About This Race
The Underground Circus 100 brands itself as a 'no DNF race,' emphasizing support and flexibility over traditional ultra strictures. Race director Jameela Abdul maintains a personal presence throughout the event, adjusting distances and providing assistance to ensure runners can complete their chosen challenge. The event offers multiple distance options from 6 hours to 100 miles, making it accessible to runners across the experience spectrum. Set on a mixed-surface course that combines trail, gravel road, and asphalt, the race features a relatively flat profile around Carson City. The route includes access to amenities like indoor restrooms and nearby convenience stores, unusual luxuries in the ultra world. Night runners must carry lights, and the course remains open to public use during the event. This grassroots event operates with a community feel, accepting pacers in shorter distances and encouraging runners to bring personal nutrition items. All proceeds benefit homeless assistance programs, adding a charitable dimension to the challenge. The race's philosophy prioritizes completion over competition, offering distance adjustments if runners struggle with cutoffs.
The course runs on a mixed-surface loop combining trail sections with gravel roads and asphalt. Runners encounter typical trail features including rocks, roots, and wooded areas, while also covering faster asphalt sections surrounded by grass trails. The 8-mile out-and-back section provides access to a Texaco station with indoor facilities and nearby restaurants including Publix and Chipotle.
The route features timing mats and is well-marked to prevent navigation errors. Runners can choose between trail and asphalt surfaces for much of the course, with identical distances. The relatively flat profile makes this accessible for first-time ultra runners, though summer temperatures typically reach 85-95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Aid Stations
2 stations along the course
Main Aid Station
water, electrolyte, snacks
Fully stocked aid station with cups, sports drinks, and various snacks
Secondary Aid Station
water, electrolyte
Practical Info
July temperatures typically range from 85-95 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity in the Atlanta area.
Hotels available within 6 minutes of the start area, with the start location approximately 20 minutes from the airport.
- Headlamp or reflective gear for night running
Best For
Notable Features
The Underground Circus 100 distinguishes itself through exceptional runner support and flexibility. The race director remains on course throughout the event, offering distance adjustments for struggling runners and maintaining a personal connection with participants. The unique 'no DNF' philosophy creates a supportive environment where completion takes precedence over strict adherence to original distance goals.