Kansas City’s biggest annual race returns Saturday, October 17, and with it come a morning of road closures and a few thousand runners tackling a course through some of the city’s best-known neighborhoods.
The race basics
The event includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K. The race always falls on the third Saturday in October. Start times are 7 a.m. for the marathon and half, 7:30 a.m. for the 10K, and 7:45 a.m. for the 5K, according to the race listing. In past years the start has been in front of the Nelson-Atkins Museum.
A tour of the city
Past courses have taken runners by the National WWI Museum and Memorial, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Ward Parkway, the 18th & Vine District, Westport, and the Country Club Plaza. The marathon has been voted Best Marathon in Missouri by RaceRaves and has been named to BibRave’s list of top American races. An official finish time can be used to qualify for the Boston Marathon.
If you live or drive along the route
Road closures begin at 7 a.m. and last until about 2 p.m. in some areas. Residents can cross the course when there are gaps in runners and police say it’s safe. The Kansas City Police Department provides traffic control. The official course map shows estimated closure times at each mile marker, so check it before planning a Saturday morning errand.
Cheering from the sidelines
Spectators make a real difference in the later miles. Pick a spot near a landmark you like, bring a sign, and expect to stay a while. Autumn weather in Kansas City tends to be cool, which runners usually appreciate.
Why it matters
A race like this puts a spotlight on Kansas City’s neighborhoods and gives local businesses along the route a busy morning. For many participants it’s also a personal goal years in the making.
