Route 66 Centennial Bunion Derby 5K and Fun Walk

Hosted by the Lebanon Laclede County Route 66 Society

Location
Mills Drive at the Lebanon Fairgrounds

Date
April 24, 2026

Start Times
8:00 AM 10K
9:30 AM 5K and Fun Walk

Event Description

In honor of the Great American Footrace of 1928, the Lebanon Laclede County Route 66 Society proudly presents the Route 66 Centennial Bunion Derby 5K and Fun Walk.

The original race, famously known as the Bunion Derby, covered approximately 3,400 miles from Los Angeles to New York City. Competitors followed Highway 66 to Chicago before continuing east to New York, averaging nearly 40 miles each day over the course of almost three months. Only a small number of determined runners completed the entire journey, making the Bunion Derby one of the most remarkable endurance events in American history.

The winner of that historic race was Andy Payne, a young Cherokee farmer from Foyil, Oklahoma. His determination, perseverance, and unwavering spirit earned him a place in Route 66 history. The Bunion Derby remains one of the most unique promotional events ever associated with America's Mother Road and helped establish Route 66 as an enduring American icon.

Participants in this commemorative event will experience a portion of the same roadway traveled by the original competitors while passing many of Lebanon's most recognizable Route 66 landmarks, including the Carter and Lawson Phillips Station, the Lenz Tourist Home, Wrink's Market, the Munger Moss Motel, and other historic sites that continue to preserve the legacy of the Mother Road.

Whether you are racing for a personal best, enjoying a leisurely walk, or simply celebrating the centennial of one of America's greatest endurance races, this event offers a unique opportunity to experience history firsthand. The course showcases one of the best preserved sections of Historic Route 66, providing participants with an unforgettable blend of competition, community, and American history.

Every participant will receive a commemorative event shirt while supplies last. All finishers will earn a custom finisher medal celebrating the 100th anniversary of the legendary Bunion Derby.

Race Options

5K Run
A professionally timed race through historic Route 66 featuring age group awards.

10K Run
A professionally timed race offering an extended tour of Lebanon's historic Route 66 corridor.

15K Challenge
Complete both the 10K and the 5K on race day. Your combined times will determine your placement in the challenge division. Participants receive one event shirt and one finisher medal.

Fun Walk
A noncompetitive event open to participants of all ages and abilities who wish to enjoy the historic course at their own pace.

Awards and Cash Prizes

A $50 cash prize will be awarded to the first place male and first place female finisher in each age group for both the 5K and 10K.

All participants who complete their event will receive a commemorative finisher medal.

Timing

The 5K, 10K, and 15K Challenge will be professionally chip timed. Results will be available shortly after each event concludes.

Packet Pickup

Packet pickup details, including dates, times, and locations, will be announced prior to race day. Race day packet pickup will also be available before the start of each event.

Who Should Participate

Runners, walkers, Route 66 enthusiasts, history buffs, families, visitors, and anyone looking to celebrate the centennial of one of America's most legendary footraces are encouraged to participate. Whether you are chasing a new personal record or simply enjoying a walk through history, the Route 66 Centennial Bunion Derby offers an experience unlike any other.

Join us as we celebrate 100 years of endurance, determination, and the enduring spirit of Historic Route 66 while creating new memories on the very road that inspired generations of travelers and runners alike.