The Iron Turtle
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The Iron Turtle
The Iron Turtle is a backyard ultra held at Lake Lurleen near 13226 Lake Lurleen Rd, Coker, AL. The event uses a 4 mile loop that runners complete once every hour; each consecutive lap starts exactly on the hour. The course is mostly single track with minimal elevation gain of about 270 feet per lap and includes roughly 95% single track and 5% paved road.
Organizers run separate male and female divisions and will crown a Last Runner Standing in each division. After a runner misses a cut off they may continue unofficially to reach a personal mileage goal; unofficial mileage will still be recorded on Ultrasignup. Runners who achieve a personal record receive an Iron Turtle sticker. The event also awards a finisher item showing total mileage and provides shirts with a turtle design.
A squawking rubber chicken acts as a lap announcer and signals the start of each lap; runners must be off the trail before the next squawk to remain in competition. After 12 hours there is an optional shoot out if all remaining runners agree: one final 4 mile loop decides the winner. Organizers are also considering a tag team leap frog division that would alternate runners each lap.
Park amenities include camping, fishing, swimming, hot showers, new roads, new bathrooms, and pavilions. A well stocked aid station sits at the start finish pavilion and offers food, electrolytes, and meal options for long duration runners. Registration closes Friday, Nov 13 at 11:59 PM CT. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
