12 Hours. 5K Loop. How Far Will You Go?
5.1.2027
12 Hours
5K Trail Loop
A scenic trail run in Killingworth, CT's Chatfield Hollow State Park. Race Details
-
5:00 - 8:00 AM Packet Pickup
-
6:00 AM | 12-Hour Individual Run Start
-
6:00 AM | 12-Hour 4-Person Relay Start
-
8:30 AM | Kids 1/2 Mile Fun Run Start
-
9:00 AM | Choose Your Distance Start
-
6:00 PM | 12-Hour Finish
-
6:30 PM | Awards and After Party
-
7:30PM | Event Close
Race is limited to 100 runners.
Cinco de Zakito 12-Hour Endurance Run
Race Date: May 1, 2027
Join us for an old-school, grassroots trail running experience at Chatfield Hollow State Park in Killingworth, Connecticut, nestled alongside the beautiful Cockaponset State Forest.
This 12-hour endurance event features a challenging and scenic 5K lollipop loop with 472 feet of elevation gain per lap. Expect classic East Coast trail running terrain, including rocky ledges, winding pine forest trails, rugged jeep roads, and plenty of loose rock to keep you on your toes!
Run Your Race. Honor Zak. Have Fun.
Whether you're looking to push your endurance limits, set a personal distance record, or simply enjoy a few loops with friends, this event is for you. Runners are welcome to complete as many—or as few—loops as they choose during the 12-hour event. For every completed loop, runners will earn a Zakito rubber bracelet, a small reminder of the miles traveled and the friend we're running to honor.
Awards will be presented for:
-
Individual Male and Female: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place for most loops completed (total mileage).
-
Relay Teams: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place for most loops completed.
-
Fundraising: Recognition for the most funds raised.
Old-School Trail Running, No Frills, All Heart.
This is a true grassroots trail event. No fancy production, no chip timing, and no pressure. We'll record your loops and finishing results, but don't expect officially certified times or distances. That's not what this race is about.
The mission is simple: Run some miles, honor Zak, share the trails with good people, and support a great cause. Come for the challenge, stay for the camaraderie, and leave knowing that every mile meant something.
Important Course Information
The race course is subject to approval by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and may be adjusted to meet permitting requirements.
The final course layout, event logistics, and detailed race information will be emailed to all registered participants approximately two weeks before race day.
Zak (far right) and friends after completing the 2016 Nipmuck Trail Marathon.
In Memory
About Zak McKeon & Zakito Trail Runs
Our Mission
To honor the life and legacy of our friend, Zak McKeon, through endurance events, charitable giving, and an inclusive community built on friendship, perseverance, and fellowship.
Running for Zak. Giving Back.
100% of the net proceeds from our inaugural event, the Cinco de Zakito 12-Hour Endurance Run, will be donated to Zak's family to provide support during this difficult time and help care for Daniella and their beloved animals.
Looking ahead, Zakito Trail Runs is committed to making a lasting difference. All net proceeds from future events will be donated to charitable causes in Zak's name, with beneficiaries selected by the Zakito Trail Runs Board of Directors.
Through every mile run, every friendship formed, and every dollar raised, we hope to keep Zak's memory alive and continue the spirit of generosity, determination, and camaraderie that defined him.
Run for Zak. Run for Each Other. Run for Something Bigger.
Learn more about Zakito Trail Runs.
Have questions about the trail, relay teams, or how to get involved? Drop us a line.
ENQUIRIES
zakitotrailruns@gmail.com
