In the rugged expanse of Big Bend, a region famed for its minimal light pollution and stellar stargazing, athletes and enthusiasts will gather on January 19, 2025, for the 21st annual Big Bend Ultra. This demanding trail race, featuring distances ranging from 10k to an arduous 50 miles, began in 2004 and has since become a yearly highlight for both local and international runners.
The race, hosted in Big Bend National and State Parks, stretches across over 300,000 acres of remote, challenging terrain. Despite logistical hurdles such as limited water and fuel supplies, and considerable distances from urban centers like San Antonio, the event has thrived, drawing participants eager to tackle its trails under the vast Texas sky.
Event organizers Carroll Voss and Erik Stanley, along with a dedicated team from Trail Roots, anticipate this year’s race to be the most successful yet. The race weekend kicks off with a pre-race shakeout at Lajitas Resort Trails, featuring sponsors Fleet Feet, Altra, and Wright Sock.
Race day begins before dawn, with the 50-mile run starting at 5:30 AM, and concludes with the final event at 9:00 AM. The Barton Warnock Visitor Center in Terlingua, TX, serves as the pivotal start and finish line for all distances, ensuring all participants converge in one celebratory spot.
In addition to the physical challenge, the Big Bend Ultra supports local conservation efforts. A portion of the race proceeds benefits The Friends of Big Bend Ranch State Park and the Big Bend Trail Alliance, aiding in trail maintenance and improvements.
Volunteers, crucial to the race’s success, handle everything from trail setup to safety patrols. The Big Bend Amateur Radio Club also plays a vital role, providing communications infrastructure across the challenging terrain.
All finishers are rewarded with a handmade clay medal and a post-race meal, the latter dependent on retaining their race bib as it doubles as a meal ticket.
For those looking to participate or volunteer, detailed race policies, timing information, and signup details are available in the Race Prep Guide, with additional specifics on packet pickup times and volunteer requirements listed to ensure all participants are well-prepared for the event.
