Iron X: A Unique Half-Marathon Challenge Iron X is an unconventional half-marathon that blends running with the quirky sport of extreme ironing. Participants, known as "ironists," will traverse through iconic locations in Auburn, California while carrying and using their irons along a 13.1-mile route. The race begins at Robie Point where runners encounter their first challenge: The Foundation Iron. This is followed by an adventurous stretch to the river near No Hands Bridge for The River Iron. As you continue your journey through scenic trails, you'll reach Foresthill Road and its famous bridge for The Foresthill Bridge Iron. Alongside this exhilarating course lies a unique stop at The Dead Car Iron where ironists must navigate around abandoned vehicle remains. As runners transition into the heart of downtown Auburn, they face several urban challenges including The Statue & Train Car Iron near Lincoln Avenue and The Clock Tower Iron in front of an historic landmark. The race culminates with two more iconic spots: a photo opportunity at the Claude Chana statue before reaching the finish line outside the historic courthouse building for The Courthouse Iron. Throughout this half-marathon, ironists must wear button-up shirts that they remove, iron on-site, and re-dress in between each location. To ensure compliance, participants are required to submit geo-tagged photos or videos of themselves completing their irons at designated spots post-event via Strava or email for verification purposes. While the race does not offer traditional support such as medical services or pacers, aid is permitted specifically at The Foresthill Bridge Iron and The Statue & Train Car Iron. Runners can bring a drop bag to these locations with necessary supplies like extra batteries and water bottles. Gear requirements include carrying your own ironing board (at least 3'3" long) equipped with full-length legs and a battery-powered iron, ensuring mobility throughout the race without assistance from other participants or spectators unless explicitly allowed for photo/video purposes. Failure to complete an iron at any designated spot will result in penalties added to overall finishing times. Iron X offers runners not only a physical challenge but also an opportunity to experience Auburn's diverse landscapes and rich history through this unique blend of running and extreme ironing, creating memories that are as unconventional as they are unforgettable. This event promises an extraordinary adventure for those looking beyond conventional races.
Races Offered
Half Marathon
Jul 10, 2027
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Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Auburn.
thermostatTemperature
17.7° / 35.3°
wb_sunnyFeels like
15.5° / 32.2°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
13h 55m
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Avg rainfall
—
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
8.5 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Very High (8.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
33.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:52
nightlight
Sunset
20:26
About Auburn
Learn more about the host city, Auburn.
Auburn is a small city in Placer County on Interstate 80 in California.