The Iron Turtle
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The Iron Turtle
The Iron Turtle is a backyard ultra held at Lake Lurleen in Coker, AL. The event uses a 4 mile loop that runners complete once each hour; each consecutive lap begins on the hour. The loop is mostly single track and has minimal elevation, about 270 feet of gain per lap. The course surface is approximately 95% single track and 5% paved road.
The event has male and female divisions. Each division crowns a Last Runner Standing, also called the Ultimate Iron Turtle. After a runner misses a cutoff, the organizer allows them to continue unofficially to pursue a personal mileage goal, and those unofficial totals will still be recorded on Ultrasignup. There is a shoot-out option after 12 hours if all remaining runners agree: one final 4 mile loop decides the winner. The organizer is also considering a leap frog or tag-team division where teammates alternate loops.
Aid is provided at the start/finish pavilion in front of the main bridge. The aid station is described as well stocked with electrolytes and food options including lunch and dinner. The park offers camping, fishing, swimming, hot showers, and remodeled facilities such as new bathrooms and pavilions. A costumed or novelty mascot called the Squawking Chicken announces the start of each lap. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
