Prepare to redefine your limits at the Ultimate Runner, a singularly challenging event set to electrify Winston-Salem, NC, on Saturday, June 27, 2026. This isn't your average 5K; it's a demanding multi-event competition, testing your versatility across four track disciplines—the 1 Mile, 400m, 800m, and 100m—culminating in a grueling 5K cross country race. Runners must complete all five events, totaling 4.91 miles, to earn the coveted Ultimate Runner finisher's shirt and car decal, a symbol of true athletic prowess.

Hosted at the historic Bob Sosnik Track at Hanes Park, this long-standing tradition, organized by the Twin City Track Club, has forged a reputation over 37 years as a true test of endurance and speed. Participants are seeded into heats based on their submitted mile times, ensuring a competitive atmosphere from the first gun. The challenge lies in strategically managing your energy across anaerobic bursts and the varying terrain of the cross country 5K, often described by veterans as "a whole other ballgame" than typical races. With typical race day conditions seeing highs around 88F and lows near 68F, accompanied by a 13% chance of precipitation, the North Carolina summer adds an extra layer of intensity to this already formidable event.

Runner check-in for this unique running experience begins at 3:00 p.m., with the first event kicking off sharply at 4:30 p.m., leading into an evening of thrilling competition that spans approximately 3.5 hours. Following the race, participants are invited to an awards ceremony and post-race party, celebrating achievements and camaraderie. Embrace the legendary challenge of the Ultimate Runner and prove your mettle across every distance.