Ocala 69

OCALA 69 (2027)

OCALA 69 is a point-to-point, self-supported event in Ocala National Forest, Florida covering 69 miles (+/-) with approximately 1,709 ft of elevation gain over sand, swamp and pine scrub. The route follows the Florida Trail orange blazes and requires the AllTrails route to be downloaded for offline navigation.

The course runs from the Florida Trail Rodman ATV Trailhead to Palermo Pizza & Italian Restaurant in Paisley. Five mandatory checkpoints are spaced at roughly 15-mile intervals; two of these checkpoints are unmanned. Participants receive a punch card at the start. Supported checkpoints provide bottled water and basic snacks, but candidates must carry sufficient water and nutrition between points.

Three categories are offered: RUNNER (no required weight), LIGHT (10 lbs dry) and HEAVY (25 lbs dry). Required weight must be carried in a ruck and may not be made of disposable items or weighted vests. Runners must carry a minimum emergency reserve of three bars and 0.5 L of water, and a personal medical kit. Additional recommended items include a hi-vis jacket, spare flashlight, spare socks, appropriate layers and $30 cash.

Candidates are solo and self-sufficient with no drop bags or outside assistance allowed while actively participating. To record an official finish and earn the OCALA 69 Dog Tag, participants must prove at least 65 miles via GPS and complete the route within 24 hours. Wildlife includes snakes, spiders and black bears; temperature extremes have ranged from 24°F to 94°F. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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