Important 2021 Info

Along with safety guidelines, we are tentatively holding the half marathon and marathon on two separate days, May 15 and 16, respectively. With this in mind, Double Downs can be achieved by running another race within 21 days of Backside. If you plan on running a Double Down, please make sure to answer "yes" at registration.

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Packet Pick Up / Directions To Start

Packets can be picked up at Quest Outdoors (date TBD) or at the start/finish line on race day at 7:00 AM. Quest is located in Shelbyville Plaza at 4600 Shelbyville Road, Louisville, KY 40207.

Races will start by the basketball courts in Seneca Park at 8:00 AM. The nearest intersection is Cherokee Gardens and Pee Wee Reese Road. GPS coordinates of start/finish line: Latitude - Longitude: 38.240756, -85.674632

There will be plenty of parking in the lot by the softball field and vendor tents set up in the nearby grassy area.

Awards

Every finisher in the marathon and half marathon will receive a medal, with special designations for those who Double Down either distance. If you are running a Double Down please ensure you answer "yes" at registration to receive your special award.

Shirt sizes at check out are unisex, so choose accordingly!

So What is a Double Down?

Some people love the idea of running back-to-back races in the same weekend. Typically this is a logistical challenge, but our race takes place the day after several nearby marathons and half marathons. If you choose to Double Down, you'll get some special bling on your medal!

The Course

Course and elevation map can be found here. The full marathon runs this course twice.

Road Runner's Caveat!
This is a trail run and is much harder than your typical marathon. Be prepared for adventure and fun! The trails are high-quality single-track, described as gently rolling, but this is subjective. If you have never run trails before, these are a great intro into trail running, but don't expect to match your road time. Expect 130% of your normal road time or more. Trail running footwear is recommended.

Sponsors

The Backside Trail Marathon and Quest Outdoors would like to thank our amazing sponsors:
Patagonia
Salomon
Headfirst Performance
Shellhamer Ultra Endurance Coaching
Mountain Fit Wellness
Drunkwood
Road ID

USATF Sanction Pending

We are currently in progress of obtaining a sanction to be designated as an official USATF (United States Track and Field) event!

What is a Sanction?
A USATF sanction is an official designation issued by USATF through a local Association, which approves and licenses the holding of a competitive track and field, long distance running, or race walking events in the United States. The sanction is also a contract, which evidences the event's commitment to follow national and international rules and regulations of the sport and to provide a safe environment for the participants and spectators. Once the event has satisfied the sanction requirements, the event's application for sanction is approved.

Refunds

Unfortunately we cannot give refunds, transfers or deferrals at this time.

Aid Stations / Drop Bags

There will be three aid stations: one at the start/finish line and two on the course roughly 2-4 miles apart.

Each runner may have one drop bag, if they wish. Your bag must be labeled with your name and bib number. No garbage bags are allowed.

Time Cut

There is a strict 8 hour time limit on the course. If not on pace to finish in 8 hours, you will not be given a time and your timing chip will be removed.

Although we would love everyone to finish, it isn't safe to allow runners on the course after the time limit once aid stations are taken down, volunteers have gone home, etc. Our insurance requires this as this is a small community event. Thank you for understanding!