Flatrock 101
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Event Overview
The FlatRock race is an established trail running event held at Elk City Lake near Independence, Kansas. The course takes place on the Elk River Hiking Trail, which is primarily a technical single-track forest path. Runners navigate through unique limestone bluffs, various rock formations, and scenic vistas.
The event offers several distances to accommodate different preferences:
- 50 km
- 25 km
- 12 km
- 5 km
Course Details
The route is an accurately measured out-and-back course along the hiking trail. The 50 km race has a 12-hour time limit, with a specific cutoff at the turnaround point at 5 hours. The 25 km race also shares the 12-hour limit, while the 12 km and 5 km races have limits of 5 hours and 2 hours, respectively.
Support and Logistics
Aid stations are positioned along the course at intervals of approximately 3.5 to 5 miles. The 50 km participants have access to seven aid stations, five of which are fully stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, and foods such as soup and sandwiches. The 25 km and 12 km routes also include stocked stations, while the 5 km distance does not have aid stations.
Drop bags are permitted only for the 50 km distance and are transported to specific aid stations at OakRidge and the turnaround. Crew access is also limited to the 50 km race at these same locations.
Additional Information
A pre-race spaghetti dinner, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, is held on Friday evening during packet pickup. Packet pickup is also available on the morning of the event at the Outlet Channel Group Shelter. Lodging options include nearby campsites with electricity and showers, or motels located in Independence. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
