The Barkley Fall Classic
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The Barkley Fall Classic
The Barkley Fall Classic is a 50 km race held in Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee. Organized by Durbin Race Management, this event is designed to reflect the characteristics of the Barkley Marathons. The course traverses the Brushy Mountains and includes significant elevation changes with numerous steep climbs and descents.
The event follows specific regulations to maintain safety and race standards. Participants are prohibited from using GPS devices, and the official course map is only revealed the night before the race. The route is marked only at major turns, requiring runners to navigate primarily by following the trails. Specific gear rules apply: trekking poles and individual gel packets are not permitted, and runners must carry a working flashlight.
A notable feature of the event is the Decision Point. At a specific split in the course, participants must choose between finishing a marathon distance or continuing onto the full 50 km route. Those who opt for the longer distance must complete the entire course within the time limit to receive a finish; otherwise, no marathon credit is awarded.
The race utilizes a bib system where participants must wear one bib on their front and an additional bib on their back. The event also includes a pre-race dinner and a guest speaker the evening before the run. Male and female winners receive a guaranteed entry into the Barkley Marathons held in the spring. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
