Forty 5

Forty 5 — Where Grit Meets Wild Kentucky

The Forty 5 isn’t just a race — it’s a full‑throttle tour of the rugged, rolling, relentlessly beautiful backcountry of Laurel County. Starting at Sheltowee Camp, you’ll launch straight into a 45‑mile adventure packed with fast pavement, flowing singletrack, and long stretches of remote gravel that test your legs, lungs, and grit. The opening climb warms you up quick before dropping you onto miles of shoreline singletrack carved into the edge of Laurel Lake. From there, the course opens up — a hammer‑friendly road section across the dam, a sweeping gravel loop through Whitley County, and a return trip that demands every ounce of determination you’ve got left. With 3,500 feet of climbing, two fully stocked aid stations, and a course that mixes speed with technical challenge, Forty5 is built for riders who crave variety and thrive on adventure. Whether you’re chasing a podium or conquering the distance for the first time, this race delivers the perfect blend of scenery, suffering, and satisfaction. Come ready. Leave proud. Forty5 will make you earn every mile — and love every second.

Race Headquarters

Sheltowee Camp
124 London Dock Rd
London, KY 40744

Registration opens February 1st

Course Overview

The race begins with a 2.8‑mile gradual climb leading riders up to the singletrack. Once on trail, racers will enjoy 8 miles of lakeside singletrack that winds along the shoreline. After exiting the trail, riders transition to pavement, crossing the Laurel Lake Dam and heading into Whitley County. A fast 4.5‑mile road section sets riders up for the challenge ahead. Next comes the Southern Loop—a rugged 14.5‑mile gravel section featuring 1 mile of trail. After completing the loop, riders retrace their route back to the finish.

Course Breakdown

• Total Distance: 45 miles
• Total Elevation Gain: 3,500 ft
• 11.8 miles Pavement (including the 2.8‑mile start climb)
• 17.9 miles Singletrack
• 14.5 miles Gravel

Aid Stations

Riders will have access to an aid station twice during the race, located at Miles 15.1 and 31.7. The aid station will be stocked with essentials to help you refuel and keep moving. We will also offer drop bags, allowing riders to have their personal items waiting for them at the aid station.

Course Map

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35930969

DIVISIONS

• Boys 15-19
• Men 20-39
• Men 40-49
• Men 50-59
• Men 60+
• Girls 15-19
• Women 20-39
• Women 40+