The 16 Hour Lock-in
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About the race
The 16 Hour Lock-In is a timed endurance event held at Carolina Beach State Park and organized by Punk Rock Ultras. Participants run a 4.5-mile loop repeatedly over a 16-hour period, with a no DNF format that allows athletes to complete as many or as few laps as they choose.
The coastal maritime forest course is groomed, wide and relatively flat, with two hills of roughly 100 feet of climb per loop. Surfaces include dirt, sand, pine straw, roots and a short section of road. The loop returns to the Start/Finish area each circuit, where participants can access personal gear, bathrooms and the aid station.
Aid station provisions include water, Tailwind, a variety of salty, sweet and savory snacks, and two hot meals during the event. Organizers attempt to provide vegan and gluten free options when notified in advance. The race is cup free; participants must bring a refillable hydration vessel. A headlamp or similar light is required for anyone running after dark.
The State Park gate closes in the evening, making the event a lock-in; anyone remaining after the gate closure must be a registered camper or arrange pickup outside the park entrance. The event offers 30 group campsites adjacent to the course for a fee and the park also has a family campground within about one mile. Entrants receive event apparel and finishers receive recognition patches for standard distances, and 100 mile finishers receive a buckle. A waitlist and a volunteer program are maintained; volunteers earn benefits including event apparel and priority registration. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
