About This Race
The Schuetzen NEIN! Hour Endurance Run presents a straightforward challenge: cover as much ground as possible in nine hours on a loop course at Schuetzen Park. This grassroots event, organized by Quad Cities Trail & Ultra Runners and Sun Trail Running, strips away the complexity of modern ultrarunning to focus on the fundamentals—time, distance, and personal limits. Runners tackle repeated loops with the freedom to run as much or as little as their goals and bodies allow, making it an ideal testing ground for first-time ultra attempts or seasoned runners seeking a controlled environment to push boundaries. The event offers both solo and relay options, with teams of up to three runners sharing the nine-hour window in the 'Mannschaft' (Team) Division. Participants who cover 50K solo or 50 miles as a relay team earn the distinctive 'Schuetzen Spanker' recognition. The low-key atmosphere belies meticulous organization, with abundant aid at the start/finish, hot meals, and constant encouragement from race staff. Entry fees directly support Schuetzen Park maintenance, with nearly $10,000 donated to date, making each loop a contribution to trail preservation.
The race takes place on loop trails within Schuetzen Park, allowing runners to return to the start/finish area regularly for aid and mental resets. The exact loop distance and terrain details are not specified in available data, though the park setting suggests typical Midwest trail running terrain.
Aid Stations
1 stations along the course
Start/Finish
water, electrolyte, food, hot food
Main aid station with abundant supplies and hot meals
Notable Features
This event stands out for its pure time-based format and strong community support model. The nine-hour limit removes the pressure of specific distance goals while the loop design provides psychological comfort and regular aid access. The 'Schuetzen Spanker' award system creates achievable milestones, and the direct park donation model gives each participant a stake in trail preservation. The relay option adds a social element uncommon in ultra events.