This was my first "full" marathon and I loved it. Even with the serious rain conditions I still finished with a slightly better time than my training plan! My family also really enjoyed everything the Wildlife Refuge had to offer.
Bill
Full Marathon
I had a great experience participating in the SOS events. I did both the Mount Scott 5K and the Holy Half Marathon. Both were rewarding and challenging events. I was amazed at the organization of the races—very well supported by staff and volunteers. From the shuttle service to the water stations everything seemed to flow flawlessly. The wonder of a sunrise from atop Mount Scott and the unexpected surprise of a deer leaping across my path right when my motivation was failing were but a few of the great things I took away from the Refuge. I intend to run the full marathon next year with the buffalo and longhorn as my runnin’ buddies.
Stacy
Holy Half and Mount Scott 5K
I ran the 5K up Mount Scott and it was amazing! For someone who has run in several races, this was a great opportunity. It was an excellent challenge. I will definitely do it again!
Hallie
Mount Scott 5K
The volunteers were great, the buses were convenient, everyone was soooooo friendly. It was hard to back out in the rain so I figured, I’m going to sweat anyways. The soggy shoes by Mile 4 was not so pleasant but it was all good. I had to stop twice along the course, once for a herd of longhorn to cross and the second for a buffalo on the ridge. I couldn’t believe how amazing it was! The reserve was beautiful and I couldn’t imagine it anywhere else. Great job!
Elizabeth
Mountain Marathon
For most of us who train and work every day in an environment where our scenery is houses or perhaps a city bike trail, the Spirit of Survival offers actual interaction with nature in an environment of beauty and nature free from city noise, congestion etc… Very relaxing and enjoyable!
Kevin
Mountain Marathon
What a great race! The entire staff of workers, park rangers and the like were wonderful. The walk up Mount Scott was absolutely gorgeous and one of the most magnificent sunrises I’ve ever seen. I’ll be back!!
Patricia
Mount Scott 5K
My three friends and I loved your half-marathon. We can’t wait to try it again next year. It was beautiful scenery and a great place to run. Keep it up.
Sara
Holy Half-Marathon
Thanks so much! My family and I REALLY enjoyed the whole Medicine Park/Spirit of Survival events. I cannot think of anything to suggest to have made this event any better. I could not believe so many water stations, the well placed port-a-potty’s and the goo-packets were like icing on the cake. I don’t see how it could have been any better. We plan to come back next year.
Bill
Mountain Marathon
I signed up for the 5K as soon as I saw the ad. My daughter from MO flew in to join me. She is actively recruiting friends from all over the US because the run is on the refuge. These people run DC, Indy, Boston, Phoenix and others. None of them have ever experienced the refuge. The run is tough and the scenery is superior to any city running.
Neil
Mount Scott 5K
This was a fantastic event. The highlight for me was running and seeing about 10 longhorn cross the road at about the 10-mile mark. How many people can say they have seen that during a marathon?! The refuge is truly beautiful. I’ll definitely be back again next year.
Bill
Mountain Marathon
I loved the race! I’ve been racing for years and this was my favorite. I live outside of Dallas and the opportunity to we in nature was wonderful. The race was the most organized of any race I’ve ever been to.
Lisa
Holy Half Marathon
This was the first time I ever ran in my life and I participated in the relay. Training for the team made me commit, even though I really didn’t want to run. I couldn’t let my team down. The event changed my life. Running in the rain on the refuge was one of the best experiences of my life! I am a runner now and I can’t wait to run again next year. I’m training for the half-marathon!
Aaron
Marathon Relay
Thank you so much. I had no idea! I am so excited. I will return next year. I have run close to 70 marathons and I will tell you this was one of the best!
Roger
Mountain Marathon
We have participated in road races all over the world and the Spirit of Survival ranks at the top!
Ana and Jay
Mount Scott 5K and Marathon Relay
