Get Your Butt Kicked at Route 66
Route 66 State Park, located just east of Eureka, MO, features flat, fast trails through shaded woodlands and lies along the scenic Meramec River. With 3- and 6-hour race options available, it’s ideal for both newcomers to timed races and seasoned ultrarunners alike.
The course is a measured 2.425-mile loop that winds through the wooded northwest corner of Route 66 State Park. It follows a wide path consisting of thin pavement, chip-n-seal, and fine gravel, offering a flat and fast surface perfect for setting a personal best. However, runners should keep in mind that July temperatures can present a serious challenge, making smart pacing and hydration essential.
Start/finish area is at the Forest Shelter which has adequate parking around it. The Forest Shelter is the main aid station and will have Ultra-Food.
The 6-hour race starts at 6 pm and runs until midnight, while the 3-hour race kicks off at 7:30 pm and finishes at 10:30 pm. Darkness sets in around 8:30 pm, so runners should be prepared with a headlamp or handheld light for the second half of the race.
This race is brought to you by the Saint Louis Ultrarunners Group
(SLUG members receive a $10 discount on race registration. Click here for more details.)
Mid-summer Race
This event is held in the middle of summer when the temperature and humidity can be very high. Participants need to be acclimated to hot running conditions and maintain proper hydration throughout the event.
Course Details/How Timed Loops Work
Runners begin by tackling the long loop course, a 2.425-mile circuit that you complete as many times as possible within the chosen 3- or 6-hour time limit. Only completed loops are counted. When a runner decides there’s not enough time left for another long loop, they switch to the short loop course, which is 0.333 miles around, and continue until time runs out. The final distance is calculated as the number of long loops completed multiplied by 2.425 miles, plus the number of short loops completed multiplied by 0.333 miles.
Please note that if you would like someone to pace you for this event, they must also register for the race for insurance purposes.
Aid Stations/Bathrooms
The Forest Shelter is the main aid station and will have Ultra-Food. We will also have bug spray but we recommend bringing your own.
THIS IS A CUPLESS EVENT. In an effort to reduce our strain on the environment, we will again be going cupless. There will be water jugs at the aid station for you to refill your own hydration system.
There are 2 unisex flush toilet bathrooms on the course for use. They get dark, so please remember a headlamp.
NEW THIS YEAR - We listened and you got it. PORTA POTTIES. Not one. TWO PORTA POTTIES. You're welcome.
Parking and Directions
Race Address:
Route 66 State Park
97 N Outer Rd.
Eureka, MO 63025
The park is accessed from I-44 exit 265 (exit is for east bound traffic only). West bound traffic can do a U-turn by taking exit 264.
Parking is available at Forest Shelter, Dogwood Shelter and near the Times Beach Memorial Playground (you'll pass this on your way to Forest Shelter).
Bib/Swag Pick-Up
Bib/Swag pick-up will be available at the Forest Shelter next to the race start on race day from 5:00-5:55pm for the 6-hour race and again from 6:30-7:25pm for the 3-hour race.
Awards/Swag
All finishers will receive a finisher's medal. Awards will be given in two categories for the 6-hour race: first place overall male and female winners as well as the male and female winners the Masters (40+) Age Group. Awards will be given for first place overall male and female winners in the 3-hour race.
All runners will receive a pair of custom GYBK Sock Guy socks designed by David Kovaluk.
Love the socks from last year? We have some pairs leftover and will have them available to purchase!
What to Bring
In case you love a good list, here are some suggestions for what to bring:
Your own hydration system (this is a requirement)
Headlamp/lights (this is a requirement)
Bug spray (2024 mosquitoes anyone?)
Camp chair if you need a breather (just kidding, get up and run)
Towel or blanket (to make a tiny base camp)
Nutrition (feel free to rely on our well-stocked aid station!)
Why Race GYBK with the SLUGs?
This race started as a fat ass event in order to just bring people together and run. We try to keep it low-key/old school. No frills, nothing over the top, just run around in circles all night.
The SLUGs aren't after your money either. Our race proceeds help sponsor multiple charity runs, assist with coordination of trail maintenance, host aid stations at various running events throughout the Midwest and much more. Come join in the fun.
Event's current local time: 4:24 PM CT
