Cross-Country Season Is Over. Now What?
Another cross-country season is in the books!
For the past few months, we've spent our weekends watching runners give everything they've got on cross-country courses across the
Ozarks. We've seen personal records, exciting finishes, teammates cheering each other on, and plenty of runners crossing the finish line completely exhausted but with a smile on their face.
One of the things we enjoy most about timing cross-country meets is watching the athletes improve throughout the season. We see many of the same faces week after week, and it's pretty neat to watch a runner who struggled early in the season come back a few weeks later and knock a minute or two off their time.
To all the runners, coaches, and parents we've seen this season, thank you for another great year! We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.
So, What's Next?
Not Just Another Holiday 5K: Springfield's Jingle Bell Run Puts Giving First
The Christmas season is a time for giving, helping others, and making a difference. And while Springfield has plenty of festive holiday
races to choose from, one event stands out for the nonprofit mission behind it.
On Saturday, December 5, 2026, the Springfield Jingle Bell Run returns to Jordan Valley Park, offering runners and walkers the opportunity to celebrate the Christmas season while supporting a cause that makes a difference in people's lives.
What makes the Jingle Bell Run different from many other holiday races? It's not simply a race that has partnered with a charity. The event itself is a fundraiser for the Arthritis Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Hero Run 5K Brings Obstacles, Challenges & Plenty of Motivation to Nixa!
The Hero Run 5K in Nixa wasn't your typical Saturday morning 5K! On October 31, participants took on a unique challenge that combined running, physical fitness, and a little military-style motivation.
Throughout the eight-lap course, runners encountered a variety of exercise stations designed to test their strength, endurance, and determination. From jumping jacks and burpees to mountain climbers, squat jumps, and more, there was no shortage of challenges along the way!
From Coast to Coast, Runners Are Heading to the Branson Turkey Trot!
Thanksgiving morning in Branson is bringing people together from all across the country, and this year's Branson Turkey Trot is shaping up to be a special one!
With Thanksgiving just a few weeks away, excitement is building for the 15th Annual Branson Turkey Trot 5K, taking place Thursday, November 26, 2026, at Branson Landing.
And here's something pretty amazing: 388 participants have already registered, representing 25 different states!
That's right! From California to Florida, Oregon to South Carolina, and plenty of places in between, runners and walkers are making the Branson Turkey Trot part of their Thanksgiving holiday.
Before the Turkey, It's Time to Gobblin' & Hobblin' in Bolivar!
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and before the turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie take over, Bolivar Parks & Recreation has a fun
way to get the whole family moving!
The 6th Annual Gobblin' & Hobblin' 5K & 3K Fun Run returns Saturday, November 21, 2026, bringing together runners, walkers, families, and friends for a morning of fresh air, exercise, and a little pre-Thanksgiving fun.
Who says Thanksgiving traditions have to start at the dinner table?
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