Capital City Race

The Capital City Race was created to raise awareness for mental health in Missouri and to honor the life of Jared Palmer, who tragically lost his battle with mental illness in November 2021. Through sharing Jared’s story and the journeys of those inspired by him, the race aims to spark conversations, reduce stigma, and strengthen community support for mental health awareness.

Jared was known for his genuine smile, infectious energy, and ability to bring people together. During his time at the University of Missouri-Columbia, he formed a lasting friendship with Matt Chinn, a fellow student and fraternity brother. Jared’s warmth and empathy forged lifelong bonds among their pledge class and left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

Years later, as Jared battled bipolar depression, Matt was on his own path of recovery as a Treatment Court graduate and dedicated runner. Determined to help his friend, he launched the “February Challenge,” running 20 miles a day for 28 days to raise funds for Jared’s treatment. Through snow, ice, early mornings, and even a polar vortex, Matt logged 569 miles and raised over $10,000, helping Jared access vital mental health care and counseling.

Despite these efforts, Jared passed away in 2021. Deeply moved by his friend’s struggle and determined to make a difference, Matt turned his grief into purpose. On his 37th birthday, he founded the Capital City Race in Memory of Jared Palmer, held each May during Mental Health Awareness Month.

Today, the race stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and community—uniting runners, walkers, and supporters to spark conversations about mental health, reduce stigma, and remind those struggling that they are not alone.

We are proud to partner with Courtyard Jefferson City for the 2026 Capital City Race!

Located at 610 Bolivar Street in Jefferson City, Missouri, the hotel is just a short 3/4-mile walk or jog from the race starting line. Courtyard Jefferson City offers comfortable and flexible accommodations, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a well-equipped fitness center, and an indoor pool to help guests stay refreshed and energized.

Click HOST HOTEL to book your stay and be sure to mention the Capital City Race to receive a special discount!

Friday, May 8

4:00 – 6:00 pm: Packet Pick-Up (Location TBD)

Saturday, May 9

5:30 – 6:30 am: Race-Day Packet Pick-Up and Registration | 201 W. Capital Ave, Jefferson City, MO

6:45 am: Half Marathon Lineup

6:50 am: National Anthem

7:00 am: Half Marathon Starts

7:05 am: 10K Starts

7:10 am: 5K Starts

Awards will be presented to the following groups:

• Top Three Overall Finishers: 5K male and female | 10K male and female | Half Marathon male and female

• Female Age Groups: 19 and under | 20-29 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | 60+

• Male Age Groups: 19 and under | 20-29 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | 60+

Free parking is available in the State of Missouri parking lots at the following locations:

• Missouri Boulevard & West Main Street (across from the Mill Bottom)

• Missouri Boulevard & West High Street

Directions: Map

Unsure about where to begin? If you've never completed a 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon, don't worry—you're not alone!

Navigate your training journey with the help of these resources:

• Hal Higdon Training Plans

• Nike Running Training Plans

• The Run Experience – The Only Running Plan You Need

• Runner’s World Beginner Training Plan

Looking for extra motivation? These apps help you track your progress, stay inspired, and improve both your fitness and mental well-being:

• Run With Hal App

• Nike Run Club App

Remember, the best training plan is one that fits you.

5K Map

10K Map

Half Marathon Map

Join us in making a meaningful difference! By sponsoring the Capital City Race, you support an event dedicated to mental health awareness and help create lasting change in our community.

This race was inspired by the friendship between Matt Chinn and Jared Palmer, and by Jared’s struggles with mental health. Despite the care and support he received, Jared continued to face challenges. This experience deeply impacted Matt, motivating him to support others, raise awareness for mental health in Missouri, and honor Jared’s life. The Capital City Race aims to ignite conversations, reduce stigma, and strengthen community support for mental health.

Sponsorships and Donations Directly Support:

• Cole County Treatment Courts (Veterans, Drug, DWI, and Co-Occurring Alternative Courts), helping participants rebuild their lives beyond addiction

• Jared Palmer’s Children’s Education Fund, ensuring his legacy lives on through his family

• Local recovery and mental health initiatives, including:

  • Thanksgiving meals and graduation events for Treatment Court participants and families

  • Motivational speakers

  • Essential supplies for individuals entering recovery

  • Funding assistance for First Responders through the Crisis Intervention Team Program

  • Housing support for individuals in recovery

Explore the 2026 Capital City Race Sponsorship Proposal PDF below to discover all the exciting opportunities to support the race! Your involvement brings this event to life and creates meaningful change. We appreciate your time, kindness, and compassion in helping build a healthier, more hopeful Missouri.

Click the icon below to download the attached PDF.