The Stuffed Turkey Endurance Races

The Stuffed Turkey Endurance Races will take place on November 21st in Granger, Iowa, USA. The event is held annually as part of the local endurance running community's tradition at Jester Park. Participants can choose from a variety of challenging distances including the grueling 100 Miler, the less daunting but still demanding 50Mile and 50K races, and the more accessible yet tough 10 Mile race.
Race morning will see runners gathering in Granger's picturesque Jester Park, where they'll face a mix of terrain that includes small rolling hills punctuated by stretches of flat trails. Runners should expect firm trail conditions with slightly soft spots underfoot. The park’s Equestrian Center serves as the starting point and finish line for all events.
This will be the 8th running of the Stuffed Turkey Endurance Races, an event that has grown in popularity among endurance runners seeking a challenging course on scenic trails. Each year sees hundreds of participants come together to support local causes through their efforts. The race does not just raise awareness; it also contributes directly to various community initiatives and scholarships.
The courses feature rugged terrain with 455 feet of elevation gain per loop, totaling significant ascent and descent for the longer distances. Aid stations are located at mile five and ten, where runners can expect fully stocked supplies including pizza, rice and beans, potatoes, Gatorade, GU packets, and other essentials to keep them fueled throughout their run.
Weather in November typically offers firm trail conditions with a UV index of 2.0 (Low). Temperatures range from mild to cool, often hovering around the mid-40s Fahrenheit at dawn, making for comfortable running early on but requiring proper gear as temperatures can drop later into the day due to wind chill and unpredictable weather patterns.
The race offers several distances: a challenging 160.9K (100 Miler), a demanding yet achievable 80.5K (50 Mile), an enduring 50K, and a more accessible but still tough 16.1K (10 Mile). Each distance presents unique challenges on the park’s trails.