The Next Loop: 50-Mile Challenge - Pinnacle Mountain (May)
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
Start Time: 7:00 AM CT
Location: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Roland, AR
Registration Closes: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 @ 11:59 PM CT
Event Details
The Pinnacle Mountain 50 Mile Challenge is a gritty, no-nonsense test of pacing and patience on a scenic 3.1-mile (5K) loop trail in Pinnacle Mountain State Park. This is a continuous 50-mile trail race run alongside The Next Loop Endurance Series. Same fully stocked Start/Finish aid station every lap. Easy fueling. Simple logistics. All the support, every time through. You’ll knock out 16 loops to hit 50 miles (trail measurements may vary slightly). A 12-hour cutoff keeps things moving and rewards smart pacing, with steady energy and a strong community vibe all day long. You can stage gear at your vehicle or in the designated staging area. Pacers are welcome after 4:00 PM.
Race Format
- Distance: 50 miles
- Race Style: Continuous run (not hourly)
- Time Limit: 12-hour hard cutoff
- Start: Mass start with other 50-mile competitors
- Field Limit: 75 runners
- Course: Trail-based loop; minor distance variation is expected and accepted due to terrain
Athlete Support & Logistics
- Dedicated 50-mile staging area, separate from the hourly loop athletes
- Access to: Main aid station every 5K loop
- Personal staged gear each lap
- Medical and safety oversight consistent with ultra-distance standards
Timing & Results
- Chip timing
- Splits recorded and posted for every completed 5K loop
- Overall finishing time determines placement
- Real-time loop splits allow athletes and crews to track pacing, fatigue, and performance trends
Age Group Divisions
The Next Loop 50-Mile Endurance Challenge recognizes longevity and sustained performance with dedicated divisions:
- Open Masters: Ages 50–69
- Grand Masters: Ages 70+
Who This Race Is For
- Ultra runners seeking a fast-moving, loop-based 50-mile format
- Athletes who value precision timing, personal pacing strategy, and crew accessibility
- Competitors who want the energy of a multi-event endurance environment without sacrificing race integrity
Important Notes
- The 50-Mile Endurance Challenge is a standalone race and is not scored using the hourly loop format
- Participants must meet experience and readiness standards appropriate for a 50-mile ultra
- Strict cutoff enforcement ensures athlete safety and event flow
Pacers
- Pacers are permitted beginning at 4:00 PM
- Pacers may accompany athletes on the course only after 4:00 PM
- Pacers must check in at the designated pacer station, wear official pacer identification, and enter/exit the course at the start/finish area only.
- Pacers may not carry gear or nutrition for the athlete beyond what is allowed under standard trail-running rules.
- Each athlete may use multiple pacers, one pacer at a time.
Organizer
EverFurther Events, co-founded by Joe Johnson and Terry Madl.
