Armed Forces Endurance Run

Event Overview

The Armed Forces Endurance Run (AFER) is a fixed time endurance run to honor all of our active duty service members and veterans. This event was created to honor our active duty military members as well as our veterans. Therefore, each year a different branch of the service is honored and the race swag will reflect that branch. This year we are honoring the Coast Guard. In the spirit of supporting our active duty military members and veterans, a portion of the profits from the event are donated to veteran charities. We are pleased to announce the proceeds will go to FW22, a local Northeast Indiana charity that supports local veterans who experience mental health, suicidal, or substance use issues.

Location

• Venue: Bixler Lake Park in Kendallville, IN.
• Proximity: Just north of Fort Wayne.
• Park Features: Surrounds the 117-acre Bixler Lake with facilities for enjoyment.
• Trails: Over three miles of pedestrian walkway and nature trail.

Race Format

• Options: Choose to participate in the 6 hour, 12 hour, or 24 hour race.
• Course: 3 mile walkway with part asphalt and part true trails.
• Facilities: Indoor restrooms on both sides and parking near the course.
• Relay: Gather a team of three for the 24 hour event.

Awards

• Finisher Medal: Every runner receives a unique medal.
• Special Awards: Customized awards reflecting achieved mileage.
• Top Finishers: Awards for top male/female finishers in each event.
• Top Relay Team: Recognition for the leading relay team.

Camping

• Free Camping: Available on a first come first serve basis near the aid station.
• Paid Sites: Camping sites across from start/finish for those needing electric hookup.
• Reservation Info: Costs and details will be available after the first of the year.
• Updates: Watch our Facebook page for announcements.

Aid Station

• Support: Exceptional aid station to help runners achieve their goals.
• Experience: Staffed by experienced runners and ultra runners.
• Drop Bags: Space available within the pavilion for runners to leave personal items.
• Self-Service: Water and electrolyte station located on the opposite side of the course.

Packet Pickup

• Times: Friday from 4:30pm to 6:30pm EST and race morning from 6:30am to 7:15am.
• Location: Lions Pavilion within the park, serving as the main aid station and start/finish area.
• Communication: Participants will receive a race week email with a detailed participant booklet.
• Website: For more information, visit the race page.