Flat Branch Ultra
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About the race
The Flat Branch Ultra is a winter trail running event in Columbia, Missouri, offering USATF certified out-and-back courses on rails-to-trails corridors. The event features two distances:
- 50K: USATF certified out-and-back on the MKT Trail and Katy Trail
- 25K: New for 2027, USATF certified out-and-back on the MKT Trail
Both distances start and finish at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park in Columbia. The 50K follows the Katy Trail toward Rocheport and passes the Burr Oak landmark approximately 8.5 miles into the route. Aid stations and turnarounds are positioned along each course; the 50K includes four named aid stations and drop bag service to the Halfway Home aid station, while the 25K includes three aid stations.
The 50K awards $500 cash to the overall male and female winners. Performances on the USATF certified 50K can be eligible for Missouri state record recognition. The 2026 edition produced multiple Missouri 50K state records and numerous single age group records.
Logistics notes in the event information include a 125 participant limit, packet pickup at the start/finish area on race day, a required USATF waiver at pickup, a noon cutoff at the Halfway Home aid station for 50K competitors, pet rules governing dogs on course, and an event no refund policy for cancellations beyond organizer control. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
