About This Race
The Trail of Fears claims to be the oldest continuous Last Runner Standing event in the world, running annually since at least 2012. This unique format eliminates traditional distance categories in favor of pure endurance testing. Runners must complete a 4.3-mile trail loop within one hour, then return to the starting line for the next hourly departure. Miss the cutoff or fail to answer the bell at the top of any hour, and you're eliminated. The race begins at 7 AM in early light and continues until only one runner remains, often finishing under moonlight with an audience of coyotes and exhausted former competitors. The format creates a fascinating psychological challenge where faster runners gain more rest time between loops, while those finishing closer to the hour limit face immediate turnaround pressure. What makes this race particularly compelling is its timing the day after Christmas, earning it the subtitle 'The Day After the World Ended.' The December 27th date adds an extra layer of difficulty, as runners must balance holiday celebrations with the demands of potentially running through the night in Missouri winter conditions.
The race consists of repeated 4.3-mile trail loops starting and finishing at the same location in Wildwood, Missouri. The course terrain and elevation details are not specified in available data, though the trail setting suggests typical Missouri woodland paths with moderate elevation changes. Each loop must be completed within 60 minutes, creating a sustainable pace requirement that becomes increasingly challenging as fatigue accumulates over multiple hours.
Practical Info
Late December in Missouri typically brings cold temperatures, possible snow or ice, and winter trail conditions with shortened daylight hours.
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Notable Features
This race holds historical significance as potentially the world's oldest continuous Last Runner Standing event, predating the format's recent popularity surge. The post-Christmas timing adds unique logistical and psychological elements, while the hour-on-the-hour format creates a distinctive rhythm unlike traditional ultra distances.