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Breaks Ultra | 45M

  • Breaks Interstate Park 627 Commission Circle Breaks, VA 24607 United States (map)

What You’ll LOVE

Brutality. In my experience, this is the most difficult course in Kentucky. Last year’s event saw an enormous DNF rate, and I was one of them. The course starts with a steep downhill in darkness, then a nice ford, then a nasty ascent. Once you get up top, you’ll drop down on either side of Pine Mountain only to do more ascents.

Beauty. Pine Mountain is one of my favorite places, as it offers spectacular views on numerous rock outcroppings on the ridgeline. You’ll enjoy grand views of Kentucky and Virginia, as the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail meanders along the border between the two commonwealths.

Next Opportunity Events. These guys put on some great races and each of the ultras they do has a uniqueness to it. Breaks, of course, is a real challenge, but the courses are always well marked, aid stations are reliable, and all the other pre- and post-race is tip top.

NOTE: If you are planning to run this race, it is critical that you do sufficient hill training with plenty of speed hiking. Road running isn’t going to be enough. You’ll need a good number of miles on steep, rocky terrain to be prepared for this race. Also, you might want to dip your shoes in water on your training runs too. That ford will keep your feet wet for hours! Next Opportunity Events typically offers a training run or two, and it’s wise to take advantage of these.

Earlier Event: July 13
Dawg Gone Long Run | 50K, 50M
Later Event: September 21
Georgia Jewel | 17M, 35M, 50M, 100M