The Iron Turtle
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The Iron Turtle
The Iron Turtle is a trail running event held at Lake Lurleen State Park in Coker, Alabama. The competition follows a modified Backyard Ultra or Last Runner Standing format, where participants complete a 4 mile loop every hour. Each lap starts precisely on the hour, signaled by a mascot. Unlike traditional formats, this event features separate male and female divisions, crowning a winner for each.
The course consists of a well-groomed trail that is 95% single track and 5% paved road. Each lap includes approximately 270 feet of elevation gain. The event emphasizes personal milestones; runners who miss a time cutoff may continue unofficially to reach a personal distance goal, with their total mileage recorded.
Distances and formats include:
- 4 mile loops completed hourly in a Last Runner Standing format.
- A "Shoot-out" option after 12 hours where a final lap determines the winner if all remaining runners agree.
- A potential "Leap Frog" tag-team division where two runners alternate loops.
The start and finish area is located at a pavilion near the main bridge, offering a well-stocked aid station with electrolytes, snacks, and meal options for lunch and dinner. The venue features various amenities, including hot showers, camping areas, fishing, and swimming. Participants receive a finisher award displaying their total mileage and a race shirt. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
