not into cotton shirts. I see merit to both. I’d wear this shirt out though. People either love or hate the course (I love…) but the doughnuts at the end were a nice treat to placate the haters. I’m scheduled on this course at least two more times this year and in cool weather, believe it or not, it can run really fast. This day was not that day.

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Sunglasses Run 5K

Lakeside 5k

5K | First-timer '24 | Jul 14, 2024

Overall Rating:

Sunglasses Run 5K

Difficulty? Everything is difficult this week. The course was sunny and open, so no shade to speak of, and wind was intermittent. Nothing they can control. I do have a … MORE

Difficulty? Everything is difficult this week. The course was sunny and open, so no shade to speak of, and wind was intermittent. Nothing they can control.

I do have a problem with whatever was at the water station that was clear and not water though. My buddy and I both slammed a shot of it thinking it was water and immediately tasted the salt of Gatorade or something like it. Not a huge issue (if you’re not a heart patient monitoring your sodium), but I was real close to splashing my face with it instead and that would have sucked in the eyes. The volunteer didn’t warn anyone that it was anything but water, and when we asked what it was the answer was pretty much “I don’t know.”

The medal was really gorgeous for a 5k and the shirt logo was flashy and late 80s/early 90s vibe to it. I can see doing this race again if the medals remain on that caliber.

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Ward Parkway Four on the Fourth

Great energy at this one

4 Miler | Repeat Runner '24 | Jul 9, 2024

Overall Rating:

Ward Parkway Four on the Fourth

This race always has highly motivated racers and volunteers. The route has a couple light hills but it's shaded, so that makes up a lot in these hot days. Medal … MORE

This race always has highly motivated racers and volunteers. The route has a couple light hills but it’s shaded, so that makes up a lot in these hot days. Medal felt a little cheaper this year (lighter plastic?) and I miss the pizza sponsor that used to be there, but all in all a good after party.

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Night Hawk

What Coulda Been...

10 Miler | First-timer '24 | Jun 30, 2024

Overall Rating:

Night Hawk

I was supposed to do a 20 miler on this one. I had one brand new headlamp (Charged 24 hours), a belt light that I love because I can get … MORE

I was supposed to do a 20 miler on this one. I had one brand new headlamp (Charged 24 hours), a belt light that I love because I can get 8+ hours out of it (charged 24 hours), an old headlamp that I’ve used on shorter 10ks before (charged 24 hours). All of them died during this race. I had to drop down after one lap so I got 10M out of an intended 20M, but it wouldn’t have been responsible to go back out. Many people I spoke with had lights dying early that night. Solar flares? EMP attack? I don’t know, but it was profoundly disappointing.

The race itself was exceptionally marked and the aid stations were well equipped to include fresh watermelon. The course itself was appropriately challenging in places but had some smoothish sections of trails that were great for picking up the pace. At the start when we had daylight still, the scenery was top notch, and deer were even spotted crossing the trails.

I will be back next year for my redemption race so I can get my 20 miles in if I have to bring a backpack of batteries, a USB battery bank and a hand crank light. Finishing through the corridor flanked with tiki torches was a nice touch, and Mile 90 was there to do an excellent job with the (Free!) photos. Energy with the crowd was great and everybody was real polite on the trail. Great experience that I can’t wait to get another shot at.

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All American 4 & 8 Miler Kansas City

Punishing day

8 Miler | First-timer '24 | Jun 30, 2024

Overall Rating:

All American 4 & 8 Miler Kansas City

I'm always doing this race on the hottest day of the year. Never the day before or after the hottest day. Overcast this year but humid like a terrarium, largely … MORE

I’m always doing this race on the hottest day of the year. Never the day before or after the hottest day.

Overcast this year but humid like a terrarium, largely this is a double out and back, with some shenanigans in a parking lot to add a couple tenths where needed. There’s a water point at the turnaround, which normally would be sufficient, but this race really needs another in light of the large hill and the weather.

Carrying 35lbs I was crushed on this race, but even my buddies who were running it normally were saying how oppressive the heat was and how hard the course was. Real pretty scenery around the hill part, which to be fair is 80% of this course, but not really anything in the way of spectators, so if you need external sources to get pumped up, this one may be challenging for you.

Bodies, as always, has wonderful medals and the finish line free ice cream truck was the perfect end.

I did a 10-mile trail run later that night that was only a third as hard as this race.

I hate it. I hated it last year too. When I go back and do it next year I’ll also hate it. Hopefully there will be a third water point. Major kudos to Bodies Race Company for bringing great energy to a barren race.

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I Wanna Rock 5K

80s throwback

5K | First-timer '24 | Jun 22, 2024

Overall Rating:

This course is used for a couple races each year. Xmas and Valentine's Day I believe. That is always a fun course with rolling net-up hills for the first half … MORE

This course is used for a couple races each year. Xmas and Valentine’s Day I believe. That is always a fun course with rolling net-up hills for the first half and a steady downhill final 3/4 mile or so. This was the first time I’ve done it in reverse and surprisingly it was equally enjoyable, even if that final downhill push was taken away this way. The tshirt is decent, but there was no finisher medal, and being as how my spirit animal is a raccoon and I collect shiny things (just kidding…mainly), that was a bummer. Race energy was high and lots of people from the community showed up for this 5k for a great cause, and even though I’m super disappointed there was no award, I’ll likely do it again, especially with this being the slow time of year for races.

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Hospital Hill Run

How to handle the Hill...

10K | Repeat Runner '24 | Jun 2, 2024

Overall Rating:

Hospital Hill Run

...is do it a cool year. While it may not have been "cool," per se, it was 11 degrees cooler than last year, and I was thankful for that when … MORE

…is do it a cool year. While it may not have been “cool,” per se, it was 11 degrees cooler than last year, and I was thankful for that when tackling this notoriously hilly course. If you want a PR course, this isn’t it. If you want to be a part of a 51-year-old race that shares some key routes with a partially abridged KC Marathon route, here’s a great preview.

While there seemed a much smaller turnout than last year, that was the 50th running, so it is to be expected. The energy was up, before and during the race, and the post-race party area has a great band and plenty of seating. Massage tables AND IV were present. Usually, it’s one or the other if any, so having both there was wonderful. And the brisket burritoes had far more brisket in them this year if you got to partake. I had an ice cream sandwich (4g sat.fat) so that was my fat for the morning, because I love when my cardiologists are happy with me. I heard some complains about the shirt, a light cotton long sleeve pullover hoodie. I actually liked it. Not too heavy, lighter than the one I usually use in the winter. I can see it getting some use on those days when you don’t really know how the temperature is going to FEEL until you get to the site. The medal was a cut out medal with the skyline and a nice ribbon. There were complaints that last year was better. Well last year had the big 50 on there, of course it was better. I thought it was a nice medal.

I was half-marathoned out and had some medical issues crop up, so I did the 10k, but I will be happily doing the half marathon for the 52nd running in 2025. I heard the course extension has a lot of shade at least.

Bottom line, until we get the KC marathon in October this is the most iconic race in KC and possibly the area. Do not miss this one.

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Night Flight 5K

Night race in a park

5K | Repeat Runner '24 | Jun 2, 2024

Overall Rating:

Night Flight 5K

There aren't many night races. You have to go in with lower standards. There's no finisher medal for this one though, and I do kinda have high standards to the … MORE

There aren’t many night races. You have to go in with lower standards. There’s no finisher medal for this one though, and I do kinda have high standards to the point that I feel like there should be a medal. The tshirt was pretty basic cotton.

Seems like 3 shoes is pretty generous huh? Here’s the deal it’s a nice figure 8-shaped paved trail through a park with an awesome after party with local frozen custard. The trail is marked down the middle with chem lights, and I mean they are like every 5 feet. It’s the best-lit night race I’ve ever been on. The after party in the amphitheater has Cuties (Owaris), Uncrustables, Bananas, apples and custard. It’s pretty much eat as many as you want. There are tons of dogs there, which I always love on a race, and Bodies Race Company always has a motivating DJ who keeps the tunes cranking out high energy. The swag is super weak. There’s no way around that, but I said there was no reason to go back last year, then I didn’t sign up when this opened up, then I thought about it and was like “well….and it IS a night race…

And yeah I’l probably be there next year as well.

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Going the Distance for Brain Injury Run

Good intro to summer hills

10K | First-timer '24 | May 30, 2024

Overall Rating:

Going the Distance for Brain Injury Run

I've been spoiled with flat or cool for the most part. This was neither. Good course. Two laps, which I normally hate, but since it feels like so much of … MORE

I’ve been spoiled with flat or cool for the most part. This was neither. Good course. Two laps, which I normally hate, but since it feels like so much of it is uphill the familiarity makes it easier the second time around. Fortunately, there is a truly copious amount of shade on this course.

Volunteers were motivated and eager to assist with water and cheers, and bonus points to any race that brings coffee. I don’t care how hot it is. That said, sometimes some decaf would be nice for us heart patients, too. The shirt was a decent tech shirt that I’m looking forward to using this weekend, but honestly I felt like the medal was a little lacking. It was tailored to this race, but it reminds me of the 5k medals from 5 years ago. While this didn’t affect me, apparently there was supposed to be a kids race that they kind of forgot about until an hour or so after the supposed start time, and I think that is one of those kinks that should be worked out for a race as old as this one. It wasn’t an expensive race though, and it’s a nice way to break into the swing of things in bad weather before the real brutal races stack up on you. I’ll be back next year if nothing else gets in the way. Real good scenery of the parks and local neighborhood.

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Joplin Memorial Run

Beauty borne out of tragedy

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | May 18, 2024

Overall Rating:

Joplin Memorial Run

This race serves to honor and remember the tragedy that struck the town, taking 161 lives and destroying over 8000 structures. It was (this was their final and 13th running … MORE

This race serves to honor and remember the tragedy that struck the town, taking 161 lives and destroying over 8000 structures. It was (this was their final and 13th running of the race) a beautiful race, and I am honored to have been able to be a part of it. The course this year started off in downtown Joplin by Memorial Hall. Sadly, the Hall has fallen into disrepair and is not able to be visited. I hope one day it is so I can go back and see it. The course is fairly flat for Missouri but there were a few gradual hills. This course is hot. There is no shade and you’re out in the open, usually on a wide street. There is a great deal of thermal mass to contend with, and for those of us who don’t deal well with humidity, it quickly got punishing. Somehow, I still managed to come close to my standard pace despite being on the injured list. At one point the drummers outside the local church near the halfway mark were bringing absolute fire, which thankfully we got again as we circled the park and came back up the other side. Two fastest splits on the course for me right there, despite one having a lot of hills, so kudos to the young men and women who were out there bringing the heat and pumping us up. You sound amazing on the approach and just as powerful up close.

The shirt is a very tasteful design and the medal is gorgeous, with elements of the memorial statue reflecting in the design of it. All 13 medals were on display and whoever has done this one and the last two or three has a wonderful eye for design. There was also a very much appreciated remembrance coin that came with the race, a very nice glass, a stylish branded trucker hat, and a very stylish branded bookbag sized insulated cooler that is going to have my snacks from now on when I’m driving a ways to a race, which is not uncommon here lately. Almost forgot, branded polarized sunglasses as well. Truly there was a great amount of SWAG. There was also a handful of small nonbranded things donated like a bottle opener, pens, tickets to the baseball team.

Three hours on the road well spent to get there, and to my new friends in Joplin, I hope we get to race together again someday. Everyone stay safe. Your town is lovely, and I look forward to going back.

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Running with the Cows 🏆

Long live the cows!

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | May 11, 2024

Overall Rating:

Running with the Cows 🏆

This race was once on the verge of disappearing, which saddened me to no end. It's always been my favorite 5k so this year I figured I'd try the half. … MORE

This race was once on the verge of disappearing, which saddened me to no end. It’s always been my favorite 5k so this year I figured I’d try the half. Weather is odd this time of year. I’ve been out there on cold runs and out there on hot ones, this unfortunately was the latter, as 99% of this course, there is zero shade available. My shoes, despite having only 100 miles on them were rubbing my ankle raw. Sporting $150 running shoes this time around, I usually do races in combat boots. This is why. By mile 3 I was miserable, so it was going to make for a long race. On the upside, the volunteers were amazing at motivation and water and gatorade felt like it was available every mile. If not it was pretty close, and it was always cold. I appreciated that immensely.

The course is rolling hills, and if you like the country, it really is quite beautiful out there. If you think “big ol’ open field of nothing” then this probably isn’t going to get you psyched up. If nothing else, what should is the gargantuan spread at the end. It seems like everyone in town brings a dish, and I stopped counting at 30 different offerings, plus the standard cookies/oranges/apples/bananas. Some of these folks can really cook, too.

I’m honestly sad it’s over. I’m sad my shoes betrayed me, though I did manage to somehow eek out a not-horrible time, which, between the shoes and a stress fracture that I told my physical therapist I’d go easy on (sorry, Doc), sort of surprised me. I think it would actually be a fast-ish course were it not for the oppressive heat and humidity on what really is the first warm race of the year. Time to get used to that again I suppose.

The medal is always nicely done and features the cartoon cow mascot in tennis shoes in a different scene/pose each year. It’s a colorful cutout medal that still has nice weight to it and the ribbon is beautiful and features the date, length and 15th anniversary. I feel like ribbons are an afterthought too often, but this is truly part of the medal. The 5k shirt is a nice cotton that wears well and the half is a tech T. They also have nice mugs and water bottle available for sale.

This has been a bucket list race for me since my heart attack when they didn’t know if I’d ever do a quarter mile again. While I’m glad to check it off, I’m looking forward to hitting it up next year for a faster time. Hope to see you all there.

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IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon (#IndyMini)

Start your engines!

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | May 6, 2024

Overall Rating:

IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon (#IndyMini)

You. MUST. Do. This. Race! (second edit to add some more praise I forgot about the sign) Race was flat and fast, but the humidity was stifling, a reminder that … MORE

You. MUST. Do. This. Race! (second edit to add some more praise I forgot about the sign)

Race was flat and fast, but the humidity was stifling, a reminder that mother nature doesn’t always give us the constant tailwind we want. If you’re from a part of the country where that’s not going to break you off, I can see this being a PR course though. I was on the injured list, absolutely NOT used to the humidity and wearing a 34lb vest and actually did better than I thought I would. Did horrible, don’t get me wrong, but less horrible than I thought I would, and I cannot wait to go back!

5K | Repeat Runner '24 | Apr 21, 2024

Overall Rating:

Wine Run 5K Fence Stile Vineyards

I love vineyard runs. There are a few here I really enjoy but this is my favorite every year. The after party is always high energy and the staff is … MORE

I love vineyard runs. There are a few here I really enjoy but this is my favorite every year. The after party is always high energy and the staff is more than happy to talk to you while you sample some of their offerings back in the clubhouse/restaurant. The course circles and loops back through the property and is a two loop race. Normally that is my least favorite type of course but it’s easy to overlook here in the beauty of the rolling hills and rows of spring growth popping up after winter. The swag is the same as each of the Wine Run series offers in any given year, so I always end up with duplicates, but if you’re only doing one, this is the place to earn it. Now they’ve added a lightweight hoodie to the offerings which is actually pretty nice. Coupled with a great patio and delicious food, bring your wallet and this can turn into an all-day event.

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Garmin Olathe Marathon in the Land of Oz

Welcome to Oz

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | Apr 20, 2024

Overall Rating:

Garmin Olathe Marathon in the Land of Oz

This morning the weather was great at my house and 10 degrees cooler windchill upon arrival. There is nothing to block wind out there, so be prepared accordingly. Also be … MORE

This morning the weather was great at my house and 10 degrees cooler windchill upon arrival. There is nothing to block wind out there, so be prepared accordingly. Also be aware that parking backs up, so it’s going to be a slow crawl down the last mile to the parking lot.

My performance was possibly the worst of any half I’ve done, but a week after Boston Tough Ruck I wasn’t going to be PR’ing anyway. I do feel like this would have been a fast course for me on any other day, and the scenery through Olathe ran the gamut from downtown to residential areas. Every aid station I went by the volunteers were super motivated and it was well set up with gatorade up front then water and the volunteers were doing a great job of keeping the tables fully stocked as well as handing them to participants.

I will absolutely do this race again. The Tshirt has a nice weight to it and the Oz logo, but is nothing special if you’re not wed to the area. The medal was similarly the Garmin in the Land of Oz logo of the year, but it’s nicely made and decently weighted. This race is the third and final race in the Heartland 39.3 series, so if you also are doing that you get the extra award and swag for Heartland 39.3. That was exceptional this year with a heavy cutout medal with the names of the three races and a zip up windbreaker with drawstring hood and NO sponsors on the back, only a classy 39.3 logo with the race names on the front, just in case you need more incentive for the race.

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Tough Ruck

Chasing a unicorn

Marathon | First-timer '24 | Apr 15, 2024

Overall Rating:

Tough Ruck

So every year 1000 people get together and do something crazy. Let's go to Boston and do a marathon with a bunch of weight on our back. Sure. Before the … MORE

So every year 1000 people get together and do something crazy. Let’s go to Boston and do a marathon with a bunch of weight on our back. Sure.

Before the Boston bombing this used to be in synch with the Boston Marathon, but is now held the day before due to concerns about bags. I get that, but it sure is a shame I never got to do it the old way.

The course changes every year, and this year was an out and back through three wonderful towns: Bedford, Lexington and Concord. Let me tell you, these towns brought it! While there were four official aid stations stocked nicely with basic chips and fruit, there were basic medical supplies as well, which I appreciated greatly even though I brought my own out of habit. All of the volunteers seemed so invested you would have thought they personally were the race director out there filling in the key position which would determine failure or success of the production. There was no phoning it in, which played well considering how we wouldn’t be able to either. Sign of a classy production. In addition to those four, people had set up a handful of impromptu stations as well and everybody was having a blast being there. This was an all-day event for a lot of spectators based on all the supplies they brought out to tailgate.

While the trails connecting the towns were nice and the scenery was beautiful, what really stood out for me was these towns and after my first pass through them on the way out I was really looking forward to the repeat on the way back, even though I was pretty sure most of the energy would be gone since I am a back-of-the-packer. I couldn’t have been more wrong. When I made it back into Bedford people were still tailgating in parking lots along the route and cheering on the ruckers or tending to any medical/gear issues they had. Around mile 20 is where I said goodbye to where I met some great people who let me play with their dog on a break while I was reminding myself how much I like half marathons. I’d been reminding myself of that for about 7 miles at that point since passing mile 13 and nursing an ankle injury, but as I trudged back into Concord I was met with all the fanfare of a winning quarterback. People dining al fresco were raising their glasses to me and cheering me on. I was offered probably a half dozen drinks, nearly every car was honking as they passed me with several drivers stopping to roll down their window and give me words of encouragement. Enough so that I passed 14 people in the last couple miles because of the fire they lit in me. Considering how spent I was with 31lbs on my back, that says a lot. That said, I PR’ed up there with a faster time and heavier weight and I want to see if I can do it again. Just maybe not next year. I may need longer to recover.

It was also the best pizza I ever tasted at the end. Thank you Bertucci’s.

As I would expect from a crowd of vets/military and first responders, my fellow ruckers were wonderful, with everybody helping out where they could in order to motivate people when they hit their personal wall. It was very much a “we do this together” thing and every DNF was a punch in the gut (about 11% of the starting number if preliminary results stand). No shame though, and if any of you are reading this, none of us think any less of you. Just wish we could have shared that pizza with you at the end. There was a lot of suck out there. If you have to ring the bell you have to ring the bell. No shame in knowing where you stand. For those who were injured and DNF’ed. I hope you go back. I know I am. If we get to share the course again I’d consider it an honor.

The swag: Nice tech tshirt and plenty of other branded swag for sale, but let’s be honest, we’re all there for the unicorn.

My only gripe is there’s a lot of standing around time in the morning, and with everything wet with the dew, it would have been nice to have some warming tents or bonfires or something to stay warm around while we were waiting on everybody to get weighed in and the various speeches given.

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KC Pet Project 5K

Always a great race...w/ puppy pit stops

5K | Repeat Runner '24 | Apr 13, 2024

Overall Rating:

KC Pet Project 5K

Any race where you can periodically stop and pet a puppy in need of adoption is a great race. And they're all puppies on the inside even with grey on … MORE

Any race where you can periodically stop and pet a puppy in need of adoption is a great race. And they’re all puppies on the inside even with grey on their muzzles. Subsequently, I never PR here, but with the last half mile being a steady downhill on this L-shaped double out and back (out and back on each leg, not two laps). I’ve done this race in the rain and muggy heat, this year was a nice middle ground. The tshirt is a nice high weight soft shirt with a classic logo of the race which is reinterpreted every year, and the medal is nice and heavy and well designed. I avoid 5ks unless it’s for a cause I really believe in, but I’ll gladly do this race every year. The swag really is on par with a longer race and they do a great job of having wonderful high energy volunteers year after year. Do note, this race has sold out every year, so book early if you can. It’ll be well worth it, and I’ll see you out there next year.

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Rock the Parkway Half Marathon & 5K 🏆

Ate my lunch

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | Apr 6, 2024

Overall Rating:

Rock the Parkway Half Marathon & 5K 🏆

I said I wasn't going to push hard on this one since I have the Boston Tough Ruck in 8 days. The first three miles my pace was 10% slower. … MORE

I said I wasn’t going to push hard on this one since I have the Boston Tough Ruck in 8 days. The first three miles my pace was 10% slower. I didn’t like that, because it just didn’t feel right to not dig in, so I tried to speed up. Eh. Didn’t really matter. The slow rolling hills which I normally would have chewed up (okay there’s a couple large ones) just kept going on today. This was the first time I almost got swept off a course. I lost a lot of time once we got off the parkway for a brief 2-3 mile loop in a neighborhood, because a lot of the roads there were kind of chewed up or lopsided, but then back out on the parkway for some rolling beat down. Actually, I dug in and caught up to about 12% over par time, but I’ve finished half marathons faster and had more energy afterwards.

Crowd support was excellent, with just about every other block coming out (some with megaphones) to cheer everyone on. There were a few course breakers who figured they can drive through the course, but big kudos to KCPD for some super-fast-to-respond motorcycle officers who cleared them off the course.

The shirt is a nice tech shirt with the blue and gold Rock the Parkway colors. Instead of just a list of sponsors there’s a large bold print “I Rocked It” on the back which makes it look way less billboardy.

This is the 15th year of the race, unbeknownst to me, and while every medal from this race looks nice, this year they really classed it up with the traditional logo under “15th year”. Great showcase medal.

This is the second race in the Heartland 39.3 series, and though the course profile should have been easier than Liberty, my coach and I both found this more taxing. Be prepared when you come, and don’t underestimate Ward Parkway!

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Wine Run 5K TerraVox Vineyards

First wine run of the season

5K | Repeat Runner '24 | Mar 30, 2024

Overall Rating:

Wine Run 5K TerraVox Vineyards

TerraVox is always a nice 5k, as it marks the first of three (now 4!) wine runs in the area. Unfortunately two of them are on the same day at … MORE

TerraVox is always a nice 5k, as it marks the first of three (now 4!) wine runs in the area. Unfortunately two of them are on the same day at the same time, which is horrible planning, but the vineyard operators dictate the time and date, so I’m not faulting the RD or staff for that. Still maybe next year they can sway them a little harder. As someone who does all of them every year (and brings others with me) it’s way less convenient now. Also, these used to be afternoon races which gave everybody more of an excuse to stick around afterwards and drink wine, share stories, mingle and whatnot, but with it moved to 0900 most people were out by 1030 and everybody was gone by probably 11. I’d love to convince them to go back to 1500 because then we could race, have a couple drinks, get some food, really stick around a while (and spend lots of money) so you would think they’d be into it.

The race through the vineyards is always beautiful. The weather was nice so it wasn’t muddy and while it started out with a little chilly wind it shaped up nicely. It snakes back and forth across the property and gives plenty of chances to wave at your friends as you pass back and forth.

The optional hoodie this year is very nice. It’s lightweight and soft. The t-shirt was nice as well (and tag-less). The medal has a cork backing to double as a coaster and has a very classy design on the front. It’s actually nicer than I expected when I heard it was a coaster because I’ve had some mid to low end medals like that, but with the actual medal cover on this one it really comes off as being fitting to display.

I’ve done this race 4 times, and next year will be the fifth.

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Liberty Half Marathon & Jewell 5K

Lives up to the hype and then some

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | Mar 26, 2024

Overall Rating:

Liberty Half Marathon & Jewell 5K

I've done the Jewell 5k (the 5k version of this event) and loved the pre-race set-up in the Mabee Center. Great stands and vendors and the coffee the car wash … MORE

I’ve done the Jewell 5k (the 5k version of this event) and loved the pre-race set-up in the Mabee Center. Great stands and vendors and the coffee the car wash brought was actually really good, and much needed on such a cold windy day. More on that wind later.

Check in was smooth the day before. I usually do race day pickup but I wanted to check out the expo. Very glad I did, as I found a couple races I hadn’t heard about before that look promising. For someone who did nearly 70 races last year, that says a lot. The medal is huge, as it is known for, and very stylishly designed. The long sleeve tshirt was very soft and comfortable.

The course is a loop, yet somehow I spent 12 miles going into the wind. Not sure how that happened. Pretty sure 12 miles of it was uphill, too. I may or may not have also been chased by ninjas on dragons, right grandpa? Okay the last part I’m making up but the first two points I mean. It was SUCH a feeling of accomplishment finishing this monster (I mean that lovingly), though thankfully the largest of the hills was at the start so you can get it over with. At one point the course winds through the hospital grounds, where flags adorn the course. It was a very moving experience, especially for someone who’s spent as much time in hospitals as I have. The final stretch of the course after you roll back onto campus is up by frat row, and let me say they do know how to come out and motivate there. Along the way the aid stations were all well-staffed with SUPER motivated volunteers. As a back of the packer with 30lbs on his back, a lot of races are just phoning it in by the time I make it through, but every aid station from the first one with drummer and air guitarist to the last unofficial one from the Greek guys, everybody felt like I was on the final stretch at Boston. Seriously, if you ever need motivation to keep going on a race, this is the one for you. Pretty decent crowd support considering it was cold and windy, and many houses along the way had stereos set up to provide support music. The finish line is on the race track around the field in the college stadium, which you enter and do 3/4ths a lap before coasting to your medal and chocolate milk.

This race is also part of a couple of different series challenges, including the Heartland 39.3 and the Hometown Half challenge (different than the Hometown Half series by Bodies Race Company).

This was my fourth long race of the calendar year and by far the hardest on my body, to include the notoriously rough 10-mile trail race I did almost exactly a month earlier. With that constant headwind it may have actually been the hardest half I’ve done, and I’ve never been so happy to drop my body armor after a race as I was on that one.

The organizers are peerless in their communication and interaction, and it is always a joy at other races when I see their tent up so I can drum up some strangers to go sign up for the biggest half in the Northland, and truly one of the best races in the KC area.

The only complaint I have is that I can’t sign up for next year’s race yet.

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Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 St. Joseph

100% do again.

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | Mar 18, 2024

Overall Rating:

Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 St. Joseph

I'm shocked. This is the first time I've ever given this high of a review, and I've liked other races more, but looking back at this objectively there's nothing for … MORE

I’m shocked. This is the first time I’ve ever given this high of a review, and I’ve liked other races more, but looking back at this objectively there’s nothing for me to easily deduct a point on. I’ve done races in this series before but never St. Jo and never at this new location they picked. I loved it. It is a double out and back with a bowl-shaped elevation profile and you will put in some work on these hills. The actual course was gorgeous though, slowly winding through a park for much of it, with the first/last mile being a windy decent on a park road up a pretty good-sized hill (with tunnel and everything). At the bottom of that one you cross one of two (controlled) intersections then start up another shorter less steep one to the part section. Keep in mind, this is out and back. Twice. There are lesser hills on the rest of the course, but these are the two that will eat your lunch and laugh at you if you’re unprepared. Shockingly my first 8 splits were well under par and I didn’t drop to the worse side of par until the final two splits, but wow did I drop. Battling a cramp in my toe I was still quite happy with my final time, which honestly could have been a PR if I could have redone the last 1.1 miles. The views are amazing and somehow always came with a headwind (Uphill, both ways!…yeah grandpa…). I heard more than one person say they hated the course, which, if you were expecting a “4 laps around downtown” sort of thing, I can see why this would break you off. If you could make a trail run that didn’t involve roots, mud, gravel or dust you’d have a good approximation of what is going on here.

Great classy medal (with embedded bottle opener). Guess the tshirt was standard, so minus half a shoe there? I’m stretching. It wasn’t a perfect race, surely, as everything can be improved but it was definitely an A-student in the class. Looking forward to next year’s.

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St. Patrick’s 5K at Park Place

Leawood needs more races! They run it!

5K | Repeat Runner '24 | Mar 18, 2024

Overall Rating:

St. Patrick’s 5K at Park Place

Leawood knows how to do a race. Great energy. This is where Lucky 13 Rescue shows up so it's very animal friendly. Located at a great shopping center with tons … MORE

Leawood knows how to do a race. Great energy. This is where Lucky 13 Rescue shows up so it’s very animal friendly. Located at a great shopping center with tons of nice little places to duck in and grab a bite before and after, which it seems like a great many people do. Very much a party atmosphere, and did I mention there’s a wine bar there? Did this race last year and my Gatorade froze in my beard so it was nice to do it in a long sleeve t-shirt this year.

Good gradual hill work. Nothing steep, but some long gradual climbs. Really nice medal for a 5k. Would have thought I was at a 10k and honestly I’ve done halves with medals that weren’t as nice. I nearly PRed without even trying just from talking to people as I passed them and finally catching up to some people I could pace nicely. I only slowed down at the end because my heart monitor was a little higher than my cardiologist likes while I’m recovering from a heart attack, but you can put it work here and get rewarded for it far beyond what it feels like you’re doing.

Bring more races to Leawood they know how to bring their A-game to a race.

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B.E.A.R.D. 5K & 10K

Great inaugural race

10K | First-timer '24 | Mar 11, 2024

Overall Rating:

B.E.A.R.D. 5K & 10K

For anyone familiar with the Summer Sizzler, there's some course overlap here, but instead of out and back 2x the 10 is made up by a lollipop addition to the … MORE

For anyone familiar with the Summer Sizzler, there’s some course overlap here, but instead of out and back 2x the 10 is made up by a lollipop addition to the out and back of that race, heading down into the park and around the hills there.

First off, let me say it was an honor and a privilege to be able to race with Scott Green again. The man is a legend in the local running community who has given SO much.

The course design was great. It’s not an easy route, but it isn’t punishing, and you’ll feel accomplished when you’re done. Just don’t expect a PR and save some in the tank for that final push up the hill to the finish line. Nice classy (and classic) design to the medal. The pre and post race festivities were great, with Shatto milk making an appearance and a boatload of various homemade muffins and hot chocolate available post race. It is a great time of year for the race, because while it may be a little chilly when you’re warming up, the sun burned the cold off fast and made it a nice high-50s for the actual race. There’s not a lot of big-name long races yet at this point in the year. Liberty is usually what people consider the first major half of the year, and while this is obviously shorter, it looks like one of those races you can look forward to with the same gusto. Maybe one day they’ll add a half.

Full disclosure, my gps came up a little short at 5.94 miles, and while I know that’s not always accurate due to sampling error, I am pretty sure the course was in fact a little short based on my finishing time and performance on the course. I made great time the first 5k going off splits on my strava app, which felt in line with my exertion, but the second 5k I didn’t pick up the pace for, which I would have had to have done to finish at the final time I got, leading me to believe the course was a tad short. No a deal breaker, but something to be aware of. Hopefully if it’s true they’ll fix that for next year, when I fully intend to race it again.

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KC Running Club St Patrick’s Day 4 Miler & Kids Run

Great little neighborhood race w/ hills

4 Miler | Repeat Runner '24 | Mar 11, 2024

Overall Rating:

KC Running Club St Patrick’s Day 4 Miler & Kids Run

Westport knows how to put on a race. I actually wish they did it more than twice a year even though I normally prefer longer races. The restaurant/bar area is … MORE

Westport knows how to put on a race. I actually wish they did it more than twice a year even though I normally prefer longer races. The restaurant/bar area is blocked off for the start/finish line and the atmosphere is electric.

The course is fun and has many opportunities for brief hill work, though nothing that’s going to break you off if you’ve been lacking in your practice routine. Lots of downhills as well though, and plenty of crowd support as you make the long stretches through the neighborhood. This is the slightly longer version of the Santa Run course (5k there). The final stretch to the finish line is net downhill but only slightly, so you won’t get torn up going down an 10%er or something at the end. I wouldn’t call it a PR course, but it’s certainly not a slow one.

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Running From Yeti Kansas City, MO

My worst performance in years

Half Marathon | First-timer '24 | Mar 2, 2024

Overall Rating:

Running From Yeti Kansas City, MO

**Updates at the bottom of original review So I've done this trail a dozen or so times. I have no idea why my time was garbage today other than everything … MORE

**Updates at the bottom of original review

So I’ve done this trail a dozen or so times. I have no idea why my time was garbage today other than everything hurt. None of this is the race’s fault though. It’s a beautiful trail (mainly) though a park. The trail is wide enough for a golfcart and a biker to ride side by side with a little room left over, so plenty of time to pass. This is NOT a trail run in traditional sense, as everything is paved and very much not wild. Mainly flat(-ish), but there are a couple short steep ones and a long grinding one that goes largely up for a mile. This race would be 5 shoes on overall and race swag if the medal had been nicer and befitting of the rest of this production. Despite my worst time on a half marathon (other than my very first), I had a great time. In part because I finally got to close the loop on a race that was delayed due to cold weather/wind in January.

The SWAG I marked down one because the medal is acrylic and feels cheap, though they do offer engraving plates. The long sleeve tshirt is very comfortable and the hoodie is tapered a little better than most of them, so I don’t have all this extra room around the waist. There were also socks, but I haven’t worn them yet, and the option to select between a trucker hat or a water bottle. I got the water bottle, but I’m told the hat was quite nice as well. DIdn’t get to see it as they had some supply chain issues so the hats are all getting mailed out, gratis.

UPDATE:
So because I was nearly DNF on that race (knees), I didn’t get my medal engraved due to some hardware issues that arose by the time I finished. They offered to mail me the engraved chip disk thing. It arrived today (looking sharp) and they were awesome enough to throw in a free Yeti running belt and a personalized note. It’s those little things that really make an outfit stand out. Also, it dawned on me that my original review failed to mention that there are three locations (cities) in which this race occurs, each with a different color hoodie, so it really incentivizes you to do the whole series, which I hope to do next year. I’m no stranger to racing multiple legs in a series of races under the same name. You get more of the same tshirt usually…it is what it is we all know the drill, but THESE folks solved that problem for you and make the different locations different theme colors (Think it was yellow, red and blue). The hoodies are nice, especially if you need an athletic cut, and I’m going to be picking up more colors next year for sure.

Just one more thing that made this organization stand out.

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Spring Break 5K & 10K

All dog park all the time!

10K | First-timer '24 | Mar 2, 2024

Overall Rating:

Spring Break 5K & 10K

So I do English Landing Park a lot. It's my go-to for virtuals from 5k to half marathon. There's a section that nobody enjoys doing that I've ever spoken with, … MORE

So I do English Landing Park a lot. It’s my go-to for virtuals from 5k to half marathon. There’s a section that nobody enjoys doing that I’ve ever spoken with, the first mile and a half or so over by the dog park. It’s slow, loose gravel and there’s really nothing to look at over there normally, this year it’s construction equipment. The route was different than any of the other ELP races I’ve ever done. Immediately across the foot bridge at the circle, counterclockwise around the dog park to the far corner, then retrace back to the start, 10k-ers do it twice. Ugh.

That said, the medal was pretty much half marathon size and weight, so that eased the pain, and it was an afternoon race which I love, because then I can do a double that day, but for a small field and a lousy route, They really did as best they could on scene.

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Psycho Wyco Run Toto Run

Hold off for the Three Sisters

10 Miler | First-timer '24 | Feb 24, 2024

Overall Rating:

Psycho Wyco Run Toto Run

....or their other name, which is less polite. These are the last three hills that come in the last few miles. These things put the KC Marathon or Hospital Hill's … MORE

….or their other name, which is less polite. These are the last three hills that come in the last few miles. These things put the KC Marathon or Hospital Hill’s hills to shame. I do a lot of hill work, and my prior job had hill work as a big component of it. These were rough. The hills earlier which had ropes tied into trees to use in case of mud were not easy, but the ones at the end could really suck the motivation out of ya.

The shirt is a long sleeved, quarter-zip tech shirt. Simple bright red, no sponsors, just a 3×4″ name and logo of the race on the left breast. I’d actually wear this shirt around town, and not because it’s laundry day. I wish I’d bought two actually.

The race is on a 10-mile loop with 1300 feet of elevation gain. Do it once, twice, or three times. I only did the 10-mile because I’m recovering from a knee injury and the 34lbs I was carrying was going to get real heavy with the rough knee.

That said, here comes my only complaint: the medals shown online are apparently only for the 20 and 30 miler. The 10 miler gets a completely different medal that’s just a wood coin with the race name burned on it, strung to a piece of yarn. Honestly, it feels cheap for an $80-something dollar race when I got a nearly identical medal at a $18-dollar race last year for a local high school. Since the tagline of the race is Run, Toto Run! The (other) medal has a little black dog on it. I collect medals with critters on it (suggestions welcome!), so while I wanted to do the race anyway because it is so famous here, I really wanted the little black dog one. Despite the knee, I could have easily done 20 miles without the body armor and kit (or 10 and 10…whatever) and get the medal I thought I was going to get, but since the 10-mile medal wasn’t shown anywhere on the website, I assumed we were all getting the same (maybe different size and ribbon). Nope. No critter medal for me. I would have given 3 shoes for the swag except the shirt is so nice. Production lost a shoe for lack of specification on the website, but the chilli set up at the end was a nice touch. That said, the website said regular and vegetarian chilli, and there was only one pot of regular. I’m not vegetarian, so didn’t bother me, but it did seem unfortunate that something else on the website could use some updating.

The aide stations were 4 I believe (one you hit twice, before and after a loop). They were all well stocked with gatorade, nutella/tortilla rollups, M&Ms, some kind (ham?) of sandwich, but I didn’t pay a lot of attention to them since I was only doing 10 miles and I had gummies and potato chips in my kit which was fine for what I was doing. I did see enough to know there was a very extensive selection well beyond what I named here. All the volunteers were motivated and friendly and it was probably the best marked trail race I’ve ever been in. They had arrows and “wrong way” signs up at every intersection, some things that might have been intersections, and one or two things that looked like a good place to put an intersection but never made it. Seriously, they made it real clear where you’re going. Great job on that to all the great people at Trail Nerds, who gained a new follower today.

52 weeks from now I’m going to be back to get my little black dog medal.

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Couple Shuffle Independence

Second time just as fine

10K | First-timer '24 | Feb 11, 2024

Overall Rating:

Couple Shuffle Independence

So I already did a race from this set in a different location (Couple Shuffle Overland Park). I left a great review for the other one. If I had to … MORE

So I already did a race from this set in a different location (Couple Shuffle Overland Park). I left a great review for the other one. If I had to choose only one, it may actually be this one. The 5k course is a single-T course, the 10k is two laps of it. The overwhelming majority of that race is the “top” of the T, not the vertical leg. I liked the tshirt and loved the medal last weekend when I earned it elsewhere in the set, so it’s still just as great. The course was a beautiful closed off road (both lanes) making the whole path from the start line to the finish nothing but race area. You pass a lake on the top left part of the T as well as what would be an overflow waterfall had it been rainy. There are hills, a couple of which I’d say may border on just more than “rolling” but nothing protracted and nothing punishing. it was a great way to break the monotony of a flat track and get back in the swing of the hill work some of the other races in the KC area requires. Gatorade was on the course, something that’s grown rare on a non-summer-race shorter than a half. and the volunteers were super friendly and motivated. Absolute “do again” race and I hope more races in the future take advantage of this great course.

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Sweetheart Run 5K & 10K

When you can't decide...

10K | First-timer '24 | Feb 10, 2024

Overall Rating:

Sweetheart Run 5K & 10K

...between road and park, here's a great mix! So the 5k was all road work, one lap around a square block. The first side of the square was pretty much … MORE

…between road and park, here’s a great mix! So the 5k was all road work, one lap around a square block. The first side of the square was pretty much one slow grind up, but halfway through the second side you get a little break. After finishing that first lap, you start the second then detour off to an out and back through a park on a double wide trail with mainly rolling hills but two steep but short (distance) ones. It was a nice surprise because I normally hate lap races, but this was a good mix and with the clear differentiation between the 5k and 10k courses, I felt like I got twice my money’s worth. This would be a do again race. I hated only that I was dealing with a toe injury so it did slow me down a little and that uphill grind was a little more punishing than it normally would be, but somehow I still cranked out a fast-ish finish. I didn’t necessarily think it at the time, but this actually could be a fast track despite the hills. I did over 65 races last year and didn’t have any on this course, so it was also a nice treat to do a different path. Kudos to KCRC for another great race.

The long sleeve tshirt seems sturdy and the medal was nicely designed with a lot of heft to it. 5 and 10k are the same medal with different ribbon color, but as I said, it’s heavy and pretty, so that’s not a bad thing.

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Couple Shuffle Saint Joseph

Up and out and down and back. Repeat.

10K | First-timer '24 | Feb 4, 2024

Overall Rating:

Couple Shuffle Saint Joseph

This was a double out and back. Normally I'm not a huge fan of repeating track, but it still beats a doing laps on a loop. Largely at a park … MORE

This was a double out and back. Normally I’m not a huge fan of repeating track, but it still beats a doing laps on a loop. Largely at a park so only one monitored cross street, then 2k of gradual rolling uphill to a turnaround past an overpass and back to the start for the 5k, do it again for the 10k. Seemed to be a net positive course as I was only slightly behind my average pace but I’m still recovering from illness, so that was a surprise. As always with Bodies, the energy was high at the starting line despite it being cold and wet, the medals were super awesome as a hinged candy box-shaped heart with some real weight to it

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Groundhog Run

Great cave run.

15K Challenge (5K + 10K) | First-timer '24 | Jan 28, 2024

Overall Rating:

Groundhog Run

I've done the 5k a few times, but this is the first year I did the 5k followed by the 10k (2 more "laps") There are so many twists and … MORE

I’ve done the 5k a few times, but this is the first year I did the 5k followed by the 10k (2 more “laps”)

There are so many twists and turns in the course, and an out-and-back or two that it doesn’t have the incessant boring nature of multi-lap races, which normally I hate. I was on the injured list today so my performance was expectedly slow, but I was okay with that because I had to complete the 5k as part of a series and then since I was there, might as well do the 10k afterwards, right? Right. And now I have two medals that link together, which pleases the raccoon in me.

For those who have not been to these races, I’m sorry. They are a great opportunity to have a decent sized race and not have to care what the weather is. If anything you’ll find you likely overdressed for the caves and start peeling off layers. There were two turns where people seemed prone to do that, because every lap I witnessed it at that turn and saw other parts of the pack doing the same as we entered some of the see-through areas from one part of the course to another. Even the area near the entrances are not COLD, per se, but you will feel it cool off in those areas. Those I preferred.

One thing of note, the air in the back of the cave can be thinner, so while the altitude change is negligible (18-wheelers are able to drive through there, so nothing really hilly) as far as your legs are concerned, if you’re sensitive to oxygen level changes prepare to be affected. My pulse oximeter went from 100 at start to 93 on the third lap towards the back. If that doesn’t slow you down, more power to you, but I wasn’t going to drop lower than that.

Prior years it’s actually been a really fast course for me, and since nothing has changed about the course I suspect it still is. Part of that is the mental joy of being inside with a thousand or so of your buddies doing this thing we do for 5, 10 or 15k and not being even remotely concerned about frostbite or frozen lung, knowing that the spring series is just around the corner and all the great races that brings. Part of it is this is one of the few larger, longer races that happen in the late NOV-JAN time frame when everything seems to migrate towards 5k-Only Land (though it seemed better this past year).

I gave 4 shoes on the scenery. I actually think the former limestone quarry cave is attractive. Some people call it an unfinished parking garage. I think the “scenery” also includes for me the peaks you get of other parts of the pack that you see between pillars as everyone spreads out and the course loops and twists around inside, and when you’re recognizing people from different pace groups doing their thing and then all of a sudden you’re slapping high fives to each other again.

Special shout out to some water station volunteers who knew how to bring the full-throttle cheer-and-support routine into the mix as well. I wish I’d caught her name to let the RD know how great it was to see everybody treated like they’re carrying the Olympic torch into the stadium or something. How she did that for so long I’ve no clue, but she deserved recognition.

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Hangover Half Marathon & 10K

Great way to start off the year

10K | First-timer '24 | Jan 2, 2024

Overall Rating:

Hangover Half Marathon & 10K

Overall Rating:

Candy Cane Course North KC

This one is hard for me. I was nursing a bad knee today so my time was off, but I feel like it could have been a fast course. Probably … MORE

This one is hard for me. I was nursing a bad knee today so my time was off, but I feel like it could have been a fast course. Probably not PR material because of the hills (none too bad, but many small ones), but a fast one none the less. I had a maximum time I wanted to come in under, and I did, but my splits were way off from normal. Overall I’m only saying 4 on difficulty because as a double out-and-back, you get just as much downhill as uphill, so race strategically. The first couple miles were in one lane of the road, but there was a parallel sidewalk as well that fast runners could take advantage of to pass the clog-ups at the beginning. The scenery was nice, both on the road and in the park, with plenty of varied terrain to take advantage of. This is not a “trail run” though, as it’s all on a doublewide (or wider) path once you hit the park. The swag was the same as yesterday, being another Candy Cane race, but the swag was amazing, so I’m not complaining there. My only gripe is there were with mile markers. There was a 5k and a 12k, so out to the 5k turnaround, then out another half km to the 12k turnaround, then do it twice. There were no mile markers after 3 and since they were for the 5k they didn’t correspond to the multiples on the 12. It would have been nice to have color coded markers out for both race, because I like seeing them on the course as motivation to maintain pace.

Also, the free coffee truck returned for another showing. Huge plus on that one.

I really loved yesterday’s Candy Cane course, and as much as it pains me to say it, if I could only do one next year it would probably be this one, but I’m hoping that both will be do-agains.

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Candy Cane Course Lee’s Summit

Make me like double-T again

12K | First-timer '23 | Dec 16, 2023

Overall Rating:

Candy Cane Course Lee’s Summit

Running of the Turkeys (NC)

Nice medium rolling hills around a lake with an attached stretch by the road. Wide sidewalk and one land shut down though, so plenty of room to maneuver around other … MORE

Nice medium rolling hills around a lake with an attached stretch by the road. Wide sidewalk and one land shut down though, so plenty of room to maneuver around other people. I was visiting family from out of town, and packet pickup was right around the corner from where I was staying, but there is no race-day pickup, which, as someone who travels up to an hour each weekend for a race, it’s a personal pet peeve of mine even for local races to not do same day PPU. This race started late and was less than 1k people, which seems like same day should have been doable. From the Race’s standpoint, it also means no same day PPU would have ruled out anybody from out of town who didn’t want to spend the night or drive out twice, which seems like bad business. As such, have to deduct a shoe for Race Production.

The few support people on the course and at the water station were reasonably motivated. With the course largely in a park there was little need for a lot of road closures, and there was never really an issue of not knowing where to go. On course mile-markers are always a plus.

Race swag….no finisher medal. Some people don’t care. I get it. Some people chase bling. I’m in the latter category, particularly for out-of-town races I do. I did 61 races so far this year. 58 came with finisher medals, so I feel like that IS kind of the standard, particularly for a full-price race. If you want to offer a “no frills” option with no T/medal, sure…more options are always super, but I feel like an opportunity is missed again to pull in the out-of-towners and bling chasers. The long-sleeve, hooded, tech T is nice though, and the turkey hat is warm (and cute) so while I would normally give a no-medal race a 3 for swag, I’ll give them a 3.5 and round up to 4 on this one.

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KU Vet’s Day 5K

GREAT surprise hill course

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 12, 2023

Overall Rating:

KU Vet’s Day 5K

I was on the injured list today because an old knee injury was acting up. Figured even if I hopped across the finish line, great cause, new race (for me) … MORE

I was on the injured list today because an old knee injury was acting up. Figured even if I hopped across the finish line, great cause, new race (for me) and I was going with a buddy so I was going regardless. SO glad I did. This was one of the best surprise 5K courses I’ve seen in a while. I don’t get excited much about 5Ks, but I am now. Long slow hill up, right from the start, make it to the top of campus and take a quick little sidetrip down a pretty good sized hill just to come back up a steeper one (and thankfully shorter) than the first. It’s a pretty campus, and this course really takes advantage of the terrain. I saw several side streets I’d love to do an out and back on if they have a 10k up there. I will be looking now for sure.

Wasn’t a lot of people out cheering us on, but it was cold and bitterly windy and college students getting up early on a Sunday…well…

There were a lot of students racing with us and the Navy/Marine ROTC was out calling cadence and showcasing their guidon. The cinnamon rolls at the end were excellent and the coffee was welcome (thanks for the decaf!) and we got a KU-themed oversized washcloth in addition to our cotton tshirts. As my third race of the weekend I wish I’d had more to really give it my all, but even if you can’t muster that it’s a great course and a great race, and I hope to see you out there next year.

Swag was a really nice spinner medal with the KU mascot on one side and the Korean Peninsula on the other. It’s a bright medal with a loud ribbon and I want more of them.

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Ruck ‘N’ Run

Had to do virtual

5.5K | Virtual Runner '23 | Nov 11, 2023

Overall Rating:

Ruck ‘N’ Run

This looks like a really great crew that I would love to race with in person, unfortunately this year it was just too far and timing was too tight due … MORE

This looks like a really great crew that I would love to race with in person, unfortunately this year it was just too far and timing was too tight due to some other commitments, so I did it virtually. Kudos to them for some unique race lengths and putting the exercises in the mix too. If you can’t get to a Spartan/Rugged Maniac this is your best option (and a whole heck of a lot cheaper), plus it supports a good cause.

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Parkville Veterans Day 5K & 10K

Modified out-and-back by the river.

10K | First-timer '23 | Nov 11, 2023

Overall Rating:

Parkville Veterans Day 5K & 10K

This was the first year they added a 10k, but I've done the 5ks any prior year I was in town for. For anyone who routinely does English Landing Park, … MORE

This was the first year they added a 10k, but I’ve done the 5ks any prior year I was in town for. For anyone who routinely does English Landing Park, I think this race is the best of the three major routes for 10k. There’s the double loop (yech), the out and back that turns around right before the little footbridge (something to be said for symmetry) and this modified out and back, where the turnaround is around mile 4 then you take a shortcut back. I didn’t care for it the first time because I like my turnaround points being symmetrical normally, but this means you only have to do the boring part of the course once. That’s also the loosest packed gravel so less sliding and less loss of speed.

The races are always nice down there, and it’s a pretty flat course for the first 5k, then there’s a slight slope down to the turnaround point and back. It should be a fast course, though I’ve never actually PR’ed there. I suspect part of that may be to familiarity because I’ve done that route so many times (it’s my default virtual route if I’m not doing an actual site nearby).

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Yeti Endurance Weekend (fka Longview Half Marathon)

Bring your knee brace...

Half Marathon | First-timer '23 | Nov 6, 2023

Overall Rating:

Yeti Endurance Weekend (fka Longview Half Marathon)

First and foremost, I rucked this, so there are nuances that won’t apply to runners as much. I was torn on how many shoes to select on a number of … MORE

First and foremost, I rucked this, so there are nuances that won’t apply to runners as much. I was torn on how many shoes to select on a number of categories, so let me explain my logic and where I’m coming from.

Overall I could have gone 3-5 and justified each depending on the other categories. There are large sections of this race, I think about 4 miles, that’s on a side-sloping highway, so your left foot always has a further vertical fall than your right foot. That’s never GOOD, but it may not be as bad for runners. With 40lbs on your back it gets miserable real fast, and even weaving to try to take the route of minimal slope, I went from just under 15 minute splits for the first 6 miles to 17:30 (I did stop to observe the swelling) and ended up slowing down for the latter half, finishing with a 15:50 pace compared to 15:16 at Garmin KC 2 weeks ago. Is that the race’s fault? Nope. It’s made for runners and I’m borrowing space on their course, but that is a minus and it cost a shoe.

Course scenery? Well the view around mile 3 and 5 if I remember correctly was looking out over the lake. That was pretty. The wooded area for the last 5 miles was pretty as we went through the park. The 4 miles on that side-slant there’s nothing to look at but highway and regret. Minus a shoe.

Race production. This one isn’t just me, but also the two people who ran it that I came with. We got some weird numbers on splits that showed up at the end. It was the same end as yesterday’s 10k so we’ll look at that data since I was battling an injury today. Had 2 splits at 15:10-15, all the rest in the 14s. That’s about right. Hit mile 6 (on 10k), so 0.2 mile left to go. Took me 4:48? a 24-minute-mile pace? Think I’d notice a 10min fall behind. All of a sudden. The runners who were already finished said they had the same long split issue, so either the last fragment of a mile is long, or the other full miles are short, because we both had 20-60% increase in pace on our final split according to the signage. Not a huge deal. Obnoxious, sure, but what can you do. There was a two day challenge, race both days, get a cap. They couldn’t find my name on the list. Asked if I registered late. A month ago, so…not by most definitions. Everyone was real nice. They always are (and all the water points, the volunteers were turning it up to 11 on the motivation, so good on ’em there), but it was one more thing to keep me from chocolate milk and a chair, and since usually KC Race puts out some smooth as butter experiences, I can’t in good conscience go higher.

Swag was good. Long sleeve heavy tshirt and a hoodie, heavy weight beanie for the challenge swag, all in a matching yeti and bring blue theme. It’s good stuff. I don’t actually remember so this is hearsay from someone else I was talking to afterwards, but the tshirts weren’t free (okay nothing is free, roger, but they typically come with the race, and sometimes you can opt out for a cheaper race). She didn’t get a tshirt because she didn’t realize you had to pay extra. Read the fine print, I gotcha, but when you’re signing up for 6, 8, 10 races all at once, sometimes you miss stuff. Minus one shoe for no free swag.

My performance was the opposite of Garmin. The exhilaration that pushed me to make up time after some rough hills just wasn’t there today. After the side-slope it really was just “let’s get this done so I can ice my knee.” I did make up from that 17-minute Hindenburg but not with the gusto I’d have liked. Two shoes only because 1 is DNF and I did limp across the finish line.

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Yeti Endurance Weekend (fka Longview Half Marathon)

Nice 7k and a 3k I could do without

10K | First-timer '23 | Nov 6, 2023

Overall Rating:

Yeti Endurance Weekend (fka Longview Half Marathon)

Overall Rating:

Kansas City Marathon

From the expo to pre-event set ups, to the fireworks at start through the finishing photos, this race IS Kansas City. Great Expo at Union Station and many great neighborhoods … MORE

From the expo to pre-event set ups, to the fireworks at start through the finishing photos, this race IS Kansas City. Great Expo at Union Station and many great neighborhoods and parts of downtown being represented on this race, of the 53 races I’ve done this year, truly none of them screamed Kansas City like this one. There are four long-ish hills on this one that everyone had warned me about, but as someone that has done a lot of hill work this year and lives in a hilly neighborhood, they were quite manageable. Not to say that final push uphill to the finish line didn’t suck a little of the “yay!” out of me, but when I heard my name called I kicked it up a notch and annihilated my prior PR. I did pass a LOT of people on the hills though, so if you’re used to running in flatlands this may prove challenging.

I’d purchased the VIP upgrade which I cannot recommend enough. I was parked maybe 50 paces from the VIP tent and having a dry place to sit and stretch in the hour before the race (yes I like to get there early) was quite worth it considering how much dew was out. The medal was neat, in that the bottom folds out to make it capable of sitting on a desk, and is the only one in my collection like that. Energy was high, even when the back-of-the-packers like me finished, and post race options of IV and massages were on hand. My only gripe is for such a great race, the t-shirt design was sort of mid, and there were long stretches of race where there was no real presence on the course of any motivational support. That of course is not the race’s fault, just don’t expect a lot of people out cheering for you. Huge plusses for the course though were the “real time” tracking of participants and the final mile challenge, but would you expect any less from Garmin?

This will be a repeat race for sure, and I highly encourage everyone to come out and see what KC has to offer as far as top notch races go.

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Military Matters VeteRUN 5K

Great race in the shadow of the monument

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 2, 2023

Overall Rating:

Military Matters VeteRUN 5K

Overall Rating:

Louisburg Cider Run

Normally I hate 2 lap loops. This time I made an exception. Not just because I found it to be a remarkably fast rack, allowing me to PR a couple … MORE

Normally I hate 2 lap loops. This time I made an exception. Not just because I found it to be a remarkably fast rack, allowing me to PR a couple different stats I track (and overall 10k), but the weather was perfect and the festival waiting for you at the finish line is amazing. Great local products (stock up on flavored churned honey for sure!) Great little coffee closet around the corner from the packet pickup building (town hall maybe?). Their lemonade was a gift from above after the race. And of course….the cider! Apple cider in abundance from the local producer and unlike the flavored sugar water you get in the back of the grocery store, this stuff is made with great apples that bring character to the table.

First two miles are mainly a gradual downhill from the town to a small lake (large pond really), around the backside of that then a return up across the high school parking lot and back through the neighborhood to the start/finish line. Technically it’s a lollipop course but the stick is super short. While two miles down means one mile up to the same elevation, it doesn’t play out hard at all, and my pace barely dropped on that third mile (done twice for the 10k). The whole town appears to be out at the festival and you’ll hear the festivities as you finish the long straightaway to the final turn and short sprint to the finish. Motivation was high on the course and everybody seemed to be having a great time, whether they were giving it their all or barely more than walking while talking to a friend. If you didn’t come with friends, you’ll make some at this race or at the after party. There’s a pop-up sports bar there so you can watch the game afterwards too. Several people came up to me afterwards and congratulated me and started a conversation about how great it was to have us out there, and every time it felt sincere. It may be a bit of a drive but it’s absolutely worth it, especially if you’ve hit a slump, wall, or rut lately and want a pick me up run that’ll blow your expectations away. Hope to see you there next year. Enjoy the cider ’til I finish.

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Run for Paws 5K

Most rewarding race of the year

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 2, 2023

Overall Rating:

Run for Paws 5K

So this race is for a great cause. It provides the medical care for pets that otherwise wouldn't get it through the Lantz Tucker Memorial Fund, and they have some … MORE

So this race is for a great cause. It provides the medical care for pets that otherwise wouldn’t get it through the Lantz Tucker Memorial Fund, and they have some life-saving examples out there as well as plenty of adoption ready pups. Lots of freebies before the race and some of what smelled like a bakery from heaven opened up the doors and let loose the inventory, but unfortunately I’m on a strict cardiac rehab diet so I couldn’t try those. You should though. They looked amazing! You know who else looked amazing? The dogs and cats saved by Lantz Tucker Memorial Fund which is operated solely off donations, and while they have significantly grown, they can grow more.

This is also a PR-worthy lollipop course. I likely would have but I stopped to check on a lady that fell down. It’s also a pet-on-leash friendly run, so people who like running with your fur baby, here’s another opportunity. The energy was very high before and after the race. It’s at a park so don’t expect a lot of spectators, but it’s a 5k anyway, so “don’t expect a lot of spectators” goes without saying.

I will be registering for 2024 as soon as it’s available. And 2025. And 2026. I may PR at all of them. I may not. I saw three people there that I recognized from the circuit, so maybe it’s not as much a secret and I’m just late to the party. It’s a great party though, and they have great snacks, and the guests of honor are second to none.

Can’t wait to see you there. I’m the guy in the back wearing body armor. Say hi as you pass me, and tell me all about those muffins!

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Oktoberfest 5K (MO)

Punches above it's weight class

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 1, 2023

Overall Rating:

Oktoberfest 5K (MO)

This little 5k seems like it's a larger race in a larger town. The support along the course was great and everyone coming out of the shopping centers I passed … MORE

This little 5k seems like it’s a larger race in a larger town. The support along the course was great and everyone coming out of the shopping centers I passed (which is most of the way) all either waved or shouted out words of encouragement. The optional swag included a nice stein and pretzel pieces were available at the finish. The energy was amazing before and after the race. Of the 30-some odd 5k races I’d done at that point, here was where I PR’ed, and did so on a day I hadn’t even set out with that kind of motivation. This hidden gym seems to be an insider favorite, as several people I’d raced with before were there. Two women had told me that I motivated them to PR in previous races, I told them I PRed that day, and before I knew it about half a dozen other people had joined our little circle to talk about future races, our experience on this one, the circuit in general. Everybody seemed to be having a great time on the course as well, with a few people in costume for the event and dog’s a plenty to pet.

What was originally just going to be a recovery race from a brutal (and amazing) race the day before turned into an event in and of itself, and I can’t wait to register for next year.

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Watkins Mill Get Outdoors 6.6K

Woodsy lake race for historic mill

6.6K | First-timer '23 | Nov 2, 2023

So every year this race benefits a different critter at the zoo and every year that critter is on the medal, so I guess, like pokemon, I'm going to have … MORE

So every year this race benefits a different critter at the zoo and every year that critter is on the medal, so I guess, like pokemon, I’m going to have to keep doing this race until they start repeating critters at least.

So here’s the deal, the setup before the race was so much more than a few tents essentially being a depressing excuse for an expo. Shatto was there, a great little espresso truck that I went to a couple times, great merch and great food (for after the race, but I could smell it), as well as art work created by the animals. I felt like I was at a block party. Unfortunately where I was, was actually the wrong location, the 4-mile start is NOT at the zoo entrance, but up the hill a ways. Some signage might have helped, or maybe I got there too early before they put it up. Whatever…I got there eventually and I had time to get espresso and talk to some great people.

The first mile(-ish) of the race is downhill to a side entrance of the zoo. The waves were nicely spread out. Being one of the last waves, it actually was 9 minutes before I got through the start arch, and I was glad to hear that once again they’d sold out. Register early for this one. The majority of the race is through the actual zoo, and the windy walkways proved narrow a couple of times to the point that navigating them resulted in my having to slow down while people in front of me figured out they weren’t as fast as they thought they were. I met some very interesting people on the race as well as got to orbit around some former race mates, and between the conversation and the constantly changing scenery the race flew by. The only reason I don’t rate this a 5 on scenery is that the elephant exhibit is so much smaller than what I’m used to, that was a little hard to see.

I didn’t get to stick around for the after party because I had some outside chores I’d wanted to accomplish that day and a t-storm was rolling in, but you also get free admission to the zoo, so normally I’d say budget extra time for that as well.

The Sweet 16 Race Series featured the four largest, 4-Mile events in the Midwest: The St Patrick’s Day Run, CCVI Trolley Run, Ward Parkway Four on the 4th, and The Kansas City Zoo Run. As the final leg of the former Sweet-16 Series, this was the one I PR’ed on. I do wish they’d bring that series back officially because I think it would motivate some people to check out parts of KC they otherwise might not. In the interim though, I’ll be securing my spot in the zoo run for 2024 early, as it hopefully will sell out as well.

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KC Hustle Run 5K & 10K

Inaugural race from local podcaster

10K | First-timer '23 | Nov 2, 2023

Overall Rating:

5K-9 and Family Fun Run

So full disclosure, I'm a sucker for animal rescue races, and at this one they let me take one of the dogs with me on the race. It was hot, … MORE

So full disclosure, I’m a sucker for animal rescue races, and at this one they let me take one of the dogs with me on the race. It was hot, I had body armor on, so I was super hot, but I didn’t care because I had a very energetic dog with me.

Now warts and all, this race starts late, and I do wish it was earlier so we could beat some of the heat, so I have to deduct a shoe for that. The set-up on the course was great with mile markers clearly visible and COLD water out there frequently. Plus, there were dogs at each water station who were up for adoption. CAN you PR here? Yeah you probably can. I was so far off my PR or even my normal splits you’d think I was injured on the course, but my good boy had lots of smells to investigate and I wasn’t about to say no.
Down to the lake, around it, back to the (high school I think it was?) starting point. Nice raffles and great energy despite an oppressive muggy heat this year that really took a lot of people by surprise. I’ll be signing up for 2024 as soon as the links are updated. Hope to see you there.

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Wathena River Walk & Run

Excellent small-town race @ a hidden gem

10K | First-timer '23 | Nov 7, 2023

Overall Rating:

Wathena River Walk & Run

Lunartic 5K

You know...I like night races. They mix things up. There's not many of them (certainly fewer than there used to be) so I try to grab 'em when I see … MORE

You know…I like night races. They mix things up. There’s not many of them (certainly fewer than there used to be) so I try to grab ’em when I see ’em.

The medal felt a little low-end, especially for something which could brand itself as a major draw for other people looking for night races because of their schedule, but I saw/heard very little about it and just stumbled onto it looking at a calendar of races, so I figured, sure. It was overcast that night so there was only the light you were wearing to light up your way. I suggest bringing a red filter because the clouds of bugs were out in full force that night. I think it could have been a pretty course in the moonlight, but with the red filter on I can’t say I saw much of the scenery out there. The moon/stars in the lake would have been nice.

They also used the timing chips on your shoes that you turn back in. I know those are cheaper to use. I also know that of the 60+ races I have this year they are one of two that still uses them. I’m not sure how much more expensive that would make it, but I can’t imagine it being prohibitively more, and I feel like we’re kind of at that point in the race community here where you’re essentially listening to 8-track if you’re still using those. Couple that with a forgettable medal and the public relations and design teams for this race ought to be held back a year or sent to the principal’s office. If you live around the way then by all means go, the after party had popsicles and a lot of people were essentially tailgating. It’s a 45-minute drive from my house, so I’m not sure if/when I’ll be back, but I wish happy racing, a full moon and fewer bugs to anyone who does.

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Restoration Run 5K

Great training race with better view

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Restoration Run 5K

Not a lot of 5ks where you can get in some good hill work. This one certainly had two or three nice ones. Temps are rough this time of year, … MORE

Not a lot of 5ks where you can get in some good hill work. This one certainly had two or three nice ones. Temps are rough this time of year, but the course has some gorgeous natural scenery of the Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum and the sunflower field and cemetery next to it. This is a small-ish race and the volunteers were lovely. There was an issue with the guy at the top of the hill directing all the people walking one direction and all the people running the other. We’re in the same race, doing the same course, we’re just taking ascending this hill differently. When we brought up we’re pretty sure that’s not correct he just repeated himself. I had never done this course so I thought hey, he’s the pro, ok….then I came up massively short on distance so I had to go back and finish a loop. All that should have been worked out prior to race day. I took it in stride (haha?) but I did hear from one of the other misdirected participants that she wouldn’t be back because “this is amateur here.” Well, I wouldn’t let one misinformed volunteer ruin the whole thing for me, personally. With so many people misdirected, there was no “just follow the people in front of you” because it really seemed a 60/40 split when I got to that point, and I was in no chance of not making appropriate time or anything like that, so not like I was getting kicked off the course. My recommendation if you’ve never been there is to memorize the course ahead of time and just follow that first and foremost. It’s a fun course and I imagine if I’d done it all in the proper order it would have been even better. I’m confident next year I’ll be giving higher marks for production.

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Carry A. Nation 5K

PR track

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Carry A. Nation 5K

"Belton has races?" That's what I thought when I saw this. Right after "Where's Belton?" This is a PR track. I had two races here in 2023, August and October. … MORE

“Belton has races?” That’s what I thought when I saw this. Right after “Where’s Belton?” This is a PR track. I had two races here in 2023, August and October. The August one I felt could be a PR but I slowed down towards the end because of the great conversation I had with a family that was out racing together (How cool is that?!), and I had a 10k later that day that I was saving my energy for, but unbeknownst to me the pace was picking up a few times beyond what it felt like. Incidentally, when I went back in October I PR’ed massively, so yeah. A lot of the course is circumnavigating a school, so there’s only so much to see there, but that keeps the entire course traffic free and ends in a long gradual slope downhill to the finish line.

The production was solid and everybody was super psyched that morning to get going. It really felt like you were at a bigger race, and the energy carried over to after the race, with everybody walking around congratulating everyone else and catching up on things. I feel like most of the participants were from that community, but they were certainly welcoming to those of us that traveled in for it. It felt like I’d returned to visit home after a long time away, and I’d never been there before. This race comes after some hot weather and hard courses, so if those weren’t kind to you and you need a re-motivation race, this is 100% the one for you to do as it’ll show you still have some extra fuel in your reserves to kick those afterburners up one more time. If you’ve nailed your last few races and want to continue the trend, this is 100% the race for you. If you’ve never done a race, this is 100% the race for you. It’s just so versatile in how this one can motivate you (and you get to learn who Carry is…) that it shows authoritatively that yes, Belton has races. See you there next year.

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Night Train (KS)

Excellent production-can't wait '24

20 Miler | First-timer '23 | Nov 10, 2023

Overall Rating:

Night Train (KS)

My shoe rating here may be wrong. Let me explain. Overall, 5 out of 5 easy. Course difficulty - Wow was I struggling. Not so much physically but psychologically. I … MORE

My shoe rating here may be wrong. Let me explain.

Overall, 5 out of 5 easy.
Course difficulty – Wow was I struggling. Not so much physically but psychologically. I love night races. I was going to do the 30-mile until a storm came in that I wasn’t comfortable sticking around for on account of all the things blowing around in the heavy wind and the lightening. It’s an easy 2.5M out and 2.5M back on a very gradual slope. No issues right? Cardio and feet were fine after 20 miles. What got me was all the frogs! So many frogs! Hundreds if not thousands of them. I’d clap my hands to silence them as I went through the darkness but they’d start again louder. It was like rucking through a giant white noise generator. I caught myself falling asleep once as I veered off the trail. The straight line trail. They didn’t care about the headlamp I was carrying (a very bright one at that). They just kept calling to me…telling me to nap. It was a very different experience than anything I’ve ever raced through. Between the storm and the frogs, at 20M I decided to bump down to a lower length. First time ever. Bring music. Even if you don’t normally wear earphones. Just drown out the frogs. That also was my third race in 24 hours. Might have been a bit much.

Race production is amazing. The RD is responsive and the whole group, a great many of whom knew each other from prior races was very welcoming. I met people I truly hope to get to race again with, plus to date my longest race is a marathon and I’d love to change that in 2024. The food at the turnaround is diverse and plentiful, the support crew and spectators hanging out were all amazingly friendly and I really felt like I belonged there.

The swag. There’s so much of it. This was part of a 2-day event. I got two medals that are huge AND light up, a pocket watch and a wooden train whistle, and a tshirt. I’m sorry if I forgot something else there was just so much I loaded up in my car all at once. Parking? Yeah parking is 10 feet away from the food at the start/finish/lap arch. Enjoy that one for sure.

My performance I did 3 even though technically it is my PR because I’ve never done exactly a 20-mile before. My time wasn’t the best because of the prior races and because I was going for endurance not time. It was only supposed to be another 4 miles than the marathon, but I was wearing more weight and I didn’t want to burn out early. I do feel like I saved too much in the tank by the time I hit the 20M mark though. Hopefully ’24 will have better weather and I can test that fully.

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Spencer C Duncan Make It Count 5K

A mandatory race for vets

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Spencer C Duncan Make It Count 5K

This race puts any Vet's day race to shame as far as patriotism goes. Honoring the fallen of the Extortion 17 flight, this looped course sits on the cusp of … MORE

This race puts any Vet’s day race to shame as far as patriotism goes. Honoring the fallen of the Extortion 17 flight, this looped course sits on the cusp of the U.S. Army Reserve Flight Facility at New Century Air Center. The race traditionally starts off with a flyover by some Chinooks, but that happened at the end today as they circled the field after the award ceremony. It’s a fully paved course surrounded by airfield and runway, so it’s going to be a hot race if there’s no breeze. All along the path are people holding signs of those lost on the flight. It meant a lot to me that the MWD was honored too, because they are very much part of the team. It was one of the most moving races I’ve been on, and anybody that’s wanting to do a “support the troops” kind of race ought to fast track this one to the top of your list. A chinook was parked by the finish area, and as they called out the names of the fallen, someone (a family member?) carries their picture out to where they were seated on the flight.

My only complaint, and I don’t even like using that word here, is that the finisher medal is a set of dog tags, and while I certainly appreciate the sentiment there, it did feel “small” for such an otherwise “big” race. I’d say don’t ditch the dog tags, but it seems like a really nicely designed chinook medal or something would be appropriate here. Whatever, they could pass out paper swans and I’d wait in line overnight in person if I had to in order to sign up for this one, quite honestly, and that’s coming from someone who very much will log some miles on the car to get a cool medal.

I didn’t PR here. I had a 30M the next night and I slowed down at the remembrance signs and I don’t regret that at all. It was hot and muggy and I’m wearing body armor, I probably wouldn’t have PRed anyway, but on this zero-elevation loop I’m sure a great many people could.

This race should sell out every year. I’ll be signing up for this one as soon as I see the links go live.

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Foam Glow Kansas City

Fun run...don't take it too seriously

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Foam Glow Kansas City

So the swag is pretty mid and there should probably be more waves because it got crowded at the front, but 1)it's a super-fast course; 2) it's July so this … MORE

So the swag is pretty mid and there should probably be more waves because it got crowded at the front, but 1)it’s a super-fast course; 2) it’s July so this is the least hot race you have available, and 3) it’s a neat concept that you can’t do every day. I do think it was a little short, because it’s a fast course but not THAT fast for what I ended up getting. I can’t confirm because I don’t think there’s an official results page, or I can’t find it. A lot of the cost goes to charity, too, so it’s REALLY a cheap race, and they have promo codes from time to time. Short of paying you to show up, they’re really doing a lot to get turnout up, and it was up there for sure. There’s a party/DJ with foam cannons afterwards that I didn’t get to stick around long for, but I’ll be out there getting foamy again next year for sure.

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Amelia Earhart Fun Run & Walk

Small town race with big town heart

8K | First-timer '23 | Oct 31, 2023

Overall Rating:

Amelia Earhart Fun Run & Walk

How often can you do an 8k? Virtually automatic PR. I love small town races as much as I love giant productions for very different reasons. Everybody seemed to have … MORE

How often can you do an 8k? Virtually automatic PR.

I love small town races as much as I love giant productions for very different reasons. Everybody seemed to have been out for this one and milling about before the race started many of the locals stopped to wave and say hi, introduce themselves and say thanks for coming to their town. The only downside was that I signed up too late to get a t-shirt (about a month out), and there were no extras I could buy on race day. Shortly after the race starts there’s a slow gradual uphill by the gas station that seems to go on for quite some time, but being as how it’s such a small incline you think nothing of it. Don’t worry, there are two punishing ones later that will help your calves appreciate flat ground more. When I made it across the finish line as a back of the packer people were cheering like I was winning at Boston, and the post race festivities were absolutely charming. If I hadn’t another obligation that day I’d have spent the day exploring the town and hanging out with some truly wonderful people. Can’t wait to go back.

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Ward Parkway Four on the Fourth

Intimate 4th race

4 Miler | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Ward Parkway Four on the Fourth

Hometown Half Marathon Kansas City

This race will always have a special place in my heart. Despite the name, it's actually in Parkville (the town that motivated me to move from the coast, and goes … MORE

This race will always have a special place in my heart. Despite the name, it’s actually in Parkville (the town that motivated me to move from the coast, and goes to Riverside). When I had my heart attack it looked like I was never going to get to do this race. First, because it was dicey I was coming home, and two because after I did go home, nobody was really considering that a possibility because of the damage done. Despite the fact that I did a full marathon before I did a half marathon (long story), and my cardica team had blessed off on it, it’s hot this time of year, I’d be doing it wearing body armor, and I’m not going to say I wasn’t cognizant that a great many things could go wrong.

The course is out and back from English Landing Park (the common race start location) out to the casino and back. Mile 1 and 2 have no shade which means mile 25 and 26 don’t either, a reality that was crushing my morale on the way back. The first roughly 3-3.5 miles are at the park by the river, then you slip behind some oil/water/gas/something storage tanks into a wooded park’s wide trail which provides some much needed shade for a couple miles until you make it down to “the berm” by the amazon facility. Climb up that steep but brief hill (yay!) and take the top of the berm a couple miles down to the casino and back. There’s quite the view from up there and it looked like a storm was rolling in, which would have done wonders to cool the day, but alas it was not to be. The medal is really big, especially for a half, and has a classy and classic design to it. You are literally 200 meters if that from downtown Parkville when you finish, so stop by the converted Train car for some GREAT coffee, bespoke house beverages (their version of an Arnold Palmer is amazing) and their doughnuts will taste like mana from heaven after the race.

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Hilltop Hustle

Another box checked

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Hilltop Hustle

So there aren't a lot of races this weekend. If you're a junkie like me that's a problem, so I went for a much longer drive than I'd normally do … MORE

So there aren’t a lot of races this weekend. If you’re a junkie like me that’s a problem, so I went for a much longer drive than I’d normally do for a 5k I’d never heard about before. Hilltop Hustle sounds promising and a lot of fun, so why not. Well, there were certainly some kinks, and this wasn’t an inaugural race, so there’s really no excuse for that.

Apparently the race course changed from what was sent out the day before due to construction on campus. That couldn’t have been coordinated beforehand? Not just because I like to look at the course beforehand so I know what is coming when, but because now we’re running by a row of dumpsters. In the middle of June. Add to that the fact that there was a short out and back loop we were supposed to do that nobody pointed out until the second lap, because the first lap the volunteer told us to go left when we should have gone right. Since our time was far too fast I did the loop twice on the second lap, but that should have been cleared up in rehearsal. There WAS a rehearsal, right? Dumpster Street aside, it was a pretty jaunt through KU campus and had one great hill in the latter half of the loop that was challenging and enjoyable to conquer on a small race like a 5k and this could have gone much better, it just seemed like a lot of phoning it in.

Also, I feel like with the rise of the virtual race, especially since COVID, finisher medals have really become the norm, even on 5ks, and this race didn’t have any. It was a cheap (inexpensive) race, so I understand that, but I’d pay the token amount more for a good medal, especially when so many in the community are doing it just for that reason, for the swag. As a fundraiser event, one would think more people joining would be advantageous, especially since the width of the course would allow for turnout of multiples what I saw there. No water points on the track and only bottled water at the finish line is inexcusable for a summer race, even if it is a 2-lap 5k, if for no other reason than because of the big hill and the fact we were racing in a large thermal-mass brick course. I greatly prefer in person races to virtual ones, but without a massive overhaul I can’t imagine I couldn’t find a virtual to support that I’d enjoy more for this day next year if there remains no other in-person races to pick. Go forth at your own peril.

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KC Pet Project 5K

Great steady hill

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

KC Pet Project 5K

In the shadow of the zoo, this course is a short out and back followed by a longer gradual uphill curved trek (to roughly the start of the Zoo 4M) … MORE

In the shadow of the zoo, this course is a short out and back followed by a longer gradual uphill curved trek (to roughly the start of the Zoo 4M) and back. The course has great visibility of the finish line and the other participants on the way down the hill, so you really feel like you’ve got a bird’s eye view of things, and it’s actually a kind of strange sensation. So often we only see up to the next turn or next hill, and here you’re seeing all the action at once as you pass or get passed on the final great out-and-back. Oh and there are puppies waiting for you at the finish line. I don’t care how old they are they’re still puppies on the inside. Great race and great cause, my only gripe is they’ve moved it to the same day as the St. Jo race, and I liked being able to support both worthy causes in person. I do wish they’d coordinate amongst their two teams better. I’ve already signed up for 2024 and I hope to see you out there. Say hi as you pass me.

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Night Flight 5K

Great hidden gem

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Night Flight 5K

This night race was a wonderful suprise addition to my summer schedule. Nice night race through a park. A little dark in places but a peaceful race to connect with … MORE

This night race was a wonderful suprise addition to my summer schedule.

Nice night race through a park. A little dark in places but a peaceful race to connect with the night. My pace sucked, but I had just gotten out of the hospital the day before, so it is what it is. Great energy before the race and great post-race get together in the amphitheater with frozen custard and games to play. Medal was nice too for such a small race.

This was really peaceful. I’ll certainly do it again.

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Hospital Hill Run

Great energy at the after party

10K | First-timer '23 | Nov 1, 2023

Overall Rating:

Hospital Hill Run

This review is going to be somewhat tainted by the fact that I was actually IN the hospital until late the night before (Rockey Mountain Spotted Fever sucks!) and had … MORE

This review is going to be somewhat tainted by the fact that I was actually IN the hospital until late the night before (Rockey Mountain Spotted Fever sucks!) and had begged so much to get out and do the race that I’m sure they were happy to discharge me. It was my worst pace all year and the heat felt 10 degrees higher than it was….and I’d do it all again in a heartbeat. I obviously have no idea what the expo was like, but the parking was very close if you get there early enough, the prerace energy was popping and you could tell that everybody had been looking forward to what was the 50th running of this iconic race.

Going through multiple neighborhoods with their own individual character always provided something to look at, and for the most part there was never more than 200m between groups of people out there to cheer everyone on. The chute was lined with spectators, even for the back-of-the-packers like me. I do wish that company that gives IVs was out there, because I couldn’t drink fast enough to get rehydrated, but that may have at least in part have been due to my illness. I had debated between doing the 10k again or the half, and while I cannot wait to do the half and see how that extra section of course goes, I decided to redo the 10k this year to see what my real performance on the 10k is. 2025 I’ll be out there on the half for sure. I’m the guy wearing body armor. Feel free to say hi as you pass me.

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Brandon Russell’s Flash Dash

NKC trainyard and warehouses

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 2, 2023

Overall Rating:

Brandon Russell’s Flash Dash

This race is known as the fastest 5k in the Northland. Honestly, I was no faster here. It's pancake flat, to be sure, but it's a giant convection oven between … MORE

This race is known as the fastest 5k in the Northland. Honestly, I was no faster here. It’s pancake flat, to be sure, but it’s a giant convection oven between the 4-5 lane road you’re running on surrounded by tightly spaced brick warehouses. There was no shade and the wind was muggy hot, which doesn’t scream fast for me, but your mileage may vary. If you live in the northland, it IS a lot more convenient than most of the races we have on the circuit. The post-race food was supplied by a local BBQ place. There were a lot of vets out in that race, for whatever reason, so I did enjoy swapping stories with them as we rolled though the various turns (“trundled forward” would be more accurate, but for the wheels). There are some true devotees to the race, as several people told me it was there second, third or fourth race, but honestly I was largely luke warm on it. The medal had a nice The Flash color scheme going on and stands out when hung with others. The piece of swag was a branded wash cloth.

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Mainly Marathons Prairie Series Day 3 (KS)

Why is out and back a billion times fun?

Marathon | First-timer '23 | Nov 2, 2023

Overall Rating:

Mainly Marathons Prairie Series Day 3 (KS)

Okay not a billion times, "only" 18. I figured that was going to be horrible but it's a marathon that's got a generous enough time limit for the back-of-the-packers like … MORE

Okay not a billion times, “only” 18. I figured that was going to be horrible but it’s a marathon that’s got a generous enough time limit for the back-of-the-packers like me to actually do a marathon. While I do normally like out-and-back-once races because I like giving congratulation/motivation for the plethora of people faster than me when they come “back” and pass me on my “out”, I do generally dislike multiple lap courses because I just keep seeing the same thing over and over again and it’s harder to mentally judge how far along I am and how my overall speed compares to where I want to be. I don’t have any GPS or anything smart because I’m saving up for a nice one that can actually read my BP and be halfway accurate, but that’s another story.

So the course is at a high school. On a cool day it would be a nice walk. There’s not a lot of shade and our race started off with a brief thunderstorm then massive humidity the rest of the day, including once the sun came out and the temps rose. Now, if you’re fast, that’s not an issue. I’m not fast so I was hating life. There are, I’m told, typically a lot of walkers on the productions, which I certainly found to be the case, and with 18 out and backs (honestly it doesn’t suck the life out of you as much as you’d think) there’s plenty of opportunities to exchange words with whoever is passing. This was probably the most welcoming group of racers I’ve ever encountered, and the greater KC area already has an incredibly friendly racing community, so that says a lot. They welcomed me before and during the race, and a few of them I joined up for some pacing and conversation the first 12 or so “laps”. With wet feet and body armor on I was really hating the humidity. This was my first time doing a half marathon, much less a full, so I was broken off by the end of it. The course was a slight to moderate elevation gain on the way out on this winding path, and while most people finished early there were enough in the 7-8 hour group that I didn’t get lonely. The staff was plentiful at the one manned aid station (there’s also water at the turnaround) and there were more types of sustainment food than you could shake a stick at back at the start/finish line, where there are also covered benched tables and portajohns if you need to take a break. Which I did. A lot. Because going from one 10k straight to a marathon is arguably a horrible idea.

The swag. The tshirts are bright cotton with the different mascots from the different series on them. I wear mine proudly and tell everyone what a great production Mainly Marathons puts on. Mainly Marathons puts on series of 3-11 marathons across different states, you do them all you get extra swag (I think they have a 20 entry series too), but even if you don’t do the whole series (that’s a challenge for a future year), the medals are high quality “charm-style” where you can hang the different states in a series off one another to complete a set. They’re award-winning medals, and if you’re interested you can google and see the write-up and pictures. If it’s your first marathon, let them know and you get another medal for that. They give bonus swag for various numbers of marathons with them. I was there when one guy hit 500, which is insane to me, but they said another guy there was in the thousands. These people are dedicated, they are awesome, and I can’t wait to race again with them in 2024.

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Heritage Park 5K, 10K & 15K

Smooth little park race

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Heritage Park 5K, 10K & 15K

This was my first time on this course and my recovery was fresh still, so I only did the 5k this year. I'll certainly be doing the other lengths, as … MORE

This was my first time on this course and my recovery was fresh still, so I only did the 5k this year. I’ll certainly be doing the other lengths, as this was a great little race. Heritage park isn’t the easiest park race out there, but if my time is to be believed it actually IS a fast course. Go figure. Parking was ample, the starting area was straight and flat to allow for the pack to spread naturally, the scenery was varied from “by the lake” to a nice, if somewhat muggy canopy run through the woods to rolling hills. It’s really rare (and nice!) to get all of that in a race this short. At this race I was alone so I don’t actually have any idea if the 10 and 15ks were longer races or out and back again (and again), but honestly I’d be fine with either. The volunteers at the water stations were quick to hand off cups and motivating on the approach, and after the race there was low fat chocolate milk (Yay!) and a great sports medicine doctor out there promoting her clinic. This isn’t a “took some weekend massage class” set up but actual medical school trained doctors. Highly recommend for anyone who is getting serious in the race scene here. Though I cherish the rare opportunity to do a 15k in the area, I’m pretty sure I’ll be doing the 10k next year just to see what it’s like, since that tends to be my length of choice lately, though I’m confident it will be just as rewarding as the 5k was.

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Running with the Cows 🏆

Support, support and more support!

5K | Repeat Runner '23 | Oct 24, 2023

Overall Rating:

Running with the Cows 🏆

I've done this race every year except for when I was recovering from a heart attack. It admittedly is not the easiest 5k on a warm muggy day, as shade … MORE

I’ve done this race every year except for when I was recovering from a heart attack. It admittedly is not the easiest 5k on a warm muggy day, as shade is sporadic, but on cool years you can really fly. What’s it going to be this year? Who knows…welcome to the midwest. The hills aren’t obnoxious but do mix it up. Slow and rolling mainly but I don’t think there are any true flat stretches. Of the 60+ races I have under my belt in 2023, this one is the top 5k and within the top 5 of all the races.

The swag is great, the medals are always nicely done and heavy, the tshirts are quality, but what really sets this race apart is the FEAST that occurs afterwards when what I guess is the whole town makes a giant potluck and brings in everything you can imagine. I think I must have tried 2 dozen things, all wonderfully made. There’s ribs on the grill outside and burgers for additional purchase, but really there’s so much food inside I never tried them. They seemed popular though.

What sets this race apart from others (aside from the mammoth spread) is the on-course support. Water stations are plentiful, and when it’s punishingly muggy they’ve been out there in golf carts ferrying water out to individual racers who were between stations and looking like they hated life. The course is a ring with multiple out-and-back fingers on it, so you’ll always have somebody coming at you and cheering you on even when you’re in between stations. The race had a great energy and so many strangers were veering towards the center to pound a fist or slap a high five as we passed each other I couldn’t even feel the 30lbs I was wearing that day. No, I could still very much feel it, but they made it much better.

I’ve done marathon/half marathons (a few in-between lengths), 15k/12k/10k and more 5ks than I can count. If I could only do one race a year it would be this one.

For the first time I’ll be doing the half marathon (no time limit!), and I have little doubt that it won’t be my favorite half as well. A top-notch production every year and truly kudos to the RD and supporting staff.

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CCVI Trolley Run

And so it begins...

4 Miler | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

CCVI Trolley Run

If you race Kansas City you are familiar with the Trolley Run. For newcomers to the scene and our visiting friends, this is a race that for many people marks … MORE

If you race Kansas City you are familiar with the Trolley Run. For newcomers to the scene and our visiting friends, this is a race that for many people marks the beginning of the season. In fact, even for those of us who may already have a dozen plus races under our belt by this time in the year, it’s still the start of something special. This was the second of the no-longer-around Sweet 16 series. Four legacy 4-mile races starting with a St. Pat’s run, going here and going on to 4 on the Fourth (Ward Parkway) and the KC Zoo Run. I do wish they’d bring that series back, but that’s another post. With a lot of St. P’s races going on, some people would rotate or just not go (it’s cold sometimes) so Trolley Run was the “real start” after the soft opening of the first race. For those just coming out of hibernation, this overwhelmingly downhill course offered a super motivating first run of the season. In fact, this year I beat my 5k average time by a few seconds and this is a 4M race. The crowd support along the way is constant, with no fewer than 5 houses I passed passing out goodies on the sidelines from PB&J triangles to bacon strips to pickle juice, gummy bears and M&Ms. Keep in mind this is only a 5k, so you may actually gain weight on the race. It’s great though, because nobody cares you’re only there for 5k they’re going to yell and scream like you just conquered heartbreak hill in Boston and are now pulling away from the pack. Did I mention I’m a back-of-the-packer? Yeah. Yeah I can only imagine what the fast people experience on this race. Fireworks and a drone flyover maybe? Mermaids singing? Just kidding. Well, mainly. The official support station is more than enough at just shy of 2 miles, but remember you’re about to be all downhill from here (just before) here. I was saving my bacon and M&Ms in my hand for a while later though because I wish I had something to chase it down, but that’s a me thing. The swag is premium and befitting of this legacy race. Do this race. It’ll help you wake up, thaw out and start your season or provide a guaranteed morale boost if you’ve already been in your season for a while, and I won’t miss this race at all.

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Wine Run 5K Z&M Twisted Vines

Non-traditional vineyard

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Wine Run 5K Z&M Twisted Vines

Full disclosure: I'm a big wine guy and I always love the vineyard runs, so I am a bit biased on the three I did this year... So the "Twisted" … MORE

Full disclosure: I’m a big wine guy and I always love the vineyard runs, so I am a bit biased on the three I did this year…

So the “Twisted” part comes from the blends they make. Coffee, blackberry and jalapeno are among the choices. Don’t go expecting to discuss the subtleties of stainless-steel aging vs traditional Georgian pots. As the saying goes, “This ain’t that crowd.” For what it is, and I wish it were called something other than wine, because I think it would get more love, it actually is very good. The crowd it IS, is a crowd that’s having fun, both at the race and the times before and after. Moreso “after” probably, because by then we’ve had a few glasses in us. The venue is great. There’s a firepit, they have a party bus. Volleyball court. Concerts and hot air balloon rides. It’s THAT kind of crowd. Come with the right headspace and you’ll have a blast.

Being a wine guy, I always find particular beauty and peace racing in the vineyards, so while I find the scenery top notch, I accept your mileage may vary there. That said, I DO believe the course was a touch short. I followed everyone in front of me and finished a 5k 3 minutes earlier than expected. Let’s just say I wasn’t that motivated or egotistical to claim that as my new PR.

The swag is the same 5k Wine Run swag you get for all their races. It changes year to year but it’s the same at every Wine Run. I have three of the same medals from this year, but I knew it’d be like that going into it, so if you’re not surprised, you’re not disappointed. I do wish they at least had the vineyard names on magnetic plates or something so there’d be some sort of inexpensive differentiation, but the 5k Wine Run people haven’t listened so far.

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Run/Walk for the Paws 5K

Great course design

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Run/Walk for the Paws 5K

Up a winding road, with smallish hills to a turnaround and a fast 2.5k back to the start by a beautiful greenspace...and puppys waiting at the end? What? How can … MORE

Up a winding road, with smallish hills to a turnaround and a fast 2.5k back to the start by a beautiful greenspace…and puppys waiting at the end? What? How can you not like this race. There were a lot of tents set up at the prerace with various pet themed goods and services, as well as, of course, critters needing adoption. It’s a great race for a great cause and it’s early enough in the year that it’s not muggy in the mornings yet but you don’t have to wear a bunch of layers. So much sweet spot going on. Even the elevation. Not a “boring” flat that gives you no real work, but not any killer hills that make you say “do I really want to do this race” already? Plus, sorry, animal people are friendly, and the energy is super high at this small race, and the RD has taken advantage of that with a nicely spread-out start/finish area to allow lingering with the various pups brought along (by the rescue or other racers) without having to crowd and tensions getting high.

This is also not an expensive race to sign up for, so there’s no need not to make it, and you want a practice race or two in before Garmin KS, right?

My only gripe is it seems to be the same day as KC Pet Project in 2024 and I liked being able to support both of them in person as opposed to virtual. I wish they’d coordinate with each other first.

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Wine Run 5K Fence Stile Vineyards

Great date/group idea

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Wine Run 5K Fence Stile Vineyards

Kansas City’s Big 12 Run

This is another race I lost most of my notes on. I do remember it being hilly, it being very fun, and there being a steep downhill to the end … MORE

This is another race I lost most of my notes on. I do remember it being hilly, it being very fun, and there being a steep downhill to the end of the 5k course with tons of energy waiting on you. There were spectators at various corners along the course with signs cheering everyone on, and for someone who isn’t even a Big 12 fan, I plan on being there next year as well. It’s a great course through downtown KC and the first chance of the year to race that, so take advantage of it and come out to represent your team!

The swag is nice at this race (the medal is big for a 5k) and the parking is ample since you’re downtown. Packet pickup was smooth and the start was spaced out enough that everybody could quicky get their pace and spacing established.

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Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 Kansas City

Chilly race for every

5K | First-timer '23 | Nov 8, 2023

Overall Rating:

Time to Paddy 5K, 10K & Lucky 13.1 Kansas City

So this is one of the first major(ish) races of the season that does the half/10/5 combo, which brings out a big crowd as can be expected. The energy is … MORE

So this is one of the first major(ish) races of the season that does the half/10/5 combo, which brings out a big crowd as can be expected. The energy is high and the 5k is a fast course. My buddy that did the 10k said it was a great course as well, but I won’t know until 2024 on that one. To be honest, my notes from this race were partially damaged, so I can’t give as detailed of a review as I usually do, but I did get a fast time and called it a “do again 100%”

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Groundhog Run

Great return to warmer temperature runs

5K | Repeat Runner '23 | Oct 31, 2023

Overall Rating:

Groundhog Run

My heart will always have a soft spot for this race because it was the first one my medical team let me do after my heart attack. The logistics of … MORE

My heart will always have a soft spot for this race because it was the first one my medical team let me do after my heart attack.

The logistics of this race are beautiful. Parking is a short distance away but busses are a plenty so the wait isn’t long. That works out well because you do NOT want to overdress for this race but it’s typically quite cold outside. The entire race is weaving around in a massive cave complex. Now personally I find the cave quite beautiful, but I can see how that may not appeal to everyone. The running course is wide, clearly marked and has only minor elevation changes, but there are turns of varying degrees and a switchback to keep you from getting bored. It’s so warm inside the caves that it feels like a spring run and you forget about the snow and ice which may be waiting for you upon exit. There’s a VIP room that I haven’t experienced with food and private bathrooms, but honestly I’ve never had much of a wait for the portapotties and with everyone so anxious to get out and race again the energy has always been great out in the crowd before the start. I race 12 months out of the year, but the Groundhog race seems to really be the turning point where the “real” race season starts again and due to the relative ease of the course, it would be a great race to ease back in if you’ve taken some time off for winter. I’ll be here every year for sure and while I’m a perpetual back-of-the-packer, I’m the guy in body armor…feel free to say hi when you pass me.

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