Taking place at Goodman Ranch Sycamore Canyon Preserve, just east of San Diego, the Sycamore Canyon Race offers three distance options: 100K, 50K, and a Half Marathon.
The 100K and 50K options are available for solo runners and relay teams, whereas the half marathon is just for solo runners. There are three categories for relay teams: Open (at least one female runner), Women, and Men.
A defining feature of the Sycamore Canyon Race is its loops, each of which has an elevation gain of approximately 1,400 feet. The 50K route has four loops and the 100K eight loops.
In relay teams, runners may do laps consecutively or rest between laps. Teams may only make substitutions up to 24 hours before the race begins. If a runner is unable to complete a second lap or doesn’t participate, the other runners on the team must cover the remaining laps.
Drop bags are available and are accessible to runners every 11.1 kilometers (relay runners are encouraged to go without). Runners must label their drop bags with their names, bib numbers, and race distance.
Sycamore Canyon Trail Race 100k, 50k & Half Marathon
7:00 AM
Trail
$320+
San Diego
1-100
Challenging
Mountain Views
Welcome to the thrilling Sycamore Canyon Race, a spectacular event offering various distances to challenge your limits. This race unfolds in the heart of the Goodman Ranch Sycamore Canyon Preserve, just east of sunny San Diego. As you lace up your running shoes, you’ll have three distance options to choose from: the formidable 100k (available for solo runners or relay teams), the demanding 50k (also open to solo runners and relay teams), and the approachable Half Marathon.
The defining feature of the Sycamore Canyon race is its loop course, an exciting and demanding adventure that takes runners through loops of stunning scenery. Each loop covers an elevation gain of approximately 1400 feet, ensuring that every step you take will challenge your strength and determination. The 50k route comprises four of these loops, while the 100k pushes you to complete a total of eight loops. With a relentless combination of ascents and descents, this race is a true test of your endurance.
The challenge intensifies with firm cutoff times. To stay on course, you must cross the finish line by 10:00 PM. If you’re taking on the 100k, the final loop must commence by 7:45 PM. For those who prefer a slower start, an early start option is available, catering specifically to 100k runners who require more time to conquer the course.
As the name suggests, the Sycamore Canyon 100k can be undertaken as a solo ultra run or as part of a relay team. Solo runners face the daunting task of completing all eight laps on their own, a true test of individual endurance. Relay teams, on the other hand, divide the challenge amongst themselves. In a four-person relay team, each runner takes on two laps, covering a total of 12.8 kilometers or approximately 7.9 miles per lap. Runners can choose to complete their laps consecutively or reset between laps, allowing for strategic planning and teamwork.
The relay teams have the opportunity to compete in three distinct categories: Open (with at least one female runner), Women, and Men. It’s a competition that fosters both personal achievement and group dynamics, making it a race that encourages camaraderie.
While the relay format adds a layer of strategy, it’s important to note that there are no substitutions on race day. If a runner is unable to complete a second lap or doesn’t participate, the remaining relay runners must step up to cover the additional laps. Substitutions are only allowed until 24 hours before the race begins.
To aid your race experience, drop bags are available and designated at Race HQ. These bags provide essential supplies and can be accessed every 11.1 kilometers. Make sure to label your drop bags with your name, bib number, and race distance. For solo runners, drop bags are a valuable addition, while relay runners are encouraged to go without to save space.
During the race, you’ll have the option to set up your own tent in the start/finish area. This designated area is considered an aid station, ensuring you have easy access to your supplies. However, you must remember to check in and out at Race HQ as you move to and from your tent. The race organizers kindly request that each relay team sets up only one tent in the area.
Parking is another aspect to consider. While parking isn’t allowed in the immediate start/finish area, there is ample parking just outside this zone along the road leading up to it. Depending on your arrival time, you may need to walk a short distance, but it’s a small price to pay for the thrilling adventure that awaits you.
The Sycamore Canyon Race is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Goodman Ranch Sycamore Canyon Preserve, push your physical limits, and relish the camaraderie of relay teams. Join us in conquering the challenge and celebrating the beauty of Sycamore Canyon.
Runners may set up a tent in the start/finish area to act as an aid station — relay teams are allowed one tent per team. They should check in and out at Race HQ when moving to and from their tents. Although there is no parking available in the start/finish area, there is plenty of space along the road leading up to it.
To complete the race, runners must cross the finish line by 10 PM. Unless they opt for the early start option, 100k runners must start their final loop at 7:45 PM.
