The #onemileatatime 12 Hour Challenge returns to Columbus, Georgia on June 20th, bringing with it a unique twist that honors the memory of Jerome Scales, who inspired this event through his hashtag "#onemileatatime." This year marks the sixth edition of the race and will take place at Oxbow Meadows, offering runners an opportunity to push their limits while celebrating community spirit. Participants can run anywhere from one mile up to 50 miles over a period of twelve hours, making it both challenging and adaptable for all levels.
Oxbow Meadows provides a serene backdrop with its lush greenery and scenic trails that wind through the heart of Columbus. The race takes place in early June, when temperatures are warm but not scorching; it's an ideal time to be outdoors amidst nature’s embrace. As runners lace up their shoes for this grueling yet rewarding challenge, they'll find themselves surrounded by a supportive community who gather at Oxbow Meadows to cheer and provide aid. The atmosphere is one of camaraderie and encouragement, with the marathon pushing participants to dig deep into reserves of stamina.
This year's event marks a significant shift from its previous format, now offering a 12-hour run rather than the original 24 hours. This change aims to make it more accessible while still retaining its challenge and spirit. Since its inception in honor of Jerome Scales, #onemileatatime has grown into an essential part of Columbus's running community calendar, drawing hundreds of runners each year who come together not just for competition but also to raise awareness about the importance of health and resilience. The race supports local charities and causes through participant donations and volunteer efforts.
The course itself is a one-mile loop that winds around Oxbow Meadows' well-maintained trails, with participants having exactly 15 minutes between each mile they complete during the first ten hours. After this period, runners will face increasingly challenging time constraints as every other lap sees an additional minute deducted from their break until reaching the final stretch where speed becomes critical for victory. The race's unique format encourages strategic pacing and mental fortitude over physical endurance alone.
Runners should expect to encounter varied conditions throughout the day: starting in early morning light, transitioning through midday heat, and finishing under evening skies as temperatures cool slightly but humidity remains high. With an average temperature of 26.6°C (feels like), coupled with occasional rain showers totaling around 3.6mm, participants need to stay hydrated and prepared for changing conditions. The trail surface is hard and dry, providing a stable base that minimizes the risk of injury.
Last Man Standing
Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $60.00
To participate in this year’s #onemileatatime challenge, interested runners can register online through [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132233](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132233) until the race date. The registration fee for the Last Man Standing distance is $60.00, and participants have up to three months before the event to secure a full refund should they need one due to unforeseen circumstances.
Bib pickup will take place at Oxbow Meadows on June 19th from noon until midnight. Runners must bring their confirmation email or registration receipt along with photo identification for verification purposes. On race day, runners can pick up any additional items such as wristbands and bib numbers starting at 5:00 AM directly outside the main aid station located off Lumpkin Road (3535 S. Lumpkin Rd). The event is open to participants aged sixteen years or older who are physically capable of completing multiple miles within a set timeframe.
The #onemileatatime 12 Hour Challenge in Columbus, Georgia on June 20th not only offers runners the chance to test their physical and mental limits but also celebrates community spirit through shared goals and mutual support. This annual event continues Jerome Scales' legacy while fostering connections among athletes from all walks of life who come together for a day full of challenges, camaraderie, and celebration.
