Rapid City, South Dakota · Saturday, June 20, 2026
The Run with the Blue is a relay and running event held on Saturday, June 20, 2026. It is located at 2326 Canyon Lake Drive in Rapid City, South Dakota.
Connect. Move. Give Back.
Run, Walk, or relay alongside local officers.
Registration Closes July 12th 2026!
RACE OVERVIEW
The Lean Horse Ultra Marathon is run in August every year in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It was first run in 2005. It features a 100-mile race, a 50-mile race, a 30-mile race, a 20-mile race, and a 30-mile Black Hills CrossFit Edition - Singles, 3, and 6 person relays. The course is held on the George S. Mickelson Trail.
Course Overview
Surface: Crushed Limestone
Course: Mickelson Trail
Elevation Profile: Extended gentle climbs. This is due to the fact the course is on an old railroad bed.
Hosting Town: Custer, South Dakota
Average August daytime temperature: High of 79 degrees. Low of 53 degrees.
Fun Facts
33rd sanctioned 100-mile race in the United States
Known as one of the best non technical courses in the United States
One of the most scenic rails to trails courses in the country
BLACK HILLS VETERAN’S HONOR MARCH AND MARATHON
The Black Hills Veteran’s Honor March was conceived in 2002 as a way to honor the sacrifices of the nation’s servicemen and women. The 26.2-mile march takes place in the picturesque Black Hills National Forest on the Mickelson Trail. The March is held on a weekend at the end of September.
The March, which is conducted under the auspices of the South Dakota National Guard Enlisted Association (SDNGEA), grew out of an idea that originated from some South Dakota Army National Guard soldiers who had participated in the Bataan Memorial Death March. It was during the long ride home from White Sands, New Mexico that the idea of a commemorative march could be held to honor all Veterans and that the Black Hills would be a perfect place to hold such an event. Since the Bataan Memorial Death March takes place in late March or April, the consensus was that this new event should be held later in the year.
On September 21, 2002, seven members of the Army National Guard traveled to Deadwood, SD, and set out to reconnoiter the proposed march route and establish sites for water points, rest stops, and lodging requirements. Ted Deloy, Michael Jones, Matt Lacroix, Ben Lamp, Jeff Nord, Ben Smetana, and Mark Thomas were members of the recon team and laid the foundation for this event. The route today closely matches the original route from Rochford to Deadwood, the only change being the decision to end at the Rodeo grounds as compared to main street Deadwood.
After completing the dry run in September 2002, the marchers compiled notes and ideas. Due to mobilization in 2003, the idea had to wait to be presented to the SDNGEA at the state conference in April 2004. The decision was made to have the inaugural march start in September 2004.
Since its inception, the memorial march has grown to hundreds of marchers from across the United States. Events are offered in Team Military and Civilian, Individual Military and Civilian, Heavy Military (with a 35lb Rucksack), Marathon, Mini-March, Team Mini-March, and now 110 Mile Endurance March.
Black Hills Runners Club Trail Series Championship
Join us for the grand finale of the 2026 Black Hills Runners Club Trail Series on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Alkali Trailhead. This is your chance to close out the season strong on the rugged and scenic trails of the Black Hills.
Choose between the 10K or the 18K course, both showcasing rolling hills, pine forests, and classic Black Hills singletrack. Whether you’re chasing series points, setting a personal best, or just soaking up the views, this race is the perfect way to celebrate a season of trail running.
Race Details:
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Cost: $20
Start Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Alkali Trailhead, Sturgis, SD
Distances: 10K & 18K
Perks & Highlights:
Every participant receives the 2026 Trail Series pint glass
The last trail race of the season—don’t miss your chance to finish on a high note
Final opportunity to earn points toward the 2026 Trail Series standings
The trails are calling, the competition is fierce, and the views are unforgettable. Don’t miss the Trail Series Championship—your last shot at glory in the 2026 season!