Outlast Blue Ridge
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Trail Endurance Challenge at Tyron International
OUTLAST Blue Ridge is a unique endurance event held at Tyron International Hunter State Park in Mill Spring, North Carolina. The event follows a specific format where participants attempt to complete a 5 km trail loop every hour for six consecutive hours. Each lap must be finished within the 60-minute window to remain eligible for the next round. Runners who finish a lap early may use the remaining time to rest and refuel before the start of the next hour.
The course features natural trail terrain, including dirt, rocks, roots, and elevation changes. While primarily trail-based, some sections may include pavement or gravel. This is a cupless event, requiring participants to bring their own hydration systems or bottles. An aid station at the basecamp provides water, basic hydration, and snacks. Participants are also permitted to set up their own personal aid stations or tents at the start area.
Recognition and Rewards
Runners are rewarded based on the number of laps they successfully complete:
- 6 Hour Challenge (Six 5 km laps)
Participants who complete four laps receive a "Grit Earned" patch, while those completing five laps earn a "Survivor" patch. Those who finish all six rounds receive a premium medal and are ranked on a national leaderboard. Rankings are determined by the fastest combined time across all six laps. All registered participants receive an event t-shirt.
Top male and female finishers with the fastest combined times earn local awards and a spot in the Outlast Championship. Results contribute to a national leaderboard where the top 100 runners and individual city winners compete for a national title and monetary prizes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
