Saguaro Showdown
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Event Format
The Saguaro Showdown is a last-person-standing endurance event featuring two separate competitions: a running race and a rucking race. Participants can only enter one of the two events. The race follows the backyard ultra format.
Course & Timing
The event takes place at Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa, Arizona. Starting at 8:00 AM, a new race begins every hour on the hour. During the day, runners complete a trail loop of 4.1667 miles, while ruckers complete a 2.3-mile trail loop. At 8:00 PM, the course switches to an out-and-back route on a road. At 8:00 AM the following morning, the event resumes on the trail loop.
Participants have exactly one hour to finish each loop. They must be standing in the start corral when the bell rings for the next hourly race to continue. No late starts are allowed once the bell rings.
Rules & Logistics
Once a race starts, runners may not visit their crew, tent, or vehicle. They must stay on the course, with the only exception being to use portable toilets located near the start line. After finishing a loop, runners are free until they must return to the start corral before the next bell.
Runners must provide their own aid. Crews are permitted but not necessary. A space near the start/finish line is available to set up a chair, cooler, and small personal gear; overnight stays are allowed.
The event continues until only one runner and one rucker remain. That last participant must then complete one final loop alone to be declared the winner. All others are recorded as Did Not Finish (DNF).
Special Category
A Backyard 24 category is also offered. In this format, everyone who completes 24 hours is tied for first place, with no sole winner determined. This is presented as a way to experience the backyard ultra format.
Ruck Requirements
For the rucking race, a minimum core weight is required for the ruck and its weight plates. The requirement is 30 pounds for participants weighing over 150 pounds, and 20 pounds for those weighing 150 pounds or less. The rule applies regardless of gender.
Registration & Fundraising
Registration closes on a specified Friday in January. Participants can choose to pay a registration fee or opt to fundraise a minimum amount for a free race entry. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
