Fondren Urban Ultra

Event

The Fondren Urban Ultra is a 12-hour timed road race for individual runners held in Jackson, Mississippi on April 18, 2026. The event is limited to 165 individual runners and is chip timed. The course uses a certified 5k loop (USATF MS17010MS) that will be used to record Mississippi state records for the 50k, 12-hour, and 100k distances; only Mississippi residents will be recorded for those state records. The event is organized by the Mississippi Ultra and Trail Society.

Course and logistics

Runners complete repeated 3.1 mile (5k) loops in the Fondren neighborhood. Each loop has a mix of hills and flat sections and about 150 feet of elevation gain and loss. Loops begin and end at Fondren Church, where participants may place nutrition, tents, coolers, and similar gear. The start/finish area will provide an aid station with water, Tailwind, and sweet and salty food. There is ample parking behind the church; participants are asked not to park in the Duling parking lot or in front of the church, and pop up tents may be set up on the front parking pavement on race morning.

Rules, fees, and awards

Runners may take breaks but must remain in the church parking area while on break. A full 5k lap must be completed within the 12-hour limit to be counted. Packet pickup is available the day before and on race morning. Entry is $50, increasing to $60 on January 1; there are no refunds, transfers, or deferments. No race day registration or registration at packet pickup is allowed. Awards are given to 1st through 3rd place male and female; all participants receive a medal, and those completing the ultra distance (9 laps) receive an additional item. Registration closes April 15, 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.