The 24 Hour Lions Roar

The 24 Hour Lions Roar

Prepare for an unforgettable challenge at the 24 Hour Lions Roar, where runners of all levels gather for a high-energy ultrarunning event with purpose. Taking place at Columbia, Missouri’s beautiful Gans Creek Recreation Area, this event features a mix of individual and team-based races that range from 6 hours to a full 24. Whether you’re chasing 100 miles or teaming up to dominate the new 24 Hour Tag Team Championship, this is the kind of race that fuels the soul—and supports a worthy cause, Pascale's Pals, benefitting children and families at the local children's hospital.

Runner Experience

Expect an atmosphere that blends competition with community. The 24 Hour Lions Roar is known for its positive, high-energy vibe, where solo runners and relay teams cheer each other on lap after lap. Friends and family can easily spectate and support from the course loop and start/finish area. Whether you're chasing mileage goals or just out to enjoy the journey, this event delivers an unforgettable runner experience from first stride to finish line.

Course

The main event unfolds on a 2.5-mile loop that blends the prestigious D1 NCAA Cross Country Championship Course with adjacent soccer fields, creating a smooth, runner-friendly route with just enough elevation to keep things interesting. Well-groomed and easy to navigate, the loop supports consistent pacing through day and night. For the younger crowd, the 1 Hour Cub Run offers a fun and safe 0.25-mile loop, encouraging the next generation of trail enthusiasts.

Schedule

• 1 Hour Cub Run: 4:30 PM, April 17, 2026
• 24 Hour & Tag Team: 6:00 PM, April 17, 2026
• 12 Hour: 6:00 AM, April 18, 2026
• 6 Hour: 12:00 PM, April 18, 2026
• All Events End: 6:00 PM, April 18, 2026
• Awards Ceremony: 6:30 PM, April 18, 2026

Awards

Whether you're racing solo or with a team, there are plenty of ways to be recognized for your effort:

• Solo Awards: Top 2 male and female finishers in the 6, 12, and 24-hour solo events
• All-Time Mileage Awards: Top 3 men and women with the most lifetime Lions Roar miles
• Tag Team Champions: Each member of the winning 24 Hour Tag Team will receive a custom championship belt
• Mileage Milestone Swag: Custom belt buckle for completing 100 miles in 24 hours; Commemorative t-shirts for those hitting 100 miles, 100K, 50 miles, or 50K