Race for the Refuge

Race for the Refuge

The Highland City Striders welcome you to explore the trails at the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge in Sudbury, MA! The Race for the Refuge begins at the ARNWR Visitor’s Center and traverses the beautiful trails around the Refuge. The course will lead runners into this idyllic nature refuge, past ponds, through pine and oak forests, and alongside mysterious military bunkers.

Course Description

• Trail Type: The double track trails are a mix of dirt and gravel.
• Difficulty: Great course for beginner trail runners.
• Challenge: An opportunity for advanced runners to achieve a new PR!

Events

• Available Distances: Features a 10K (1 loop) and 30K (3 loops) races, and a 6-hour timed event.
• Loop Details: For the timed event, runners may do as many loops as desired.
• Completion Time: A loop must be completed by 3pm to be counted towards final mileage.
• Prizes: The top male, female, and nonbinary runner from each event will receive a prize.

Race Day Rules

• Pets: Dogs are not permitted on Refuge lands.
• Supervision: Children must be supervised: the event is family-friendly.
• Eco-Friendly: This will be a cupless race to eliminate waste on the course.
• Conduct: Any littering is grounds for immediate disqualification.

Aid Stations and Course Marking

• Aid Offerings: Two aid stations with hydration and snacks available.
• Main Station: Located at the Start/Finish line.
• Second Station: At Taylor Road, approximately halfway through the loop.
• Course Marking: The course will be well-marked with marshals at key turns.

Pacers

• Eligibility: Pacers are allowed only in the 6-hour race.
• Start Time: Pacers may start at noon or later.
• Registration: They must complete a registration form.
• Limitations: Only one pacer per runner, and no muling is allowed.

Cancelation and Refunds

• Policy: No deferrals and no refunds.
• Donation: Your entry fee will be considered a charitable donation.
• Notification: Please cancel using RunSignUp or contact race directors if unable to attend.

About the Refuge

• Historical Significance: Lands once used by Nipmuc Tribes are now a wildlife refuge.
• Wildlife: Home to various species, including wading birds and reptiles.
• Proceeds: Funds will improve three refuge sites in MA and support nature education.

Post-Race Festivities

• Location: Join us at Clover Road Brewing in Hudson, MA.
• Snacks: Complimentary snacks will be provided.
• Beer Ticket: Each race entry includes a FREE BEER ticket.

Presented by the Highland City Striders

We are runners in Hudson, Marlborough, and surrounding communities. Founded in 2002, our members meet several times weekly to run various distances for fun and to keep in shape! The Highland City Striders is a non-profit 501(C)3. All race profits will go to local charities.

We are also working closely with Friends of Woodlands and Waters, a non-profit working in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to support our refuges. Check out their site to learn more and get involved!

For more information on the race, please visit the official race page.