The Backland
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The Backland - Gordonville, TX
The Backland is a last man standing trail race held near the Texas and Oklahoma border. The course is run mostly on trail with some road sections. The event motto is "Run Till You Can't."
The race takes place at Walnut Creek Resort & Marina, 1075 Walnut Creek Rd, Gordonville, TX 76245. Entry to the last man standing competition is limited to 60 participants; this cap was increased from a previous limit of 38.
Competition format and rules are as follows. Competitors must complete a 4.5 mile loop, known as a land, within the allotted hour. At the start of each new land the field begins again; runners who do not finish a land within the hour or who choose to exit must ring the bell and are eliminated. The final remaining runner is titled The Backland Champion. A rule starting in 2025 states that ties are not allowed.
Awards and finish items include a $1000 cash prize, a trophy, and a six pack of beer or root beer for the last person standing. All finishers receive a Backland long sleeve shirt and a beer or root beer. Milestone buckles are awarded for completing 103.5 miles (23 lands) and 153 miles (34 lands). A trophy is also given for best start/finish setup. Camping and cabin lodging options are available at the resort. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
