Prisoner of War Trail Race (50k - 25k - 8mi)

Race Overview

Join us for the Prisoner of War Trail Race featuring three distances: 50k, 25k, and 8 miles, taking place on October 24, 2026, at Croft State Park, Spartanburg, SC. For more details and registration, visit Official Race Page.

Participant Feedback

• Experience: “Figure-eight loops across 7,000 acres of the old Camp Croft, on roots, rocks, and real elevation.”
• Distance Details: “The Semper Fi 8 Mile takes the northern section, the Infantry 25K runs one full loop, and the POW 50K runs two.”
• Aid Station: “A central checkpoint and aid station sit at the Activity Center, and you report there each loop.”
• Attraction: “A rewarding day of endurance, honor, and community spirit.”

Course or Race Highlight

• Historical Venue: “Croft State Park was Camp Croft, an infantry training center in the 1940s.”
• Terrain: “Genuinely rugged trail with roots, rocks, and climbing.”
• Design: “The figure-eight design allows returning to base camp every loop.”
• Community: “Post-race barracks bash with live music, food, and pancakes awaits.”

Race Day Details

• What: “Prisoner of War Trail Race — POW 50K, Infantry 25K, and Semper Fi 8 Mile.”
• When: “Saturday, October 24, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM.”
• Where: “Croft State Park, Spartanburg, SC, at the Activity Center.”
• Address: “450 Croft State Park Road, Spartanburg, SC 29302.”

Packet Pickup

• Start Time: “Packet pickup begins at 8:00 AM on race day.”
• Location: “Activity Center (base camp).”
• Parking: “Parking is available on site.”
• Time Limit: “10 hours for all races: 50K has a 4-hour cutoff on the first lap.”

Course Details

• Loop Design: “Figure-eight loops across 7,000 acres of trail in South Carolina's backcountry.”
• Distances: “50K runs two full loops, 25K runs one loop, and the 8 Mile takes the northern section.”
• Central Aid Station: “Report there each loop for supplies and check-ins.”
• Link: View Course Map →

Parking Information

• Venue: “Park at Croft State Park.”
• Signage: “Follow event parking signs.”
• Admission Fee: “An entry fee may apply unless you hold an annual State Park pass.”
• Space: “Limited space available: arrive early.”

Aid Stations

• Central Aid Station: “Located at the start/finish area.”
• Aid at Trail: “Available every 8 miles.”
• Snacks: “Pickles, cookies, chips, Fig Newtons, pretzels, assorted candy.”
• Hydration: “Water, Coke, ginger ale available.”

What’s Included

• Food: “Hearty pancakes and soup at base camp.”
• Custom Items: “Race bib, finisher medal, race tattoo.”
• Timing: “Chip timing with live results.”
• Swag: “Event-themed giveaways and race stickers.”

Race Awards

• Overall Awards: “Top 3 overall male and female earn trophies.”
• Age Group: “1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals in 15 categories.”
• Series Recognition: “Counts towards season-long age group recognition.”
• Age Categories: “From 0–9 to 80+.”

Giving Back

Each event supports local nonprofits through the Upstate Giving Series. Your registration and donations work close to home. Learn more about it at Upstate Giving Series.

Groups & Teams

• Discount: “$5 discount for groups with 5+ members.”
• Welcome: “All running clubs and social groups are welcomed.”
• Opportunity: “Sign up and cash in on group discounts.”
• Engagement: “Join the fun and participate together.”

Good to Know

• Dogs: “Yes, dogs are allowed on the course.”
• Headphones: “Allowed, but be cautious of surroundings.”
• Packet Pickup: “No pickups by others: only race day pickup available.”
• Registration: “Available on mobile until race start.”

Managing Your Registration

Manage your entry through your RunSignUp profile. You can transfer, switch distances, or update details themselves.

Stay Connected

Follow us for updates and community engagements:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @upstateraceseries
• Facebook: Upstate Event Management
• Website: UpstateRaceSeries.com