Two-hundred-mile foot race to loop western counties
The Southeast’s most grueling team race will take off from Pink Beds Picnic Area in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard April 17, covering 212 miles before ending at Nantahala Outdoor Center April 18.
The sixth annual Smoky Mountain Overnight Relay will draw in runners from across the U.S. to cover a route that’s both beautiful and challenging. Teams of six or 12 people each run three or six legs of the race, at least one of which must be run overnight. The route includes a Forest Service Road around the granite dome of Looking Glass Rock, spectacular views from the Blue Ridge Parkway and glimpses of the Appalachian and Bartram trails along the upper Nantahala River.
The runners will hold descriptive cards to stay on track while their teammates shuttle along to the next leg, and nurses riding on horseback will tend to any injuries. Finish-line festivities at NOC will include live mountain music, costume contests and food and drink along the riverbank.
Registration for the race is open through April 10. www.smr.smokymountainrelay.com
