Locally we have several races for those who are competitive runners. Manhattan and the surrounding communities also have several fun runs and walks that are great for the whole family and benefit many local non-profit organizations.
If so, you are in luck. Manhattan has an incredibly active fitness commenity. Several local organizations join together to put on various events throughout the year! One of the favorites is the Bill Synder Half Marathon. One of the best resources in the area for upcoming events is the Manhattan Running Company. Not only are they a phenomenal locally owned store, there includes an upcoming race calendar that will help to keep you informed and allow you to plan your next big race day!
Local Races:
Manhattan
St. Patrick's Day is a HUGE day in Manhattan! The community gathers to celebrate St. Patrick's Day not just on March 17th. We also gather for the weekend. The day starts off with a parade and then the road race that has distances of 10K, 2 mile run, or a 2 mile walk. After the parade and road race, the community stays in Aggieville to celebrate. The local bars and restaurants pack with family and friends. Definitely plan to spend the day after the race is over!
Bill Synder Highway Half and 5k as I mentioned is a town favorite. Presented by the Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center, this race is run every Labor Day. Participants all start on Bill Synder Highway which for those of you that might be familiar, is the highway that leads into town when you take the 313 exit into town.
Manhattan Avenue Mile This race is run along the East side of campus.
Brew 2 Shoe, this annual race is presented by Midwest Dream Car Collection. The Race consists of a 10K, 5K, and 1-mile fun run. The event was originally started by a local brewery, Tallgrass Taphouse, and the Manhattan Running Company. The event continues to grow and ends at the local eatery, Tallgrass Taphouse!
Just Tri It Youth and Adult Triathlon is presented by the Manhattan Running Company and is a popular local event for area youth to begin their journey with Triathlons. Adults can also enjoy the challenge of the event. The event takes place in Manhattan's City Park in and you can sign up through the Manhattan Running Companies website.
Konquer the Konza allows you to enjoy the beauty of the Konza Prarie while you participate in either the 25K or 10K race. Off of McDowell Creek Rd is the parking area that allows entrance to the Konza Prairie. Please keep in mind there are strict rules while you are at the Konza. The goal and mission of the Konza are to keep the prairie as it was, which means certain rules must be followed while enjoying the trails.
MHK Turkey Trot is an event for the whole family! Enjoy a morning 5K run around downtown and Manhattan City Park before the big meal of the day! This event is presented by Title Sponsor, Central National Bank, and benefits many local non-profits. A great family tradition to continue or start!
Little Apple Marathon can either be run like a half marathon or a 5K around Tuttle Creek State Park. Presented by AIB International, as the Title Sponsor, this race benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Kansas City Charities.
Wamego
The Wicked Marathon has a full marathon, half marathon, 5K, and an OZ series. The race begins at the OZ Museum in Wamego and runners are shuttled back from Manhattan if necessary. The 5K begins and ends at the OZ Museum and most years the theme is the Wizard of Oz! Be prepared to have fun with this run!!
Junction City
The JC Strong Benefit Run honors the local community warriors of the past, present, and future. Showing support for our local military is incredibly important. The race committee has a goal to goal is to inspire and empower those in our community whose fight is our fight and we will win!
I hope you enjoy as many of these events as you can. Feel free to share your photos and times from the race so that we can all celebrate each other!
