Salt Lick Six 10k promises to bring something ‘different’ to competitve runners in the area

Local runners looking for a unique challenge need search no further than Corbin this weekend.

Kyle Rogers, a local Information Technology professional and organizer of the Salt Lick Six 10k race, said he wanted something different when he conceived the race and began planning it earlier this year. The race will be happening this Saturday morning.

“It’s something sort of new,” Rogers said. “I can’t think of the last 10k race that was held in this area. There aren’t many. Normally people have to go to Lexington or Knoxville to race that distance. Well, now they can do it right here at home.”

The 10k road race (6.2 miles) will start at its namesake, Salt Lick Farms — a scenic, destination style farm with a pumpkin patch, viewing zoo, giant jumping pillow and other fun activities. It is located behind Northern Contours at 429 Salt Lick Road in Corbin, just off the Corbin Bypass.

The challenging course includes runs down parts of the bypass and into the Southeast Kentucky Regional Business Park.
“It’s challenging, but not overwhelming by any means. There are definitely some hills to climb though,” Rogers said.

“For the kind of people we are targeting … the avid runner … I think they will really enjoy it.”

Rogers started running 18 months ago to lose weight and improve his health. He soon joined the Falls Road Runners, a local running group, and enjoyed the experience. The group provides finish line and timing services for many area races. The Salt Lick Six is going to be one of its own regular events. The Jack-O-Lantern Jog, a four-mile race held annually in downtown Corbin in late October, is another event planned by the group.

Salt Lick Six organizers are doing more than just offering an interesting course and distance to runners. Custom medals will be given to the first 100 finishers. Everyone gets a long-sleeved tech running shirt, custom gloves and admission to the Salt Lick Farms pumpkin patch.

“It’s a pretty nice package for anyone who comes out to run,” Rogers said. “We wanted to do something really special. I think we accomplished that.”

If things go well, Rogers said the Falls Road Runners is considering making the Salt Lick Six part of a ‘Triple Crown’ of sorts, of local races, coupling it with the NIBROC Festival’s 2-mile run and the Jack-O-Lantern Jog.

“We are thinking maybe folks that run all three races would get something a little extra,” he said.

Cost to enter the race is currently $50. Registration is ongoing online at www.saltlicksix.com. Complete information can be found about the race on the website. Runners who use the promo code “RunCorbin” at checkout will get $5 off cost of the race.

Onsite registration will also be available day of race.

The Salt Lick Six will begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. Runners have two hours to finish the course.

“Just step outside your comfort zone and give it a try,” Rogers said, noting that weather during race time promises to be clear and cool; perfect for running.

“If you are unsure, you don’t have to push yourself with a pace that will kill you. Just as long as you finish you get an amazing medal.”

Story by TRENT KNUCKLES