Embark on an unforgettable ultra-running experience at the Angela Ivory Memorial Runs, set for January 24, 2026, in the scenic Killen's Pond State Park in Felton, DE. This unique event offers challenging distances of 100 miles, 24 hours, and a 50K, catering to both seasoned ultrarunners and those looking to test their limits. The course itself is a gentle, 3.10-mile almost entirely dirt loop, renowned for its low technicality (rated around 1/10) and minimal elevation gain of approximately 80 feet per loop. Runners will traverse broad, dirt-packed sections of the Pondside Trail, transitioning to single-track paths with some roots, all within the beautiful, well-maintained park that frequently draws praise from first-time participants. A charming footbridge over the pond and a brief paved section near the start/finish add to the varied, picturesque scenery.

The Angela Ivory Memorial Runs stand out for their authentic "Fat Ass style" ultra ethos, prioritizing raw endurance and community spirit over traditional race amenities. This means no guaranteed aid stations (though a communal table often forms for shared supplies), no shirts, and no chip timing for the 50K—runners self-record their laps, while 24-hour and 100-mile participants have an official lap counter. The race fosters a close-knit atmosphere, with each distance capped at 40 participants, ensuring an intimate field. The 100-mile finishers are rewarded with "The Greatest Finisher Item in Delaware Ultrarunning": a buckle, a true testament to their grit. Typical race day conditions in late January present a formidable challenge, with historical highs around 45F and lows around 28F, accompanied by a 13% chance of precipitation, and past years have seen cold temperatures, wind chills, and even ice on the trails, adding to the demanding environment.

Starting promptly at 8:30 AM from the pavilion, participants benefit from convenient logistics. Ample, free parking is located right next to the course, allowing runners and their crews easy access to personal supplies throughout the looped event. Heated restrooms are available in the parking area for added comfort. While the course's seemingly mild profile might suggest an easy run, veteran ultrarunners highlight that the combination of winter weather and the repetitive looped format can make this a mentally and physically tougher challenge than anticipated, offering constant opportunities to confront the urge to stop. The Angela Ivory Memorial Runs promise a memorable, no-frills test of endurance and camaraderie in the heart of Killen's Pond State Park.