Race Format Distance: 50 miles Race Style: Continuous run (not hourly) Time Limit: 12-hour hard cutoff Start: Mass start with other 50-mile competitors Field Limit: 75 runners Course: Trail-based loop; minor distance variation is expected and accepted due to terrain Athlete Support & Logistics Dedicated 50-Mile staging area separate from the hourly loop athletes Access to: Main aid station every 5K loop Personal staged gear each lap Medical and safety oversight consistent with ultra-distance standards Timing & Results Chip timing Splits recorded and posted for every completed 5K loop Overall finishing time determines placement Real-time loop splits allow athletes and crews to track pacing, fatigue, and performance trends Age Group Divisions The Next Loop 50-Mile Endurance Challenge recognizes longevity and sustained performance with dedicated divisions: Open Masters: Ages 5069 Grand Masters: Ages 70+ Who This Race Is For Ultra runners seeking a fast-moving, loop-based 50-mile format Athletes who value precision timing, personal pacing strategy, and crew accessibility Competitors who want the energy of a multi-event endurance environment without sacrificing race integrity Important Notes The 50-Mile Endurance Challenge is a standalone race and is not scored using the hourly loop format Participants must meet experience and readiness standards appropriate for a 50-mile ultra Strict cutoff enforcement ensures athlete safety and event flow Pacers Pacers are permitted beginning at 4:00 PM Pacers may accompany athletes on the course only after 4:00 PM Pacers must: Check in at the designated pacer station Wear an official pacer identification Enter and exit the course at the start/finish area only Pacers may not carry gear or nutrition for the athlete beyond what is allowed under standard trail-running rules Each athlete may use multiple pacers, one pacer at a time Pacers are intended to support athlete safety, pacing, and morale during the later stages of the race while preserving fairness and course flow.