Pineywood Ruck Relay
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Event Overview
The Pineywoods Ruck Relay is a 27-mile team challenge run from the Upshur County Courthouse in Gilmer, Texas, to the Gregg County Courthouse in Longview. Teams consist of 2 to 4 members.
Course Details
The route uses highway shoulders, backroads, sidewalks, and dirt/grass sides of roads. The total elevation gain for the course is approximately 1700 feet, featuring flat and rolling hill terrain. The event is self-navigated, with a provided course map and designated checkpoints every 5 to 7 miles where team members can swap.
The start location is at The Body Health and Wellness at 215 Buffalo St. in Gilmer. The finish is at the Longview Courthouse. Participants must arrange their own transportation back to the start after finishing. Historic average weather temperatures range from 52 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
Event Format and Logistics
The relay is divided into 5 legs, each between 5 and 7 miles long. Teams decide which member runs each leg. Only one team member is active per leg. There are no course markings or road closures; participants must stay on the left side of the road facing traffic and move to the side for oncoming vehicles.
The event is self-supported. Organizers provide the route map, hydration at checkpoints, photography, and event awards. Teams are responsible for navigation, planning leg assignments, and supplying their own food.
Requirements and Gear
Participants starting in the dark must wear a headlamp. All participants must wear high-visibility traffic safety gear at all times on public roadways and carry a communication device (e.g., a cell phone).
A weighted ruck must be carried according to the following rules:
- If a participant weighs more than 150 lbs, they must carry a 30 lb ruck.
- If a participant weighs 150 lbs or less, they must carry a 20 lb ruck. Ruck sacks or vests are allowed.
Schedule and Cutoff
Packet pickup opens at 4:00 AM. A mandatory relay meeting is held at 4:45 AM, after which packet pickup closes. The relay starts at 5:00 AM. There is a 7-hour cutoff time, ending at 12:00 PM.
Included Items
Registered teams receive a Pineywoods Ruck Relay t-shirt and a finisher's patch. Awards are given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams, as well as a "Dead Freakin' Last" award for the final team. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
