Fire Ball Half and 4 Mile

The Fire Ball Half and 4 Mile returns to Canyon, Texas on August 22nd, featuring two challenging trail races through Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Participants can choose between a half marathonish distance of approximately 21 kilometers or a shorter 4-mile race that runs along the Comanche/Kiowa trails.
Race day in Palo Duro Canyon begins early with runners gathering at Mack Dick Pavilion for packet pickup from 6:00 am to 7:15 am. The atmosphere on this morning is one of anticipation, as racers prepare themselves against a backdrop of red rock walls and cottonwood-lined streams. Starting times are staggered between the two distances, allowing each group their own distinct start at 7:00 am for the half marathonish runners followed by the 4-mile race starting fifteen minutes later.
The Fire Ball Half and 4 Mile has been an annual tradition since its inception in 2016. Each year sees hundreds of participants take on the challenging terrain, raising funds for various local causes. The event supports scholarships at Amarillo High School through sponsorships from Get Fit Amarillo, Mount to Coast OS1st Hyperlyte, and other community partners who contribute significantly towards educational initiatives.
The course is uniquely varied with trails ranging from smooth single track paths to sandy stretches and rocky terrain interspersed with short but steep ascents and descents. The half marathonish route extends further into the canyon where runners encounter red rock walls and bluffs by a serene stream, while shorter 4-mile loopers enjoy the scenic Comanche/Kiowa trails before looping back for an exhilarating finish near Mack Dick Pavilion.
Weather forecasts predict typical August conditions in Palo Duro Canyon with firm to slightly soft trail surfaces. UV indexes will be high at around 7.0, indicating strong sun exposure that runners should prepare themselves against adequately through proper hydration and sunscreen usage.

The Fire Ball Half and 4 Mile offers two challenging distances: a half marathonish covering approximately 21 kilometers for $115.00 or the 4-mile race at about 6.4 kilometers priced at $55.00, both through varied trails within Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
For registration, participants can visit [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=137836](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=137836). Packet pickup is available Thursday at 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in Canyon (location TBA), Friday from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm at Get Fit Georgia, and race day morning starting at 6 am near Mack Dick Pavilion.
Start location for both races will be the Mack Dick parking lot on Park Road 5. Age requirements are open across all categories but participants must ensure they comply with distance-specific regulations regarding age limits if applicable. For newcomers to this event, it is advised that you arrive early and familiarize yourself with the terrain details provided in race day schedules.
The Fire Ball Half and 4 Mile returns once again on August 22nd in Canyon, Texas as a testament to local community support for education initiatives through running within one of America's most stunning natural settings.