FATS

FATS 50K, Half Marathon & 10K - November 1, 2026
The Forks Area Trail System (FATS), nestled within the Sumter National Forest near North Augusta, South Carolina, is set to host its annual trail running extravaganza on Sunday, November 1, 2026. This year’s event features a challenging course that showcases some of FATS’ most iconic trails—Great Wall, Skinny, and Brown Wave—offering runners an unforgettable experience through rolling terrain, roots, rocks, and fast sections.
Race Details
- 50K: A grueling yet rewarding loop around the Great Wall, Skinny, and Brown Wave trails.
- Half Marathon: Two loops on the challenging Skinny trail.
- 10K: One lap of the scenic Skinny circuit.
The event is designed to cater to all levels of runners, from seasoned ultrarunners to casual enthusiasts. The race day schedule includes early morning volunteer arrivals at 5:15 AM and check-in starting at 6:00 AM for those picking up their bibs on-site. A pre-race meeting will take place at 7:45 AM followed by staggered start times for each distance.
Course Highlights
The course is marked with clear signage, making navigation straightforward despite the narrow single-track trails and occasional rocky sections. Runners can expect a mix of shaded paths through dense forests and open stretches offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The Great Wall loop features steep climbs and descents while Skinny trail presents technical challenges with its roots and rocks.
Aid Stations
Fully stocked aid stations will be strategically placed along the course, providing runners with water, sports drinks, gels, sandwiches, fruit, chips, and other essentials to keep them fueled throughout their journey. Volunteers at each station are ready to assist racers as they pass through.
Race Day Logistics
Parking is limited near the race start/finish area, so carpooling or using overflow parking down the Forest Service road is recommended for a smooth entry on race day. Participants can also pick up their bibs and packets either in advance at Fleet Feet Sports Augusta (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) or on race morning.
Trail Safety & Etiquette
Runners are reminded that FATS trails attract mountain bikers and hikers, so yielding the right of way is crucial for everyone’s safety. In case of an emergency, runners should report their location using distance markers placed every half mile along the trail.
For those looking to stay overnight in the area, hotels near Washington Rd./I-20 corridor in Augusta are recommended due to their proximity to FATS (15-20 minutes away). Camping options include Petersburg Campgrounds at Lake Thurmond, approximately 10-15 minutes from the race start.
Community Engagement
The event proceeds support local trail maintenance and other running events such as SORBA CSRA’s Rut Rogue 40 Miler and Flow Master Mountain Bike Race. Join the FATS 50K & Half Marathon Facebook page for up-to-date information leading up to the big day!
FATS is not just a race; it's an experience that celebrates community, nature, and the spirit of trail running in one of the Southeast’s premier outdoor destinations.
Race Day Schedule
- Volunteers arrive: 5:15 AM
- Check-in & Bib Pick-up: 6:00 AM - 7:30 AM
- Pre-race Meeting: 7:45 AM
- Start Times:
- 8:00 AM (50K)
- 8:30 AM (Half Marathon)
- 8:45 AM (10K)
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the trails of FATS!