Matthew Brunken Leprechaun Chase 10k BRIN Series Delivers Outstanding Performance Results
Matthew Brunken keeps making a name for himself in Nebraska’s distance running scene, showing up at top-tier events and holding his own against some tough competition. Born and raised in Nebraska, he’s become one of those runners you expect to see near the front at the state’s most challenging 10K races, especially the well-known Leprechaun Chase every year in Ashland.
Matthew Brunken snagged a top 10 finish at the 2025 Leprechaun Chase 10K, moving past 17 runners during the race and holding his ground—nobody managed to overtake him. This race has a quirky format—the “lads versus lasses” chase—where women get a 5 minute 30 second head start. It’s a fun twist that keeps people talking and definitely adds some energy to the event.
The Leprechaun Chase is a big part of the Born & Raced In Nebraska Series (BRIN), which spotlights the state’s three major 10K races each year. Matthew’s steady performances in these races say a lot about his dedication to distance running and just how much he cares about Nebraska’s running community. He’s out there competing at a high level and representing local running groups every season.
Key Takeaways
Matthew Brunken locked in a top 10 finish at the 2025 Leprechaun Chase 10K, thanks to solid race tactics and smart positioning
The Leprechaun Chase’s chase format (men versus women) is a highlight of Nebraska’s BRIN racing series
Brunken keeps showing up and performing well in Nebraska’s toughest 10K events
Overview of the Leprechaun Chase 10k
The Leprechaun Chase 10k really stands out on Nebraska’s racing calendar, mostly because of its unusual format where men and women start at different times. It kicks off the Born & Raced In Nebraska series, drawing in runners like Matthew Brunken who want to shake off the winter and see where their fitness is at early in the year. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is where you’ll find it.
Race History and Significance
The Leprechaun Chase 10k isn’t your average road race. The “chase” format means women start first, then men try to catch up after a 5½ minute delay.
Whoever crosses the finish line first—man or woman—gets the coveted Leprechaun Chase Green Jacket. That staggered start always makes for a dramatic finish, and honestly, it’s part of why the event has such a buzz every year.
People come from all over the region for this one. The course is tough, and the field is always competitive. The early-season timing gives runners a chance to see how training over the winter paid off, and it’s kind of a “let’s see what you’ve got” moment.
The event’s reputation has only grown, especially among those who want to test themselves. If you pull off a strong day here, it means something.
2025 Event Location and Course Details
The 2025 Leprechaun Chase returns to Nebraska, sticking with its tradition of delivering a course that really pushes runners. You’ve got to bring both endurance and speed for the full 10K.
MTEC Results takes care of timing and results, so you can count on accurate splits and finish times.
All age groups show up ready to compete. Guys in every division are out there chasing those top spots.
Weather in March? It’s unpredictable. Sometimes it’s perfect, sometimes it’s a grind. You never really know what you’re going to get, so you’ve got to be ready for anything.
Participation Options: In-Person and Virtual
The Leprechaun Chase 10k kicks off the Born & Raced In Nebraska (BRIN) Running Series, which includes three races in 2025.
BRIN Series Schedule:
Leprechaun Chase 10K (March)
Cornfield 10K (June 14, 2025)
Harvest Moon Hustle 10K (September 12, 2025)
Some people just do one race, others sign up for the whole series. It’s a nice setup for anyone who wants consistent competition all season long.
Registration opens months in advance. If you’re quick to sign up, you usually save a few bucks and lock in your spot before it fills up.
The series gives runners a way to track progress over time, which is a big draw for anyone chasing improvement or just wanting to see how they stack up over the year.
Matthew Brunken's Performance at the 2025 Leprechaun Chase 10k
Matthew Brunken put together a strong race at the 2025 Leprechaun Chase 10k, showing off his competitive chops against a field of runners who definitely didn’t make things easy. He used a smart race strategy and kept moving up as the race went on.
Placement and Official Results
The 2025 Leprechaun Chase 10k results show Matthew Brunken made real progress on March 1st at the SAC Museum in Ashland, Nebraska. He passed 17 runners in the overall standings and didn’t get passed by anyone himself.
That kind of forward movement says a lot about how he managed his effort and paced himself. With runners from all over the region, moving up through the pack isn’t easy, but he pulled it off.
The course at the SAC Museum always asks a lot from competitors. Matthew’s performance was the result of months of focused training and preparation.
He stayed strong and kept his form late into the race, suggesting he executed a negative split—never easy, and it takes both physical and mental grit to pull off.
Comparison with Previous Races
Matthew’s 2025 run builds on what he’s done before at the Leprechaun Chase. His 2023 finish was a top 10 as well, clocking in at 37:44.
He keeps showing up at these big Nebraska events, and that says a lot about his commitment to the local running scene. The Leprechaun Chase always draws a tough crowd, so putting up consistent results here really means something.
BRIN Running Series Connection
The Born & Raced In Nebraska (BRIN) Series is probably Nebraska’s top 10K racing circuit, with three tough events spaced out over the year. Matthew Brunken’s become a real standout in this series, stacking up impressive results at all three races.
About the BRIN Series
The BRIN Series brings together Nebraska’s most respected 10K races. Each one is a little different—different courses, different weather, different challenges.
The three BRIN Series races are:
Leprechaun Chase 10K – Spring in Ashland, Nebraska
Cornfield Cornfield 10K – Summer race on June 14, 2025
Harvest Moon Hustle 10K – Fall finale on September 12, 2025
If you finish all three, you get the BRIN Series Finisher Medal. The challenge draws competitive runners from all over.
Each race brings its own set of obstacles—different weather, different terrain. For a lot of 10K runners in Nebraska, this series is the gold standard.
Matthew Brunken’s talent really stands out. He won the 2023 and 2024 BRIN series overall championships, showing he’s got the versatility and consistency to compete across the board.
Leprechaun Chase 10k's Role in the Series
The Leprechaun Chase 10K kicks off the BRIN Series every year. This challenging course in Ashland, Nebraska draws plenty of competitive runners, and it’s easy to see why it’s become a staple in the local racing scene.
Key features of the Leprechaun Chase include:
Hilly terrain that really puts runners’ strength to the test
Early season timing to get the BRIN Series rolling
Competitive field packed with regional talent
What happens here can set the pace for the rest of the BRIN Series. If you start strong, odds are you’ll keep the momentum going through the rest of the season.
Matthew Brunken’s had some great runs at this event, grabbing top 10 finishes more than once. His 2025 race performance showed he’s still got it when it comes to tough courses like this.
The points you earn at the Leprechaun Chase can make a real difference in the overall BRIN standings. It’s not just another race—it’s a big piece of the championship puzzle.
Finisher Experience and Recognition
Runners get more than just a good workout at the Leprechaun Chase 10k. Commemorative swag and detailed tracking make the finish feel special. Finishers receive special acknowledgment for completing one of Nebraska's premier running events.
Medals and Swag
Every finisher goes home with something to mark their accomplishment. The organizers hand out finisher swag that’s become a bit of a tradition for this Nebraska race.
Folks like Matthew Brunken—and anyone else who completes all three races in the Born & Raced In Nebraska (BRIN) series—get an extra nod. The BRIN series includes the Leprechaun Chase 10k, Cornfield Cornfield 10k, and Harvest Moon Hustle 10k.
Finishers who complete all three events earn a BRIN Series Finisher Medal. It’s a cool way to recognize the folks who stick with it all season.
The medal program keeps people coming back and helps build a tight-knit running community in Nebraska.
Finisher Statistics and Records
Professional timing services track every finisher. Complete race results go up online, so you can see how you stacked up.
Organizers break out the results by overall and age group standings. The race’s format also makes for a fun showdown between male and female runners.
The results include pacing data and finishing positions. Matthew Brunken passed 17 runners during his race, holding his ground against some tough competition.
The timing system captures finish times down to the second, letting runners compare performances year after year.
Age Group Awards and Results
The Leprechaun Chase 10K recognizes top finishers across multiple age divisions, with awards for the top three male and female runners in each group. Matthew Brunken’s age group performance is a good example of just how deep the competition can get.
Award Categories and Criteria
Organizers hand out age group awards to the top three male and female finishers in a range of divisions. Categories include:
19 & Under
20-24, 25-29, 30-34
35-39, 40-44, 45-49
50-54, 55-59, 60-64
65-69, 70 & Over
Each age group recognizes both male and female competitors. This setup makes sure runners at every stage get a fair shot at some recognition.
It’s nice to see a system that lets you compete with people in a similar spot in life. That just makes the racing feel a bit more personal.
Notable Age Group Performances
Matthew Brunken landed a solid finish in his age division. His second place age group finish is proof of his competitive chops.
The Nebraska native’s showing reflects his training background and years of racing experience. That kind of result doesn’t just happen by accident—there’s a lot of consistent preparation behind it.
Brunken’s performance adds to the strong field that makes the Born & Raced In Nebraska Series so competitive. The BRIN Series keeps drawing top runners from all over Nebraska.
Registration, Transfer, and Deferral Policies
The Leprechaun Chase 10K keeps registration flexible for runners. Organizers set up policies that try to balance convenience with fair play.
Registration Process and Fees
Registration for the Leprechaun Chase includes entry, community fundraising, and some nice amenities. The race welcomes runners of all skill levels, including dedicated athletes like Matthew Brunken who mix it up on Nebraska’s competitive running scene.
Anyone under 18 needs a parent or legal guardian to sign their waiver. The minimum age to race is 8 years old on race day.
Registration comes with entry, a few “fun surprises,” and a chance to help the community. Runners can choose between in-person or virtual races, depending on what fits their schedule.
Runners pick their parking area when they register, since parking is limited.
Transfer Deadlines and Fees
Organizers set up transfer policies to give runners some wiggle room if plans change. They try to keep things flexible, but also need to make sure the event runs smoothly.
Transfer deadlines and fees change year to year, so it’s a good idea to check the latest info when you sign up.
The registration system lets runners update their info, which helps organizers keep participant counts and race waves accurate.
Deferral Options and Policies
The Leprechaun Chase offers a deferral system for runners who can’t make it to race day. You just have to go through the “Defer Registration” process in your online account.
Once you defer, your registration shows up under "My Deferrals" in your account. Organizers reach out the next year with instructions on how to claim your deferred spot when the new race opens.
Organizers built registration policies to be as flexible as possible, so you can sign up without too much worry. Life happens, and the race tries to give you reasonable options if you need them.
The deferral system helps runners stay invested for future races while letting organizers keep things organized for the current year.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Leprechaun Chase 10k draws a lot of questions about registration, the course, and race logistics. Matthew Brunken’s involvement in this BRIN Series event means people want to know about timing, awards, and what happens after the race.
What is the date for the next Matthew Brunken Leprechaun Chase 10k BRIN Series event?
The next Leprechaun Chase 10k happens every year in Nebraska. It’s part of the Born & Raced In Nebraska (BRIN) Running Series, which features three big 10K races spaced throughout the year.
The BRIN Series starts with the Leprechaun Chase, then moves on to the Cornfield Cornfield 10K on June 14, 2025 and wraps up with the Harvest Moon Hustle 10K on September 12, 2025.
How do I register for the Leprechaun Chase 10k, and what are the entry fees?
Registration opens through the official website. Runners can go for in-person or virtual participation, depending on what suits them best.
The virtual 10K counts toward the BRIN Series Finisher Medal. You have to finish all three BRIN Series races to earn that extra hardware.
Entry fees depend on when you sign up and which format you choose. Early birds usually get a better deal than latecomers.
What are the award categories for the Leprechaun Chase 10k?
The Leprechaun Chase has a quirky format: lasses start first, then lads chase them 5½ minutes later. Whoever crosses the finish line first wins the coveted Leprechaun Chase Green Jacket.
This setup turns the race into a battle of the sexes. The lasses get a 5 minute 30 second head start on the lads.
Age group awards go to top performers in each category, while overall winners get a little extra recognition.
Can you provide details on the course layout for the Leprechaun Chase 10k?
The Leprechaun Chase is known as one of Nebraska’s best 10K courses. Runners start on an aircraft runway and see some pretty scenic spots along the way.
You’ll catch views of Mahoney State Park as you make your way through the course. The route’s reputation and tough terrain keep drawing runners from all over.
Matthew Brunken logged a top 10 finish at the Leprechaun Chase 10k, which says a lot about the level of competition. The course isn’t easy, with plenty of elevation changes to keep things interesting.
What are the packet pickup instructions and timing for race participants?
Packet pickup usually happens the day before the race and again on race morning. You’ll get your race bib, timing chip, and other event materials there.
Organizers announce the exact pickup spots and hours as the event gets closer. Grabbing your packet early can make race morning way less hectic.
Remember to bring your ID and registration confirmation. On race day, pickup starts a few hours before everything kicks off.
Are there any post-race events or celebrations associated with the Leprechaun Chase 10k?
After the race, you’ll find plenty of festivities that highlight Irish culture and celebrate everyone’s efforts. Organizers give out awards and make sure winners get their moment in the spotlight.
Once you cross the finish line, you can grab some refreshments and mingle with other runners. There’s a laid-back, friendly vibe—runners and spectators just hanging out, swapping stories, maybe even comparing notes on the course.
And of course, they wrap things up by handing the Green Jacket to the overall winner. That tradition always brings a little extra buzz and makes the victory feel special.