Welcome to the Gobbler Grind Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K—an enduring tradition in the heart of Johnson County, Kansas for nearly 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.
Already interested? Click that beautiful red button below and you’ll be on your turkey way.
Looking to learn more about GG? Check out one of our three distance options.
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 5K, there’s a race for everyone, from seasoned runners to novices.
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 for an unforgettable racing experience.
Join us at the Gobbler Grind, where we offer Boston Qualifying Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K distances—a celebration of passion, competition, and friendship within the vibrant running community. Let’s lace up our shoes and chase after our dreams together, preserving the cherished tradition of this historic race in Kansas and beyond.
DATE:
Sunday, November 19, 2023 | START TIME: 8:00am Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 5K
RACE LOCATION:
Paved trails & roads in Corporate Woods, Founder’s Park across from Building 40, 9401 Indian Creek Trail, Overland Park, KS 66210
GOBBLER GRIND Pricing and REGISTRATION
Race |
Early Bird |
Regular Registration |
Late Registration |
Packet Pickup & Race Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
By July 1st |
July 2 – Oct 1 |
Oct 2 – Nov 18 |
Nov 18 & 19 |
|
26.2
|
$85 |
$95 |
$105 |
$125 |
13.1
|
$65 |
$75 |
$85 |
$95 |
3.1
|
$35 |
$45 |
$55 |
$70 |
ADDITIONAL RACE DETAILS:
- Parking: Parking is available in the adjacent parking lots at Corporate Woods.
- 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.
- Spectators: Gobbler Grind recommends these locations for great viewing of the event.
- 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.
- Refund Policy: Click here to view our refund policy
- 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.