2026 Holly Springs Race Against The Sun

The 2026 Holly Springs Race Against The Sun will take place on February 21–22, 2026, in Sugg Farm Park, located at Grigsby Avenue in Holly Springs, North Carolina. The event is set against the backdrop of natural surface paths through parkland and around Bass Lake, offering a trail running experience that emphasizes accessibility and pacing. On the day of the event, Holly Springs is expected to have a high of 52°F and a low of 32°F, with partly cloudy conditions. Participants can anticipate a runnable, non-technical trail with gentle rolling hills, where they will complete multiple laps of a 4.167-mile loop, accumulating distance over the course of the event. The course is designed to allow runners to pace themselves, with only fully completed laps counting toward their final distance.

What is the format of the 2026 Holly Springs Race Against The Sun?

The event features a single 4.167-mile trail loop that runners repeat throughout the event. The course is designed for accessibility and pacing consistency, not a Last Man Standing format. Participants accumulate distance by completing full loops within the race window, and only fully completed laps count toward their final distance.

What are the race distances and formats offered?

• →24-Hour Individual: Run as many 4.167-mile loops as possible between 7:00 AM Saturday and 7:00 AM Sunday.
• →12-Hour "Race the Day": 7:00 AM–7:00 PM Saturday.
• →Marathon (26.2 miles): Approximately 6.3 loops.
• →Half Marathon (13.1 miles): Approximately 3.15 loops.
• →4-Mile: Single partial loop option starting at 7:00 PM Saturday.
• →Relay Options: 24-hour (6-person team) and 12-hour daytime (4-person team).

What are the rules for timing and lap recording?

Runners must cross the start/finish timing mat to have each lap officially recorded. This ensures accurate tracking of completed loops and final distance.

What amenities are available at the event?

An aid station is located at the start/finish, offering water, electrolyte drinks, and basic nutrition. Participants are encouraged to bring their own personal nutrition. Real bathroom facilities are available along the course and in a private runner/crew trailer. Designated tent camping areas are permitted for participants and crews near the start/finish, with fires allowed only in contained pits. On-site parking is available at Sugg Farm Park.

What are the requirements for headlamps?

Headlamps are required from 30 minutes before sunset until the conclusion of the race. This is to ensure visibility and safety during the evening hours.

What are the pacer rules for the event?

Pacers are permitted for 12-hour and 24-hour individual participants, with one pacer per runner allowed. This rule applies to the longer race formats to support participants over extended distances.

Are strollers or dogs allowed on the course?

Strollers and dogs are prohibited due to trail conditions and safety considerations. This is to maintain the integrity of the course and ensure the safety of all participants.

What are the ruck divisions available?

Ruck divisions are available for 12-hour and 24-hour formats, with mandatory weighted packs. The weight requirement is 20 lbs if the participant is under 150 lbs bodyweight, and 30 lbs if over 150 lbs. This adds an additional challenge for those participating in the ruck categories.

What special recognition is offered for participants?

Milestone patches are awarded at 25, 50, 75, and 100 miles. Ruckers who complete 50 miles with a 50-lb pack receive a special "50 x 50" patch. 100-mile finishers receive a custom belt buckle. Top three male/female ruckers per distance receive special medals courtesy of the Travis Manion Foundation.

What is the event schedule and timing?

The 24-hour individual race runs from 7:00 AM Saturday to 7:00 AM Sunday. The 12-hour "Race the Day" runs from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Saturday. The 4-mile event starts at 7:00 PM on Saturday. The marathon and half marathon follow a similar timing structure, with start times based on the number of laps required.

What is included in the registration?

Registration includes access to the course, timing mat for lap recording, and aid station access. Participants are encouraged to bring their own nutrition and hydration supplies. Additional amenities such as bathroom facilities, camping areas, and on-site parking are also included.