Originally, this race was the Running Village 50K back in 2012 and 2013. For 2014 it was renamed the Runner's Flat 50K and also had distances (as in 2013) of 10 miles and 20 miles. This was my first 50K finish in 2012 and my first DNF in 2013! In 2014 I volunteered. A few weeks before the race I previewed the course so I would know it for race day. The course is fairly flat, but does have a few minor knolls. It does a have a small bit of road, but is probably 90% trail. Local groups continue to make more trails out in George Wyth State Park, and this has been reflected in how much more trail has been added each year to the race. This race is a great entry 50K. Not too hard, yet it will still challenge you because so much of it is runnable. Schwag is pretty simple, a pint glass you can get filled for free the first time after the race at the after race venue two stores down at a local brewery. They also provide the lunch which was very good. Aid stations are stocked well and volunteers are friendly, knowledgable and helpful.

I did this 5K the day after the trail marathon with one of my kids. It was her first 5K. The course is an out and back and because it takes a bit to get on the trails, is probably about 50/50 road/trail. There are some hills, so don't think it's flat. TNF does a great job of putting on an event and it makes for a fun atmosphere, esp. for the kids where they get medals, shirts, socks, and bottles!!!

This was my second year doing the trail marathon at TNF WI. In addition, I raced the 5K the next day with two of my kids! TNF continues to put on great races, with challenging courses, well stocked aid stations, and friendly volunteers. If you want to challenge yourself, but do it with lots of other people in a great atmosphere, you should hit one of these TNF Endurance Challenge Races.

This is a small town local 5K that is paired with the town days as is so common in Iowa. What's great about this 5K is that it is on a well-maintained converted rail bed. The trail is finely crushed limestone and hidden amongst the trees. It is an out and back, running to an old and beautiful bridge that is part of the local scenery. There are a couple of hills to note, but mostly this is a fairly flat trail with the typical railroad grade so often used. The race is fairly simple and straightforward. You get a number and a t-shirt, there are water and a couple of snack options afterwards. Everything is very low key and intimate, a hidden race amongst the trees.