Bill Snyder Highway Half & 5K

The 12th Annual Bill Snyder Highway Half & 5K is a signature running event in Manhattan, Kansas, named in honor of the legendary Kansas State University football coach. Scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026, the race is known for its unique point-to-point course that concludes at the iconic Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The event attracts a diverse mix of university students, alumni, and regional athletes, offering both a challenging half marathon and a faster 5K distance.

Manhattan, commonly known as "The Little Apple," is a vibrant college town with a distinct demographic profile centered around Kansas State University. As of the most recent data, the city has a population of approximately 54,100 residents. The racial and ethnic composition of the city is as follows:

• -- White (Non-Hispanic): 76.5% (~41,380 residents)
• -- Hispanic or Latino: 9.2% (~4,970 residents)
• -- Black or African American: 5.8% (~3,130 residents)
• -- Asian: 4.2% (~2,270 residents)
• -- Two or More Races: 4.1% (~2,210 residents)

The city's median age is notably low at 25.1 years, largely due to the student population. Additionally, approximately 50.2% of the population aged 25 and older holds a bachelor's degree or higher, which contributes to a high level of engagement in organized fitness and community athletic events.

Event Logistics and Participant Information:

• -- Course Highlights: The Half Marathon course typically begins outside of the city and brings runners along the highway, offering expansive views of the Flint Hills before entering the stadium area.
• -- Virtual Participation: For those unable to be in Manhattan on race day, virtual tiers are available for both the 5K and Half Marathon. These options include the standard race swag and allow for independent timing.
• -- Registration Fees: Pricing is tiered, with significant increases occurring on May 1st. The current regular registration for the Half Marathon is $103.50 (including taxes/fees), while the 5K is $49.82.
• -- Participant Services: Runners can access a live participant list and confirm their registration through the official portal. The event also features fundraising leaderboards to support local initiatives associated with the race.
• -- Finish Line: The finish line at Bill Snyder Family Stadium (2201 Kimball Ave) provides a grand atmosphere for finishers, often featuring live music and local vendor booths.
• -- Contact: For questions regarding bib numbers or specific course route details, the event contact is Ben Sigle at 785-320-6363.

The Bill Snyder Highway Half & 5K remains a cornerstone of the regional running calendar, celebrating the intersection of athletic perseverance and university pride in the heart of Kansas.