Race Location
310 Autumn Hill Drive
Union, MO 63084 US
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Race Description
All proceeds from the race will benefit The Lance Purschke Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Join us for the 10th Annual Piggyback Dash. Enjoy a beautiful, rolling course through the streets of Union with a challenging but rewarding finish at the top of Autumn Hill. The 10K and the 5K runners will start at the same time. The 5K is a single loop course. As the 5K runners make the last turn onto Autumn Hill Drive the 10K runners will continue straight and proceed to run an additional 3 miles through Union. Aid stations will be provided along the 5K and 10K routes. Post race refreshments will also be provided.
The 10K and 5K (ish) are chip timed events and medals will be awarded. The 2K (1.2 mile) fun run/walk will not be officially timed and no medals will be provided.
As an added twist, once runners reach the bottom of Autumn Hill they have the opportunity to carry someone piggyback up the hill to the finish line. This is completely voluntary. In no way is the piggyback portion required in order to finish. It doesn't matter who the person on your back is. They do not have to be a registered participant. Runners who do choose to carry someone piggyback up Autumn Hill will receive an extra piece of finisher swag. See our FAQ page for more details.
Early-bird registration: 2/24/26 - 3/5/26
Standard registration: 3/6/26 - 8/31/26
Late registration: 9/1/26 - Race Day**
Online registration ends 9/23/26
**Registrations submitted after 8/31/26 are NOT GUARANTEED A SHIRT.
No dogs allowed in the race except service dogs.
Why the Name?
Throughout high school, Lance and friends would run almost everyday after dismissal. He routinely ran up Autumn Hill, sometimes using it for hill repeats. Lance loved the hill and the challenge it presented. He never complained about it. Rather, his was the voice of encouragement for others to rise to the challenge. In fact, he is the first person we know of to carry someone piggyback up the hill. Hence the race name, The Piggyback Dash.
Packet Pick-Up
Thursday, 9/24/26
Location TBD
12:00pm - 6:00pm
Friday, 9/25/26
Location TBD
12:00pm - 6:00pm
Race Day, 9/26/26
Start/Finish Area 6:30am - 7:30am
In-person registration will also be available at these times
Awards
Medals will be awarded to the top overall male and female in the 10K and 5K and the top 3 male and female in each age group for 10K & 5K. Age groups are 14 & under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+.
Any questions? Contact us today!
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