A Bolivar Tradition That Won’t Melt: 48 Years of the Polar Bear Run
For nearly half a century, runners in Bolivar and throughout southwest Missouri have embraced winter, laced up their shoes and answered the call of the Polar Bear Run.
Now celebrating its 48th annual running, this longtime Bolivar tradition has earned a special place in the region's running history—and stands as one of the longest-running continuous road races in the area.
5 Races Worth the Drive in Southwest Missouri This Fall
Sometimes the best races aren't right around the corner.
One of the great things about running in Southwest Missouri is the number of unique events waiting just a short drive away. From small-town festivals and farm trails to Thanksgiving morning at Branson Landing, getting outside Springfield can turn an ordinary race morning into an entire experience.
If you're looking for your next starting line, here are five races on the ActNowRacing calendar worth putting some miles on the car for this fall.
READY. SET. SEPTEMBER.
September means one thing for runners across the Ozarks: fall racing season is here.
After months of summer heat and humidity, September brings cooler mornings, packed race calendars and plenty of reasons to get back to the starting line. Whether you're chasing a new 5K personal best, looking for a family-friendly event or simply searching for your next race in Southwest Missouri, September offers several opportunities to get moving.
ActNow Racing's September 2026 calendar features events in Springfield, Seymour, Ozark and Billings, Missouri, giving runners throughout the region plenty of choices.
Top Fall Races Every Missouri Runner Should Experience
There's something special about running in the fall. Cooler temperatures, colorful Ozark landscapes, and a packed race calendar make autumn the favorite season
for many Missouri runners.
Whether you're chasing a personal best, supporting a local charity, or simply looking for a fun event with family and friends, Missouri's fall racing season offers something for everyone.
Here are some of the top fall races featured on ActNowRacing.com that deserve a spot on your race calendar.
A Timing Company that Works for You
ActNow stands out from other timing companies because we do not own any events. Our sole focus is on our customers. We believe that a timing company cannot be
fully customer-focused if it also organizes its own events, as those events would inevitably become the priority. Instead, we dedicate ourselves to being a genuine partner for our clients.