10K races near Lawrence

The Rock Chalk Run begins and ends at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park, Kansas, offering complimentary parking on campus. Participants can choose from a 10K, a 5K, or a 1K Family Fun Run/Walk, suitable for both dedicated runners and families seeking a brief, relaxed outing. The courses are new this year, and the event benefits KU Edwards College students. Following the races, attendees can enjoy food trucks, a family fun zone, KU bookstore items, and a visit from the Jayhawk mascot. This is the third year for the event, and a donation of $50 or more provides runners with a $10 discount on registration.

Tour de Trail: Cedar Niles is a 10K trail run at Cedar Niles in Olathe, Kansas, part of a six-race Tour de Trail series across the Kansas City area. The distance is flexible, typically near 10K, with the actual course ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 miles based on the trail system and conditions. Runners and hikers are welcome; all participants have four hours to complete the course. The event uses clock timing, posts results on UltraSignup, and provides minimal aid with water only, requiring entrants to bring their own cup. The series showcases KC-area trail systems, with each stage at a different location. Cedar Niles hosts this particular stop, but rain may necessitate an alternate route using cross country, paved trail, or a combination. A single entry costs $50, with $5 donated to Urban Trail Co. Race-day registration incurs a higher fee, and a discount is available for those registering for all six stages before the deadline. Completing all six races earns a special series finisher award, emphasizing the full challenge over just the bundle registration.

Tour de Trail: Shawsonnee Mission Park South is a 10k-style trail race starting at Shelter 10 in Shawnee Mission Park South, Shawnee, Kansas. This event is one stop in the six-race Tour de Trail series, visiting various trail systems around the Kansas City area. The distances are intentionally around 10k, typically between 5.5 and 6.5 miles, varying with the trail's layout and conditions. The race is a simple local trail run using clock timing, with water-only aid stations and results available on UltraSignup. The event is cupless; runners must bring their own cup or bottle for water. Five dollars from each entry goes to Urban Trail Co., and participants completing all six stages earn a special series finisher award. Since Kansas City trails can close due to rain, organizers have backup routes prepared. If dirt trails are closed, the alternate course might incorporate cross-country terrain, paved paths, or a combination.

The Gobbler Grind is a road race in Johnson County, Kansas, held annually on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Participants can choose from four distances: a marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K. The longer races begin earlier in the morning than the shorter ones. The marathon is one of Kansas' oldest, featured on the local running calendar for nearly 30 years. It is a Boston Qualifier and a 50 State Marathon Club certified race, attracting marathon collectors and local runners from Kansas and Missouri.

The Topeka Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving morning race held in Topeka, Kansas, organized by Fleet Feet. It features a 10K, a 5K, and a Kids Turkey Trot 1K. The longer races begin earlier, with the children’s race scheduled for later in the morning. The designated race location is SE Croco Road, though specific course maps and future site details are still being finalized. This event is in its second year and aims to encourage physical activity before the holiday meal. Participants include runners, walkers, families, experienced racers, first-timers, and children, making it a community gathering rather than solely a competitive event. The race emphasizes gratitude, togetherness, and creating an appetite for post-race pie.

The Lawrence Shamrock Shuffle begins and ends at Johnny's Tavern in Lawrence, Kansas, offering 5K, 10K, Family 5K, and virtual race choices. This event aligns with the Lawrence St. Patrick's Day Parade, taking place annually during the St. Patrick's season. Participants are encouraged to wear green or other Irish-themed attire. The 10K provides a less common distance for local runners, and the shorter races accommodate families and casual participants. The courses follow the river levee, extend into North Lawrence, and traverse the historic North Lawrence and Pinkney neighborhoods. Aid stations are positioned approximately every 1.5 to 2 miles. Awards are presented to overall winners, Masters and Super Masters, and the top three in each age category. Registration covers a race shirt and a participation award. Post-race refreshments feature an Irish breakfast from Johnny's North and the parade committee. Proceeds benefit Douglas County children's charities selected by the Lawrence St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee.