The Rugged Raccoon Night Race 2026
This event is Sanctioned by Athletics Ontario and is partnering with La Sportiva. The Rugged Raccoon Trail Race will be held at Wildwood Conservation Area in St. Mary's, ON, offering both day and night options. The trails are described as fast and fun, with mud, rocks, roots, climbs, and lake views.
For those who enjoy running in the woods at night, this is an ideal event, also serving as a great opportunity for runners training for longer night races.
Race Schedule:
- Saturday, May 2, 2026:
- 3:00pm - 25 km day race start (early start options available for those needing more than 6.5 or 8.5 hours)
- 4:00pm - 50 km race start (early start options available for those needing more than 8.5 hours)
- 7:00pm - 25km night race start (early start options available for those needing more than 3.5 hours)
- 8:30pm - 10 km run start
- Everyone must be off the course by 10:30pm.
Race Details:
- 10k: Out-and-back course, runners start and finish in the dark.
- 25k: Starts 1.5 hours before sunset, allowing for some running in daylight. Time cutoff is 10:30pm. Early start option available.
- 50k: Double loop of the 25k course (approximately 48k). Runners start at 4:00pm, with most experiencing the first loop in daylight.
Everyone running at night is required to have a headlamp or flashlight (minimum 100 lumens, 200+ recommended). Expect mud and be prepared to get dirty. The event is cup-less; bring your own collapsible cup or bottles.
Aid Stations:
Four aid stations will be located at 4.5k, 10k, 15k, and 20k, stocked with water, electrolyte drink, PB&J, and snacks.
Race Inclusions:
Runners receive a shirt (Unisex or Women's Cut), race bib, goodies, chip timing, race photos, and a medal.
Charity:
This race supports 'Ontario Nature' and their Nature Guardians Youth Program.
Refund Policy:
100% race credit up to 30 days before the race. Bib transfers are allowed up to 5 days before the race.
