Run Under The Stars™ Oak Ridge, TN

We're making plans to be at AK Bissell Park on May 15 for RUTS Oak Ridge!! We're removing the wait-list, and registration is open for 12hr, 6hr, and 3hr. It's probably a good idea to sign up soon, as we could receive a restriction on the number of runners. February 13 update: Supersedes all previous updates: We've spoken with the officials over AK Bissell Park, and they are like the rest of us. Who knows for certain what's going to happen between now and May? But... things appear to be getting better, and they have our application for a permit. We believe it will be granted, given that we adhere to the "usual" Covid-19 precautions. 

DECEMBER 21 UPDATE, SUPERSEDES ALL PREVIOUS UPDATES: as of today, RUTS Oak Ridge is being planned for the regular 3rd weekend of May. May 15/16 will be the dates. We do NOT have a permit right now, as there are practically NO permits being issued anywhere. As widespread distribution of the vaccines become more prevalent we should hear better news. 

New registrants will continue to be placed on a waitlist so that their money is not at risk. Once registration opens, runners will be invited in off of the list, and at that time they can choose whether to run or not.

We're as sick of COVID-19 as you are. 

RUN UNDER THE STARS™  3/6/12 hour options

May 16/17, 2019 - AK Bissell Park, Oak Ridge, TN

We're doing something NEW! in 2020.  We are starting at 7PM, since it was still very humid the first hour last year. You can choose from 3hr; 6hr; or 12hr categories. Tennessee recognizes State Age Group Records. There were many set here in 2019, and there will be many more set here in 2020. Why not you?

This is a night time runs. Run, jog, walk, rest, stop and start as much as you'd like.
The objective is to see how far you can go; however, you can stop at any time if you've reached your goal or if you've had enough. The Oak Ridge course is a USATF CERTIFIED (TN19003BW) 1.1937 mile fine crushed stone, winding gravel path in AK Bissell Park. Flat course, with less than 20' of gain/loss per loop. Just enough to break things up a bit.

HIGHLIGHTS:
CHIP TIMING SYSTEM will keep your distance recorded. We will display your distance continually at the timing tent. Check the monitor as you run by.
No traffic, no hills, no roots, no hard running surface.
NO HOT SUN BEATING DOWN ON YOU.

LARGE AID STATION on the track. SWORD (www.drinksword.com) is the official hydration drink of R.U.T.S.  We have a fully stocked station, containing the normal snacks, and fruit including watermelon, cantaloupe, and bananas, plus salty items such as peanut butter pretzels, and chips. PB&J sandwiches are a staple. We bring out grilled cheese sandwiches, pizza at 10pm, and then around 1 or 2 am, chocolate chip pancakes and bacon. Please bring containers to drink out of. We are trying to severely limit the number of cups. You can leave your cup at your course side station, or on a table at the aid station.

AMENITIES and AWARDS: Each runner (including those on relay teams) will receive a shirt, cap, drawstring bag, and a custom medal that will indicate your mileage. The top m/f individuals in each category receive a special award. (the number of awards will be in proportion to the number of entrants in each category).

REASONS FOR RUNNING RUTS:  Great training venue for practice at running at night... calibrate your nighttime nutrition needs, get used to be up all night for that upcoming 100 miler (Tunnel Hill) or 24 hour venue. Perfect social running event with serious results. You can feel safe due to all the runners around you. Unlike marathons, and non-loop events, you see your friends the entire time, giving you opportunities to run or walk with some runners you'd never get to run with.
This could possibly be the course you'll set a personal best for whatever distance you run. Knowing that your vehicle is close by, you have the confidence to keep going.
On Site Parking, either in the huge parking lot, or right on the grass infield. No hotel needed. 

TENNESSEE STATE AGE GROUP RECORDS: You have an excellent chance of setting an age group record here. Even if you set a record last year, you can set another one this year. Age groups are determined by individual ages, not in 5yr increments like some things.

To see the current records, go here: http://www.staterunningrecords.com/asp/records.asp?state=TN Click on the category you wish to view.

SET UP: Beginning any time after noon on Saturday May 16, you can set up a tent under the large shade trees in the grass infield, or alongside the course. There is plenty of room. This is a good one to bring the family to. You can stop and see them as much as you like. Encourage them to run or walk a few laps with you. They love it, and so do we. We only ask that you carry your trash out with you if at all possible. 

DOGS: We love dogs, however they are NOT allowed on the course as part of the race. IF you bring your dog, you will need to keep them on a leash, and out of the way of other runners, or guests. 

RELAY TEAMS - 2 or 4 persons accepted for the 12 hour only. (your team can stop whenever you wish, you don't have to go the entire 12 hours; there are just no separate categories for shorter times).

The Team is given a special bib number on a quick change belt. Every member of the team also receives their own bib number. Whoever is accumulating mileage for the team must wear the Team belt with the bib on it, in addition to their individual bib number (meaning you'll wear two bibs when accumulating for the Team). Team members are allowed to run extra mileage even when not wearing the Team belt, however runners on a Team are NOT eligible for individual awards. 

Team Awards are given to the Top 5 Teams. (regardless of 2 or 4 members).

TEAM REGISTRATION PROCESS CAPTAINS: If you are setting up the team; click on the event(s) you wish to run. To the right, click on Join Relay for each event you wish to set up a team. A new box will open "Create Relay" > choose 2 or 4 person> enter a team name. Create a password if you wish (you'll need to give this password to anyone you want on your team). If you don't create a password, anyone could choose to join your team if there is a spot available. You'll be taken back to the page where you can Add Another Registrant. If you are entering other team members, click Add Another Registrant, and choose your team from the drop downs (or use the Search feature to find your team.).

If you are registering to join a team that someone has set up for you, click on the event(s) > Join Relay > Choose the team under drop downs or use the Search feature. 

Any questions, contact Steve at [email protected]