The Iron Turtle

The Iron Turtle

The Iron Turtle is a backyard ultra held in Coker, AL. The race uses a repeating 4 mile loop that runners complete once each hour; competitors continue until they stop.

The event has separate male and female divisions. After missing a cut-off a runner may continue unofficially to reach a personal mileage goal, and the event will record that overall mileage on Ultrasignup. The organizers emphasize personal records and offer an Iron Turtle sticker for those who achieve a PR.

A rubber chicken mascot announces the start of each lap. To remain in the official competition a runner must be off the trail before the next squawk at the top of the hour. After 12 hours there is an optional shoot out: if all remaining runners agree, one final 4 mile loop decides the winner.

Organizers may add a leap frog or tag team division where teammates alternate loops. Final decisions about such divisions and any tie-break formats are made by the organizers.

The course is a well-groomed trail with about 270 feet of elevation gain per lap, roughly 95% single track and 5% paved road. The start and finish area is at a pavilion in front of the main bridge, with a staffed aid station offering food, electrolytes, and lunch and dinner options. Lake Lurleen park amenities include camping, fishing, swimming, and hot showers. The crew provides on-course support and music around the start/finish area. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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