Willis River Fat Ass
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Willis River Fat Ass
This free, fat ass style trail race is held each January at Bear Creek Lake State Park. The event offers three distance options and uses multiple out-and-back segments on park trails.
Runners start at the Cumberland multi-use trail trailhead and quickly join the Willis River Trail. After a short flat section they follow the Willis River Trail for about 6 miles to the first aid station, which serves as the 20k turnaround. Continuing to the Game Farm Road aid station creates the longer out-and-back, after which participants retrace to the first aid and return to the start to complete roughly 35k. To complete 50k, runners leave the start on the Willis River Trail toward Winston Lake, reach the final turnaround aid station, and return to the start.
The course is rough and infrequently used; sections are rerouted often. Runners must follow white blazes and white engineer tape closely. There are numerous river crossings and winter conditions can make feet wet. Navigation errors can add distance.
Registration is free; donations at check-in help cover permits, portajohns, and trail marking. Packet pick up is at the trailhead parking area in Bear Creek Lake State Park. Parking is available near the beach area; do not park on the grass.
There are four aid stations. Runners bring shared food; organizers provide water. No drop bags. Pacers and strollers are not permitted. Dogs are allowed with prior coordination with the race director. Cabins are available in the state park; nearest hotels are in Charlottesville and Farmville.
There is an early afternoon hard cutoff for returning from the shorter courses and a later cutoff for the 50k. Every 50k runner must check in with the race director before beginning the final 15k and must carry a jacket, hat, gloves, and a light. Finishers receive congratulations and perhaps a puppy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
