Rockin K Trail Marathon

Course, race director, and volunteers were all excellent. Course terrain was very difficult so plan to add 50% to your normal finish time. Miles 13 - 18 included some climbing, there are water crossings throughout and the terrain is varied. My compliments to the race director and volunteers for an excellent job. The post race food and finisher's metal are excellent.

Me and my mom loved this race so much the first year, that we're coming back for a second time! The race directors are on top of their game and have everything organized and ready to go on the morning of the race. The trail is both beautiful and challenging, but oh so rewarding! Definitely not something to set a PR on, but completely worth doing!

I've run a lot of races, but nothing as beautiful - and challenging - as the Rockin' K Marathon. Organization is exceptional, with well-staged packet pickup and pre-race activities. Course starts on blacktop road for the first half-mile, after which the race directors throw everything at you - single track, fire trails, bridle path, multiple water crossings (including two that were waist-deep), grassy meadows, sandy trails along rock canyons, rolling hills, lung-busting (and leg-destroying) climbs, and - if all of that weren't enough - a finish requiring a climb of about 5-6 degrees for the last quarter-mile. The beauty of the course is stunning (yes, even in central Kansas), as you'll see some of the most beautiful parts of the Smoky Hills section. In fact, if you're going to suffer on a tough trail race, there is no better place to do it. Unlike most trail races, the openness of the topography allows for a nice breeze and panoramic views - not the sweltering experience of running in the woods (with no wind). Volunteers were exceptional - with well-stocked and resourceful aid stations. Post-race festivities were low-key, with good food, soda and beer. Finisher award was most distinctive I've received. Great race - I will be back!