The Pistol

WELCOME TO THE 13th YEAR FOR THE PISTOL PARTY!

Event Description

Kick off spring with a bang at this fun and friendly urban ultra—plus 10 Miler and 20 Miler—just outside Knoxville, TN! Held in Alcoa, this popular event has become a favorite for runners of all experience levels. With distances ranging from 10 miles to 100 miles, there’s truly something for everyone.

Runners enjoy premium swag at check-in, outstanding course support from enthusiastic volunteers, heated aid stations, and a festive atmosphere filled with camaraderie among fellow ultra lovers. Finisher awards are as cool as they are memorable, and the welcoming vibe makes this a fantastic race for both first-time ultrarunners and seasoned veterans. Walkers and push rim athletes are also encouraged to join the fun—this event is about community and celebrating every journey.

All races start and finish at the Alcoa Springbrook Pool Center (636 Vose Rd, Alcoa, TN). The USATF-certified courses are mostly flat (especially for East Tennessee!), paved, and follow an 8-foot-wide greenway that is fully lit at night. For those who prefer a softer surface, grassy shoulders are available along sections of the trail. The route follows scenic Pistol Creek, weaving through Alcoa, alongside ponds and streams, and into Maryville’s beautiful Bicentennial Greenbelt Park.

Course Distances and Format:
50K & 100K: Use a 10.35-mile loop

50K = 3 loops
100K = 6 loops

10M, 50M, & 100M: Use a 10-mile loop

10 Miler = 1 loop
50 Miler = 5 loops
100 Miler = 10 loops

Race Schedule & Time Limits:

50K / 100K / 100M: Generous 32-hour cut-off
50 Mile Night Race: Starts at 8 PM Saturday, 20-hour cut-off
10 Miler & 20 Miler: Start at 8 AM Sunday
All races conclude by 4 PM Sunday

Whether you’re chasing a new distance or just soaking in the energy of a vibrant running community, this is the perfect race to launch your spring season.  For a complete schedule, click here.

Check This Double Barrel Award Out!
The Double Barrel Award is for those who complete both the 50K and 50-mile races. Select the 50K/50M Double option when registering. Finishers receive medals and a special award, but must start both races to qualify.

Important!
PLEASE NOTE: Both the 10 Mile and 20 Mile are on SUNDAY, March 15th at 8 am.

Refund Policy
If you want to potentially be reimbursed if you are not able to participate, we recommend you consider purchasing event registration insurance to cover yourself. This option is offered during registration checkout. We do not provide refunds, deferments, rollover credits, transfer of entry fees, etc, regardless of the circumstances. Selling/giving your bib to someone else is not permitted. 

If your circumstances change and you are unable to join the Pistol party, please cancel your registration as soon as you know. Simply follow the directions here. You’ll score good karma, possibly allow a waitlister to snag a spot, and definitely help us with the onerous task of registration management. If you are unable to run, but are still available, please consider volunteering. The runners would really appreciate your help and support as they get their run on! It takes a whole village to produce an event this size. Plus you’ll snag some credits towards a future Good Endurance Running Credit.

Please read the event website Registration details and policies here carefully before registering. They include legally binding terms and are incorporated herein by reference. Don't register unless you understand and accept them.

Plan to arrive Friday afternoon for check-in, packet/swag pick-up, score some official Pistol gear at the Pistol  Store, meet other runners, and enjoy other pre-race activities. It will be held inside the large tent next to the Start/Finish area. There is space close by along the course where you can set up your own personal support area. There are REAL indoor heated restrooms at a couple of locations along the course. In addition to awesome aid stations and amazing runner support, all ultra participants receive a FREE finisher's food truck meal ticket. Yes, you will definitely be spoiled! Can't get any better for a spring race!

In Closing...
Tell your friends and get everyone registered. (Shirt sizes guaranteed to those registering by Feb 28th.) Hop over and like our event Facebook page here and our Instagram Page Here to keep up with all the latest happenings. Lots of great info and interaction there. We can’t wait to have you join us for an amazing experience at the Pistol party!