Mud Run Start Times
10:00 AM Kid's Run
11:00 AM Kid's Run
11:30 AM Family Run (12:00 sold out)
The Mud Run is...
A 1/4 mile marvelously messy obstacle course designed for kids 4+ and adults to navigate pits, tunnels, waterfalls and other muddy challenges in an untimed race to the finish line! This year's Mud Run will be Sunday, June 2.
Why Mud?
The Discovery Center believes in the importance of outdoor exploration and messy play for people of all ages. The Mud Run lets participants get into the kind of play kids (and former kids) don't get often enough: the opportunity to touch, grab and roll around in oozy mud!
Mud Run registration...
Mud Run registrations are $27 ($25 for KCDC members). Registrations before May 17 include a Mud Run t-shirt and swag bag. All proceeds from this event support the our work to create rich, diverse museum experiences for every child.
Mud Run FAQs
I’ve never run a mud run, what can I expect?
Expect to get muddy! The obstacles include a sprinkler waterfall, climbing, tunnels/pits to crawl through, mud pies on your head and of course—mud pits! While we encourage you to try each obstacle, if it is more fun for you to skip it, we won’t tell. Our course is tough, but we’re all about the fun!
How old do runners have to be? Can I run with my child?
The Mud Run is for runners 4 years old and up. One adult is required to run (mud-free) alongside children ages 4-6 at no additional charge. If adults would like to participate and get messy right along with their children, they can register for the family mud run!
When will it start? When is packet pickup?
There are several different times to run the course. Kids may run at 10 AM or 11 AM, families run at noon. You will choose a start time when you register. There is no need to pick up anything prior to the event this year. Pick up your race packet upon arrival for your scheduled race on race day at the registration table. Registration opens 15 minutes before your scheduled race time.
What if it rains?
Great, more mud! However, if there is lightning, thunder or high winds we may cancel. In the event of cancellation for any reason, there will be no refund of the registration fee.
What should I wear?
Whatever you would like! We recommend lace up sneakers, clothes or a costume that can get extremely messy and muddy and pulled-back hair.
Will you have a way for us to rinse off?
We will have hoses manned by staff to help rinse off muddy runners, but only if you want to! The Discovery Center will be closed and no guests will be allowed inside. We recommend you bring a towel to dry off, a change of shoes and socks and a plastic bag to hold the dirty muddy things.
Will photos be taken?
Yes, lots! So put your race number on the front of your shirt or costume. All images of runners become the sole property of KCDC. KCDC has the right to use images for promotion.
Are there prizes?
Every participant who registers before May 17 gets a swag bag, t-shirt and unforgettable experience. The course is not timed and there are no awards or prizes for winners.
Can I volunteer?
Sure! We appreciate the help and will need many people. Volunteers must contact us prior to the event. Contact the Discovery Center at volunteers@kansasdiscovery.org or 785.783.8300.
The Serious Fun Mud Run supports access programs including...
Medical Warriors
Honors medically fragile children or those battling life-limiting illnesses who need private play time.
Puzzle Pieces
Provides children who have an autism spectrum disorder with a safe, fun place to play.
Play Free
Helps children with incarcerated caregivers get the love and support they need to heal.
Admission Access
Increases access to underserved and low-income families so finances are never a barrier to play.