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Piggyback Dash 10K, 5K, 2K

Presented by Cregger Family Dentistry
September 27, 2025 ~ Union, MO

All proceeds from the race benefit the Lance Purschke Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Events

10K

Time: 8:00AM CDT

5K

Time: 8:00AM CDT

2K

Time: 8:05AM CDT
Runner carrying someone piggyback

About Us

Join your family and friends for the 10th Anniversary of the Piggyback Dash! This 10K, 5K, and 2K event is designed for runners of all levels, from recreational participants to competitive athletes. Established in 2017, this family-friendly race has quickly become a popular event in our community.

The 10K and 5K races are chip-timed and take participants along a rolling course through Union, MO, featuring a challenging yet rewarding finish at the top of Autumn Hill. As part of the inspiration behind the race, runners have the option to voluntarily carry someone piggyback-style up Autumn Hill to the finish line for extra finisher swag.

All proceeds from the race benefit the Lance Purschke Memorial Scholarship Fund through the Union R-XI Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization.

Why the Name

Throughout high school, Lance and friends would run almost everyday after dismissal. He routinely ran up Autumn Hill, sometimes using it for hill repeats. Lance loved the hill and the challenge it presented. He never complained about it. Rather, his was the voice of encouragement for others to rise to the challenge. In fact, he is the first person we know of to carry someone piggyback up the hill. Hence the race name, The Piggyback Dash.

Volunteers cheering on runners

Get Involved

Our race wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for the support of our sponsors and the dedication of our volunteers. Consider joining our team of volunteers or sign on as a sponsor. If interested, email piggyback.dash@gmail.com or click the button below and see how you can share in the excitement.

PHOTOS

RESULTS

Stay Connected @piggybackdash

Mission Statement:
The Piggyback Dash, an annual running event, encourages individuals and families to challenge themselves. Inspired by Lance Purschke, the event is committed to providing scholarships in Lance's memory to UHS seniors, to striving to be an event the community supports, and to growing the local running community.

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