Night Howler 50

Night Howler 50

The Night Howler 50 is a 50 mile ultramarathon organized by The Running Birds at Hoover Sports Park East in Hoover, Alabama. The race is run overnight with most or all of the distance in darkness on a 2.5 mile loop that is repeated twenty times to complete the course.

The start and finish are located at the building in the middle of the baseball fields, which also serves as the primary aid station and race base. The marked loop crosses a bridge above the Cahaba River and descends four flights of stairs into wooded trails. The course is generally flat with a couple of small inclines and declines.

Runners must be at least 19 years old. Competitors must complete twenty laps within 16 hours to be an official finisher and to receive the custom belt buckle. The 16 hour cutoff corresponds to a 19:12 per mile pace. Pacers are allowed on course at any time.

There is space in the start area for participants and their crews to set up tents or personal aid stations outside the race course. Packet pickup occurs on race day at the start/finish area; participants will receive a race bib and a custom t shirt and must present photo identification. The event is rain or shine.

A full service aid station at the start/finish will offer food and hydration every lap. Typical offerings include pickles, fruit, and hot options at times. This is a cup less event so runners should bring their own cup or bottle. Top three male and top three female finishers who complete the full distance receive custom medals. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.