Secret Beach 100k & 50M
October 3rd, 2020
pacific reef resort // Gold Beach, OR
registration opens february 3rd, 2020 via ultrasignup
2018 100k photos // 2018 50m photos
COURSE OVERVIEW
A remote, rugged and stunning section of the Oregon Coast, these courses take you from sandy beaches to grassy bluffs hundreds of feet above the cliff with waves crashing below to deep, dark old growth forests and into wind-created tree tunnels and into sand dunes. It is one jaw-dropping, camera-grabbing view after another; all day long!
Both courses are out and back routes that start and finish in the town of Gold Beach, Oregon. The courses have 16 miles of sand running (broken up into sections), 5 miles of pavement (in two sections) though there could be more depending on the tides, and the rest of the course is single track trail. The elevation profile makes this race appear relatively easy, but our runners assure you that is significantly harder than you might expect. The sand sections are typically soft and can slow you down a lot. The climbs coming up from the beach may be shorter, but are steep and can be tough.
For this reason we decided to offer the same cut off time for both distances. This way runners have the option to choose a 100K with a relatively strict cut off (the winning times have been 12 hours both years) or a 50 mile option with a much more generous cut off. We hope this allows runners of all paces to feel confident there is an option for them.
We recommend checking out the splits from 2019 to get an idea of how long it might take you between aid stations.
Distance: 100K/50 Mile
Elevation gain: 6650 feet/5000 feet
All Rainshadow Ruuning races are Trail Sisters Approved
All Rainshadow Running races can earn you UTMB/ITRA Points
A remote, rugged and stunning section of the Oregon Coast, these courses take you from sandy beaches to grassy bluffs hundreds of feet above the cliff with waves crashing below to deep, dark old growth forests and into wind-created tree tunnels and into sand dunes. It is one jaw-dropping, camera-grabbing view after another; all day long!
Both courses are out and back routes that start and finish in the town of Gold Beach, Oregon. The courses have 16 miles of sand running (broken up into sections), 5 miles of pavement (in two sections) though there could be more depending on the tides, and the rest of the course is single track trail. The elevation profile makes this race appear relatively easy, but our runners assure you that is significantly harder than you might expect. The sand sections are typically soft and can slow you down a lot. The climbs coming up from the beach may be shorter, but are steep and can be tough.
For this reason we decided to offer the same cut off time for both distances. This way runners have the option to choose a 100K with a relatively strict cut off (the winning times have been 12 hours both years) or a 50 mile option with a much more generous cut off. We hope this allows runners of all paces to feel confident there is an option for them.
We recommend checking out the splits from 2019 to get an idea of how long it might take you between aid stations.
Distance: 100K/50 Mile
Elevation gain: 6650 feet/5000 feet
All Rainshadow Ruuning races are Trail Sisters Approved
- Equal Prize Money & Awards
- Equal Podium Spots
- Women’s Specific Swag & Apparel. (No Unisex T-shirts)
- Menstrual Products Available at All Aid Stations
- Equal Opportunity/Space for Women on the Starting Line
All Rainshadow Running races can earn you UTMB/ITRA Points
REGISTRATION
Registration will open February 3rd, 2020 via UltraSignup. Race registration does not include a t-shirt, but runners have the option to add on a technical running shirt or a soft, cotton-blend shirt during the registration process. We do not offer finisher's medals, but your registration fee includes free wood-fired pizza and craft beer (along with other snacks and non alcoholic drinks) for you and your family or friends as well as a live bluegrass band.
100K:
Until June 30th: $185
July 1st-August 31st: $200
September 1st until sold out: $215
50M:
Until June 30th: $155
July 1st-August 31st: $170
September 1st until sold out: $195
Registration will open February 3rd, 2020 via UltraSignup. Race registration does not include a t-shirt, but runners have the option to add on a technical running shirt or a soft, cotton-blend shirt during the registration process. We do not offer finisher's medals, but your registration fee includes free wood-fired pizza and craft beer (along with other snacks and non alcoholic drinks) for you and your family or friends as well as a live bluegrass band.
100K:
Until June 30th: $185
July 1st-August 31st: $200
September 1st until sold out: $215
50M:
Until June 30th: $155
July 1st-August 31st: $170
September 1st until sold out: $195
TIMELINE
Saturday October 3rd
4:30-5:50 am: Bib pick up at the Pacific Reef Hotel*
5:50 am: Pre-race briefing
6:00 am: 100K & 50M starts
11:00 am: Course cut off
Please wear your bib visibly on the front of your body. Our volunteers are tracking you by recording your bib number at each aid station and the finish line. It helps us significantly if we can see your number clearly as you come into the aid station.
*ALL RUNNERS MUST SHOW PHOTO ID TO PICK UP RACE BIB
Saturday October 3rd
4:30-5:50 am: Bib pick up at the Pacific Reef Hotel*
5:50 am: Pre-race briefing
6:00 am: 100K & 50M starts
11:00 am: Course cut off
Please wear your bib visibly on the front of your body. Our volunteers are tracking you by recording your bib number at each aid station and the finish line. It helps us significantly if we can see your number clearly as you come into the aid station.
*ALL RUNNERS MUST SHOW PHOTO ID TO PICK UP RACE BIB
PARKING
The Start/Finish will be at the Pacific Reef Hotel (call the hotel to get your room at a discounted rate)! Runners who are staying overnight at the Pacific Reef Hotel will be able to park in their lot. For those not staying overnight, there is street parking available within walking distance. Plan to give yourself enough time to find parking nearby.
The Start/Finish will be at the Pacific Reef Hotel (call the hotel to get your room at a discounted rate)! Runners who are staying overnight at the Pacific Reef Hotel will be able to park in their lot. For those not staying overnight, there is street parking available within walking distance. Plan to give yourself enough time to find parking nearby.
AID STATIONS
There will be 6 full aid stations for the 100K (and two water only stops):
Each aid station will be stocked with water, Nuun electrolyte drink, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, fresh fruit, chips, pickles, cookies or candy, and hot soup/broth. We will have a variety of gels, but we do ask that you only use those to supplement what you are providing for yourself. There will also be first aid supplies, sunscreen, bug spray, and feminine hygiene products for issues that arise on the course.
Our volunteers are tracking all runners at the aid stations, so please wear your bib visibly on the front of your body.
There will be 6 full aid stations for the 100K (and two water only stops):
- Myers Creek, mile 10.8
- Arch Rock, mile 20.2
- Water only, mile 25
- House Rock, mile 30.7
- Water only, mile 35.7
- Arch Rock, mile 41.2
- Myers Creek, mile 50.6
- Myers Creek, mile 10.8
- Arch Rock, mile 20.2
- Water only (turnaround point), mile 25
- Arch Rock, mile 29.8
- Myers Creek, mile 39.2
Each aid station will be stocked with water, Nuun electrolyte drink, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, fresh fruit, chips, pickles, cookies or candy, and hot soup/broth. We will have a variety of gels, but we do ask that you only use those to supplement what you are providing for yourself. There will also be first aid supplies, sunscreen, bug spray, and feminine hygiene products for issues that arise on the course.
Our volunteers are tracking all runners at the aid stations, so please wear your bib visibly on the front of your body.
CUT-OFFS
In order to keep our race on schedule and within the time limits of our permits, we have cut off times at the aid stations. If you are not leaving the aid station by the cut off time, you will be given a ride back to the finish area by staff or volunteers.
100K:
10.8 Myers Creek -- No Cutoff Time
20.2 Arch Rock -- No Cutoff Time
30.7 House Rock -- 2:30pm
41.2 Arch Rock -- 5:20pm
50.6 Myers Creek -- 7:50pm
62.0 Finish -- 11:00pm
50M Aid Stations and Cutoff Times
10.8 Myers Creek -- No Cutoff Time
20.2 Arch Rock -- No Cutoff Time
25.0 Turnaround, 2:30 pm NOT AN OFFICIAL AID STATION
29.8 Arch Rock -- 5:20 pm
39.2 Myers Creek -- 7:50 pm
50.0 Finish -- 11:00 pm
Although these are public trails, you are participating on them as a registered participant of our event and by signing up for the race, you agree to follow our rules and conditions for completing (or not completing) the race. Our sweeps will be leaving right at cut off time, taking down course markings with them. If you refuse to leave the course after cut off and end up getting lost or injured, requiring search and rescue, our permitting agency could look at that as negligence on our end (allowing runners on the course with no course markings or after the time we agreed to stop people). We take this rule seriously and as it puts our permits in jeopardy, if any runner violates this rule, they may be subject to a ban from future races.
In order to keep our race on schedule and within the time limits of our permits, we have cut off times at the aid stations. If you are not leaving the aid station by the cut off time, you will be given a ride back to the finish area by staff or volunteers.
100K:
10.8 Myers Creek -- No Cutoff Time
20.2 Arch Rock -- No Cutoff Time
30.7 House Rock -- 2:30pm
41.2 Arch Rock -- 5:20pm
50.6 Myers Creek -- 7:50pm
62.0 Finish -- 11:00pm
50M Aid Stations and Cutoff Times
10.8 Myers Creek -- No Cutoff Time
20.2 Arch Rock -- No Cutoff Time
25.0 Turnaround, 2:30 pm NOT AN OFFICIAL AID STATION
29.8 Arch Rock -- 5:20 pm
39.2 Myers Creek -- 7:50 pm
50.0 Finish -- 11:00 pm
Although these are public trails, you are participating on them as a registered participant of our event and by signing up for the race, you agree to follow our rules and conditions for completing (or not completing) the race. Our sweeps will be leaving right at cut off time, taking down course markings with them. If you refuse to leave the course after cut off and end up getting lost or injured, requiring search and rescue, our permitting agency could look at that as negligence on our end (allowing runners on the course with no course markings or after the time we agreed to stop people). We take this rule seriously and as it puts our permits in jeopardy, if any runner violates this rule, they may be subject to a ban from future races.
CREW ACCESS/PACERS
All of the aid stations are crew accessible and right off of Hwy 101. Please remember that runners may only receive aid at designated aid stations. We will allow pacers, starting from the Myers Creek aid station, the second time (mile 50.6 for the 100K and mile 39.2 for the 50M). No pacers allowed before that point in the race. Pacers will need to sign a waiver and pick up a pacer bib at the start area. Pacers are responsible for getting themselves to Myers Creek.
Click here for crew driving directions.
All of the aid stations are crew accessible and right off of Hwy 101. Please remember that runners may only receive aid at designated aid stations. We will allow pacers, starting from the Myers Creek aid station, the second time (mile 50.6 for the 100K and mile 39.2 for the 50M). No pacers allowed before that point in the race. Pacers will need to sign a waiver and pick up a pacer bib at the start area. Pacers are responsible for getting themselves to Myers Creek.
Click here for crew driving directions.
DROP BAGS
Runners can have drop bags at all of the aid stations.
There will be tarps set up at check-in, one for each aid station location, along with duct tape and sharpies. Runners are allowed one bag per location and should be labeled with: name, bib number, and aid station name. Our volunteers will be transporting the bags to to the aid station and back to the finish once they close for the day. We highly recommend putting your stuff in a waterproof bag.
The drop bags will not come back to the finish line until each aid station closes, which could be relatively late for some of them. If you are not able to pick them up Saturday night, you can swing by Sunday morning and grab your bags. We will hold on to leftover bags for a couple weeks so if you forget yours, send us an email and we will arrange to get it back to you (probably minus the food, because that gets gross in our house). After a month, all contents are donated.
For those not familiar with drop bags, it's a way for you to have certain items at specific aid stations. If you like to have a certain kind of nutrition or specific brand of electrolyte, you can put those in your bag and restock at the aid station instead of carrying it the whole way. Some people leave extra layers, gloves or hats, or dry socks in their bags. Runners are responsible for providing their own bag.
Runners can also leave a drop bag at the finish area for when they are done. Plan to bring the bag during morning check in and there will be a designated tarp/tent to leave it during the race.
Runners can have drop bags at all of the aid stations.
There will be tarps set up at check-in, one for each aid station location, along with duct tape and sharpies. Runners are allowed one bag per location and should be labeled with: name, bib number, and aid station name. Our volunteers will be transporting the bags to to the aid station and back to the finish once they close for the day. We highly recommend putting your stuff in a waterproof bag.
The drop bags will not come back to the finish line until each aid station closes, which could be relatively late for some of them. If you are not able to pick them up Saturday night, you can swing by Sunday morning and grab your bags. We will hold on to leftover bags for a couple weeks so if you forget yours, send us an email and we will arrange to get it back to you (probably minus the food, because that gets gross in our house). After a month, all contents are donated.
For those not familiar with drop bags, it's a way for you to have certain items at specific aid stations. If you like to have a certain kind of nutrition or specific brand of electrolyte, you can put those in your bag and restock at the aid station instead of carrying it the whole way. Some people leave extra layers, gloves or hats, or dry socks in their bags. Runners are responsible for providing their own bag.
Runners can also leave a drop bag at the finish area for when they are done. Plan to bring the bag during morning check in and there will be a designated tarp/tent to leave it during the race.
COURSE MAPS/ELEVATION PROFILE
The course will be well marked with pink and yellow ribbon and yellow arrow signs. You should not go more than one mile without seeing a sign or ribbon.
Please study these and print them out and bring them with you if you'll want a paper map come race-day. Like all Rainshadow races, the course will be well marked, but we won't have any paper maps for runners or spectators (so print your own if you want one), and ultimately, it's each runner's responsibility to know the course.
Click here for course maps and GPX files.
The course will be well marked with pink and yellow ribbon and yellow arrow signs. You should not go more than one mile without seeing a sign or ribbon.
Please study these and print them out and bring them with you if you'll want a paper map come race-day. Like all Rainshadow races, the course will be well marked, but we won't have any paper maps for runners or spectators (so print your own if you want one), and ultimately, it's each runner's responsibility to know the course.
Click here for course maps and GPX files.
VOLUNTEERS
We always need volunteers on race day and it is a great way to be a part of the event if you are not running. Volunteers earn all kinds of perks; they get to eat and drink for free, are eligible for raffle prizes from our sponsors, and earn credit towards a future Rainshadow race! Volunteer shifts range from just a couple hours in the morning to an all day aid station or something at the finish area. If you are new to volunteering, check out the job descriptions page to find the volunteer gig that is perfect for you! We promise you will have fun!
If you are interested in volunteering for the race, please email Elizabeth.
We always need volunteers on race day and it is a great way to be a part of the event if you are not running. Volunteers earn all kinds of perks; they get to eat and drink for free, are eligible for raffle prizes from our sponsors, and earn credit towards a future Rainshadow race! Volunteer shifts range from just a couple hours in the morning to an all day aid station or something at the finish area. If you are new to volunteering, check out the job descriptions page to find the volunteer gig that is perfect for you! We promise you will have fun!
If you are interested in volunteering for the race, please email Elizabeth.
CANCELLATIONS
We understand things may come up and you may not be able to make it to the race. We do not offer refunds, but you have 3 choices for cancellations. Click below for more information.
We understand things may come up and you may not be able to make it to the race. We do not offer refunds, but you have 3 choices for cancellations. Click below for more information.
SHIRTS
Race registration does not include a t-shirt, but runners have the option to add them on during the registration process. There are two options, a technical Patagonia race shirt or a soft and comfy cotton-blend tee, both printed with the race logo. If you did not add on a shirt during registration, you may purchase one on the store page until 45 days prior to the event.
Race registration does not include a t-shirt, but runners have the option to add them on during the registration process. There are two options, a technical Patagonia race shirt or a soft and comfy cotton-blend tee, both printed with the race logo. If you did not add on a shirt during registration, you may purchase one on the store page until 45 days prior to the event.
POST RACE PARTY
We do not give out finisher's medals at any of our races, instead that money goes to providing free handmade pizza courtesy of Pizza Rocks, free craft beer and non-alcoholic drinks, and live bluegrass music. This is free for all registered runners, volunteers, and their friends/family. We strive to create a welcoming community feel where runners and volunteers want to stay and hang out after they finish, cheer on their fellow runners, share trail stories and dance to live music! We promise you the finish line will be just as festive for the last runner as it is for the first finisher.
Our amazing pizza crew can accommodate just about every dietary preference (gluten free, vegan, vegetarian), so when it is your turn to grab a slice, simply make your request and they will make a special pizza for you!
The post race party is free for registered runners, their families, and volunteers (guest list will be monitored by a volunteer). Unfortunately we are not able to offer the food and drink to outside spectators. Those who appear under 30 will be asked to present ID for beer.
We do not give out finisher's medals at any of our races, instead that money goes to providing free handmade pizza courtesy of Pizza Rocks, free craft beer and non-alcoholic drinks, and live bluegrass music. This is free for all registered runners, volunteers, and their friends/family. We strive to create a welcoming community feel where runners and volunteers want to stay and hang out after they finish, cheer on their fellow runners, share trail stories and dance to live music! We promise you the finish line will be just as festive for the last runner as it is for the first finisher.
Our amazing pizza crew can accommodate just about every dietary preference (gluten free, vegan, vegetarian), so when it is your turn to grab a slice, simply make your request and they will make a special pizza for you!
The post race party is free for registered runners, their families, and volunteers (guest list will be monitored by a volunteer). Unfortunately we are not able to offer the food and drink to outside spectators. Those who appear under 30 will be asked to present ID for beer.
CARPOOL
It's easy to do, good for the planet, saves money and it's fun! Follow this three easy steps:
It's easy to do, good for the planet, saves money and it's fun! Follow this three easy steps:
- Click this link and scan the spreadsheet to find compatible folks to carpool with;
- Contact those folks or...
- If you don't see what you're looking for enter your own details and contact info.
LODGING
Pacific Reef Hotel is the host hotel for the race and the race will start and finish right on the lawn. The hotel is on the ocean and many of the rooms have ocean views. We highly recommend calling the hotel as soon as you're registered to book your room (tell them you are running Secret Beach Race to get your discount!) as the rooms are limited.
There are other hotels and lodging within a very short walk from the race start/finish, any place on Ellensburg Avenue with an address between 29392 and 29232 will be close by.
Pacific Reef Hotel is the host hotel for the race and the race will start and finish right on the lawn. The hotel is on the ocean and many of the rooms have ocean views. We highly recommend calling the hotel as soon as you're registered to book your room (tell them you are running Secret Beach Race to get your discount!) as the rooms are limited.
There are other hotels and lodging within a very short walk from the race start/finish, any place on Ellensburg Avenue with an address between 29392 and 29232 will be close by.
PHOTOS/RESULTS/RACE REPORTS
All of the past race results can be found on UltraSignup. To check out photos, media, and race reports from previous years, please choose the appropriate option below: We would love to feature your race report on our website. If you have one to share, please email it to info@rainshadowrunning.com!
All of the past race results can be found on UltraSignup. To check out photos, media, and race reports from previous years, please choose the appropriate option below: We would love to feature your race report on our website. If you have one to share, please email it to info@rainshadowrunning.com!
Questions? The race directors for this and all Rainshadow Running Club races are James Varner and Elizabeth Reese.