A Race for the Ages
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Event Overview
A Race for the Ages is a multi-day ultramarathon held in Manchester, Tennessee. The event takes place at Fred Deadman Park and follows a one-mile loop known as the Deadman Mile. The competition is structured based on the age of the participants, with the final accumulation of miles determining the winners.
Distance and Format
The race uses a unique time-allotment system based on participant age:
- Age 41 and over: Runners receive a number of hours equal to their age in years.
- Age 40 and under: Participants compete during the final 40 hours of the event.
The course remains open for several days, allowing athletes to circle the loop to accumulate as much distance as possible. Historically, the event has seen significant participation from veteran runners, including athletes in their 70s, 80s, and 90s, with many surpassing the 100-mile and 200-mile marks.
Facilities and Logistics
The organizers provide several amenities to support runners throughout the multi-day effort. Hot meals are served every six hours, catered by a local restaurant. The park facilities include indoor bathrooms located directly on the course, supplemented by portable toilets near the start and finish area.
Ample tent camping is available on-site near the running loop. Small RVs are permitted in a designated back parking area if they fit within a standard parking space of 8.5 feet by 18 feet. For those not camping, several hotels and motels are located within one mile of the park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
