Fort Smith General Darby Challenge
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Event Overview
The Fort Smith General Darby Challenge is a timed event in downtown Fort Smith, Arkansas. It is a mass-start event with a five-hour time limit to finish all distances. The event honors local World War II figure General William O. Darby and celebrates Fort Smith's sister city relationships with Cisterna and Nago-Torbole, Italy.
Distances and Divisions
Participants can choose from the following timed events:
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles): This can be completed as a ruck (carrying a weighted pack), run, hike, or walk.
- 10K (6.2 miles): This can be completed as a run, hike, or walk.
- 5K (3.1 miles): This can be completed as a run, hike, or walk.
There is also a separate virtual event option that is not timed and does not offer awards.
A dedicated Individual 13.1 Mile Ruck division requires participants to carry a pack weighing at least 25 lbs, which is weighed before and after the event.
Event Details
The event starts and finishes at the General William O. Darby statue in Cisterna Park. The course travels down "A" Street to the Greg Smith River Trail, follows the riverfront north to Fort Smith Park, and returns along the same route to the start.
All participants receive a finisher's medal upon completion. Special recognition is awarded for the best times in all divisions, and the first 20 finishers in the 13.1-mile ruck division are recognized. Registration includes the option to purchase an event t-shirt.
Supporting Events and Charities
Proceeds from the event benefit the Fort Smith Museum of History and the Darby House Organization. The event weekend also includes "Darby Days," a separate family-friendly outdoor event on Saturday featuring historical reenactments, military exhibits, and hands-on activities. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
