Kettlebell Kountdown

Event details

The Kettlebell Kountdown takes place on October 10, 2026, at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama. The event is a 50K distance composed of 31 one-mile loops. Participants must be 18 or older. Organizers provide a kettlebell for each runner and a custom t-shirt at packet pickup.

Format and course rules

The course is a clearly marked one-mile loop. On every lap each runner must carry a 20-pound kettlebell with at least one hand in contact with it. Runners may carry the kettlebell by hand, rest it on a shoulder, chest, or upper back while holding it, or set it down briefly but must pick it up to continue. Prohibited methods include using ropes, chains, bags, vests, or attaching the kettlebell to clothing or gear, and throwing the kettlebell. No outside assistance or pacers are allowed on the loop. Runners who fail to complete a lap within the posted time limit are eliminated and must return their kettlebell.

Time limits decrease as the event progresses, beginning at 30 minutes for early laps and reducing to 16 minutes for later timed laps. The final lap, lap 31, has no time limit; if multiple runners reach it, the fastest to complete that lap is the winner. Only runners who complete lap 31 receive official finisher medals and are eligible for top-place awards.

Logistics and awards

Packet pickup is held at the Lakeside Pavilion on race day; photo identification is required. There is parking and restroom access near the start/finish area. Crews may assist runners only in the start/finish area between laps. Water and light snacks are provided on course, but runners are responsible for their own aid supplies. The event is rain or shine and organizers advise bringing a headlamp for later laps. Awards are given to the top three male and top three female finishers; these awards are custom kettlebells of decreasing weight for places one through three. No refunds are offered, but entries may be transferred. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.