American River 50 Mile Endurance Run Presented by Norcalultras Returns May 8, 2021

April 15, 2021

SECOND LARGEST RACE IN THE UNITIED STATES RETURN TO FOLSOM AND AUBURN, CA

Folsom/Auburn, CA – The American River 50 (AR50), one of the nation’s most historic 50-mile endurance run, is returning for its 42^nd year on May 8, 2021. Starting in Folsom, California and ending in Auburn, California the race is now ranked as the second largest 50-mile endurance run. Recognized for its tough, but exciting and breathtaking terrain, AR50 brings together veterans, first-timers, and runners traveling from around the world to compete in the second longest-running U.S. 50-miler. Book your spot today at: https://raceroster.com/events/2021/47001/american-river-50

COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the race; pre-race temperature checks, staggered wave starts, and runners are required to wear masks before and after the race. Click here to watch a two-minute video of safety protocols in action at the NorCalUltras Frosty Run.

“We are thrilled to welcome the iconic American River 50 Mile Endurance Race to Folsom,” said Folsom Mayor Mike Kozlowski. “This race will let the city show off our extensive world-class running trail system and provides a superb opportunity for our large local running community to get back to racing. Being able to host the AR50 race and highlight the sport they love, while also welcoming some of the finest athletes in the world to Folsom is a great honor and a perfect fit.”

AR50 is presented by NorCalUltras and benefits Fit for Girls.  It is a point-to-point race, and a perfect training tune up for any 100-mile race, offering a mix of pavement (27 miles) and trails (23 miles) that can produce fast times and help those running in their first 50-miler experience a balanced race.

“One of AR50’s strengths are its location in the Sierra Foothills, as well as the dramatic climb to Auburn at the end of the 50-mile run that challenges all ultra-athletes,” said NorCalUltras Race Director Julie Fingar. “We are so fortunate to host this event in a region that is so rich in wilderness, beauty and open space, but also an area that challenges the world’s top athletes.”

A pandemic, heat, rain, and days that threatened snow have all been a factor in the race’s 40-year history.

“If it were easy on any level, including weather or terrain, it wouldn’t be recognized as one of the nation’s top endurance races,” added Fingar. “But we have changed a few things up this year to make the run not only challenging, but also enjoyable for the runners and the spectators.”

Top finishers typically finish in six hours for men and just over seven hours for women.

AR50 begins at Folsom Point on a single-track trail at the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area at 6am. The course travels over the Lake Natoma Crossing Bridge to the American River Bike Trail and up to Hazel Avenue bluffs. The second half of their race from Beal’s Point to the Pioneer Express trail runners will continue to test their physical and mental abilities. The final three miles, runners reach the infamous Dam Wall and begin the dramatic climb to the summit and are greeted by the Popsicle Palace at Last Gasp. Runners reach the home stretch with motivational mile marker signs, the sound of the congratulatory cow bells and energetic volunteers while they run their 2.5 victory miles to cross the finish line in Auburn, CA.

“Folsom is proud to host top tier athletic events like the American River 50,” said Mary Ann McAlea, Senior Vice President of Greater Folsom Partnership. “Events like this are essential to the economic vitality of Folsom and many of our event participants talk about moving to Folsom once they have had the 95630 experience!”

“Auburn, CA, known as the Endurance Capital of the World, is proud to be the finish city for the historic American River 50 Mile Endurance Run,” said City Manager, John W. Donlevy, Jr. “The local Auburn business community benefits immensely from this race and many visitors who come to our town. Auburn is a premier destination for runners and their support team both before and after the race!”

About NorCalUltras
NorCalUltras is Northern California’s premiere ultrarunning event management company. NorCalUltras trail races are renowned for providing runners with first class experience from start to finish. Each endurance race features excellent, well-marked courses, a professionally organized race team, top of the line swag and remarkable post-race festivities. For more information visit www.norcalultras.com.

About the City of Folsom

Folsom is a dynamic and contemporary city with strong roots in gold rush and railroad history. Beautifully located between Folsom Lake and the shores of Lake Natoma, Folsom is a recreational paradise with 56-plus miles of trails providing easy access for runners, paddlers, boaters and cyclists. The recently-opened Johnny Cash Trail is a great addition to the extensive trail system. With 46 parks, a year-round Aquatic Center and a very temperate climate, Folsom is a frequent host for a wide variety of sporting events. The revitalized Historic District is a big draw with shopping, dining and history in a quaint, walkable downtown. The arrival of Intel 20-plus years ago was the launch of Folsom’s reputation as a high-tech hub for the region. Today, the development of land south of Highway 50 for residential and commercial expansion will put Folsom on the map again for innovation and opportunity. Folsom’s schools and quality of life are continually recognized nationally, including “#1 Place to Raise a Family in California” by WalletHub.com. Folsom is conveniently located 20 miles east of Sacramento and halfway between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe. Lean more about the City of Folsom at www.VisitFolsom.com.

About the City of Auburn – Endurance Capital of the World
Auburn is home to some of the most challenging and historic endurance events on the planet, notably the Tevis Cup 100-Mile Endurance Equestrian Ride (est. 1955) and the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run (est. 1976). The Western States Trail, the Auburn State Recreation Area with its vast network of trails and water venue access points, the lakes and rivers, the many regional parks, all make Auburn a destination for endurance athletes of all levels and interests. Due to the longevity, quality, variety and quantity of events held in this spectacular environment, in May, 2003 the Auburn City Council unanimously adopted a proclamation that declared the City of Auburn, CA “The Endurance Capital of the World™”.

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