The 16 Hour Lock-in

The 16 Hour Lock-In

The event is held at Carolina Beach State Park near Wilmington, North Carolina. Participants have 16 hours to complete a roughly 4.5 mile loop as many times as they wish. The event is run as a no DNF race so entrants with different goals and paces share the same timed period.

The course runs through coastal maritime forest on groomed, wide and relatively flat trails. Surfaces include dirt, sand, pine straw, exposed roots and a short section of road with grass available alongside. The loop is well marked and includes two hills of about 100 feet of climb per loop. Each lap passes the Start/Finish area where participants can access personal gear, bathrooms and the aid station. A sheltered drop bag area is provided for those without a 10x10 camp spot.

The aid station supplies water, Tailwind and a selection of salty, sweet and savory snacks, plus two hot meals served at lunch and dinner. Organizers try to offer vegan and gluten free options when informed in advance. The race is cup free and requires racers to use a refillable hydration vessel. A headlamp or similar light is required for anyone running past 5:30 pm.

Camping options include a limited group campsite with 30 primitive 10x10 spots and an overnight car pass, or the park family campground located less than one mile from the course. Recognized finish distances receive a punk rock patch and 100 mile finishers receive a buckle. Top distances in the 16 hour period are awarded in Male, Female and Non-Binary divisions. There is a waitlist for sold out events and a 75% refund policy is offered through October 1. Volunteers receive benefits including a race shirt and priority registration. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.