Armed Forces Endurance Run
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Armed Forces Endurance Run
The Armed Forces Endurance Run (AFER) is a fixed-time endurance running event held at Bixler Lake Park in Kendallville, Indiana. The park surrounds the 117-acre Bixler Lake and features a pedestrian walkway and nature trail of just over three miles that circles the lake through wetlands, beaches, and landscaped woodlands.
Participants choose between the following event options:
- 6 hour
- 12 hour
- 24 hour
- Relay Option (4 person teams)
The course follows the roughly 3 mile loop and includes sections of asphalt and true trails. Indoor restroom facilities are available on both sides of the lake. Parking is located near the course and runners may use vehicles as a base if desired. A central pavilion serves as the main aid station with space for drop bags; runners pass the aid station each loop. A self-serve water and electrolyte station is located on the opposite side of the course.
Every participant receives a unique finisher medal and a special award customized to reflect mileage achieved. Awards are given to the top male and female finishers by miles in each event and to the top relay team.
The event honors active duty service members and veterans; this year the Coast Guard is honored and race swag reflects that branch. A portion of event proceeds supports FW22, a local Northeast Indiana charity serving veterans with mental health, suicidal, or substance use issues.
Camping is available in grassy areas near the main aid station on a first come first served basis; additional paid sites with electric hookups are available across from the start/finish area. Information about camping costs and reservations becomes available after the first of the year and announcements are posted on the event Facebook page. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
