A First-of-Its-Kind Event in Lincoln
This might be the only time it happens—so don’t miss out.

Come celebrate the winter solstice with a bunch of like-minded weirdos. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just someone who loves doing something a little offbeat, you're invited. This is the place I started running, and when I think of running in Lincoln, NE, this is still what comes to mind.  Details are still being finalized, and this page will be updated as things evolve.

There are four events offered this weekend: 100 mile run (30 hour time cut-off), 50 mile run, 50k run, 24 hour timed run. This is bare bones, self-supported style.  Maybe we can get some community support. BUT expect it to be a challenge you are facing.  

The race distances are standard, but the 24 hour run is something else.  Here are the details:

The 24-hour Event
This is unlike anything else in Lincoln. Here’s how it works:

At 10am on Saturday, December 20, a clock will start counting up to 24 hours. You will have until 10am on Sunday, December 21 to run whatever distance you choose—on your terms.

There’s no official finish line. You define your own:
Run for four hours, take a nap, and come back.
Do 3 miles every hour for 24 hours (backyard ultra style).
Go full beast mode and run non-stop the whole time.
Run a marathon Saturday and then do one again Sunday.
Pick any distance you can dream up, as long as it’s on the course.
It's a simple concept: a time-based challenge that’s as flexible and creative as you are.

Pacers can be utilized at any time. We ask for a $5 donation for each pacer and they will need to complete a waiver.  

Results will be self-reported.  A .gpx file and screenshot of fitness tracking app will be required to verify your results.  Official results will be posted and emailed by Tuesday 12/23.  

The Camp
Runners will have a dedicated area for support. You can set up a tent or have your car parked nearby for access to food or dry clothes. The camp area will be along the east side of the parking lot near the sledding hill OR between the finish and start lines. A map will be posted closer to the event. 

RACE DAY REGISTRATION WILL BE AVAILABLE. CASH ONLY.  

Risk Management
There will be no first aid or paramedics on site. Runners are responsible for their own safety. However, you will never be more than 800 meters from your car. Please carry a phone and seek assistance from fellow athletes if needed.

Road Crossings
There will be signage on both sides of the two road crossings to alert drivers in the park, along with cones clearly marking the crossing points. Runners will receive instructions on how to safely watch for traffic.

Required Gear
A mandatory gear list will be provided and reviewed with all participants before the race begins.

Medical Support
There will be no on-site medical care. Runners are encouraged to carry a phone while on the course in case they need to call for assistance. The course is designed so that no runner is ever more than 800 meters from their vehicle. Runners are welcome to return to their cars at any time for supplies. A designated base camp area will also be available for setting up pop-up tents for resupply.

Course Safety & Community
Due to the smaller loop distance, runners will frequently be passing or being passed by others. A key part of the event's spirit is looking out for each other—please check in on fellow participants as you go.

Pacers
Runners who plan to continue for more than six hours are allowed to have a pacer or partner accompany them on the course for support.

We will follow the Pioneer Park high school cross country course. GPX map will be sent out with race instructions prior to the event.

Official results will be posted by Tuesday, December 23rd.
Runners must submit a GPX file or screenshot of their fitness tracker (GarminConnect, Coros, Strava, etc).

The primary obstacle for a December race in Lincoln is the possibility of blizzard conditions. Based on recent weather patterns over the past five years, major snow events typically occur after Christmas. That said—anything can happen in seven months.

Participants signing up for an event like this generally expect and are prepared for adverse conditions—some may even be hoping for them. However, if weather conditions are deemed dangerous (e.g., sub-zero wind chills or hazardous road conditions for travel), we will notify participants of a cancellation no later than the Thursday before the event.

Sudden severe weather is not a major concern due to the compact, looped nature of the course. In the event of any unexpected issues, the layout makes it easy to quickly contact and gather all participants if necessary.

For event related questions, please click on the Contact the Organizers button on the page.