By Mary Kate Carson
The Outback in the Ozarks was a 200 mile running relay that began in Eureka Springs and ended in Fayetteville. The race was run by groups of six to twelve people, and each runner would run two to eight miles on their turn. They were often the only one runner on the trail at a time.
“Running at night, 2 o-clock in the morning runs, under the stars, through the ozark mountains it’s beautiful, just amazing,” said Eric Meyer, a participant of the race.
The organization had a small festival at the end of finish line where local businesses had booths available, there were performances by local bands, and other various activities. Outback Steakhouse provided food for the runners once they finished the race.
The finish line was in Battlefield State Park in Prairie Grove. Although the race was highly unique because of the course itself, it was also significant because of the impact it has on Northwest Arkansas.
Kimberly Relyeaguin, the founder and organizer of the race, said “We have people from all over the country that have come to participate, come to the Natural State, and it’s really put Arkansas on the map for trail running.”
Since beginning 2 years ago, the race has more than tripled.
“People like more of an adventure, and its a tough course,” said Relyeaguin.
The race was featured in a recent issue of trail runner magazine, and it drew people from all over the country including North Carolina, Chicago, and New York City.
“This is an example of how Northwest Arkansas is going,” said Meyer.
Meyer also said that he has met people through races that have said they have moved to Arkansas because of the trail systems. He said he thinks this is a great time to live in the Northwest Arkansas community.
To learn more about the charities of the Outback in the Ozarks, visit https://youtu.be/vAjZXGAmBTI.