8 Hours of Christmas

The 8 Hours of Christmas Elimination Race returns to Molena, Georgia on December 19th, challenging runners with an endurance test like no other. Participants must complete a 4-mile loop with 1,000 feet of elevation gain within one hour; failure to do so results in elimination from the race. This unique event spans eight hours and culminates with awards for the fastest lap on the final loop.
Molena's winter air is crisp at dawn when runners line up along Thundering Springs Road, ready to tackle the trail conditions that are firm yet slightly soft underfoot. The race starts early in the morning before sunrise, allowing participants to experience the quiet calm of a rural Georgia town slowly waking as they run through it.
The 8 Hours of Christmas has become an annual tradition for runners seeking both challenge and camaraderie during the holiday season. Each year, hundreds gather from across the region, drawn by the opportunity to push their limits in a uniquely structured race that rewards perseverance with tangible prizes at each successful loop completion. The event supports local running clubs and promotes healthy living through community engagement.
The course for the 8 Hours of Christmas is set on trails around Molena's Thundering Springs Road, offering runners varied terrain including gentle climbs, descents, and flat sections along the way. Start and finish lines are located at a designated area near the road’s intersection with local landmarks visible throughout the route. Aid stations provide water and energy drinks strategically placed every mile to support athletes through their rigorous loops.
On race day in December, expect mild temperatures that will likely hover around freezing early morning before warming slightly as the hours pass. The UV index is low at 2.0, so sunscreen application can be minimal unless you plan on spending extended time outside of your running window. Trail conditions are firm yet soft enough to provide a forgiving surface for long-distance efforts.