Race Overview
The ForestPark Classic is a communityfocused 4mile event that blends scenic road sections with challenging singletrack trails. Held each October in the heart of the citys largest green space, the race attracts runners, walkers, and families who want a taste of both pavement speedwork and rugged forest terrain.
Start Time: 8:00am (wave 1), 8:15am (wave 2)
Location: ForestPark Entrance at Oak & Main
Distance: 4 miles (6.44km)
Elevation Gain: ~350ft (107m)
Whether youre a seasoned trail runner or a casual jogger, the ForestPark Classic offers a welcoming environment. A festive prerace expo, healthscreening stations, and a postrace celebration with local vendors make it more than just a runits a day out in nature.
Course Details
The course is split into three distinct segments:
- Road Loop (1.2mi): A smooth, widepaved loop around the parks main meadow, ideal for warming up.
- Hybrid Section (1.4mi): Gravel pathways that wind through a series of small ponds and open glades, offering occasional short climbs.
- Trail Loop (1.4mi): Technical singletrack that ascends the parks ridge, passes a historic stone bridge, and finishes back at the starting pavilion.
All portions are clearly marked with green, blue, and orange signage for the road, hybrid, and trail sections respectively. Aid stations are positioned at the 2mile and 3mile marks, providing water, electrolytes, and fruit.
| Mile | Terrain | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 01.2 | Paved Road | Open meadow, startline crowd |
| 1.22.6 | Gravel/Hybrid | Pond crossings, gentle climbs |
| 2.64.0 | Singletrack Trail | Ridge views, stone bridge, forest canopy |
How to Register
Registration is open online from June1 to September30. Earlybird pricing ends July15.
- EarlyBird (up to July15): $35
- Standard (July16September30): $45
- OnSite (Saturday only): $55 (subject to availability)
All participants receive:
- A race bib with RFID chip for timing
- A commemorative Tshirt (size SXL, limited stock)
- A finishline medal
- Postrace snack pack
RaceDay Tips
Preparing for a mixedterrain race requires a few specific strategies:
Footwear
Choose a shoe with enough grip for wet roots but still comfortable on pavement. Trail shoes with a moderate tread pattern work best for the 4mile distance.
Hydration
Even though the course is relatively short, temperature can rise above 70F (21C). Sip water at the 2mile station and consider a light electrolyte tablet.
Training
- Do at least one brick workout (road + trail) each week leading up to the event.
- Incorporate hill repeats to build the leg strength needed for the ridge ascent.
- Practice running on uneven surfaces to improve proprioception.
Race Morning
Arrive 45minutes before your wave. Warm up with easy jogging, dynamic stretches, and a few strides on the road loop to get a feel for the surface.
Recent Results & Highlights
Below are the top three finishers from the 2025 edition:
- 1 Emily Rivera 27:14 (female, 3034)
- 2 Marcus Lee 26:58 (male, 2529)
- 3 Jenna Patel 28:02 (female, 2024)
All three athletes praised the race for its supportive community, wellmarked trail, and the unique blend of terrain that kept the competition exciting.
