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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Support, support and more support!
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.
Run it for the food
This race had very warm weather and very little shade. I took the recommendation of buying a towel for race day because they advertised having ice buckets. I was SO … MORE
This race had very warm weather and very little shade. I took the recommendation of buying a towel for race day because they advertised having ice buckets. I was SO happy I did! Nothing special for scenery on this course. It does have rolling hills but they’re doable. A friendly group of people running the race. The first water stop could not keep up with the runners unfortunately. The food spread after was nice: tons of deserts, walking tacos, hot dogs, fresh cider, etc.
Beautiful scenery & Great Food!
For the 2023 Running With the Cows Half Marathon the course was somewhat reversed and changed. The scenery was all farmland, ranches, and country estates. Weather this particular time was … MORE
For the 2023 Running With the Cows Half Marathon the course was somewhat reversed and changed. The scenery was all farmland, ranches, and country estates. Weather this particular time was more humid & higher temps than usual. But we are in the Midwest springtime, so anything is possible. At the finish line of the 5K & Half Marathoners were treated to mostly homemade buffet type food brought about by the students & congregants of the Catholic School & Church who benefit from this very popular running race. The course is relatively easy with quite a few inclines thrown in. The course was well managed by local law enforcement & volunteers, of which all were very much appreciated.
And Kansas makes 41
Now coming to the end of my 50 state journey, reviews get tougher as there’s so much to compare to! This is a cute race on a beautiful course. This … MORE
Now coming to the end of my 50 state journey, reviews get tougher as there’s so much to compare to!
This is a cute race on a beautiful course. This is not the stereotypical Kansas is flat race. There was rolling hills throughout the race. It was also very warm with minimal shade.
The expo to this is minimal and took quite a while to get my bib and shirt. No other swag offered. They had a few things for sale but not much.
Parking for this race was easy-a field behind the start line. There was not enough port o potties so lines were long.
Not too many spectators on the course but it was nice to be out enjoying the views. As I stated there are rolling hills the entire race even at mile 13. It is not flat.
The finish line is truly where this race shines. The nicest volunteers and they do a buffet prepared by the school parents. All homemade food and treats. Huge selection. Water courses are supported by kids from the school-super cute.
This race goes for a good cause and has a beautiful course. The area is affordable to travel to (stay in Overland Park, fly into Kansas City). I would recommend this to anyone who needs Kansas!
Fun day in Kansas
Great turnout, it seems like the whole town was out volunteering or running. Lots of pacers who were so friendly. The course was clear of cars except for a random … MORE
Great turnout, it seems like the whole town was out volunteering or running. Lots of pacers who were so friendly. The course was clear of cars except for a random truck that ignored the road closed signs and he was quickly guided out by someone. I loved the cows to get pictures with at the school. Only saw 1 cow on the course. Food choices afterward were not as good as I was expecting based on previous reviews, probably because of how slow I was. I was not prepared for the hills or the heat so it was one of my worst times ever. However I didn’t get an official time so I do not know exactly how bad it was! This may have been the last running of this race which is sad.
First & Last Time Running with the Cows
I was so excited to run this unique race and am so glad that I did since the organizers announced earlier this month that it would be the last year. … MORE
I was so excited to run this unique race and am so glad that I did since the organizers announced earlier this month that it would be the last year. The race started at the Holy Rosary Wea School in Bucyrus, KS, a beautiful, quaint Catholic school out in the country, complete with a cemetery and church bell that tolled on the hour. The day was bright and sunny with light winds, but unfortunately it was a little warm for running. It was about 70F when the race started at 7:30 AM, and there was very little shade on the more or less out and back course. I started out faster than I should have, and between that, the rolling hills, and the heat, I was exhausted by mile 5. Thankfully there were water/gatorade stops every couple miles and GU around mile 7! I also kept reminding myself of the delicious Taste of Wea dessert table that I had heard about at the end of the race, and it did not disappoint! The medal was AMAZING, the shirts were awesome, the desserts were beyond delicious, and the people were friendly and kind. It was a much smaller race than ones I have done before, but very unique and well executed. Also, shout out to the SmartPacing team from Kansas City, they were great!!!…Oh yeah, and did I mention the desserts?…So sad to see this race ending.
Great support / swag / food.... Hills
Highly supported by the community. Lots of volunteers & cheerers. Food spread was amazing and mostly home made! and then you saw pictures of the spread that existed before you … MORE
Highly supported by the community. Lots of volunteers & cheerers. Food spread was amazing and mostly home made! and then you saw pictures of the spread that existed before you finished. Not sure whether to be more impressed or jealous! Swag bag had lots of snacks. Photos were free without watermarks. Great photo ops with cows. 10/ 10 recommend.
Only down side…I hate hills!
Love the warmth of the volunteers.
This is one of my favorites in 20 years of running. The pacers helped me finish 6 minutes before my anticipated time! The course was scenic and water/food stops came … MORE
This is one of my favorites in 20 years of running. The pacers helped me finish 6 minutes before my anticipated time! The course was scenic and water/food stops came at just the right time along the course. The volunteers were exceptional! I could feel the love. The unique medal with barn doors that open, after-race brunch for everyone, and the photo shoot with the barn setting and a calf (one of my favorite race pictures) were highlights. I already have a friend who wants to join me next year. The overnight stay at Embassy Suites in Overland Park and the pasta/salmon meal at Carrabba’s across the street were a perfect preparation for the race and only a 25 minute drive to Bucyrus. This is a race I heartily recommend.
My kind of people!!
I can't believe I've never ran in this race! I've been missing out. I missed Rock The Parkway this year because of a nasty cold and I thought I'd give … MORE
I can’t believe I’ve never ran in this race! I’ve been missing out. I missed Rock The Parkway this year because of a nasty cold and I thought I’d give this a whirl! Boy I’m happy that I got sick now! Well thought out event! You even have Archbishop Joseph Naumann praying for you at the start of the race! Your family has lots to do while waiting for you. A petting zoo! Your welcome to come into the school and wait also. There is food everywhere! You won’t starve here or get dehydrated that’s for sure. They make you feel like family! all 2,000 of us! lol…
No Ordinary Half Marathon or 5K
You may not see too many houses or buildings, but lots of green fields and Real people cheering for YOU.!!! - The Nicest Half and Favorite ever. - This is … MORE
You may not see too many houses or buildings, but lots of green fields and Real people cheering for YOU.!!!
– The Nicest Half and Favorite ever.
– This is for a Local Church and all the congregation comes out for you… From kids and older people. you truly feel welcome and at home.
– There is not way you will not enjoy this race even if you don’t meet your race goals.
– This is not a Business like any other race, this is truly for the fun of running.
– Some people may think this is a difficult course, but come on, no race is easy. It has the right amount of hills and flats to keep you challenged.
– You race it once, I can guarantee you will come back.
Loved the Cows!
The food after the race was wonderful. They even had a gluten free table. There was coffee before and after the race and they did not run out. Very organized … MORE
The food after the race was wonderful. They even had a gluten free table. There was coffee before and after the race and they did not run out.
Very organized – and the crowd was not overwhelming. I will be back next year and hope to run the 5K instead of walking it.
I really loved it!
It was beautiful scenery and it was so well put together and the volunteers were AMAZING! I am so excited for next year! I was disappointed by the lack of … MORE
It was beautiful scenery and it was so well put together and the volunteers were AMAZING! I am so excited for next year! I was disappointed by the lack of cows though. I guess they just couldn’t bear to come out into the rain to enjoy it.
Great Organized Race
Love this race. This is my 2nd time participating. I love the rolling hills and being out in the country. Very organized and people on course energize you with cowbells … MORE
Love this race. This is my 2nd time participating. I love the rolling hills and being out in the country. Very organized and people on course energize you with cowbells and saying Moo. Best post race food. Was very impressed with the allergy table with amount of gluten-free items. Best medal ever.
This Is A Bucket-List Race For Sure!
Of the nearly 30 half marathons I've run, Running With The Cows is by far one of my favorites! And, it's the absolute best for post-race food. There's really nothing … MORE
Of the nearly 30 half marathons I’ve run, Running With The Cows is by far one of my favorites!
And, it’s the absolute best for post-race food. There’s really nothing like the quantity and choices of food for the runners — sandwiches, cheese, cold cuts, lasagna, pasta, cookies, brownies, chocolate milk, Gatorade, and much, much more.
You’ll enjoy the countryside views (and cows) and the rolling hills won’t be too tough.
The whole town gets behind this race and the support and organization is top-notch — including those who direct you where to park, first responders, the volunteers at the water stops and those who cheer the runners at the finish line.
Finally, the finisher medal was so unique — featuring barn doors that swing open. Amazing.
This year, despite some initial drizzling rain, I shaved about three minutes off my previous race time and ran my second fastest half marathon.
Add this to your bucket list and set your sights on your next PR!
Great Event!
Extremely well organized. Every detail was covered. The post race food was amazing. Everyone involved in the event thanked us for attending. We'll be back next year! MORE
Extremely well organized. Every detail was covered. The post race food was amazing. Everyone involved in the event thanked us for attending. We’ll be back next year!
Peaceful rolling countryside
RWTC is hands down the best half marathon races out you can fun. The course is ran through the rolling countryside on all paved safe roads. They have extra water … MORE
RWTC is hands down the best half marathon races out you can fun. The course is ran through the rolling countryside on all paved safe roads. They have extra water stations with gator aid, jelly beans, oranges, bananas, The race shirts are great each year and this year they have out done them self’s on this years 10th year medal the opening barn doors are great. The race organizers, sponsors , volunteers, spectators, runners and don’t forget the cows they are all great and the event shows how much time and effort they put into this event to ensure its the best each year. The best part is saved for last. The post race food is the best you will find out there.
Best Medal Ever
This is an extremely well organized and well executed event with the best swag ever. Every volunteer we encountered thanked us for participating. The hills were challenging for me -- … MORE
This is an extremely well organized and well executed event with the best swag ever. Every volunteer we encountered thanked us for participating. The hills were challenging for me — will train for them next year. Overall — it’s a really fun event
Great event!!
Challenging but not overly difficult course in a beautiful countryside! Super friendly organizers and volunteers! And the FOOD!!! Oh my stars!!! It's an old fashioned church pot luck!!! MORE
Challenging but not overly difficult course in a beautiful countryside! Super friendly organizers and volunteers! And the FOOD!!! Oh my stars!!! It’s an old fashioned church pot luck!!!
One of the best in the midwest
I have had the opportunity to run various races across the United States and specifically the midwest and I will have to say, this definitely ranks as one of the … MORE
I have had the opportunity to run various races across the United States and specifically the midwest and I will have to say, this definitely ranks as one of the best in the midwest! You won’t see tall buildings or historic monuments like in larger cities but what you do get is a quality race event with the support of a great community! From the volunteers to the post race party, this race makes you feel welcomed and wanting to come back for another round!
Best volunteers and post-race party!
Amazing finisher's medal! You might worry about logistics for a run in the country, but the volunteers are so organized for everything from registration to parking to bag drop. The … MORE
Amazing finisher’s medal! You might worry about logistics for a run in the country, but the volunteers are so organized for everything from registration to parking to bag drop. The quantity and variety of food after the race is incredible. And to top it all off – the nicest people you will meet are there to help and cheer you on!