Though Gunn Park has had several 5Ks run through its grounds, Frank Halsey, the Fort Scott Recreation Department, Redlogic and Red Team Racing have teamed up to hold a new kind of running event in the park–a trail run.
The run, which will be held August 31st at 8:00AM, will take place at the Gunn Park Trails located near the entrance to the park. According to the Frontier Fanatic event website, the race will cover approximately 4.1 miles–a bit more distance than the usual 5K, which is equivalent to 3.2 miles. The race is also unique in that it will be timed with disposable time chips. The race may just be the first of its kind in Fort Scott. Regina Cassner of Red Team Racing said that while the Mercy Day running events had used time chips in the past, the Frontier Fanatic is “the first ever trail race in Fort Scott using chip timing.” Halsey added that Red Team Racing had used this method for races located in Mound City.
When asked if the Frontier Fanatic trail run could become an annual event, Halsey indicated that he had considered it. “We are hopeful this can become an annual event,” Halsey said. “Ideally, this could become an annual festival, with the trail run, a mountain bike race, possibly a music festival, and more. There is even talk of hosting some sort of ‘Tri’ event, including running, biking and swimming or kayaking. We would love to take advantage of the great venue that Gunn Park can provide.”
Of expected participation in the event, Halsey said that previous events coordinated by Red Team Racing had “attracted more than 100 participants.” “However,” Halsey said, “considering this is scheduled for the start of Labor Day Weekend, it’s our first ever event, and the beauty of our trails is somewhat unknown outside of Fort Scott, we simply don’t know what to expect. I feel certain we will have at least 40 to 50 participants, but we’d love to have more.”
Those interested in participating can register online or download a registration form. “Early Birds” who register by August 17th are guaranteed a race t-shirt.