Freight Train Ultra Marathon
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Event
The Freight Train Ultra Marathon takes place on May 9, 2026 in Farmville, Virginia on the High Bridge Trail. The event offers these distances:
- Half Marathon
- 50k
- 100k
Registration options listed include pricing for the Half Marathon, 50k, and 100k. Discounts are available for military, fire, law enforcement, EMS, teachers, and medical personnel using a discount code. A separate discount is offered for first-time 100k runners.
Awards include a handcrafted ornament for every finisher and pottery awards for top finishers. Early registrants by November 1 receive a long-sleeve hoodie. Top male and female finishers and Grand Masters are recognized. A DFL award is given for last-place finishers.
Course and logistics
The course is on a relatively flat rail trail with total elevation gain for the 100k listed as under 1500 feet. Key course notes:
- The 100k starts at Camp Paradise and includes out-and-back sections that pass Burkeville, Pamplin, Tuggle, Prospect, and downtown Farmville.
- The 50k crosses High Bridge, then proceeds to Osborne Road (first aid), Tuggle, Prospect, and an unmanned turnaround about 1 mile past Prospect before retracing to the finish.
- The Half Marathon begins at the Farmville train station, runs about 6.55 miles to a manned water-only station near Camp Paradise, then returns to the finish.
Logistics and rules: Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- There is a long aidless section of about 6.5 miles between Prospect and the Pamplin turnaround; crews are advised to use parking at Elam to split access.
- Drop bags for the 100k are transported to Prospect and available at mile markers listed for that aid station; 50k runners may also send a drop bag to Prospect.
- Pacers are permitted for the 100k after the first visit to Tuggle and for the 50k from Prospect to the finish; pacers are not permitted for the Half Marathon.
- Dogs may run with prior permission of the race director and only after the halfway point of any distance; strollers are permitted for the entire distance.
