The Next Loop: 50-Mile Challenge - Pinnacle Mountain

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.