The Midwestern state of Kansas takes it name from the Kansa Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. Kansas gained recognition from historical events like entering the Union as a Free State prior to the Civil War and Bleeding Kansas. A little more recently, Kansas has become famous as the backdrop to The Wizard of Oz.
Free State Trail Marathon – Lawrence
For this race, runners are given 15 hours to complete the course, so if you are a beginner, you won’t have to worry about a time restraint. However, if you think you may take all 15 hours to run the course, then you may want to consider purchasing a headlight and a waist-light so you will be able to clearly see the trial as you continue on your journey. Get more information here.
The Course
If you are a road-racer, then brace yourself, even the easiest trail races will prove challenging if you are not prepared for it. The Free State Trail Marathon takes place on a single-track, rocky trail and is relatively flat. The marathon is one very large loop. There are several aid stations along the way stocked with water, ice, sports drinks, soda, chips, cookies, fruit, and electrolytes gels and caps. The majority of the course is hilly with many rocks and roots on the trail–so watch your step!
Credit: MapMyRun
“This race is extremely well-organized and is run in a beautiful location. Be aware that the trail is quite technical, with lots of rocks and roots, so you’ll have to slow down and pay attention to your footing in order to avoid stumbling. There weren’t many spectators (it’s a trail race, after all) but those who were there were enthusiastic. All in all, this race rocked.”-Mr. Sorequads, Marathonguide.com
“This is my 19th marathon, my first on a trail, and the best run of my life! Not for time, just for fun (you can only move so fast without getting injured out there). Single loop around a gorgeous and twisted single track trail. Mind is constantly engaged on staying upright (almost crashed 3 times), so time passes quickly. The event was very well organized, with showers available right next to the parking lot. Spectator rating is for quality, not quantity there are not many places a spectator could stand on this course. Proximity to Lawrence, KS makes logistics easy, and pre-race evening enjoyable. And the magic of dirt: I’m not even sore! I will return for this run, and may be saying goodbye to road racing.”-Bryan Martin, Marathonguide.com
Pilgrim Pacer Marathon- Shawnee
This race takes place in mid to late November so you can expect “cooler” temperatures than Kansas normally has to offer; however, it is not uncommon for the temperature to still reach the high fifties or even sixties! Given that the venue for the Pilgrim Pacer is Shawnee Mission Park, fall is the perfect time for this race since many of the trees at the park and around area are bursting with vibrant color. Get registered here.
The Course
The Pilgrim Pacer Marathon features two out and backs and a few hills on a paved bike path. There are several small climbs and falls along the path, but considering that there is less than 200 feet between the maximum elevation and minimum elevation you won’t have to be too concerned about endless climbs. The race is held on paths through Shawnee Mission Park and will provide many natural beauties to distract you from the double out and back.
Credit: Psychowyco.com
Reviews
“I ran this race is 2015. It’s a great small marathon. Challenging double out and back course on a wide asphalt bike path. The race venue is a beautiful nature preserve with lot of hills, turns, woods, tunnels, a lake, a creek, and bridges. The medal is really nice and is the size of a hub cap. The pumpkin pie at the finish is a great touch. The hill at the start/finish is flat out brutal but it’s a marathon, it’s supposed to be hard. There is not a lot of spectators because it’s a small race. The lack of crowds was one of the nice things about the race. The people that were there were awesome esp the volunteers. I didn’t know how cool the double out and back would be but since it was in such a scenic venue and the volunteers could support it well, it was great. I’m trying for 50 states and this was a great choice for Kansas.”-J.S., Marathonguide.com
“The course is challenging (but manageable) with several hills – that you get to repeat twice. The 2 loop layout and aid station locations allows you to break the race down into 5k’s. Although spectators are limited, the loop course allows runners to be each other’s cheering section. And the race location in Shawnee Mission Park is a beautiful place for a autumn race. The organization is great and the volunteers are top notch.”-Brian Brooks, Marathonguide.com
Gobbler Grind Marathon – Overland Park
The Gobbler Grind Marathon supports the Kids Foundation, which strives to offset the financial struggle on Kansas City families whose children have cancer. This race is relatively flat and is a Boston Qualifying, USATF certified race. Aid stations are located every 2 to 3 miles along the route so help is always just around the corner. Learn more here.
The Course
The course has some hills but nothing that should prove too difficult. Spectators are few and far between–most of those on the sidelines are probably the family members of runners, so don’t expect big crowds cheering you on. The course includes beautiful scenery that is sure to keep your eye. This race features several out and backs–some runners liked this because it gave them a good idea of what was coming next while others disliked it because they felt it was boring seeing the same things a few times.
Reviews
“This is a smaller marathon and is run mostly on a suburban running/biking trail. The route varies from year to year, but is generally flat with some challenging hills here and there. It is well organized and course support is good. If you need fan support along the trail you will need to bring your own because it is sparse. However, the Gobble Grind has all the basics covered and is a nice run to round out your year.” L.B., Marathonguide.com
“I ran the full marathon at this race and I was very pleased. The course was well marked and the aid stations were well staffed. The course is primarily on paved trails in the woods, so spectators are far and few between. If you like small marathons, then you will love this race.” C.B., Marathonguide.com
Garmin Marathon in the Land of Oz – Olathe
Welcome to the land of Oz! The Garmin Marathon in the Land of Oz is a Wizard of Oz themed race that takes place in Olathe, Kansas. In the past, there has been around 3,800 participants in the full marathon. If you grew up loving the Wizard of Oz, you will love this marathon! It’s not uncommon to see hot air balloons, participants in theme-based costumes, and is even a great family event because they can participate in the Munchkin Marathon. Find out more.
The Course
The Garmin Marathon in the Land of Oz has its fair share of hills, but it tends to flatten out towards the latter part of the race. The race is set up in two different phases. The first phase is around 12 miles and takes runners around the streets of Olathe. The second phase (the last 14 or so miles) is on a paved trail which has an out and back.
Credit: connect.garmin.com
Reviews
“I enjoyed the course, and I especially enjoyed the out and back portion along the river and train tracks. That portion was asphalt, not concrete, which I had feared before running. The course was hilly, so it definitely won’t be your fastest, but it is enjoyable and the scenery was pretty. The medal is a bit large for my taste, but it’s well made and memorable. I’m a slower runner and the finish line still had food, beer, etc. This was a very enjoyable race and I’m glad I chose it.” N.S., Marathonguide.com
“I chose Land of Oz because I am working on the 50 states and was hoping somewhere in Kansas I could find an OZ themed race. I haven’t run a full marathon for a couple years due to an injury so I was viewing this as more of a confidence builder to get me back into it. This was a great race! The volunteers were wonderful, everything was well organized, and it was the perfect size-not too many people but you were never alone on the course. My only suggestion would be to have the elevation gain noted somewhere. I searched and searched and never found it. The course was advertised as flat and fast but I wouldn’t necessarily agree. But, it was a nice course and I PR’d! I would highly recommend this race. The finish line was one of the better finish line parties I have attended. Lots of spectators who stuck around for everyone-not leaving until the last runner crossed the finish line.” K.J., Marathonguide.com