Flat Branch Ultra
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Flat Branch Ultra - Columbia, Missouri
Flat Branch Ultra is a February trail event in Columbia, Missouri offering two USATF-certified out and back distances that start and finish at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park (800 West Stadium Blvd). The event uses rails-to-trails corridors including the MKT Trail and the Katy Trail toward Rocheport. The 50K continues onto the Katy Trail past the nearly 400-year-old Burr Oak and follows the Missouri River bluffs; the 25K turns around before the Burr Oak and remains primarily on the MKT Trail.
Only 125 total entries are available. The 50K and 25K are USATF-certified courses, so eligible performances on the 50K can count toward Missouri 50K state records. At the 2026 edition, multiple single-age state records were set and two Missouri overall 50K state records were established at this event.
Aid stations on the 50K are located at the start/finish, Scott Blvd, Bur Oak, and Halfway Home (mile 15.5). Drop bags placed at the start will be transported to Halfway Home and returned after the turnaround. All 50K competitors must check in at the Halfway Home aid station by noon; failure to check in will result in disqualification. Competitors must be off course before dark.
Rules note that dogs are permitted if handlers start at the back; runners finishing with dogs receive a finisher award but are not eligible for state records or overall awards. The 50K awards include $500 cash for the overall male and female winners; both distances have finisher awards and top three overall male and female awards. A race day packet pickup and on course photography are provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
