Not A Sprint Ultra Races
Forest City, United States • 6 Sep 2026
Not-A-Sprint Ultra Races - Forest City, NC
The 5th Annual Not-A-Sprint Ultra Races is an endurance event presented by Cancer Active on the Thermal Belt Rail Trail. The course is an 8.34-mile out and back on paved trail with only 95 feet of elevation change per loop. Aid stations are described as well-stocked and about 35% of the route is shaded.
Racing options are offered by elapsed time:
- 3-Hour Individual
- 6-Hour Individual
- 12-Hour Individual
Experienced ultrarunners can pursue extended mileage; completing six laps totals 50.1 miles and those who reach 50 miles within the 12-hour race receive a "Not-A-Sprint" belt buckle. Relay teams may compete with the requirement that each runner completes at least one lap. New or returning athletes may walk, jog, or run the course at their chosen pace.
Event rules address pacing and support. Pacers are not allowed for the 3-hour and 6-hour races. For the 12-hour race pacers are permitted after six hours; pacers must be at least 18 years old and must check in and sign a waiver. Support crews may assist only at the Forest City aid station area. Runners must wear numbers on the front or attach the bib to shorts or a belt if shirtless.
Medical personnel will be on site. Drop bags for the Spindale aid station must be labeled for transport and moved to the designated return area after use. Packet pickup is listed as TBD. Included items note a race shirt, medal, 50-mile buckle and race fuel among other supplies. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.