The Big Deal at Great Seal

The Big Deal!
Nestled within Great Seal State Park, this ultra-distance race promises an unforgettable adventure for trail runners and endurance enthusiasts alike. The park holds special significance for Race Director Chris Stangle, who not only ran his first ultra here but also returned years later to host another event. This unique setting offers a blend of scenic beauty and challenging terrain that will test even the most experienced ultrarunners.
### Course Overview
The course features an intricate 20-mile loop with approximately 3100-3200 feet of elevation gain per lap, making it both demanding and rewarding. The route is predominantly single track (95%) interspersed with some dual-track sections for variety. Key landmarks along the way include Ireland Shelter, Sugarloaf Mountain, Bald Hill, Sand Hill, Rocky Road, Rock Garden, Annie’s Trail, Lick Run, Spandex, Bunker Hill, Shawnee Ridge, and Grouse Rock—each offering a distinct challenge or moment of respite.
### Terrain and Safety
The course has been meticulously designed to ensure both safety and excitement. Notable sections like the challenging Sugarloaf climb on the first loop highlight the varied landscape runners will encounter. To enhance safety, certain risky areas such as Shrake Road have been removed from the route, reducing elevation gain slightly but improving overall conditions.
### Aid Stations
Runners can expect well-stocked aid stations every 5 miles or so, providing essential supplies like water, soda, electrolytes, hot food, and traditional snacks. These include stops at Ireland Shelter (Start/Finish), Rocky Road, Lick Run, and the finish line again after each loop.
### Rules and Regulations
For those tackling the full 100-mile distance, a strict cutoff of 36 hours applies, with additional requirements for the final lap within 28 hours. Shorter distances have no specific time limits but adhere to overall race rules. Crew access is permitted only at designated aid stations (Ireland Shelter and Lick Run), ensuring both safety and compliance.
### Awards
The Big Deal! offers a range of awards, including custom metal buckles for the 100-mile finishers and wooden belt buckles for those completing the 100k. Additionally, top three male and female runners in each distance will receive podium awards. A special Golden Goat award is reserved for anyone who completes the course under 26 hours.
### Packet Pickup
All participants must attend packet pickup on Friday night from 4pm to 7pm at 50 West Brewing (1 N Paint Street, Chillicothe OH). Race briefing will take place at 6pm. Those running shorter distances can also pick up packets in the morning starting at 6:30am.
### Gear and Drop Bags
Mandatory gear includes a GPS file on your watch or smartphone, two headlamps (or one with extra batteries), a whistle, an emergency foil blanket, and carrying capacity for at least 1L of water. Each runner is allowed up to three drop bags, each not exceeding 15 liters in volume.
### Parking and Camping
Parking will be along the campground road near the start/finish area, making it convenient for runners to access their vehicles between loops. A small primitive campground within Great Seal State Park offers limited camping spots available on a first-come-first-served basis Friday night through race weekend.
This event promises an immersive experience in one of Ohio’s most cherished natural settings, combining breathtaking scenery with the thrill of endurance running.