Death by 5k Memphis
Memphis, United States • 11-12 Apr 2026
Death by 5k Memphis
The Death by 5k event returns to Memphis for its fifth year as a 24-hour endurance challenge held at Shelby Farms. Participants are required to complete ten separate 5 km runs, with a new segment starting every 2.5 hours. Runners must be present at the start of each designated interval and finish the distance before the next scheduled start time. This format incorporates factors such as physical fatigue, sleep deprivation, and nighttime running.
The course is located at the Tour de Wolf Pavilion and utilizes the Tour de Wolf trail. The route primarily consists of a loop, though trail conditions may necessitate small sections of out-and-back two-way traffic. Because segments of the event occur at night, participants must use headlamps, hand lights, or other forms of portable illumination.
Between the scheduled runs, participants can rest in their vehicles or set up camping tents in the grass area adjacent to the pavilion. The event provides five hot meals at specific intervals, supplemented by snack food and drinks available throughout the 24-hour period.
The challenge includes:
- 24 Hour Challenge (ten 5 km runs)
Participants receive an event shirt and additional race gear. Those who complete all ten intervals receive a coffin-themed award. Registration for this event is initially capped at 200 participants, with a waitlist managed by the organizers if the field expands. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.