Winona Forest's Chase The Day 24-Hour Trail Ultra

Chase The Day Trail Ultra, held within the serene Winona Forest CCC Camp near Mannsville, New York, invites runners of all levels to experience an endurance festival like no other. Scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, this event offers a unique blend of flexibility and challenge across three time-based categories: 6 hours, 12 hours, and the epic 24-hour Ultra.
The race unfolds on a meticulously maintained 2.6-mile loop that is free from technical obstacles such as roots and rocks, making it an ideal setting for both first-time ultramarathoners and seasoned runners aiming to notch up their lap count. The course's smooth profile ensures comfort throughout the duration of each category, allowing participants to focus solely on pacing themselves.
For those venturing into the 24-hour Ultra, nightfall brings a magical transformation as starlit trails add an enchanting element to the already serene forest setting. Temperatures during this period are expected to hover around the mid-40s at night and rise into the upper 60s by day, providing optimal conditions for sustained performance.
The event's layout supports runners with ample logistical aid. A main manned station at the Start/Finish area offers Tailwind electrolyte replacement drinks and hot food options throughout the entire duration of the race. Participants can set up personal base camps right along the course starting Friday evening, enhancing their comfort levels as they strive to reach their goals.
The 24-hour Ultra also introduces a special feature: pacers are permitted from midnight onwards, allowing runners to share the load with friends or fellow competitors during the more challenging hours of the night. This supportive environment fosters camaraderie and mutual encouragement among participants.
In addition to individual efforts, teams can join in for the 24-hour Ultra category where creativity meets strategy. Teams have complete freedom in how they accumulate laps, whether running relay-style or collectively pushing through together. The team with the highest total lap count by Sunday at 8:00 AM is crowned victorious.
To ensure a community atmosphere, registration is capped at 100 participants. Early registrants who sign up by May 2 will receive a custom "Chase the Day" hoodie as part of their swag package. Packet pick-up and race briefing sessions are available on Friday evening or Saturday morning to accommodate all schedules.
With its accessible terrain, supportive environment, and flexible format options, Chase The Day Trail Ultra promises an unforgettable experience for runners looking to push their limits while enjoying nature's beauty in Winona Forest.