Welcome to the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and a little bit of luck. Are you ready to face the ever-changing challenge and become the last one standing?
Register Now & Face Your Destiny!
Welcome to the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and a little bit of luck. Are you ready to face the ever-changing challenge and become the last one standing?
Register Now & Face Your Destiny!Forget predictable loops and fixed distances. "Die to Run" introduces an exhilarating twist to the classic backyard ultra format. Every hour, your fate, and your next challenge, will be cast. It's a true test of adaptability, grit, and the indomitable spirit of ultra-running.
Five minutes before the top of each hour, a six-sided die will be rolled live at the start line. The number that lands face-up dictates the exact number of miles you must complete in the next 60-minute cycle. From a brisk 1-mile trot to a grueling 6-mile sprint, you'll never know what the next hour holds!
This isn't just about finishing; it's about outlasting. The race continues hour after hour, day and night, until only one determined runner remains. Every time you cross the finish line within the hour, you earn the right to toe the line for the next roll of the die. Fail to complete the distance, and your race is over.
Prepare for the ultimate test of physical and mental fortitude. Here’s how to navigate your journey to becoming the last one standing:
Our arena is a perfectly flat, meticulously measured out-and-back course on the Hatbox trail. The distance of the out-and-back will change each hour, so prepare for unpredictable distances!
Your pit crew for survival! Our fully stocked main aid station at the start/finish line will be your sanctuary. Expect an abundance of:
While the ultimate glory goes to the "Last Man Standing" who will receive a special, unique award for their unparalleled achievement, every runner's journey is celebrated. All other participants will receive a custom token commemorating their final completed distance, a testament to their incredible will and endurance.
Details for packet pickup will be announced closer to the race date via email and on this website. Keep an eye out for updates!
Running has always been a constant in my life, and that passion eventually led me to become a Cross Country and Track coach. I've tackled multiple backyard ultras over the last few years, and while I loved the format, I couldn't help but feel it was missing an element of true surprise. It was during a long run that the idea for "Die to Run" hit me: involve a variable lap distance each hour to remove the monotony and keep runners on their toes. This race is designed to be an ever-evolving puzzle that tests not just your physical endurance, but your mental toughness and adaptability with every roll of the die. I created this race to share a love for running in its purest form, and I can't wait to see you on the starting line.
Check back soon! If you are interested in sponsoring our event, please contact us!
If you fail to complete the rolled distance within the one-hour time limit, your incredible journey in "Die to Run" will unfortunately come to an end. There is no grace period – the clock is unforgiving, and punctuality is paramount to continuing the challenge.
Runner safety is our absolute highest priority. In the event of lightning in the immediate area, the race will be paused for a minimum of one hour, and all participants will be directed to designated safe zones. For more severe or prolonged weather conditions (e.g., tornado warnings, flash flooding), we will follow strict event safety protocols, which may involve further delays or, in extreme cases, cancellation of the event. Please note: Registration fees are non-refundable in the event of a weather-related cancellation, as significant resources are committed in advance.
Fear not, clarity will reign! The race director will dramatically roll a large, oversized die at the start line, and the resulting distance will be immediately written on a prominent dry-erase board. Furthermore, the new distance will be loudly and clearly announced over our PA system to ensure everyone is prepared for the next hour's challenge.
Absolutely! We've got your logistical needs covered. There will be ample, convenient parking available at the Hatbox facility, along with readily accessible restroom facilities for all participants, crew, and spectators throughout the duration of the event.
Yes, absolutely! Crews are highly encouraged and can be a huge asset in a backyard ultra. Please ensure your crew is aware of designated crew areas and respects all race rules and fellow participants.
The registration fee is $100. All registrations will be handled exclusively through UltraSignup. Please click the "Register Now" button on the homepage to be directed to our UltraSignup event page where you can sign up!