The Next Loop: 50-Mile Challenge

The Next Loop: 50-Mile Challenge

The New Next Loop 40/50 Mile Challenge is a gritty, no-nonsense test of pacing and patience on a scenic 3.1-mile (5K) loop trail. 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

Athletes 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 is this race 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 an official pacer identification, Enter and 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
Pacers are intended to support athlete safety, pacing, and morale during the later stages of the race while preserving fairness and course flow

EverFurther Events
The New England 50 Mile Challenge is produced by EverFurther Events, co-founded by veteran endurance athletes Joe Johnson and Terry Madl. EverFurther was created to reimagine what endurance events could be — inclusive, progression-focused, and built for real-world athletes at every stage of their journey. Unlike traditional races that require a fixed distance commitment, EverFurther’s loop-based model emphasizes personal growth over elimination, and celebrates every mile earned. With decades of racing, directing, and life experience between them, Joe and Terry are on a mission to build events that are accessible, repeatable, and centered on community — giving athletes the freedom to define success on their own terms.