run the runway at little rock air force base

The Home of Herk Nation is proud to introduce the first-ever Run the Runway Half Marathon, 5K, and 1-Mile Kids Run, taking place on May 30, 2026!

We’re excited to welcome members of our community without prior base-access to join us for this special event as we share the rich heritage and history of our installation—something made possible through the continued support of our local community and the state.

All race participants will have the unique opportunity to experience our historic runway, one that has aided critical United States Military operations since it’s opening in 1955.

Explore the full event details below and start getting ready for an unforgettable chance to Run the Runway!

FOLLOW THE OFFICIAL RUN THE RUNWAY FACEBOOK PAGE!

rEGISTRATion information

choose your race!

Run the Runway will feature three different race options, making it the perfect event for runners and families of all skill levels. Participants can choose from a Half Marathon, a 5K, or a 1-Mile Kids Run, giving everyone the opportunity to take part in this unique experience.

Each race will incorporate the iconic runway of Little Rock Air Force Base, offering participants a one-of-a-kind chance to run where Air Force missions take flight. Half marathon runners will begin their race directly on the runway before continuing on a scenic course that winds throughout the installation. Along the route, runners will experience the beauty of the base while passing impressive static aircraft displays and taking in some of the most scenic outdoor areas LRAFB has to offer.

Whether you’re an experienced runner aiming to tackle the half marathon, looking for a fun 5K challenge, or bringing the kids along for the 1-mile run, Run the Runway offers an unforgettable race day experience for the entire community.

standard registration pricing

Missed the early registration deadline? No problem! Registration remains open through April 30 for runners without prior base access, and through May 15 for runners who already have base access.

Half Marathon

$85

Bib and RFID Chip Timer
Signature Run the Runway T-Shirt
Half Marathon Medal
Entry to LRAFB for Runners Without Base Access and Their Guests

5K

$40

Bib and RFID Chip Timer
Signature Run the Runway T-Shirt
5K Medal
Entry to LRAFB for Runners Without Base Access and Their Guests

1-Mile Kids Run

$20

Bib and RFID Chip Timer
Signature Run the Runway T-Shirt
Kids Run Medal
Entry to LRAFB for Runners Without Base Access and Their Guests

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW!

We are excited to Run the Runway with you!

Please note prior to registering:

There are a limited number of spots for runners without prior base-access
All runners without prior base-access MUST register using the off base registration form
Run the Runway has a strict NO REFUNDS policy. Please keep this in mind prior to registering
Packet pick up will take place on May 28th & 29th. More information will be sent via email to participants once registration is complete.

Important Information & FAQs

race information and schedule

6:00 AM - half marathon

The highlight of the day will be the first-ever Half Marathon hosted by the Home of Herk Nation! Runners will kick off their 13.1-mile journey right on the flight line and runway, before continuing along a course that takes them throughout Little Rock Air Force Base.

Please note that participants will have a maximum time of 6 hours to complete the half marathon, and there will be no early start time for walkers or slower runners.

Wheelchairs and handcycles are welcome to participate in the event.

For safety reasons, all participants under the age of 18 must have a signed parental consent form turned in at the time of packet pick-up.

7:00 AM - 5K

Run the Runway will also include a 5K race along the flightline, giving runners the chance to complete the 3.1-mile course alongside C-130 aircraft.

Wheelchairs and handcycles are welcome, and participants of all ages may join the 5K.

For safety reasons, all participants under the age of 18 must have a signed parental consent form turned in at the time of packet pick-up.

8:00 AM - 1-MILE KIDS RUN

Kids can join the 1-Mile Kids Run on the flightline, giving them the unique chance to run on an active flightline at the Home of Herk Nation, steeped in U.S. military aviation history.

Parents are allowed to accompany their child on the run. No strollers permitted.

ENTERTAINMENT, VIEWING AREAS, AND MORE!

VIEWING AREAS FOR GUESTS

Spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer on their runners from our designated viewing area! The primary viewing area will be located at the start and finish line on the flight line, just outside an aircraft hangar, offering an exciting front-row view of the race action.

ENTERTAINMENT

There will be plenty of entertainment for guests who come out to cheer on their runners, with fun activities for all ages—especially kids! Enjoy bounce houses, slides, yard games, and music while you soak in the exciting race day atmosphere. It’s the perfect way for family and friends to stay entertained while supporting their favorite runners.

LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE HERITAGE

Little Rock Air Force Base is proud to welcome off-base participants to Run the Runway! Our strong connection with the local community and the state plays a vital role in supporting our mission. We’re excited for this opportunity to share the heritage of Little Rock Air Force Base with those who support us beyond the gate.

Check out the historical information below to learn more and get ready to experience our iconic runway—one that has supported countless Air Force missions and achievements since opening in 1955.

lrafb history

Our story began in 1955, when the installation was established to support the growing needs of the U.S. Air Force during the Cold War. In 1970, our mission shifted to the C-130 Hercules, and since then we’ve grown into the world’s premier training center for C-130 aircrews. Today, the base is home to the 19th Airlift Wing (the “Black Knights”), and the 314th Airlift Wing, which leads C-130 formal training. Together, our Airmen continue a proud legacy of delivering rapid global mobility and mission-ready airpower around the world.

THE home of herk nation

Little Rock Air Force Base is proudly called the Home of Herk Nation, serving as the heart of C-130 Hercules training and operations. With the world’s largest C-130 fleet, the base trains the next generation of aircrews while supporting global mobility missions. The name also celebrates the strong community of Airmen, families, and civilians who keep the C-130 mission flying.

19th airlift wing black knights

Known as the Black Knights, the 19th Airlift Wing serves as Little Rock Air Force Base’s host unit, carrying a proud legacy of strength and service. For more than six decades, the wing has played a key role in U.S. Air Force history—from Cold War deterrence to operations across the globe. Today, the Black Knights operate the largest C-130 fleet in the world right here in the heart of Arkansas, delivering tactical airlift and combat support wherever the mission calls.