Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k)

United States flag Mill Spring, North Carolina, United States

284 days left

Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k) runsignup.com
Date 14 Aug, 2027
Races 3 distances
Entry fee $25.00 – $35.00
Runner rating Be the first to rate
Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k)

About the event

🐎 Gallop Through the Trails at the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🌲

 
Giddy up, runners! The Dark Horse Trail Marathon & Half Marathon at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in beautiful Tryon, North Carolina is the perfect opportunity for you to feel the wind in your hair as you race through stunning trails set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush forests 🏞️. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a newcomer, this race promises an unforgettable adventure through a unique blend of athleticism and the natural beauty that only the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains can offer 🌳.
 
Imagine galloping through wide dirt paths, winding your way through single-track trails, and trotting across grassy meadows 🌾. Along the way, you'll take in breathtaking views, and if you're lucky, you might spot a fellow horse galloping by as you run through the very grounds that host the world's grandest equestrian events 🏇. This is the place where nature and sport collide, creating a race day experience like no other. Whether you're chasing that marathon glory or just here for the half marathon fun, each step brings you closer to the heart of this magical, four-legged world.
 
After crossing the finish line, enjoy the post-race festivities alongside your fellow runners and equestrian fans 🎉. The Tryon International Equestrian Center is always buzzing with energy, and you can celebrate your victory with food 🍔, drinks 🍻, and live music 🎶 while taking in the beautiful atmosphere of this renowned venue. It’s not just about the race—it’s about connecting with the land, nature, and the incredible spirit of adventure 🐾.

 
Event Details

When: All Races Start at 8:00 AM ⏰
Where: Tryon Equestrian Center
Address: 25 International Blvd, Mill Spring, NC 28756 📍
Packet Pickup: Will be held at the Start/Finish Line starting 1 hour before your event 🏁.
Course Cutoff: For the marathon: Runners have 6 hours to complete but must start last lap before 5 hours
Parking: When you enter the Equestrian Center, stay to the left to enter the main gate 🏇. Let them know you're here for the race, and follow the driveway to the left, which will lead you to participant parking, right by the start/finish line next to the General Store 🚗
 

Amenities located within eye sight of the start/finish line

  • Breakfast Diner 🍳
  • Coffee Shop ☕
  • Convenient Store 🛒
  • Bars/Restaurants 🍽️
  • Indoor Bathrooms 🚻
 

Course Map: Strava Course Map - HERE🗺️

The course consists of a 6.5-mile loop that meanders through the equestrian center with a mixture of wide packed dirt paths, single-track trails, and meadows 🐴. The course has 600 feet of elevation gain per loop, offering you a steady challenge as you gallop through this beautiful terrain 🏞️.
 

Aid Station

There is one aid station at the start and finish line 🏁.
You'll find pickles 🥒, cookies 🍪, chips 🥨, fig newtons, and pretzels 🥨. 
Hydration will include water 💧, coke 🥤, and ginger ale 🥤.
Cup-less Event: Please bring your own hydration vessel for use at the aid station 🏅. 
Feel free to donate any homemade snacks or supplies you'd like to see at the aid station 🍪.

 
Staging Area - Camping & Personal Aid Stations

Tryon Equestrian Center offers camping (Tent, Car & RV) for participants and their crews along with cabin rentals. Please contact the Equestrian Center Directly. ⛺.
 
Don’t miss the chance to trot, gallop, and race through the scenic beauty of the Tryon Equestrian Center. This is your opportunity to experience the thrill of the Dark Horse Trail Race! 🏇🐴🌿

Races offered

14Aug

Dark Horse 10k

Cycling, Running

Distance
10K
Start time
08:00
Entry fee
$25.00
14Aug

Dark Horse Half Marathon

Cycling, Running

Distance
21.1K
Start time
08:00
Entry fee
$30.00
14Aug

Dark Horse Marathon

Cycling, Running

Distance
42.2K
Start time
08:00
Entry fee
$35.00

Weather history

3-year monthly averages for August in Mill Spring.

Temperature18.8° / 29.2°
Feels like20.1° / 30.9°
Sunshine hours10h 45m
Rainfall4.2 mm
Snowfall—
Wind6.1 km/h (Light breeze)
Humidity76.2%
Max UV indexHigh (7.0)
Sweat lossHigh
Course conditionsHard and dry surface
Sunrise06:48
Sunset20:15

About Mill Spring

Learn more about the host city, Mill Spring.

Mill Spring is an unincorporated community in Polk County, North Carolina, United States. Mill Spring is located at the junction of North Carolina Highway 9 and North Carolina Highway 108 3.7 miles (6.0 km) northeast of Columbus. Mill Spring has a post office with ZIP code 28756. Mill Spring is named after Colonel Ambrose Mills. He founded a saw mill and post office in the community.

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Race results

Official finishing times from previous editions of Dark Horse Trail Series (26.2 - 13.1 - 10k).

Place Name Gender Age City Time
🥇 Shawn Wussow M 46 Fayetteville, NC —
🥈 Sean Clayton M 31 Lexington, SC —
🥉 Mike Schleifer M 49 Atlanta, GA —
4 Michael Busick M 48 Atlanta, GA —
5 Malin Barton F 51 Clayton, NC —

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