Prepare to redefine your limits at The Ultimate SUCK, a grueling endurance challenge celebrating its 15th anniversary from September 4-6, 2026, at Decker Farm in Cuba, Illinois. This unique event throws runners into a demanding crucible, offering 36-hour, 12-hour, and 4-hour (The GUT CHECK) formats designed to push participants far beyond traditional trail running. Forget picturesque scenery; this is an on-farm endurance event staged from a base camp in a hay field, where the course is a dynamic blend of trail running, strenuous Mid-Western farm chores, military boot camp intensity, and strongman training. Typical race day conditions in early September include highs around 82F and lows near 59F, with a 13% chance of precipitation, adding another layer of challenge to the relentless environment.

The Ultimate SUCK is renowned for its unpredictable and punishing nature, famously described as "Conan the Barbarian meets Full Metal Jacket with a dash of Deliverance!" Participants should come prepared for anything, as the specific tasks are not revealed until encountered but may include carrying hay or logs, chopping wood, climbing ropes, and other heavy lifting. A core tenet of this event is self-sufficiency: no crews or pacers are permitted on the course for the first 24 hours. After this initial period, one pacer is allowed, but only at your designated campsite, unable to assist you on the course. A strict no-sleeping rule for the duration of your chosen event further amplifies the mental and physical test.

This isn't just a race; it's an immersive experience designed by Joe Decker of Gut Check Fitness, an individual with a proven track record in extreme endurance events. The event begins with check-in on Friday, September 4th, from 2 PM to 5 PM, followed by a mandatory pre-race brief at 5:30 PM, with the challenge officially kicking off at 7 PM CDT. Runners are required to carry essential gear like a ruck sack, hydration pack, and headlamp, with additional mandatory items like splitting axes and sandbags for longer distances, emphasizing the rugged demands. Concluding this formidable test of grit and determination is a well-earned bonfire and breakfast, offering a chance for camaraderie and reflection on a truly unforgettable accomplishment. Embrace the SUCK and discover what you're truly made of.