The Sawmill Gauntlet

DEC
4
2026
The Sawmill Gauntlet is a relentless last-runner-standing race on a 2.5-mile loop. A new lap starts every 45 minutes, and you must finish each one to stay in the running division. A separate 12-hour ruck division challenges participants to carry a 25 lb pack.
Fri 4 Dec 2026

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Event Format

The Sawmill Gauntlet is a last-runner-standing style race on a 2.5-mile loop course in Laurens, South Carolina. A new lap begins every 45 minutes, and every runner must complete one full loop within that time window to continue. Runners must be back in the starting corral before the next lap begins; missing the start eliminates them from the race.

Divisions

The event has two divisions: a Running Division and a Ruck Division.

  • Running Division: The event continues until only one runner remains. The winner must then complete one final, solo 2.5-mile lap.
  • 12-Hour Ruck Division: This is a time-based endurance event using the same course. Participants must carry a 25 lb ruck (dry weight) at all times. They may take breaks, but any break longer than 30 minutes results in removal. The event lasts for 12 hours.

Philosophy

The event emphasizes suffering management, discipline, and mental durability over speed or comfort. Weight will be checked for the ruck division. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Running Division
Ruck Division