Kids can compete at Bob’s Little Timber race event

Every year for the past number of years, ultra runners who wanted an extreme challenge have ventured to Ancestor Acres to participate in a grueling race that goes until all but one runner has dropped out of the competition.

Last year saw the invitation to compete in a similar type of event extended to children, and year two promises to be even bigger and better for the kids.

Bob’s Little Timber Backyard Ultra Race is set to take place at Ancestor Acres near Nashville on Aug. 1 from 2-4 p.m. The race is designed to emulate Bob’s Big Timber Backyard Ultra Race, which sees contestants competing in an ultra, last-runner-standing event where runners traverse the rugged terrain at Ancestor Acres, having to complete a 4-mile track that restarts at the top of every hour.

However, in this race it is all about kids, with ages ranging anywhere from 4 years old to middle school. The race covers 6 miles, with each loop being a quarter-mile in length for younger children and a mile loop for older youth.

The natural trails that wind through Ancestor Acres present a challenging yet scenic trek through the woods and fields.

“We took the Big Timber format and made it for kids,” promoter Kevin Beachy said. “We had parents run with kids last year and wanted it to be a fun event that challenged the kids.”

Unlike the Big Timber Race that lasts until only one runner remains, this one is set for two hours, with each loop starting every 20 minutes, so kids have 20 minutes to complete each loop before the next one begins.

“We ring the starter bell just like the big race, and we got some really positive feedback from last year’s race,” Beachy said, noting they had 25 kids participate last year.

The entry fee is $20 and includes a T-shirt and snacks at the end of every stage.

Anyone with questions or wishing to enter the race can call Beachy at 330-401-6356. All that is needed to enter is the child’s first name and their T-shirt size. To ensure a T-shirt, entries must be called in by Thursday, July 17. Entries after that date will be accepted, but a T-shirt is not guaranteed. Entry fees may be paid on race day.