Die to Run Backyard Ultra

Event Format

Die to Run is a backyard ultra, last-person-standing event. The race consists of repeating loops, or "yards," with the goal of being the last runner to complete a lap.

Course and Distance

The course is a flat out-and-back on the paved Hatbox path in Muskogee, Oklahoma. The event is held at the Hatbox Sports Complex, Airport Hanger 3. The unique feature is that a six-sided die is rolled live five minutes before the top of each hour to determine the distance of the next loop, which can be 1 to 6 miles. The turnaround point varies each hour based on the distance rolled.

Special Rules

Several rules modify the die rolls as the race progresses:

• To ease runners in, if a 5 or 6 is rolled during the first two hours, the distance is adjusted to 4 miles.
• After the first 6 hours, any roll of a 1 becomes a 3.
• After the first 12 hours, any roll of a 2 becomes a 4.

Race Rules

All runners must complete the designated loop distance within the 60-minute time limit to continue. Runners must be in the starting corral when the next lap begins; late starts lead to disqualification. No personal aid is allowed on the course, but runners can carry their own supplies. All aid is located at the main station at the start/finish line. Crew support is allowed only in the designated base camp area. The race continues until only one runner remains to complete a final loop.

Finisher Award

Every participant receives a customized award. Upon finishing or tapping out, runners are given a solid cedar 3.5" x 3.5" wooden die, laser-engraved on-site with their name and exact mileage. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.