Race Details:
Distance: 50 miles + 7.41 bonus miles (yes, they’re mandatory!)
Course: Point-to-point | Singletrack on the Florida National Scenic Trail
Start: Alexander Springs State Park - 49525 County Rd 445, Altoona, FL
Finish: Rodman Reservoir Dam - 410 Rodman Dam Road
Palatka FL 32177
Race Start Time: 6:30 am
Bib Pickup: You may pick up your bib anytime between 5:30 am - 6:20 am at the start line at Alexander Springs State Park.
About the Race:
The Tick is not your average ultra. This rugged 57.41-mile wilderness adventure winds through the heart of the Ocala National Forest, following the Florida National Scenic Trail from Alexander Springs to the far end of the Rodman Reservoir Dam. The course showcases Florida’s raw and wild beauty—runners will pass through diverse ecosystems including lakes, prairies, marshes, and tall-growth pine and hardwood forests. Expect a true backcountry experience...Oh, and about those 7.41 bonus miles? They’re built right in. Consider them a gift.
Crew Support is MANDATORY. This is not a self-supported event. Due to limited access to natural water sources along the course, all runners must have a dedicated crew. The longest distance between crew-accessible locations is approximately 10.5 miles. Plan carefully and communicate clearly with your team. Runners without a crew will not be allowed to participate.
Logistics & Requirements:
Point-to-Point Format: Runners are responsible for arranging their own transportation from the finish back to their vehicle.
Communication Device Required: For safety, all runners and/or their crews must carry a reliable means of communication (e.g., cell phone or GPS messenger).
Wildlife & Trail Conditions:
The Ocala National Forest is teeming with wildlife. Along the trail, you may spot deer, bobcats, black bears, hawks, eagles, and scrub jays. Other locals: Rabbits, snakes, turtles, squirrels, mice—and yes, ticks! This is Florida wilderness. Be prepared for humid and hot conditions, wetlands, uneven trail surfaces, dense vegetation, and, of course, ticks!
What to Expect:
A remote, challenging, and rewarding trail experience.
No frills. Just you, the trail, and your crew.
An opportunity to test your endurance in one of Florida’s most iconic wild spaces.
The Tick isn’t just a race—it’s a rite of passage for ultra runners who crave something raw, real, and wild.
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