In the wake of the unexpected cancellation of the TreeLine Music Festival, a beacon of hope emerges for the running community and fans of the late Betsy Farris. The Betsy Farris Memorial Run, a cornerstone event of the festival, has been reimagined as the Betsy Farris Biscuit Run. Scheduled for September 30th, 2023, at Flat Branch Park in Columbia, MO, the event promises to honor Betsy Farris’s legacy while offering a weekend of fitness, music, and community engagement.
Event Details
When and Where
- Date: Saturday, September 30, 2023
- Location: Flat Branch Park, 300 S Providence Rd, Columbia, MO 65203
Race Times
- 7 am: Half Marathon Starts
- 7:30 am: 5k & 10k Starts
- 8 am: Post-Race Food, Beverages, and Live Music
- 12 pm: End of Betsy Farris Memorial Run
Pre-Race Essentials
Registration and Packet Pick-Up
If you haven’t registered yet, it’s not too late. Click here to register. Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a ticket code. Bring this email—printed or on your mobile device—to packet pick-up. You can also pick up packets for friends and family, but make sure to coordinate with them first to avoid any confusion.
What’s in the Packet?
Your packet will include:
- Race bib with an embedded timing chip
- Safety pins for securing your bib
- A race shirt in the size you ordered
- Additional goodies from sponsors
Note: If your shirt doesn’t fit, you can exchange it for another size after the run on Saturday morning.
Packet Pick-Up Times and Locations
- Friday, September 29th: 4-6 pm at Dive Bar, 1116 Business Loop 70 East, Columbia, MO
- Saturday, September 30th: 6-6:45 am at Flat Branch Park, 101 S 4th St, Columbia, MO
Virtual Run Packets
For those participating virtually, your packets will be mailed out the week of the run as soon as the shirts arrive.
Parking
Ample parking will be available at Academy Sports near the start of the event. Please note that there will be no shuttle bus service this year from downtown Columbia parking garages.
Race Bibs and Bag Drop
Your bib is your ticket to the race and contains a disposable timing chip. Pin it to the front of your shirt or shorts. A self-service bag drop area will be available near the finish line, but the event is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Restrooms and Line-Up
Porta-potties will be available at the start/finish and at two points along the half marathon course. When lining up at the start, faster runners should be at the front, with slower-paced participants at the back.
Weather Policy
In case of inclement weather, the race may be delayed until conditions improve. However, the race director reserves the right to cancel the event, and no refunds will be given.
During the Run
Course Maps and Markings
Course maps have been posted on Strava and are subject to slight changes. Volunteers, arrow signs, and mile markers will guide you throughout the course.
Betsy Farris Biscuit Run 5k Route
Betsy Farris Biscuit Run 10k Route
Betsy Farris Biscuit Run Half Marathon Route
Aid Stations
Six water/aid stations will be available on the Half Marathon course, two on the 10K course, and one on the 5K course. If you need extra assistance, over 40 course volunteers will be stationed throughout the routes to ensure your safety.
Running Etiquette
Run against traffic if running on the road. If running on the sidewalk or multi-use trails, travel on the right and pass on the left. If you’re listening to music, please be aware of your surroundings for your safety and that of others.
Post-Race Activities
Free Breakfast and Timing Chips
A free breakfast burrito from Dive Bar will be available post-race starting at 8:15 am. The timing chips are disposable and do not need to be returned.
Photos and Results
Photographers will be stationed at various points, and photos will be available a few days after the event. Live results will be posted on the run website.
Awards
Finisher’s medals will be given to all participants. Awards will be given to the top 3 overall males and females in both the Half Marathon and the 10K. No age group or 5K awards will be given this year.
The Legacy of Betsy Farris
The race honors Betsy Farris, the Roots N Blues Festival director from 2009-2016. Known for her passion for fitness and community, Betsy inspired and mentored countless individuals on their journeys to a healthier lifestyle. The event is produced by Off Track Events, and for more information, you can contact Mike Denehy via email at offtrackevents@gmail.com.
The TreeLine Music Festival Cancellation
The TreeLine Music Festival, formerly known as the Roots N Blues Music Festival, was scheduled for September 29 through October 1 at Stephens Lake Park. However, the event was abruptly canceled due to “significantly higher than expected expenses,” according to the festival organizers. The festival had been a staple in Columbia’s entertainment and economic landscape since 2007, generating as much as $2.7 million for the local economy in past years.
The Impact and Speculation
The cancellation sparked a flurry of social media activity, with speculation about whether the festival’s rebranding impacted ticket sales. Amy Schneider, director of the Columbia Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, noted that it’s too early to forecast the festival’s future but emphasized that Columbia remains a vibrant community with plenty to offer.
Community Impact
The Betsy Farris Biscuit Run serves as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Columbia community. While the cancellation of the TreeLine Music Festival is a significant loss, the continuation of the Betsy Farris Memorial Run in this new format ensures that her legacy and the community’s love for music and healthy living will endure.
So, lace up your running shoes, mark your calendars, and come be a part of a race that celebrates music, healthy living, and the indomitable spirit of Betsy Farris.
