MLK Jr. Freedom Run 5K/10K/13.1 KANSAS CITY

MLK Jr. Freedom Run 5K/10K/13.1 KANSAS CITY is run in Kansas City on January 16, 2027, one of many cities on a national calendar honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The half marathon (13.1 miles), the 10K, the 5K and a one mile family fun run all leave at 7:30 a.m. Chip timing is deliberately left out, so the day suits every pace. Entrants receive a bib, a shirt, a finisher towel and a medal, and a virtual entry is offered for those who want to run from home.

The value of an untimed event is that it lets you set the terms. Take the half if you want a long effort with company and a course to follow; take the 10K if you would rather do something quick and be done inside an hour. A useful rule for a half at this time of year is to run the first six miles at a pace you could keep talking through, then decide how much you have left. The family mile shares the same start, so nobody has to be left behind.