The Spark Foundation produces 3 races annually: Cow Paddy Run, Fayetteville Firefighters Hero Half Marathon and Turkey Trot-n-Trek.

The race that started it all! The family-friendly fun on the run: The Cow Paddy Run. This is one of the oldest group races in Fayetteville and was started to promote education and active lifestyles back in the 1980s. The Spark Foundation revived this run in 2011 as part of our mission to create fun and accessible opportunities for physical activity in our community.

There’s a 5K for adults and older kids and a 1K Fun Run for the little ones. Don’t worry though, because there aren’t any real cow paddies to avoid. The name is just part of the tradition of this race, which has played a big part in developing Fayetteville’s pro-fitness, pro-fun culture over the years!  

Established in 2014 in partnership with the Fayetteville Firefighters’ IAFF – Local 2866, the Hero Half Marathon is a fundraiser and community event. Race proceeds benefit organizations that meet important community needs, increase fitness opportunities for the community, and make Fayetteville and Arkansas a great place to live, work and play.

The Hero Half Marathon also plays host to the Firefighter Challenge where active duty and retired firefighters run the 13.1 mile course in full bunker gear!

In addition to the race, The Spark Foundation also hosts a 15-week training program for new and seasoned runners alike.

Join us for a new family tradition. Before you gather to eat, gather to move with your feet! This family-friendly event has something for everyone. Started in 2021 as Fayetteville’s only Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, all proceeds go to support The Spark Foundation’s mission and local organizations that support a healthy, active lifestyle for all our citizens.