The Iron Turtle
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The Iron Turtle
The Iron Turtle is a Last Runner Standing backyard ultra held on November 14, 2026 in Coker, AL at Lake Lurleen Park (13226 Lake Lurleen Rd). The event uses an hourly loop format: participants run a 4 mile loop every hour, and each consecutive lap begins on the hour. The loop is mostly single track with minimal elevation, about 270 feet of gain per lap, and includes about 5% paved road.
This event has separate male and female divisions; a Last Runner Standing winner will be declared in each division. The race emphasizes personal records: runners who miss a cut-off may continue unofficially to reach a mileage goal, and that overall mileage will be recorded. Participants who achieve a personal record receive an event sticker.
A rubber chicken mascot announces the start of each lap. The rules allow some leeway at lap starts as long as a runner is off the trail before the next announcement. After 12 hours there is an optional shoot out: if all remaining runners agree, one final 4 mile loop decides the winner; if any runner objects, the regular format continues. Organizers are also considering a leap frog tag-team division where teammates alternate laps.
The start/finish area is the pavilion in front of the main bridge and hosts a well-stocked aid station with food and electrolytes, including lunch and dinner options. Lake Lurleen Park offers camping, fishing, swimming, and hot showers. Registration closes on November 13. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
