Show Me Your Free State Ultra
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Show Me Your Free State Marathon and Ultra
The Show Me Your Free State Marathon & Ultra takes place on October 23, 2027 in St. Joseph, Missouri, with the start and finish near the entrance to Rosecrans Memorial Airport. The 100 mile event continues into the following day.
Distances offered:
- 100 mile
- 50 mile
- 50 kilometer
- Marathon (26.2 miles)
- Half marathon (13.1 miles)
The main course is a 25 mile lap made of 12.5 miles out and 12.5 miles back. Each lap has about 276 feet of elevation gain and roughly 5.5 miles of paved road; the remainder is gravel or crushed limestone levee trail. The route follows the riverbank, passes through the Gladden Bottoms, skirts loess bluffs, and offers views of farmland, the Missouri River, and fall foliage. Wildlife such as deer and bald eagles may be seen. There are no major road crossings on the course.
Staffed aid stations provide water, sports drink, soda, simple snacks, fruit, sandwiches, candy, and hot food after sunset. Unstaffed stations supply water and limited snacks. Basic first aid supplies are available at aid stations. 100 mile and 50 mile runners may use up to three drop bags; bags must be airline carry on size, clearly labeled, and delivered during packet pickup. Drop bags are returned to the Start–Finish by midday Sunday.
Pacers are allowed for 50 mile and 100 mile runners after the first 25 mile lap and must wear a pacer bib. Crew support is permitted only at designated locations; crew vehicles may not enter unpaved roads. Age minimums apply and there are no refunds, deferrals, or transfers. Headlamps are required before sunrise and after sunset, and runners should follow the event safety and conduct rules. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
