The River Rat Run started in 2009 to honor SFC Rich Schild, who gave his life on December 4, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Rich was devoted to his family, friends, and community, and this event carries on his legacy by donating all race proceeds to local nonprofit organizations.

Participants can choose from a 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon, each on a scenic, chip-timed course with video and manual iPad backup through the Lewis and Clark Lake Recreation Area. The route follows newly paved trails that wind through wooded landscapes along the shores of Lewis and Clark Lake and Lake Yankton, with two brief grass connectors between trail sections. Runners enjoy panoramic lake views, abundant wildlife, and, in winter, the chance to spot majestic bald eagles. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply taking in the natural beauty, it’s one of the most striking courses you’ll ever run. Learn more at www.riverratrun.com.

Prizes are awarded to the overall male and female winners as well as to the first- and second-place finishers in each male and female age division: 1–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, and 70–99. Only half-marathon participants receive finisher medals.  Race T-shirts are guaranteed only for runners who register by midnight on Sunday, April  18, 2027. All races conclude by 11:00 a.m. on race day.  Please consider Race insurance!  River Rat Run does not offer refunds.

Packet pick-up is available the day before the event at Ace Bike & Fitness, 2404 Broadway, Yankton, SD, from 5:00 pm to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, where new registrations will also be accepted. On race day, check-in takes place at the picnic shelter in the Gavins Point Area, starting at 7am and closing 15 minutes before your race.   No new race-day registrations will be accepted.

Distance Comparison Table:

5K
A quick loop through the campground woods and back along Lewis and Clark Lake to the finish line.
❌ No finishing medal

10K
Traverses the entire campground, spending the final 5K running directly alongside L&C Lake.
❌ No finishing medal

Half Marathon
Explores the campground, tracks L&C Lake east, expands to loop all the way around Lake Yankton, and then traces the scenic shoreline of L&C Lake back to the finish line at Gavins Point..
🏅Finishing medal to all 1/2 marathon participants🏅