The Tick
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The Tick
The Tick is a point-to-point ultramarathon taking place in the Ocala National Forest. The event follows a section of the Florida National Scenic Trail, covering a total distance of 57.41 miles. This distance consists of a 50 mile course plus an additional 7.41 miles of mandatory bonus mileage. The race alternates its start and finish locations annually; for this edition, the route begins at Kirkpatrick (Rodman) Dam in Palatka and concludes at Alexander Springs State Park in Altoona.
The course utilizes singletrack trails through a variety of Florida ecosystems, including prairies, marshes, lakes, and forests consisting of pine and hardwood. Participants may encounter local wildlife such as deer, black bears, bobcats, eagles, and scrub jays. The environment typically involves humid conditions, wetlands, and dense vegetation.
This event is organized as a Fat Ass style race with a limited capacity of 50 participants. There is no registration fee, though a donation to the Florida Trail Association is suggested. The race offers both crewed and unsupported options. While pop-up aid stations are planned at approximately 10 mile intervals, runners choosing the unsupported option are responsible for their own hydration, nutrition, and gear between these locations.
All participants or their crews are required to carry a reliable communication device, such as a cell phone or GPS messenger. As a point-to-point race, runners are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the start and from the finish line, as no shuttle service is provided.
Distances: Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- 57.41 miles (50 miles plus 7.41 mandatory bonus miles)