Run for Raptors- Hybrid Race

We are so excited to offer to the community once again the Run For Raptors. This race is held in one of the nicest trail systems in the greater KC area, Swope Park Trails.  Thanks to all the past participation, this has become the largest annual fundraiser for Friends of Lakeside Nature Center.  The funds raised go towards the wildlife rehabilitation efforts of Lakeside Nature Center.  Initially, the event was started to help build a new housing facility for our amazing Raptor Ambassadors.  Due to its continued success, we all are hoping to break ground this fall!  

This year, we will be offering a few different race types including a "virtual" race. Runners will be able to choose to either participate by running the selected distance of the course by themselves within a one-week time window (7/31/21-8/6/21) and submitting their time, or they can run with a (socially distanced) group during an in-person event on August 7th.

For virtual runners, the trails will be marked at Swope Park, and we will post maps of the different courses on our website. While most "virtual" races allow participants to run wherever they want as long as it is the right distance, because this is a trail run and the specific course is a large part of the experience, we are having everyone run the same trails in Swope Park. Prices for the virtual race are slightly cheaper as Lakeside will provide timing for runners at the in-person event and some snack grab-bags, entertainment, and other services. We have added a 15K race distance option new this year as well! 

Early Bird Prices for Registration between 3/5/21 and 6/24/21. Prices will go up on 6/25/21. 

First Place runners in each distance (excluding walkers) for the *in-person* race will receive free race entry next year!

***IMPORTANT*** This year, we will be having a "cupless" race. In order to be more sustainable, we will not be offering disposable cups at any rehydration stations. Instead, runners must bring their own bottles/reusable cups or purchase some of the reusable silicon cups we will have for sale for $6 at the event. Learn more about why we're going cupless here. 

Now, for those new to the trail system...this is a trail race that will have a "rain date".  We have to use this if the trails receive too much precipitation making them soft and easily damaged.  This protects all the hard work done by the trail builders and maintains pristine tread that stands up year after year. That date is set for the following Saturday (8/14/21). And since this is a fundraiser, we do not offer refunds. For current trail conditions at Swope Park or any other metro area trail, please visit urbantrailco.com

*Due to the heat and that there will be live birds present, we are not allowing dogs on the race. They can, however, come and cheer you on from the side lines as long as they are leashed.