Strolling Jim 40 Miler - May 2, 2026
The Strolling Jim 40 Miler is a cherished endurance event, celebrating its 47th running in 2026. It takes place on the first Saturday in May in Wartrace, Tennessee, utilizing a figure-8 loop of scenic back roads, gravel roads, and fords.
This event is the second oldest continuously held ultra in the USA, returning to its roots with only the classic 40-miler. It's known for its competitive nature, picturesque setting in the Highland Rim, and the camaraderie among ultra-marathoners.
Schedule of Events (Central Daylight Time)
- Friday, May 2:
- 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Packet Pickup/Late Registration (Race Tent by Fountain)
- 4:00 PM: Course Tour (Led by laz, meet by Race Tent by Fountain)
- 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Pre-Race Feed (Recommended: Chabbi's Sweets & Eats, 98 Main Street E. Wartrace)
- Saturday, May 3:
- 5:30 AM - 6:30 AM: Late Packet Pickup; Late Registration (Race Tent by Fountain)
- PARKING: Available at Jernigan Field and Wynette-Ayers Park (119 Bridgeview Street, Wartrace). Arrive early; no parking within 1/4 mile of the start.
- 6:45 AM: Assemble at the Wellhouse for final instructions and photos
- 7:00 AM: Strolling Jim 40 START (Wartrace Wellhouse) - Starts ON TIME
- 11:00 AM - ???: Finishers receive awards and enjoy the Post Race Party (BBQ chicken and sides under the Big Tent by the fountain). Finish line is in front of the Walking Horse Hotel.
Camping, Parking, and Lodging
- Camping: Allowed at Winnette Ayers Park and Jernigan Field (119 Bridgeview St, Wartrace). Tent camping around the Horse Ring, RVs welcome (no hookups). No registration or reservation needed.
- Lodging: Bed and Breakfasts in Bell Buckle (Seasons B&B, Hinkle Hill Inn, The Walker Inn). Hotels available in Murfreesboro (25 miles), Shelbyville (10 miles), and Manchester (17 miles).
Race Details
- Distance: 40 Miler (Marathon option also listed but text emphasizes 40-miler only)
- Cut-off Time: No definitive cut-off, but aid stations become unmanned after dark. Sunset is around 7:33 PM CT on May 3rd. Runners are expected to make an honest effort. Crew cars are suggested.
- Awards: Strolling Jim shirt and bib at packet pickup. ALL FINISHERS receive a medal. Color shirts and top finisher trophies are awarded.
- Course Map: Available at durbinracemanagement.com
- Aid Stations: Located at mile markers 7.5, 13.1, 18, 23.5, 29, 35, and 39. Offer Gatorade, water, snacks, bars, oranges, chips, Slim Jims. Water jugs also placed between stations.
- Drop Bags: Can be taken to the dual purpose station at mm 13.1/35. Clearly mark with name and bib#.
- Crewing: Allowed, but crews must pull completely off the road and cannot transport runners.
- Donations: Option to donate to Cascade HS athletics during registration.
Top Performances (Examples)
- Men's Course Record: Zack Beavin (2021) - 3:55:44
- Women's Course Record: Camille Herron (2022) - 4:44:01