Kansas Half Marathon & 5K Returns to Lawrence

The Kansas Half Marathon & 5K will bring runners, local businesses, and volunteers to downtown Lawrence on Sunday, Nov. 1, to raise funds for Heartland Community Health Center. Presented by LMH Health, the Lawrence tradition is Heartland’s only fundraising event of the year. Registration is open for both race distances.

“Heartland is committed to making high-quality health care accessible and affordable for everyone in our community,” said Julie Branstrom, Heartland’s chief executive officer. “The Kansas Half Marathon brings people together to support that work. We are grateful to the businesses, volunteers, runners and walkers who make this event possible and help us continue meeting the needs of all who turn to Heartland for care.”

Supporting affordable care in the community

Proceeds benefit Heartland’s medical, dental, behavioral health and supportive services for people of all ages, incomes and insurance statuses.

In 2025, Heartland served 22,944 patients through 86,390 visits. Seventy-one percent of patients lived in Douglas County, and more than 13,200 patients were children.

Heartland provided $10.6 million in sliding fee discounts that year, helping eligible uninsured and underinsured patients afford essential services. Funds raised through the event help sustain access to care for people who might otherwise face financial barriers.

Race Day Details

The 5K welcomes participants of all fitness levels and abilities, including walkers, first-time participants and experienced runners. Friends, families and workplace teams are encouraged to participate together.

Registration includes an official race T-shirt, a box turtle finisher medal reflecting this year’s “Built for the Long Run” theme, a shoe bag, professional photos from Mile 90 Photography, race timing and real-time results from Red Dirt Race Management, and post-race snacks and chocolate milk. Participants age 21 and older can also enjoy complimentary beer from Fields & Ivy.

The 5K begins at 7 a.m., followed by the half marathon at 7:10 a.m. Both races start at South Park and follow USATF-certified courses. Food trucks will offer food for purchase, giving participants, spectators and families a place to gather and celebrate after the races.

Children can join the free kids’ fun run at 9 a.m. near the South Park playground. Sponsored by Sunflower State Dance, the run gives children another chance to wear their Halloween costumes. Every child receives a medal, and no preregistration is required.

 Volunteers help the event a success

Heartland is seeking volunteers to guide runners along the course, hand out water and sports drinks at aid stations, and assist with setup and finish-area activities.

Individuals, families, friends, student groups and workplace teams are encouraged to sign up. Aid stations offer an opportunity for groups to volunteer together, and all volunteers receive a free official Kansas Half Marathon beanie.

To register for the race or sign up to volunteer, visit kansashalfmarathon.com.