RACE INFO

Are you ready to run Kansas!?

Welcome to the 2025 Gobbler Grind Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k and 5K

An enduring tradition in the heart of Johnson County, Kansas for over three decades. This historic road race, held on the Sunday before Thanksgiving each year, is one of Kansas’ oldest marathons, drawing runners and fitness enthusiasts from all corners. Run the 32nd year with us! 

No need to read further? Click that beautiful red button below and you’ll be on your turkey way.  

OUR STORY

Over the years, the Gobbler Grind Marathon has grown, offering various distances to suit every participant’s preferences and abilities. From the iconic Boston Qualifying Marathon to the scenic Half Marathon and spirited 10k/5K, there’s a race for everyone, from seasoned runners to novices.

Now in it’s 32nd year, the Gobbler Grind Marathon’s fascinating origin story dates back to 1994, when a group of passionate individuals, led by individual staff members at Garry Gribble’s Running Sports, envisioned a race connecting two of their stores. The scenic paved running trails between the Ward Parkway and Overland Park locations laid the perfect groundwork for this extraordinary event. Over the years, the course migrated to Corporate Woods and the Indian Creek Trail.  Aptly named the Gobbler Grind, this race stands out among fall events, paying homage to Thanksgiving while evoking the image of determined runners, akin to gobbling turkeys, surging forward. From its first year, the race gained popularity, showcasing the true spirit of the running community in Kansas City and beyond.

The legacy of the Gobbler Grind is in the capable hands of Runners Edge Racing, who acquired the rights in 2021. They have continued the tradition, producing a high-quality road running race that remains one of the top marathons in Kansas. With renewed energy and vision, Runners Edge Racing ensures the Gobbler Grind’s enduring legacy, uniting runners and the Kansas City running community for an unforgettable racing experience.

image of the gobbler grind marathon

DATE AND TIME: 

Sunday, November 23, 2025

All Races start at 8:00am*

RACE LOCATION: 

Overland Park, Kansas

Paved trails & roads in Corporate Woods, 9401 Indian Creek Parkway, Overland Park, KS 66210

Looking to learn more about the Gobbler Grind race options?  Check out one of our four distance options! 

ADDITIONAL RACE DETAILS:

  • Pre-race Packet Pick Up: Fleet Feet Overland Park (11908 W 119th St, Overland Park, KS 66213) from 10am to 5pm on November 22nd. For additional packet pick up details or request for day of pick up click here. Must contact us by November 19th at 9pm if you cannot pick up during at Pre-race Packet Pick Up time/date/location.

  • *Early Start for Marathons at 5+ Hours: This year,  2025, we’re requiring an early start at 7:00 AM for marathoners who expect to finish in 5 hours or longer.  Don’t worry—if you’re a bit faster and end up starting early, it won’t affect your chip time, so we’re not going to strictly enforce the start time. The main point is to let runners planning to take 5 hours or more know that they should aim to start at 7 AM. Most runners prefer this early start so they can finish sooner and enjoy the post-race festivities!

  • Course Maps: You can find the course maps here.

  • Spectators: We recommend these locations for great viewing of the event and to see the runners multiple times! 

  • Parking: There is plenty of parking but the city roads into Corporate Woods will close down at 7:45 am so please arrive by at least 7:30 am! 

  • Weather: The event will not be cancelled because of rain, snow or extreme temperature. If there is lightning, the event will be postponed for a minimum of 10 minutes until no signs of the storm are present. Participants should seek shelter in their vehicles or a nearby building if available. If lightning continues 30 minutes after the scheduled event start, the race will be subject to cancellation. The race will be canceled in the event of a tornado warning.

  • Stollers/Dogs/Bikes: For your safety we do not allow dogs, skateboards, inline skates, or bicycles. Walkers with strollers must start at the back of the start coral.  There will be a lead bike on the path, and they are Race Staff.

  • Hotel: Gobbler Grind is partnered with the Double Tree Hilton – Kansas City/Overland Park. Click here for a discounted rate. Rates are $159 per night.  (2025 is to be determined)

  • Post Race/Finish Line Festival: Stick around Corporate Woods and Founder’s Park for a great post race party from our partners! Runner’s Edge KC will have a pink tent to chat with pacers and members. There will be food and beverage options for purchase from Brew Haha Coffee House, and Wake and Bacon KC.  Award Ceremony, Music, and other booths from our sponsors. 

  • Refund PolicyClick here to view our refund policy