Fiery Gizzard

Description
The Fiery Gizzard Run features a half and full marathon distance of racing on one of the Top 25 Trails in the US. Marathon runners will complete the entire trail twice in an out-and-back format, starting and ending at The Grundy Forest end. Half marathon runners will complete one full traverse of the trail. The course provides beautiful waterfalls, stunning rock formations, and overlooks with views for miles. The trail is mostly flat ridgeline running with several steep dips into gorges. These descents are quite technical and require focus on your footing. Although the trail is very well-maintained, there are a few spots that could be dangerous, so please read the race layout carefully and listen to all directions from the RD at the start of the race. The race layout will be sent via email approximately one week from race date.



MAJOR CHANGE THIS YEAR


Important Update for Half Marathon participants.

We have a change for those running the 13.1 miles. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to secure the two buses we usually use. Instead, we’ll have two large passenger vans to transport finishers back to their vehicles.This adjustment means that half marathon participants will need to drive to the start location. To accommodate this change, the race will start at 9:30 AM CST at Foster Falls. Typically, we arrive at Foster Falls around 8:50 AM and start the race by 9:15 AM, so this is only a slight shift in timing. See below for more details and be sure to watch video





Pre-Race Details

Check-In Location for all runners is still at Grundy
Check-in is required to receive your bib and RFID chip.
Make sure the RFID chip is secured to your left ankle, and double-check that your chip number matches your bib number
After check-in, half marathon participants will drive to Foster Falls for the start of the race. If you want to see the start of the marathon at 8:00am
The passenger vans will transport finishers back to their  vehicles from Grundy to Foster Falls.

Race Info

Race Info
Date: November 30, 2024
Location: 75 Fiery Gizzard Rd, Tracy City 37387
Tracy City, TN 37387
United States 37374
Capacity: 175 runners (*note that capacity is regulated by park officials and is non-negotiable*)
Marathon start: 8:00AM - Race ends at 5PM
Half Marathon Race After you check in at Grundy please drive you vehicle to Foster Falls by 9:30am

Entry Fee/Awards
Half marathon: $75
Full marathon: $85

**Race shirts and other swag are not included in the race fee. You can add tees, hats, socks, and towels to your order during the registration process. If you’d like to guarantee yourselves a race t-shirt, you must register before 11/15/2024.

Please note that a portion of proceeds from this race goes directly back to the park, trail maintenance, and more to keep this beautiful place alive!

All runners will earn a custom Hardwin finisher award when they cross the finish line, and additional awards will be given to top male and female finishers in both the half and full marathon distances.

The Fiery Gizzard Run features a half and full marathon distance of racing on one of the Top 25 Trails in the US. Marathon runners will complete the entire trail twice in an out-and-back format, starting and ending at Grundy trail head. Half marathon runners will complete one full traverse of the trail. The course provides beautiful waterfalls, stunning rock formations, and overlooks with views for miles. The trail is mostly flat ridge-line running with several steep dips into gorges. These descents are quite technical and require focus on your footing. Although the trail is very well-maintained, there are a few spots that could be dangerous, so please read the race layout carefully and listen to all directions from the RD at the start of the race. The race layout will be sent via email approximately one week from race date.

*

CUTOFFS - The race is over at 5pm all runners must be in by that time. You have 4.5 hour to make it to the turn around, and must be at Ravens Point by 3PM.

Aid Stations

Aid Stations
Due to limited access on the Fiery Gizzard trail, aid stations will be further apart than our typical events. You can expect 6-8 miles in between aid, so be sure to carry sufficient water and nutrition for these stretches.

We are known for having great aid stations, stocked with snacks, Spring Energy gels, water, and electrolytes. Please note that due to COVID-19, typical aid station fare may be limited, and we will ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate hosting races during a global pandemic.

We will not be providing cups, so you must carry your own water container.

Other

Medical Care/First Aid
**Important: Trail running is dangerous and can lead to injuries or death. There are portions of this trail which will require your focus and patience. If you're willing to accept these risks and still be humble, then we welcome you with open arms (this is not meant to dissuade you, only to be upfront and honest). Please note that we do not have a medical staff, but can provide you with basic first-aid once we get to you in the field. In short, you're on your own and responsible for your safety. In the event of a rescue, runners will incur all costs of such a rescue from the state. However, we will have basic first aid sweepers that can help you out if you need an extra hand.

Common Questions
Can I bring my dog? Yes, as long as it is leashed.
What is the elevation per 13 miles? Around 3,500ft.
Is this a full half and marathon distance? Yes, it is. We actually think it is slightly over due to the new trail. More trails for your money!!
Is there camping available? Yes, but please check with TN parks and reserve a spot through their site.
How technical is the trail? It is not easy but according to human mountain goat John Hardin, “I personally feel like it’s not too technical. There are a few small sections where you really need to watch your feet but that's about it.” Take that with a grain of salt knowing what you know about the Cumberland Plateau Stage Race and Music City Trail Ultra!

HardRuck

We’re excited to offer the Rucking Division again for each race. For those new to the concept, rucking involves walking or hiking with a weighted pack. The term comes from the military word “Rucksack,” meaning “Backpack.”t.

Weight Requirements:

Over 150lb: 20lb dry weight
Under 150lb: 10lb dry weight

Weigh-ins will occur 30 minutes before the race start—no weigh-in, no patch. The weight must be in the form of a steel ruck plate, weight vest blocks, bumper plates, or other items with clearly stamped weight. Participants may not remove or reduce the weight during the event and may face random checks at aid stations or anywhere on the course. We rely on the honor system, so please do the right thing.

Event's current local time: 9:59 PM ET