Kilkenny Ridge Race
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Event Overview
The Kilkenny Ridge Race is a trail running event offering three distances: 50 miles, 25 miles, and 25 km. It takes place in the White Mountains near Stark, New Hampshire, utilizing the remote Kilkenny Ridge Trail.
Distances and Course
The race features three point-to-point courses on the Kilkenny Ridge Trail. The 50-mile and 25-mile distances traverse the length of the ridge, while the 25 km course covers a southern section. All routes are described as remote, rugged, and unmarked, requiring participants to navigate using trail signs and provided GPS data.
- 50 Miles: Approximately 45 miles with 15,000 feet of total elevation gain.
- 25 Miles: Approximately 25 miles with 7,580 feet of total elevation gain.
- 25K: Approximately 15.3 miles with 4,048 feet of total elevation gain.
Event Details
The race is not marked, emphasizing self-navigation. Aid stations are limited, with some being backcountry stations offering basic supplies. A shuttle service is provided for the 25-mile and 25 km distances to transport runners from the finish area to their respective start lines. All parking for participants is at the South Pond Recreational Area.
Requirements and Gear
The event is described as not being an entry-level race. Participants must carry mandatory gear, which is checked at bib pickup. The required items include a water filter, a minimum amount of water and emergency food, a windbreaker or rain shell, a headlamp with extra batteries (for the 50M and 25M), a space blanket, winter hat, and gloves. Qualification requirements are also in place: entrants for the 50-mile distance must have completed a challenging 50 km trail race or similar mountain effort, while 25-mile entrants should have experience with a challenging 20-mile trail run. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
