The 16 Hour Lock-in
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About the race
The 16 Hour Lock-In is a timed endurance event at Carolina Beach State Park in Carolina Beach, NC, organized by Punk Rock Ultras. Runners have 16 hours to complete a 4.5 mile loop as many times as they choose, and the event is set up so participants may aim for a single lap or accumulate many laps. The park is a coastal maritime forest with groomed, wide and relatively flat trails. The loop is well marked and includes dirt, sand, pine straw, roots, a short section of road that can be bypassed on grass, and two hills with about 100 feet of climb per loop.
The course direction for this edition is clockwise. The Start/Finish area at the group campsites provides access to personal gear, bathrooms, a sheltered drop bag area for those without a 10x10 camp spot, and a staffed aid station. The aid station supplies water, Tailwind, salty and sweet snacks, and two hot meals at lunch and dinner; organizers try to offer vegan and gluten free options if notified. This is a cup free event so participants must bring a refillable hydration vessel.
A headlamp or similar is required for running after dusk. Only registered campers may remain inside the park overnight. The event offers 30 group campsites with a small camping upgrade that includes a 10x10 personal area, primitive walk in sites, and an overnight pass for a car. There is also a family campground less than one mile from the race course.
Volunteers who work at least six hours receive a race shirt, priority registration for the next year and may count toward multi year recognition. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.