About This Race
The DAM Loop stands as a testament to the staying power of grassroots trail running, having maintained its place in the Kansas racing calendar for over a decade. This 20-mile event takes place at El Dorado State Park, where runners tackle a challenging loop format that tests both physical endurance and mental fortitude. The race structure is straightforward but demanding: complete five loops of approximately four miles each within a six-hour time limit, with each circuit beginning and ending at the park's amphitheater. What distinguishes The DAM Loop is its blend of accessibility and challenge. While the distance places it firmly in ultra territory, the loop format allows runners to gauge their progress and adjust strategy throughout the race. The event also offers relay options for teams of three or five, making it a community-focused gathering that welcomes both solo endurance runners and collaborative efforts. The consistent annual staging since at least 2011 speaks to its established place in the regional trail running scene. Presented by W Investments, the race has built a reputation for solid organization and a no-frills approach that lets the natural beauty and challenge of El Dorado State Park take center stage. The evening start time adds an element of night running to the latter stages, particularly for runners pushing toward the six-hour cutoff.
The 20-mile course consists of five loops of approximately four miles each, all contained within El Dorado State Park in Kansas. Each loop starts and finishes at the park's amphitheater, providing a consistent reference point throughout the race. The terrain specifics are not detailed in available information, though the park setting suggests a mix of trail surfaces typical of state park systems in Kansas.
The loop format allows runners to become familiar with the course while presenting the psychological challenge of repeating the same section multiple times. With a six-hour cutoff, runners need to maintain an average pace of 18 minutes per mile to complete all five loops successfully.
Notable Features
The DAM Loop's defining characteristic is its five-loop format within El Dorado State Park, creating a unique psychological dimension where runners become intimately familiar with every section of trail. The evening start time means many participants will experience night running conditions, while the relay options foster team participation alongside individual ultra efforts. With over a decade of consistent staging, the race has developed a loyal following in the Kansas trail running community.