Catsmacker

Event Overview

The Catsmacker is an off-road run in the Lake Sylvia Day Use area near Perryville, Arkansas. It is an AURA "Fun Run" that does not award points for the Arkansas Ultra Trail Series and serves as a season-closer event.

Distances

• Catsmacker: Approximately 20 miles.
• Kitty Run: Approximately 12 miles.

Participants choose their distance on the event day.

Course Details

The route uses Forest Service roads and a section of the Ouachita Trail. The terrain is a mix of gravel (mostly), a little pavement, and single or double track trail. Course marking is primarily at turns and intersections using signs, ribbon, and flour arrows. Participants unfamiliar with the area are advised to study maps in advance.

The event has a 6-hour time limit. For the Catsmacker distance, this equals a pace of roughly 16 minutes and 30 seconds per mile. An early start option exists for participants who anticipate needing more than the allotted time.

Logistics

The start and finish are at the Lake Sylvia Day Use area. Parking at the site is limited. When full, overflow parking is along Highway 324 on the west side only. Carpooling is encouraged.

Participation is based on a suggested donation of around $20 to cover permitting, insurance, aid station supplies, a finish line cookout, and other logistics. All proceeds go to the non-profit AURA.

Other Information

Aid stations are provided: at least two for the Catsmacker route and one for the Kitty Run. Basic food is available, but runners are advised to carry their own water and snacks. The park allows leashed dogs.

The event is volunteer-based and concludes with a cookout-style lunch and an awards ceremony for the Arkansas Ultra Trail Series. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.