The 12k

The 12k

  • What is the race route? The race will start in downtown Midway on S. Brand St., head west on Stephens St./Spring Station Rd., turn around just beyond the railroad crossing, and then return to Midway where it will finish on Dudley Street. A course map can be found here
  • Is the course difficult? The course is typical rolling Bluegrass horse farm country so it is not flat. It is challenging with the hills mostly occurring closer to the turnaround.
  • Will the miles be marked? Yes, each mile will be marked by a sign alongside the road.
  • What kind of weather can I expect? The average high for mid/late September in Midway is 76 degrees and the average low is 55 degrees. 
  • What happens if it rains? We race rain or shine. The only thing that could affect the race is dangerous storms or lightning.
  • How will the race be timed? The race will be chip timed. The timing chips will be attached to the back of the bib numbers.
  • What type of aid will be offered on the course? Water stations will be positioned approximately every 2 miles. Sports drink will be provided at last water stop of the race. We will also have port-a-johns approximately every 2.5 miles and roving first aid along the course. 
  • Can I wear headphones during the race? We believe that using an audio device will compromise your safety and that of others. If wearing an audio device results in your being unable to hear verbal instructions or commands, or approaching vehicles or course marshals, you may be asked to relinquish the device. We ask that you take responsibility and use good judgement if you opt to wear an audio device. We truly hope you’ll choose to leave your headsets at home and instead let the beautiful scenery serve as your motivation.
  • Can I push a stroller during the race? Due to the narrow roads strollers are not allowed.
  • Can I lead my pet during the race? Pets are not allowed on the course.
  • Are walkers welcome? Walkers are welcome but because the race is run on narrow public roads with no shoulder we have a minimum 14 minute per mile pace. This means you must be able to complete the race in 1:45 or less. If you are not keeping a 14 minute per mile pace you should not expect any support (traffic control, water, sports drink, etc.). A 14 min/mile pace is a very fast pace to walk for a 12k so please be prepared! For your own safety please realize the problems here and don’t endanger yourself at this point in the race. We will have a person on the course with a flashing red light on his back keeping a steady 14 min/mile pace. You will need to stay in front of this person to avoid being pulled from the race.
  • Where can I park? Parking options will be announced closer to race day. Runners and spectators, please be considerate of the churches in town when choosing where to park.  You can walk all the way across Midway in 15 minutes so pretty much anywhere you park isn’t far from the race start. We also urge you to arrive early.
  • Where can I get up to the minute race results? Results will be updated live on the results page of the RunSignUp event. Be sure you have 2023 selected as your results year. 
  • Is Gear Check offered? We will be offering gear check. Starting at 6:15 am all participants will be offered the opportunity to check their gear. We will provide the bag and label to identify your bag. Gear may consist of small personal items and articles of warm-up clothing. Please don’t bring your valuables (watches, keys, money, phones, etc.) since we cannot be responsible for these items. Make sure you keep your bib for gear pick-up because we organize your gear in accordance with that number. Pre-race gear check location will be in front of Darlin’ Jean’s Restaurant with a second gear check location on the course at Mile 1.5. 
  • Where are the port-a-johns? Many will be located at Race HQ. Note this is NOT by the immedate finish line area but is a short distance away. We will also have them located on the course every 2.5 miles or so (this distance is approximate).
  • Where is the start? Walk onto Dudley St then quickly bear right on N Brand St. The start will be near this intersection on N Brand. The finish will be behind Darlin Jean’s on Dudley Street.
  • Which side of the road do I run on? Please run on the right side of the road with traffic. Keep in mind that at some points on the course runners will be coming/going in both directions.
  • Are the roads closed? We make every effort to keep all traffic off the roads, but because there are houses and horse farms all along the course the occasional vehicle might require access. Be aware of what’s going on around you and use caution if a vehicle is present.
  • Will there be pace groups? There will be no specific pace groups for the 12k. 
  • Where can my family and friends watch? The best viewing option is to park in Midway and watch the start, then catch the runners as they finish in downtown Midway.
  • Will there be any race merchandise for sale? We will have a small booth set up at Race HQ where we will sell Iron Horse merchandise. It will be open before and after the race. They will accept cash (correct change appreciated!) and credit card only.