Tuscarora Half Ass 25K & 15K
Ready to test your limits? The Tuscarora Half Ass takes runners through the scenic trails of Colonel Denning State Park and the surrounding Tuscarora State Forest for a day that mixes tough climbs, rewarding views, and a fun, no-frills atmosphere. Whether you choose the demanding 15K or the grueling 25K, you're in for a rugged adventure that is sure to stick with you long after you cross the finish line.
Course Description
Both races begin together at 8:00 AM and share the same opening route, giving all runners the same early taste of the terrain before the courses split. The opening miles take runners onto some of the park’s best-known trails, where the climbing starts early and the footing keeps things interesting.
The 15K may be the shorter option, but it is far from easy. With nearly 2,700 feet of elevation gain, it delivers a big effort over a compact distance and includes one of the race’s standout features: the iconic valley view from Flat Rock Vista.
The 25K builds on that same foundation and then adds even more challenge. With over 4,000 feet of vertical gain, runners continue beyond the 15K finish area and head out for an additional 10K loop on the eastern side of the park.
Registration
Online registration closes May 30th. If we hit our capacity before then, a waitlist will move into effect, and we will pull runners from that list through May 31st.
Per our DCNR permit, we have a strict limit of 120 total participants. Because we want to keep hosting this race for years to come, we cannot under any circumstances exceed this number.
- Race Day Sign-Ups: If we haven’t hit 120 runners by race morning, we will offer race-day registration.
- The Risk: If you plan to show up the morning of the race to sign up, please be aware that if we are at capacity, we won't be able to let you on the course.
- The Silver Lining: Even if you can’t run, you’re more than welcome to hang out, volunteer, and soak up the trail community vibes with us.
We believe the trails should be for everyone. If the registration fee is a genuine financial barrier that would prevent you from joining us for a day in the woods, please contact us. We trust this community and are happy to work with you to make sure you can get to the starting line.
25K Course
View on AllTrails
15K Course
View on AllTrails
Aid Stations & Support
The 15K course includes aid at miles 1.75 (water only), 5, and 7.5. The 25K course includes aid at miles 1.75 (water only), 5, 7.5, 9.25, 10.5, and 14.5. Aid stations will offer the standard fare, including water, an electrolyte option, some sweet, some salty, and some vegan options.
There is a hard course cut-off of 3:00 PM for all runners. In addition, 25K runners must reach Mile 7.5 by 11:00 AM.
Runner Experience
The "Half Ass" name reflects the race's low-key style. We focus on the experience rather than the flair. To keep things affordable and straightforward, registration does not include shirts or a standard swag bag. We do plan to present a special award to the first-place overall male and female finishers in both the 15K and 25K events.
Spectator access is limited because much of the course can only be reached on foot, but Mile 9 near the start/finish area is recommended as a good place to cheer runners on. After the race, runners and their families are encouraged to hang out for as long as they want and reminisce on their day and discuss their next lapse of judgement.
At Meatball Runners, we want trail running to be as accessible and stress free as possible. We know life doesn't always go according to plan. If an unexpected situation arises, such as an injury, family emergency, or pregnancy, please reach out to us. We’re happy to discuss options, whether that’s a full or partial refund or a deferral to next year’s event.
Proudly presented to you by the Meatball Runners!
Meatball Runner events are built on a simple foundation: an inclusive, supportive community. We aim to keep trail running accessible and stress-free while focusing on giving back. For us, that means hosting fun runs and socials for the local community, delivering tough courses and camaraderie for our racers, and supporting those in need through donations and volunteering.
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Event's current local time: 8:58 PM ET
