Saguaro Showdown
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Saguaro Showdown
Saguaro Showdown is a backyard ultra format running and rucking event at Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa, Arizona, organized by Kaniksu Ultras. The event uses repeated fixed-distance loops on local trails; participants must complete each loop within one hour and be present in the start corral to begin the next loop. Crews are permitted but runners and ruckers must provide their own aid.
Distances:
- 4.1667-mile lap for runners
- 2.3-mile lap for ruckers
The event runs as a last person standing contest for each discipline. When only one runner or one rucker remains, that person must complete a final loop alone to be declared the winner. All other participants who leave the format are recorded as Did Not Finish. Overnight gear may be staged near the start and finish area and portable toilets are located just after the start line.
A temporary change moves the course to an out-and-back road section during the night before returning to the trail loop the following morning. Race procedures require participants to stay on course once the bell rings and to return to the corral before the next loop begins.
Ruck requirements define core weight as ruck plus weight used to meet minimums, excluding water and food. Core weight minimum is 30 pounds for participants over 150 pounds body weight and 20 pounds for those under 150 pounds.
Race swag includes an event T-shirt and an additional acknowledgment. An award is provided to the event winner. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
