The Last Boyscout - A Last Man Standing Race
The Last Boyscout is a Last Man Standing Race that utilizes the Boyscout Trail at Ferne Clyffe State Park. The format of this type of race is simple and designed to reward the tough, not necessarily the fast. All participants will receive a shirt and memorabilia to remember their efforts!
Registration is capped at 75 runners. In the 7 years the event has been held, only one runner has reached 100 miles. The course is tough, and the goal is to keep going. Each year is about resilience and continuing to push against a course that doesn't want you to succeed.
The race follows the rules of the original last person standing race, Big Backyard Ultra. At 6:40 AM, the race begins. Runners have 1 hour to complete a 4.167-mile loop. At 7:40 AM, runners must have finished the previous loop and be in the starting corral to start the next loop or they are eliminated. This continues until only one runner remains.
THE COURSE:
Day Loop: This loop consists of single-track trail, jeep road trail, and finishes with over a mile on the road. The course is 100% runnable, with a few mildly technical spots and two good hills, including the steepest hill on the Boyscout Trail. The Day Loop has approximately 600 feet of elevation per loop.
Night Loop: Starts at 6:40 PM. This is an out-and-back course with a north and south turnaround. Runners are required to wear a headlamp and reflective vest. The route is 75% paved road. Both courses have the potential for two creek crossings depending on rainfall.
AID STATION & AMENITIES:
The start/finish area, located at the Hillside pavilion, is the only aid station. It will provide water, ice, food, and hot food later in the race. Runners should be prepared to be self-sufficient. Pit toilets are available in the start/finish area and the first 1/4 mile of each loop, with additional porta-toilets available.
THE VENUE:
The Last Boyscout is held at the beautiful Ferne Clyffe State Park in Southern Illinois. The park is located between Interstate 57 and Interstate 24, making it easily accessible. The park offers electric and primitive campgrounds.
This race is a River to River Runners Club event, dedicated to providing quality running events across Southern Illinois.