Flats Trail Half Marathon

FLATS Trail Half Marathon : Kirksville, Missouri

The event is a point to point trail race covering a 1/2 Marathon distance on mostly forested single track and sections alongside a lake. The course includes rock, roots, hills, occasional water crossings, and the first 1.5 miles on road to spread out runners. The course is marked and supported by volunteers.

There are seven aid stations located at approximately mile 1.5, 3.2, 5.2, 7.9, 9.85, 11.3, and 12.5. Aid stations provide water, sports drink, snacks, and gels. The finish area supplies water, sports drink, soft drinks, pizza, and other snacks. Runners are encouraged to carry additional calories or a hydration system for refilling along the course. An official cutoff exists for recorded finish times, though athletes may continue to complete the course after that cutoff.

Logistics include a shuttle that transports runners from the finish at Jackson Stables to the start at Thousand Hills State Park Marina. One gear bag per person will be delivered from the start to the finish; valuables are discouraged in gear bags. Pre-race packet pickup is held at ATSU Thompson Campus Center the day before and again on race morning at the Marina.

The event raises funds for the Forest Lake Area Trail System to support trail building and maintenance in Adair County, Missouri. Prize money is awarded to the top three female, male, and nonbinary finishers and to age group top three finishers who receive a commemorative pint glass. The event follows inclusivity standards, offers nonbinary registration with equal podiums and prize money, and participates in programs to reduce financial barriers to entry. The race is conducted rain or shine and organizers may alter the course for safety. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.