Welcome to the Iron Legs 50 mile relay, this is a great race for those runners who are not ready for the 100km, 50 miler or the 60k but still want to challenge themselves with a tough race.  Now don't let the name trick you as the distance is closer to 54 miles and the elevation gain is over 4200m (13,780 feet), split between the 7 sections.   So it you are looking for a tough race with lots of elevation, amazing views of the Canadian Rockies as you cross ridges, valleys and amazing single track then come to the start line in August with a friend or 2.   

 

Course : The course starts at Station Flats and heads West on the Elbow Valley Trail to the Powderface parking lot.  This is your first aid station before heading up and over Powderface Ridge to the Little Elbow Campground and the second aid station.  Now time to head up and over Ford Knoll before making your way up Ford Creek Trail and taking the connector over to the backside of the Powderface Saddle.  You have a climb to the saddle before dropping back to the Powderface parking lot and aid station 3.  Now time to head along the Elbow Valley Trail before turning onto the Sulphur Springs Trail after a couple of km's you turn onto the Pneuma Trail and head up towards Moose Mountain.  You will find aid station 4 and the top of Moose Packers Trail and this will also be aid station 5 which you will see again after heading to the false summit or saddle of Moose Mountain.  The finish line will be the next stop after aid station 5 and you will get there by following Moose Packers Trail and Ridgeback Trail. 

Aid Stations : There will be 6 full stocked aid stations at 11, 24, 39, 48, 62 and 73km.  The stocked aid stations will have the usual fare of water, sport drink, coke, chips, gummies, gels, granola bars, etc....    

Pacers : No pacers are allowed on the course, however you can bring along your dog if you would like.  But remember you are responsible for them at all times, this is in regards to disrupting other runners and also picking up after them. 

Cut Off Times : There is two cut off times on the course.  The first is at aid-station 4(powderface), you need to be into this aid-station prior to the 10 hour mark  or 4pm.  The second one is at aid-station 5, you need to be into this aid-station prior to the 12.5hr mark or 6:30pm.

Mandatory Gear : While the list of mandatory gear is small, I do suggest that you carry more gear with you.  Being that this race is a mountain race that takes you through remote and exposed areas, be prepared for all kinds of conditions.

  • Head lamp required after aid-station 4 (Powderface) at 3pm
  • Race bib
  • Hydration pack or water bottles - min. 1.5L

Suggested Gear : Take a look at the list and consider taking some of these items with you during the race.  The weather can change quick in the mountains and you don't want to to get caught without the proper gear.

  • Wind/Water resistant jacket
  • Tights or pants
  • Food
  • Gloves
  • Hat
  • Bear spray
  • Watch
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun Screen

Misc. : There is limited rides back from the aid stations, so if you decide to drop out, you will be required to wait until the next available ride and may be put to work helping out.  So if you are thinking of pulling out, remember it might be easier to just keep on running.