RC - MoonPie 10 Mile and 5K Races - Bell Buckle

Get ready for "the sweetest race you'll ever run!" The RC - MoonPie 10 Mile and 5K Races invite you to the charming town of Bell Buckle, TN, on June 20, 2026. This beloved event, deeply intertwined with the lively Bell Buckle RC-MoonPie Festival, offers both a scenic and challenging 10-mile course and a flatter, engaging 5K option. The 10-mile run, a certified course established in 1995, is renowned for its continuous gently rolling hills, punctuated by a significant climb around the 4 ¼-mile mark, providing a true test of endurance amidst beautiful country scenery. For those seeking a faster pace or shorter distance, the 5K, added in 2018, is a certified flat course that winds through historic Bell Buckle neighborhoods and tree-lined streets, passing the award-winning Bell Buckle Park. Both races kick off at 7:00 AM from the top of Hinkle Hill Road, concluding in the festive downtown parking lot, with finisher medals awaiting all who cross the cherished finish line.

The RC - MoonPie Races are celebrated for their unique charm and welcoming atmosphere. Historically popular, the 10-mile distance stands out as a rare find in today's race calendar. Runners consistently praise the "great small race" feel and the friendly local community. Aid stations with water stops are strategically placed along the certified routes, ensuring runners stay hydrated, with the 5K offering a water stop just past the two-mile mark. Typical race day conditions in late June bring highs around 86°F and lows around 66°F, with a 17% chance of precipitation, so preparing for warm weather is advisable.

Beyond the race, participants are treated to an exceptional post-race experience. A complimentary runner's breakfast, hailed by *Runner's World* magazine as "some of the best food you will find at a race!", awaits with biscuits, fruit, RC Colas, and, of course, MoonPies. Many runners also rave about the post-race goodies like Lemon Moon Pies, chicken sandwiches, and refreshing freeze pops. Showers are available at The Webb School Barton Gym after the race for added comfort. With registration limited to the first 1,100 runners, securing your spot early for this unforgettable blend of racing and festival fun is highly recommended.