Prisoner of War Ultra

Camp Croft State Park - Spartanburg Sc

“The prisoner, having reached the depth of his depression, gradually reawakens to the life around him. He licks himself and his wounded pride, opens his eyes, and finds that far away on the horizon there is still a ray of sunlight left.”

Upstate Race Series is presenting its Annual Prisoner of War Ultra to be held at Camp Croft State Park in Spartanburg South Carolina. This race will bring the history of Camp Croft as an Infantry Training camp established in the 1940's in preparation of World War II. Over 200,000 soldiers were trained at Camp Croft during that time. The majority of the soldiers trained at Croft were rifleman and as you do loops around the 8 mile course you can still hear shots being fired at the James O. Thomason Firing Range over the hill.

Experience the thrill and challenge of the "Prisoner of War" Trail Series this fall at Croft State Park, where rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery come together for a cause that matters. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or new to the sport, this event offers something for everyone with an 8-mile, 25k, and 50k race option. Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Croft State Park's diverse landscape provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable trail running experience. Lace up your shoes and prepare to navigate through dense forests, over rolling hills, and across picturesque streams, all while supporting our nation's military veterans.

The "Prisoner of War" Trail Series is more than just a race; it's a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of our military heroes. Each step you take on these challenging trails honors the resilience and strength of those who have served and continue to serve our country. Your participation helps raise awareness and funds for veteran support programs, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need. Feel the camaraderie and community spirit as you run alongside fellow participants who share your passion for the outdoors and your commitment to giving back.

Join us at Croft State Park this fall for a race that not only tests your endurance but also makes a meaningful impact. With various distances to choose from, there's a challenge suitable for every fitness level. Celebrate your achievements at the finish line with a sense of pride, knowing you've contributed to a worthy cause. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of an inspiring event that combines the beauty of nature with the honor of supporting our military veterans. Register today and become part of the "Prisoner of War" Trail Series legacy.

This 7,000-acre park near downtown Spartanburg was once a United States Army training camp, giving it the name Camp Croft. The training base was established here in 1941 under the direction of then-United States Senator James F. Byrne and was named in honor of Major General Edward Croft of Greenville, a former United States Army Chief of Infantry who died in 1938. From 1941 through 1946, around 60,000 troops went through training at Camp Croft each year. The camp closed in 1947, and the land was transferred to the South Carolina Commission of Forestry for use as a state park. Camp Croft State Park opened in 1949.

Event Details

• What: 50k, 25k, 8 Mile Race

• Where: Croft State Park

• Address: 450 Croft State Park Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29302

• When: November 9th

• Time - All Races Start at 8am

• Packet Pickup: will begin one hour prior to the race start at the activity center and main parking area

• Event Shirts - Our local apparel vendor (Graphic Cow) will be processing all shirt orders. Please follow the link below to pre-order a shirt from the list of races. All race specific shirts will be mailed directly to your home address after the event to commemorate your race experience! The store link will be open until the Monday after each race.

  • SHIRT ORDER FORM HERE

Course Map - HERE

The course will consist of a 25k "Figure 8" Loop. The 50k runners will perform the loop twice. The 25k Runners will perform a single loop and the 8 mile runners will perform the top side of the "Figure 8" loop on the north side of the state park. Signs will be posted and all runners will check in at the middle of the  "Figure 8" which will be held at the Activity Center adjacent to participant parking. 

Personal Tent Set Up & Drop Bags

Athletes who are not camping are permitted to have a drop bag or personal tent near the aid station. Please be mindful to place your personal belongings off the course as to not impede the runners, the flow of traffic, or other race participants. The start and finish line loop will serve as the official drop bag area designation. When you are finished with your race please "pack in and pack out" making the host facility look better than you found it. 

Address

Runners can enter the park at the following address: 450 Croft State Park Road, Spartanburg, SC 29302. Once you enter the park please follow the signs to main park office adjacent to Campground loop 1 & 2. Any additional parking can be found adjacent to the horse stables and will be marked accordingly. 

Aid Stations

There is one aid stations on course that will be located at the start/finish. Items may include: pickles, cookies, chips, Little Debbie snacks, assorted candy, chicken/veggie broth, fig newtons, & pretzels. Liquids will include water, Tailwind Nutrition, coke, and ginger ale. If you would like to donate an aid station supply of something that we do not offer or that is homemade feel free! Cup-less Event: Please provide your own hydration vessel for use at our aid stations