The Sand Monster
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The Sand Monster (March 15, 2026) : Columbia, SC
The Sand Monster is a timed 6-hour trail race held at Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia, South Carolina. The course is a 3.5-mile loop with about 270 feet of elevation gain per loop. Runners follow a mix of single track and double track trails. One of the two longer climbs has a sandy section, and much of the trail surface is covered with pine needles over firm sand. The loop runs through tree-lined sections providing shade and the course will be marked.
Race format, results and awards
The event is scored by completed loops within the 6-hour time limit. A finish is recorded if an athlete completes at least one full 3.5-mile loop within the timed period. Only laps fully completed before the cutoff are counted in official results. If multiple runners complete the same number of laps, placing is determined by the finish order of the last completed lap. Organizers plan awards for the top four overall male and female finishers and one top male and female grand master (50+); a grand master who places in the top four is not eligible for the grand master award. There will be additional awards such as Spirit and Far Out, and a post-race raffle held at the awards presentation. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.