Armed Forces Endurance Run

Race Overview

• Event Name: Armed Forces Endurance Run (AFER)
• Date: May 15, 2027
• Location: 1650 Lake Park Drive, Kendallville, IN
• URL: Armed Forces Endurance Run

About the Event

• Purpose: To honor all active duty service members and veterans.
• Yearly Focus: Each year a different branch of the service is honored: this year is the Coast Guard.
• Charity Support: A portion of profits are donated to veteran charities, specifically FW22.
• Community Impact: Supports local veterans facing mental health, suicidal, or substance use issues.

Location Details

• Venue: Bixler Lake Park, surrounding the 117-acre Bixler Lake.
• Features: Natural beauty combined with facilities for all ages.
• Accessibility: A pedestrian walkway and nature trail of over three miles.
• Convenience: Two beaches and landscaped woodlands enhance the experience.

Race Format

• Options: Participants can choose from a 6 hour, 12 hour, or 24 hour race.
• Course: The race takes place on a 3-mile walkway including asphalt and true trails.
• Facilities: Indoor restroom facilities are located on both sides of the lake.
• Parking: Convenient parking available near the course with options to utilize cars.

Relay Option

• Team Formation: Gather three friends to form a team for the 24 hour event.
• Participation: Enjoy a collaborative experience while running.
• Medals: Unique finishers' medal for every runner.
• Awards: Special awards based on mileage and for top finishers and relay teams.

Camping Information

• Availability: Free camping on a first come, first served basis around the main aid station.
• Paid Options: Sites across from the start/finish area available for a fee with electric hookups.
• Reservations: Details for camping costs and reservations will be available after the first of the year.
• Updates: Check the Facebook page for announcements regarding camping reservations.

Aid Station

• Support: Top-notch aid station designed to help runners achieve their goals.
• Experience: Led by experienced runners and ultra runners as volunteers.
• Facilities: Drop bags can be left at the pavilion: self-serve water and electrolyte station available.
• Loop Convenience: Runners pass the aid station at the end of every loop.

Packet Pickup

• Dates: Friday from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM EST and race morning from 6:30 AM to 7:15 AM.
• Location: Lions Pavilion within the park, serving as the main aid station and start/finish area.
• Information: Participants will receive a race week email with a detailed participant booklet.