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.
• Beginner Friendly: It’s a great course for beginner trail runners.
• PR Opportunity: For the advanced trail runner, it could be an opportunity for a new PR!
• GPX File: Download the GPX file.

Events

• Race Options: The lineup features a 10K (1 loop) and 30K (3 loops) races, and a 6-hour timed event.
• Timed Event: Runners may do as many loops as desired, with a loop completion deadline.
• Ranking: Determined by the runner who completes the most loops in the shortest period of time.
• 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: please leave your pooch at home.
• Family Friendly: This event is family-friendly but children must be supervised.
• Leave No Trace: This is a cupless race: carry in and pack out your fuel.
• Course Discipline: All runners must stay on the marked course.

Aid Stations and Course Marking

• Aid Stations: Two aid stations with typical trail race fare including water, snacks, and hydration options.
• Main Aid Station: The primary aid station will be at the Start/Finish line.
• Course Marshals: The course will be well marked, with two course marshals at key turns.
• Swag: All runners will receive swag with registration, and prizes will be awarded to top winners.

Pacers

• Eligibility: Pacers are allowed to assist runners in the 6-hour race only.
• Registration: Pacers must complete an online or paper registration form.
• Pacer Check-In: Upon arrival, pacers will check in at the race director table.
• Aid Stations: Pacers can use the aid stations at no cost, without a registration fee.

Cancelation and Refunds

• No Deferrals: There are no deferrals and no refunds.
• Charitable Donation: Entry fees will be considered a charitable donation for nature education.
• Cancellation: Please cancel using RunSignUp or contact the race directors via email if unable to attend.
• Support: Thank you for your support.

About the Refuge

• Historical Significance: Centuries ago, these lands were hunted and fished by Nipmuc Tribes.
• Military History: You will run past military bunkers used during the Sudbury Training Annex era.
• Habitat Protection: The Refuge supports many types of wildlife, including various birds and mammals.
• Proceeds Use: Funds will improve three refuge sites in MA and support nature education.

Post-Race Festivities

• Community Gathering: Join us and fellow runners for post-race festivities and snacks.
• Location: Clover Road Brewing in Hudson, MA.
• Free Ticket: Each race entry comes with a FREE BEER ticket for use at Clover Road.

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!

Race Details

The Race for the Refuge will take place on September 27, 2026. For more information and to register, visit the official race page: Race for the Refuge.