Pat's Pony Express
- Date Sat 14th August 2027
- Time 8:00AM MDT
- Location Woodland Park, Colorado
- Price $69.90 - $85.80
- Races 2 races
Event summary
Get ready for an unforgettable day at Pat's Pony Express on Saturday, August 14, 2027, in beautiful Woodland Park, El Paso! This unique trail race, which has been a cherished tradition since 1977, invites runners of all abilities to "Race for the horseshoe" among the stunning landscapes of Rampart Reservoir. Participants can choose between two exhilarating distances: the challenging 16-mile race or the more accessible 8-mile option.
As you prepare for race day, make sure to arrive early for bib pickup between 7:00 am and 7:45 am, with the 16-mile race kicking off at 8:00 am, followed by the 8-mile race at 8:15 am. Don’t forget that parking is limited, so utilize the shuttle service from Merit Academy for a hassle-free experience. Each runner will receive a unique finisher medal shaped like a horseshoe, celebrating their achievement as they conquer the trails. Join us in honoring Pat Lockhart's legacy while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow runners and the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's outdoors!
As you prepare for race day, make sure to arrive early for bib pickup between 7:00 am and 7:45 am, with the 16-mile race kicking off at 8:00 am, followed by the 8-mile race at 8:15 am. Don’t forget that parking is limited, so utilize the shuttle service from Merit Academy for a hassle-free experience. Each runner will receive a unique finisher medal shaped like a horseshoe, celebrating their achievement as they conquer the trails. Join us in honoring Pat Lockhart's legacy while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow runners and the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's outdoors!
Organiser's Description
Join us Saturday, August 14, 2027, and "Race for the horseshoe!"
Founded in 1977, Pats Pony Express has quietly been one of the most unique races offered by the PPRR and is a true trail race located at the iconic Rampart Reservoir. We have been honoring Pat Lockhart's legacy since 2026 by officially changing the name to Pat's Pony Express.
As many of you know, PIKES PEAK ROAD RUNNERS WAS ORGANIZED IN 1976 AND IS THE LARGEST RRCA RUNNING CLUB IN COLORADO AND COMPLETELY VOLUNTEER DRIVEN.
Here is everything you need to know for race day (Subject to be updated as we get closer to race day):
SCHEDULE:
RACE DAY: Saturday, August 14
* 7:00am - 7:45am Bib Pickup
* 8:00am - 16 Mile race will start
* 8:15am - 8 mile race will start
* 12:30pm - Race Complete
PARKING AND SHUTTLING:
IMPORTANT: Parking at the rainbow gulch trailhead is extremely limited. Beginning in 2027 we will be utilizing a shuttle service from Merit Academy for all race participants and reserving the rainbow gulch trailhead for volunteers and members of our community who are not involved with the race.
* Shuttle Pickup Lot: Merit Academy (East Lot) 500 E Kelley's Rd, Woodland Park, Colorado 80863 [https://www.google.com/maps/place/500+E+Kelley's+Rd,+Woodland+Park,+CO+80863/@39.0086757,-105.047483,355m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x876b554f3cfe0563:0xa8e38551d7bb8c85!8m2!3d39.0084462!4d-105.0486209!16s%2Fg%2F11kj4q_zj_?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDgwMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D]
* Parking Lot (Volunteers Only): #714 Rainbow Gulch trailhead Colorado Springs, CO 80921 [https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1103US1103&sca_esv=9e50308bc33459d1&sxsrf=APpeQnuYuWZIkXjIJ8ck_Z5iy0RLVV97ww:1785353508834&kgmid=/g/11b88kn9gm&q=Rainbow+Gulch+Trailhead&shem=dlvs1,epsd1,ltae,rimspwouoe&shndl=30&source=sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1&kgs=38e7715c7b8ab8a2&utm_source=dlvs1,epsd1,ltae,rimspwouoe,sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1]
* Drop off Location: #714 Rainbow Gulch trailhead Colorado Springs, CO 80921 [https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1103US1103&sca_esv=9e50308bc33459d1&sxsrf=APpeQnuYuWZIkXjIJ8ck_Z5iy0RLVV97ww:1785353508834&kgmid=/g/11b88kn9gm&q=Rainbow+Gulch+Trailhead&shem=dlvs1,epsd1,ltae,rimspwouoe&shndl=30&source=sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1&kgs=38e7715c7b8ab8a2&utm_source=dlvs1,epsd1,ltae,rimspwouoe,sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1]
COURSE:
Beginning in 2027 we are working to bring back the full loop around the reservoir. More information to come.
AMENITIES:
* Aid/Water Stations: Final quantity and locations pending course finalization.
* Restrooms: There will be restroom(s) at the start/finish line
RECOMMENDED GEAR:
* These are fairly remote trails within the Pike National Forest so it is recommended you bring gear to keep you hydrated, fueled, and safe. Recommended items are:
* Water Flasks
* Carbohydrates (gels, food, liquid, etc.)
* Salt Pills
* Cooling Equipment (cooling sleeves, ice bandana, sun shirt)
* Sunscreen
* Toilet Paper
* Vest / Waistband
* Trail Shoes (something with good traction)
* Trekking Poles (as you see fit)
* Hat/Visor
AWARDS/PRIZES:
* Finisher Medals: Each participant will receive a unique finisher medal. A (literal) horseshoe with a commemorate placard.
* 5 One-Year PPRR Memberships (Giveaway): Before the races begin, we will raffle off 5 one-year PPRR memberships ($31.40 value) for any who are not aware, the PPRR membership comes with great benefits, most notably race discounts, and you can find a full list of membership benefits on our website here
THERE WILL BE NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION. ALL REGISTRATIONS ARE THROUGH RUNSIGNUP.
Founded in 1977, Pats Pony Express has quietly been one of the most unique races offered by the PPRR and is a true trail race located at the iconic Rampart Reservoir. We have been honoring Pat Lockhart's legacy since 2026 by officially changing the name to Pat's Pony Express.
As many of you know, PIKES PEAK ROAD RUNNERS WAS ORGANIZED IN 1976 AND IS THE LARGEST RRCA RUNNING CLUB IN COLORADO AND COMPLETELY VOLUNTEER DRIVEN.
Here is everything you need to know for race day (Subject to be updated as we get closer to race day):
SCHEDULE:
RACE DAY: Saturday, August 14
* 7:00am - 7:45am Bib Pickup
* 8:00am - 16 Mile race will start
* 8:15am - 8 mile race will start
* 12:30pm - Race Complete
PARKING AND SHUTTLING:
IMPORTANT: Parking at the rainbow gulch trailhead is extremely limited. Beginning in 2027 we will be utilizing a shuttle service from Merit Academy for all race participants and reserving the rainbow gulch trailhead for volunteers and members of our community who are not involved with the race.
* Shuttle Pickup Lot: Merit Academy (East Lot) 500 E Kelley's Rd, Woodland Park, Colorado 80863 [https://www.google.com/maps/place/500+E+Kelley's+Rd,+Woodland+Park,+CO+80863/@39.0086757,-105.047483,355m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x876b554f3cfe0563:0xa8e38551d7bb8c85!8m2!3d39.0084462!4d-105.0486209!16s%2Fg%2F11kj4q_zj_?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDgwMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D]
* Parking Lot (Volunteers Only): #714 Rainbow Gulch trailhead Colorado Springs, CO 80921 [https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1103US1103&sca_esv=9e50308bc33459d1&sxsrf=APpeQnuYuWZIkXjIJ8ck_Z5iy0RLVV97ww:1785353508834&kgmid=/g/11b88kn9gm&q=Rainbow+Gulch+Trailhead&shem=dlvs1,epsd1,ltae,rimspwouoe&shndl=30&source=sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1&kgs=38e7715c7b8ab8a2&utm_source=dlvs1,epsd1,ltae,rimspwouoe,sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1]
* Drop off Location: #714 Rainbow Gulch trailhead Colorado Springs, CO 80921 [https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1103US1103&sca_esv=9e50308bc33459d1&sxsrf=APpeQnuYuWZIkXjIJ8ck_Z5iy0RLVV97ww:1785353508834&kgmid=/g/11b88kn9gm&q=Rainbow+Gulch+Trailhead&shem=dlvs1,epsd1,ltae,rimspwouoe&shndl=30&source=sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1&kgs=38e7715c7b8ab8a2&utm_source=dlvs1,epsd1,ltae,rimspwouoe,sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1]
COURSE:
Beginning in 2027 we are working to bring back the full loop around the reservoir. More information to come.
AMENITIES:
* Aid/Water Stations: Final quantity and locations pending course finalization.
* Restrooms: There will be restroom(s) at the start/finish line
RECOMMENDED GEAR:
* These are fairly remote trails within the Pike National Forest so it is recommended you bring gear to keep you hydrated, fueled, and safe. Recommended items are:
* Water Flasks
* Carbohydrates (gels, food, liquid, etc.)
* Salt Pills
* Cooling Equipment (cooling sleeves, ice bandana, sun shirt)
* Sunscreen
* Toilet Paper
* Vest / Waistband
* Trail Shoes (something with good traction)
* Trekking Poles (as you see fit)
* Hat/Visor
AWARDS/PRIZES:
* Finisher Medals: Each participant will receive a unique finisher medal. A (literal) horseshoe with a commemorate placard.
* 5 One-Year PPRR Memberships (Giveaway): Before the races begin, we will raffle off 5 one-year PPRR memberships ($31.40 value) for any who are not aware, the PPRR membership comes with great benefits, most notably race discounts, and you can find a full list of membership benefits on our website here
THERE WILL BE NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION. ALL REGISTRATIONS ARE THROUGH RUNSIGNUP.
Races
-
Pat's Pony Express - 16 Mile
Incl. $5.80 Fee
Sat 14th August 2027 (8:00AM MDT)
$85.80
OPENS 01 JAN 27 -
Pat's Pony Express - 8 Mile
Incl. $4.90 Fee
Sat 14th August 2027 (8:00AM MDT)
$69.90
OPENS 01 JAN 27
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#714 Rainbow Gulch Trailhead, Rampart Reservoir, Rampart Range Road, Woodland Park, 80863, CO, United States
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Pat's Pony Express
