Carolina Reaper Challenge (13.1 - 26.2 - 50k & Relay)

Event Overview

• Event: Carolina Reaper Challenge
• Date: July 17, 2027
• Location: Riverwest Preserve, Greenville, SC
• Address: 2959 New Easley Hwy, Greenville, SC 29611

Description

Mid-July in South Carolina, on a paved 2.62-mile loop, with a 45-minute cutoff on every single lap. Five loops for the Half, twelve for the 50K, or split those twelve across a relay team of up to four. There is a 10K in the mix too, for anyone who wants the heat without the whole day of it. As you navigate the loop at Riverwest Nature Preserve, you'll be embraced by the intense Southern heat, winding through rolling hills, wooden bridges, and scenic views.

Race Day Details

• What: Carolina Reaper Challenge — 50K (12 loops), Half Marathon (5 loops), 10K, and the Reaper Relay (12 loops, teams of 2–4)
• When: Saturday, July 17, 2027 — all distances start at 8:00 AM
• Packet Pickup: Begins at 7:00 AM, right on site at the big green Upstate Race Series tent.
• Time Limit: Each lap must be completed within 45 minutes, or you'll be left in the heat. No early start times.

Course

A paved 2.6-mile loop with plenty of shade and participant setup right at the start/finish line. Riverwest Nature Preserve is a 240-acre property that was once a golf course and now offers rolling cart paths, wooden bridges, waterfalls, and riverfront views as you race toward glory. One note on getting there: be careful crossing the median at New Easley Hwy, across the street from the Home Fur A While animal boarding facility.

View Course Map →

Aid Stations

• Location: One aid station at the start/finish, hit once per 2.62-mile lap.
• Restrooms: Right at the start line next to packet pickup.
• Snacks Available: Pickles, Cookies, Chips, Pretzels.
• Hydration: Water, Coke, Ginger ale, Wildly Charged hydration sample.

What's Included

• Athlete Village: A 60' x 120' rental tent at the finish line.
• Custom Race Bib: Your badge of the journey.
• Chip Timing: Track your effort, splits included.
• Custom Finisher Medal: To commemorate the triumph.

Parking

All participants park in the old driving range area, approximately 150 meters from the start/finish line. Parking is limited, so carpool when possible and follow volunteer instructions on arrival. Parking is $5, paid during registration: nothing is owed on race day.

Race Awards

• Top 3 Overall: The fastest three finishers will receive a trophy.
• Age Group Awards: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each of 15 age categories will earn an age group medal.
• Series Recognition: This race counts toward season-long age group recognition.
• Giving Back: Registration supports local nonprofits through the Giving Series.

Groups & Teams

$5 Discount & Refund for Groups with 5+ Members. Local and regional running clubs are welcome. Sign up to cash in on race discounts and refunds.

Good to Know

• Are dogs allowed? Yes, but on a short six-foot leash.
• Are headphones allowed? Absolutely. Jam on.
• Is there race-day registration? Yes, but it's likely to sell out.
• Will I get a medal? All finishers receive a medal.

For more information, visit Carolina Reaper Challenge Tag.