Defiance 50k
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Event overview
The Defiance race weekend offers multiple trail distances in Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, Washington. The event includes a 50K, 30K, 15K and a 3-person 50K relay. The course runs through old growth forests and provides views of the Puget Sound. Each finisher receives a commemorative medal and a long-sleeve tech shirt; ordering by September 14 guarantees a shirt and size.
Course and logistics
The course is an approximately 9.75 mile (15.7 km) loop that passes the Start/Finish at Owen Beach. Runners complete loops as follows:
- 15K: 1 loop
- 30K: 2 loops
- 50K: 3 loops
- 50K relay: 3 runners, one loop each
Each loop includes an aid station at the Start/Finish and a second aid station near Fort Nisqually about 5.3 miles into the loop. The loop has about 1,306 feet of elevation gain and loss per lap. Trails are mostly single track and typically dry in mid-October; the route passes large cedars and firs, including trees estimated at 500 years old. Parking at Owen Beach is limited and vehicles must use designated stalls. Organizers recommend carrying one bottle of water. A gear check is provided and bags are reclaimed after the finish using the racer bib. The event enforces an overall time limit of eight hours. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
