Night Claw
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Event Overview
Night Claw is a nighttime trail run taking place at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, Texas. It features several timed race options and an optional, unique challenge where participants can be "hunted" during their run.
Distances and Format
Participants can choose from several race formats:
- 4 Mile (approximately 6.4 km)
- 10K
- 4-Hour timed race
- 6-Hour timed race
- 8-Hour timed race
The 10K, 4-hour, 6-hour, and 8-hour races use a 10K loop course. The 4-mile race uses a separate, special loop.
The Claw Challenge
Runners can optionally add "The Claw Challenge" during registration. Participants who opt in receive a bib with a tear tag. A designated volunteer, "The Claw," chases participants with a head start. If a runner finishes with their tag intact, they "beat the Claw." If The Claw catches them and takes the tag, they are "clawed." This optional challenge costs an extra $7 and provides a unique bib and a special add-on to the finisher medal.
Course and Location
The course runs on the dirt and rocky single-track trails of Dinosaur Valley State Park and includes a river crossing. The 10K loop has approximately 650 feet of elevation gain. The event staging area is in a field outside the state park. Historic average nighttime temperatures are between 75 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Aid Stations and Required Gear
The course features aid stations and water stations. Aid stations offer cold foods, snacks, water, electrolytes, pickle juice, and ice. Water stations provide water and ice. A water-carrying system is required for all distances (16-ounce minimum for all except the 4-mile race). A headlamp is required for all events. Drop bags can be placed at the start/finish area, but transportation to aid stations is not available.
Schedule and Registration
Packet pickup and a pop-up store are open from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on race day. Start times are staggered, with the 8-hour race beginning first. Registration is open.
Awards and Series
All finishers receive an Epic Night Claw finisher medal and a Night Claw tri-blend t-shirt. Awards are given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, male and female, for each distance. There is also a last-place award for the 8-hour race.
This event is part of the Texas Summer Night Series. Participants who complete 3 out of the 8 series races receive three collectible medals and a duffle bag. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
