Hawthorn Half Day Relay & Ultra

Established in 2006, this unique event offers a great challenge for runners and walkers of all levels. Choose between the 6-hour or 12-hour race, starting at 7:00 a.m. Participants compete on a beautiful 5K loop of trail and road, with a shorter ½-mile course available in the final 30 minutes to ensure laps count.

Join us in 2026 as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Hawthorn Half Day Relay & Ultra!

Categories include options for solo runners, walkers, and teams:

• 6-Hour: Solo or Teams of 3
• 12-Hour: Solo, Teams of 2, or Teams of 3-6

Every loop passes through runners village where you will have a designated space for your crew/tent/gear. You will also pass through race headquarters, fully stocked with cold drinks, snacks, and other essentials to keep you fueled all day. The campgrounds located along the course will be open for camping registration and will include restroom facilities and water stations for runners. It's a great place for families and crew to hang out and cheer as you pass them each loop!

What can you do in half a day?Run a 5K? A half marathon? A full? At Hawthorn Half Day, you can do all that and more - with friends by your side. Whether you're going solo or teaming up, this race is for everyone who can run, walk, or shuffle their way through a few miles at a time!

Relay it with a team and split the distance any way you like - teams of 2, and 3-6 are all welcome! Our 6-hour team relay is seeing its largest field yet, and while a few 12-hour 6-person teams are locked in, the 2-person 12-hour option is still wide open. What spot will you fill? Share this event with a friend!

Leave behind the chores and screens for the day. Connect with your crew, soak in the outdoors, make some new friends, and be part of our 19th anniversary celebration. 

Here's what's waiting for you:

• Live online tracking 
• A professional photographer 
• Runners Village to set up your tent with your crew or family - plus a playground nearby, shelter and restrooms.
• Optional camping in the park for a full weekend experience (book with parks dept. asap...it will sell out!)
• Post-race party with award ceremony & some special giveaways! 
• Overall awards (and finisher medals!)
• And of course...our signature baked potato bar and pie!

Join us. Run your race. Be part of the Half Day family!