Flat Branch Ultra
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Event overview
Flat Branch Ultra is a USATF-certified 50K rails-to-trails race in Columbia, Missouri, scheduled for February 21, 2026. The field is limited to 125 entries and registration closes on February 14. The event began in 2022, moved to February in 2024, and relocated its start/finish to Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park (800 West Stadium Blvd, Columbia, MO) in 2025. Title sponsors are Fleet Feet Columbia and Fleet Feet Jefferson City.
Course and race logistics
The out-and-back course follows the MKT (Missouri-Kansas-Texas) Trail southwest from the start for about 7.5 miles, then joins the Katy Trail just west of McBaine and continues west toward Rocheport. The route passes the nearly 400-year-old Bur Oak at about mile 8.5, runs along the Missouri River beneath river bluffs, and notes possible eagle sightings. The Halfway Home aid station is located just east of Rocheport, past the I-70 bridge.
Aid stations and drop bags
- Start/finish aid station (mile 0 and mile 31)
- Scott Blvd aid station (miles 3.25 and 25.5)
- Bur Oak aid station (miles 8.5 and 20.5)
- Halfway Home aid station (mile 15.5)
Drop bags are transported to the Halfway Home aid station and returned to the start/finish after the turnaround. Competitors must check in with the Halfway Home aid station captain and reach that station by noon or face disqualification.
Additional details
Packet pickup is race day only at the start/finish location; competitors must sign a USATF waiver at pickup. Finisher awards and top-three overall male and female awards are presented at the finish and must be accepted in person. Mile 90 Photography will post course and start/finish images at no charge. The organizer does not offer refunds for cancellations or postponements due to circumstances outside its control. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
