About the Pony Express Half Marathon & 5K
The course starts in downtown Marysville and quickly picks up the Blue River Rail Trail, a former railroad bed that runs alongside the Big Blue River. From there it heads north through open farm fields, past limestone outcrops and grass-covered bluffs, crossing several bridges along the way. Both distances are out-and-back, finishing where they began at the downtown start.
Race day coincides with a gravel bike race that also starts and finishes downtown, so the area has a lively atmosphere throughout the morning. Food and drink are on hand, and the crowd includes spectators cheering for both runners and cyclists. Aid stations are placed along the trail portion of the course.
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Distances & Start Times
13.1 Miles9/12/2026 08:00$75
5K9/12/2026 08:15$40
Going for a Time?
Set a goal and get a pace band: every mile split on a card sized for your phone lock screen, so race morning needs no math.
Where to Stay
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