Based on your comments and Tri Smarter standards of quality we have moved Abe’s Trail Trek from Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site to what the locals call Panther Creek.

Panther Creek, is One of Illinois’ largest public access areas, Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area (JEPC) in central Illinois is a mosaic of mature forest land, agricultural land, grassland and rare hill prairie that is home to a rich assortment of wildlife.

Please do not fear there is NO Hunting in the area we will be running on Race Day, the Site Manager assures us we are safe to run without arrows flying or Blaze Orange needed.

New this year besides the Venue of Panther Creek at Drake Lake, are the Amazing New Courses, A Simple Taste Catering providing BBQ and Sides, New Custom Shirts from Anvil and more you need to experience firsthand on the trails.

We have been working with the site manager and have created all new courses for the 5k, Quarter Marathon and Half Marathon Trail Runs that showcase the interior of this Illinois Gem.

All courses include groomed double track trails with many features that will provide a challenging and enjoyable run through this beautiful site.

Features include lakeside runs, hills, valleys, creek crossings, wildlife and the chance to see a part of this site many never see since you have to get out of your car to enjoy the nature.

In addition to new courses we will have new shirts, new food vendors and much more to bring this classic event back to the grandeur of the past years.

Although this is the 8th year all courses are new and will challenge you no matter which distance you participate, the 5k, 10k (6.55 mile) or Half Marathon.

We offer more awards for the 5k, unique handmade awards for the 10k and Half Marathon and Finisher Medals for the Half Marathon.

All runners get a custom; long sleeve T-shirt, on course support and trails not typical for central Illinois.

The Fastest Overall Males and Females for the 10k and Half Marathon receive Wine from West of Wise Winery and all runners can hydrate post run with Prairie Farms Chocolate Milk.

Come help us hit the 400 runners goal and be part of this epic event at Jim Edgar Panther Creek SFWA (Panther Creek).