RACE DAY: Saturday 12/14/2024
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For the 5th year in a row we have again sold out for the live participant portion and hit our limit of participants per our permit for this race. THANK YOU for making this race a continued success for 19 years! Virtual race entries are still available!
What Is A Fat Ass?
Fat Ass races are in the grand tradition of ultras being relaxed, low key, low amenities but still a solid good time. Please remember the low amenities and pack what you feel you need. Also, remember you signed up for it. Don’t complain. Don’t register for a distance you have not run before! This is not a supported race that can help you meet your goals.
Why Are We Calling it the Re-Run Year?
In keeping with the tradition of a fat-ass race we are reusing all items from the past 4 years. There will be three medals this year so all items will be used up completely and we start year 20 of this race with a greater capacity to do something special.
RACE START LINE
GPS COORDINATES:
47.361321237519114, -122.02370750867075
ADDRESS LOCATION:
Maple Valley at Four Corners shopping area (by the Mod Pizza,
Panera, DQ, Dumpling House, and Grocery Outlet). MOD Pizza address – 23912 SE
Kent Kangley Rd, Maple Valley, WA 98038, and The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints address – 26800 236th Pl SE, Maple Valley, WA 98038
REGISTRATION COSTS AND INCREASES
| 50K & Marathon: Dec 2023-July 31, 2024- $20 Aug 1, 2024 – Oct 31, 2024 – $23 Nov 1, 2024 – Dec 5, 2024* – $27 Virtual Marathon and 50K Dec 2023-July 31, 2024- $30 Aug 1, 2024 – Nov 20, 2024 – $31* | Half Marathon: Dec 2023-July 31, 2024– $23 Aug 1, 2024 – Oct 31, 2024 – $27 Nov. 1, 2024 – Dec 5, 2024* – $31 Virtual Half Marathon Dec 2023-July 31, 2024- $37 Aug 1, 2024 – Nov 20, 2024 – $37* |
To help you choose the right distance, we are implementing a new registration requirement: you’ll need to provide your last race finish time for the distance you’re entering for the 50K and Marathon. If it has been over 8 months since that finish, you’ll be moved to a virtual participant, you have the option to re-register for a shorter distance if you wish. Please note that falsifying results will result in removal from the race and being placed on a block list without a refund. Exceptions can be made for extenuating circumstances—just reach out to me before registering so we can discuss your situation.
From USATF:
As an RD it is my job to also ensure that all participating in this event – INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO EVENT ADMINISTRATORS, PARTICIPANTS, OFFICIALS, AND VOLUNTEERS do not appear on these disciplinary lists. All runners will be run through this and if your name does appear you will not be allowed to run nor receive a refund. USATF DISCIPLINARY LIST OR THE USCSS DISCIPLINARY LIST
Be sure to watch the Facebook group – half way through the year, a 50% off coupon is posted for limited participants.
VIRTUAL RUNNERS
Virtual races will be charged an additional $10 for shipping and handling of items to be sent to them before the race. This only applies to US runners. International virtual runners are not eligible for participation at this time. International runners, do not register as you will not receive a refund.
HALF-MARATHON RUNNERS
As of today, we are double the amount of registered participants than this same time last year. It seems we are tracking to sell out very early this year. So we have added an additional start time for the half marathon. People who signed up before today will have the original start time of 8:30am, people signing up today and going forward will have a choice for preference between 8:30am and 9:30am when registering. We will not guarantee that the request can be met, but we will do our best. The bottom line is many half marathoners want to run this race and for us to allow as many as possible and extend more openings before our race sells out; it is the only way to allow for more people. If you are running with someone else please note that in your registration as we will keep your running partners together.
REFUNDS / DEFERRALS / BIB TRANSFERS
No refunds or deferrals- If you cannot attend this race after registering, I always offer a 25% discount to the following year if you let me know before Thanksgiving.
Virtual Runners
No discounts and no deferrals/refunds. You have the ability to run the race between 12/7 and 12/20.
Bib Transfers – This will only be an option until Thanksgiving of each year for in-person runners. There is a $7 transfer fee (plus UltraSignup Fees). Contact the race director to transfer your bib. Your registration will be removed and an invitation with a discount charging $7 for registration will be sent to the person you are transferring to.
UPDATES
12-9-2024 – Bathroom at 6 mile aid station will return. There will only be one bathroom at the start
8-30-2024 – Pre – purchased swag
Pre-purchase clothing swag is sold out. Collapsable cups and additional swag (Car sticker, key fob, and patch sold as an individual additional item) are still available. A limited amount of that swag will also be available for purchase at the finish of the race. Each runner will get a patch and sticker or a fob and sticker, selection will be based on availability at runner check-in.
8-10-2024 – Parking Locations and Suggested Businesses
Parking locations have been updated. This is imperative to read.
Businesses that are open and suggested by other runners are updated.
7-24-2024 – Half- Marathon Registrations and Race Drops – Updated again 9/1/2024 and 9/21/2024
See Registrations / Drops and Race Distance Changes for this information.
SCHEDULE AND CUTOFF TIMES
Early Start for 50K & Marathon: Check-In: 6:10 am Briefing: 6:20 am Start: 6:30 am | Regular Start for 50K & Marathon: Check-In: 7:00 am Briefing: 7:20 am Start: 7:30 am | Half Marathon Start: Check-In: 1st Start 8:00 am / 2nd Start 9:00am Briefing: 1st Start 8:20 am / 2nd Start 9:20am Start: 1st Start 8:30 am / 2nd Start 9:30am |
CUT OFF TIME FOR ALL RACES IS 2:30 PM!!
Please remember your volunteers who worked hard in the cold all day; they do want to go home too. If you feel like you will take longer than 6.5 hours take the early start to get the extra hour so we can all go home and get warm.
The manned aid station (if there is one this year, due to volunteer shortages it may just be the start/finish aid) on the course will begin packing up at 12pm. The home aid station will begin packing up at 2.
PACKET PICKUP / BIB PICKUP
Packet Pickup is race day morning. Please see above for check-in times for each race.
DROP BAGS
No drop bags – Pack your own items on your person. In past years it has been a huge challenge for volunteers to manage runners’ personal items.
DROPS / DISTANCE CHANGE
We’ve implemented some new guidelines to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone. These adjustments help us support all participants in achieving their goals safely and fairly.
**For runners with a history of finish times for their chosen distance**, you are exempt from these new clauses and won’t incur additional fees, even if you decide to drop on race day. We appreciate your experience and commitment to the race.
As a reminder, this is a **Fat Ass race**, which emphasizes camaraderie and self-sufficiency. We kindly ask that you register for distances you are confident in completing. If you’re new to a particular distance, please consider whether you’re ready to take on that challenge this year.
**If you need to change to the half marathon distance, here are the details:**
– **Before October 1st**: Changes to distance can be made free of charge.
– **October 1st to November 15th**: Reinstatement to the new race distance requires a $5 fee plus UltraSignup costs.
– **After November 15th and including race day**: Reinstatement to the new race distance requires a $15 admin fee plus UltraSignup costs.
Official times will not be given unless these fees are paid.
Please remember to **inform the timers at the timing table** if you decide to drop to a shorter distance on race day. While you won’t be eligible for cash prizes if you achieve a record-breaking time in the new distance, your accomplishment will still be recorded in the race results posted to UltraSignup.
We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. **If you believe you have special considerations**, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me before registering, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
These measures help us maintain the integrity and sustainability of the race, ensuring that everyone has a positive experience. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
**For our seasoned runners who have previously completed longer distances but need to drop this time, there will be no penalties.**
Thank you for being part of our running community. We’re excited to see you at the starting line!
VIRTUAL RUNNERS
You can change your distance by emailing the RD by 12/1/2024.
TIMING / RESULTS
We will be utilizing WebScorer online for timing. The runner needs to have their bib showing to ensure ease of recording your time.
Results will be posted on the UltraSignup site within 30 hours. Please check your time and email the race director with any discrepancies immediately.
VIRTUAL RUNNERS
Virtual runners will need to record their own time with proof of time from Strava, Garmin, Apple Watch; or any GPS device showing they ran or walked the given mileage on UltraSignup. This will need to be uploaded between 12/7 and 12/20 with verified records being posted no later than 12/26. A reminder link will be sent out on 12/13.
PLEASE NOTE TREADMILL MILEAGE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED! YOU WILL RECEIVE A DNF IF YOU CANNOT PROVIDE GPS data of your run. Please do not sign up if you cannot do this. Do not ask for exceptions.
FOOD
There will be water/Hammer electrolyte drinks along the course, and you can refill your bottle (no cups on the course except for hot drinks and soup)
Soups (VEGAN butternut squash and chicken noodle only)- in addition to the soup we will provide the regular Fat Ass race fare of chips, gummy candy, chocolate candy, cookies, bananas, oranges, peanut butter sandwiches, etc ….
Pack it in, pack it out. Runners intentionally littering have the possibility of disqualification.
THERE ARE SEVERAL HOT FOOD RESTAURANTS NEARBY FOR ANY POST-RACE CRAVING SEE BELOW FOR SUGGESTIONS.
Food – All within .5 miles of the race start and finish – A bevy of choices
DQ, Burger King, Emerald City Smoothie, Panera Bread, Hops N’ Drops, Alaska N Dumplings, The Original Pancake House, Maple Valley Thai, Subway, Four Corner Teriyaki, Gino’s Bistro, Taco Del Mar, Jersey Mike Subs, El Caporal, Crockett’s Public House, McDonalds, Lucky Chopsticks, MOD Pizza, Pizza Hut…..
BATHROOMS ALONG COURSE
There has always been one port-o’potty at the start/finish. Depending on the amount of participants we may have an additional one at the start. There will be an additional port-o’potty at the manned aid station.
MANNED AID STATION
The Manned Aid Station is located at the Trail crossing on the residential street intersection SE 248th and 250th Ave SE nearest street address is 25001 SE 248th St.
There will be a light amount of the regular race fare of chips, gummy candy, cookies, mini candy bars, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, bananas, oranges, etc.
PARKING
PLEASE CARPOOL! – Start the route in Maple Valley at Four Corners shopping area (by the Panera and Grocery Outlet). The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints address is 26800 236th Pl SE, Maple Valley, WA 98038 and it is next to the start.
As with any race, it is important to pay attention to no parking signs and park responsibly.
The Pink X in the below map is the start line!
I cannot stress enough that you need to park in designated locations that do not have a sign stating you will be towed. Unless we have a specific agreement with a business for you to park there (this will be updated to include them) we will not be responsible for any issues with where you park.
The map below shows areas near the race that allow parking. The GREEN LINE is suggested for early starters only as it will be dark when they start, this is street parking. The secondary picture has a highlighted section also available to early-start runners.
ALL OTHER runners should utilize Google Maps to get directions and utilize parking areas at:
- Summit Park 23675 SE Tahoma Way, Maple Valley, WA 98038 and
- Tahoma High School 23499 SE Tahoma Way, Maple Valley, WA 98038
(Orange Circles)
- Grocery Outlet Parking
The general manager of Johnson’s Supply by the race also stated that runners could utilize parking in the far corner of their lot by Grocery Outlet. This area that he indicated is highlighted below.
Plan for time to walk from these locations to the race start.
SPECTATORS
We will be managing friends and family spectator expectations this year a little differently. Many people show up when someone is supposed to finish. We have noticed that 7 times out of 10 a runner will take longer on this course. The weather is horrible and there aren’t any spectators throughout to cheer you on.
There are two locations that have access to those in cars.
1. Trail crossing on residential street intersection SE 248th and 250th Ave S Coordinates for the street between the two trailheads
47.3787297244104, -122.0085732323539
Trail crosses 248th – Nearby address – 25026 SE 248th St
2. The Landsburg Trailhead for 50K only – To get to the Landsburg trailhead, take I-405 exit 4 and head east on State Route 169 10.1 miles. Immediately after passing under the SR 18 elevated roadway, turn left on SE 216th Way. Go 3.1 miles, then turn right on 276th Avenue SE. In 2.3 miles, turn right into the gravel parking lot. There is room for about 25 vehicles, but no amenities.
I urge you to use the share my location with your cell phone and the people coming to see you finish or see you at the half way point so their time there is shortened. We will not be able to provide heated areas or covered areas for them. These areas are for runners and in the past, we have had runners complain that they have no access due to entire families in the area.
SPECIAL REQUESTS
Please respect the FAT ASS aspect of this race. It is low budget to allow all who want to run; to run. Volunteers simply cannot cater to all requests for special treatment every runner wants. The food to be provided is listed. If you require vegetable broth because you don’t care for the soup offered and insist it is heated by volunteers midrace…you may be disappointed. Please do not ask the volunteers to stop everything to handle these requests. They are there to make the race great for all, to manage medical emergencies, and be a cheerleader for ALL the runners.
SWAG AND MEDALS
With the return of the Fat Ass race, the larger swag items are available for purchase on Ultra Signup when you register. Quantities are limited and IF items are still available you can purchase race day with Venmo or cash.
All runners will receive a Pigtails race medal, a Pigtails patch, and a choice between a vinyl Pigtails car sticker or a Pigtails key fob*.
*(If we run out of one of the options the alternate option will be given.)
NO MAILING OF SWAG NOT PICKED UP ON RACE DAY!
VIRTUAL RUNNERS
Virtual runners will have their swag and medal mailed. These will begin to ship in early November.
MEDALS
The medals this year are the reuse of all the last 4 years we want to use up all the medals to start fresh with a new series medal in 2025.
__________________________
VOLUNTEERS
Remember to be thankful to all the volunteers for their hard work!
All 2024 Volunteers giving time of 2.5 hours or more will be given free entry to the 2025 race and receive race swag.
PHOTOS
There will be no photographer this year to keep costs down. We will gladly take your photo at the finish for you as we can and we encourage you to share photos of your run with us if you take them on the course.
CURRENT COURSE RECORDS
The top 3 Female and Top 3 Male runners in each race distance will receive a special piggy medal celebrating that win.
No piggy banks this year just super cool gold, silver and bronze pig face medals. See Swag Section
Upholding the longstanding tradition of record-breaking cash prizes – The Marathon and The 50K will continue to receive $31.10 and $26.20 in cash for a record-breaking time of the distance they registered for. If you dropped, you do not qualify for cash prizes. You will still have fame on future race websites and on ultra signup.*
| 50K Female: Gina Slaby 3:40:58 (2017) Male: Ben Brown 3:12:13 (2019) | Marathon Female: Marlene Farrell 3:02:10 (2012) Male: Uli Steidl 2:31:26 (2012) | Half Marathon Female: Rhea George 1:32:07 (2023) Male: Ryan McIrvin 1:30:06 (2020) |
ANIMALS AND STROLLERS ON THE COURSE
Unfortunately, the course has some crushed rock, over 6 miles of it, so strollers aren’t the best idea.
Also, race insurance doesn’t cover dogs on the course and we ask that you leave them at home. Sorry folks, no dogs on the course. You will not be allowed to start if you have a dog with you. You will not leave your dog in your car upon arrival after showing up with one and being told you can’t start with one. SO LEAVE THE PUPS AT HOME WHERE IT IS WARM AND THEY ARE COMFORTABLE.
WEATHER
The weather is iffy this time of year—rain, sleet, snow, or possibly sun. Be prepared for the weather to have the best race. It’s the PNW; please check the weather and plan accordingly. I will have a few garbage bags for runners to help with rain and wind but everyone should prepare for the weather. Everyone should carry one water bottle and most of their fuel.
RACE DAY – COURSE
THIS COURSE IS USATF SANCTIONED THIS IS NOT A BQ CERTIFIED COURSE. IF THIS WAS A BQ CERTIFIED COURSE YOUR ENTRY COSTS WOULD BE ASTRONOMICAL TO WHAT YOU PAY NOW. THIS IS A FAT ASS. PERIOD. – LINK TO USATF SAFE SPORT REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
START LOCATION 47.361321237519114, -122.02370750867075
Start the route in Maple Valley at Four Corners shopping area (by the Mod Pizza, Panera, DQ, Dumpling House, and Grocery Outlet). MOD Pizza address – 23912 SE Kent Kangley Rd, Maple Valley, WA 98038 and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints address – 26800 236th Pl SE, Maple Valley, WA 98038
The start is the trail on Kent Kangley between these two addresses.
START LOCATION 47.361321237519114, -122.02370750867075
You will run out to the intersection where the Green to Cedar Trail becomes the Cedar River Trail and make that right turn that the 50kers do on their way back to the finish on the original course.
For a half marathon, you turnaround near the last bridge that crosses the Cedar River (it’s a big footbridge) on the way to Landsburg trailhead.
Marathoners will do a double out and back. 50Kers can run all the way to the Landsburg parking (original start) and do an out and back twice for about 32 miles.
There is a little more elevation on this course for all distances than there was in prior years, but not much difference overall. The course is mostly a paved blacktop trail. There are portions of the race that will have some dirt and gravel.
COURSE AND SAFETY ON IT
Try to do your best to be safe at all times and try not to put anyone else in an unsafe situation. Aid Station Volunteers will have cell phones to call for assistance or emergency support. Ensure your emergency contact is updated and correct in UltraSignup. We do not have the availability to evacuate mid-course. An ambulance can arrive at the manned aid or main aid station. Please run safe, and with a phone.
RACE COURSE MAPS
Half Marathon will hit the manned aid station at approximately 5.5, 7.75
Marathoners will hit the manned aid station at approx mileage 5.5, 7.75, 18.5, 20.5
50K runners will hit the manned aid station at approx mileage 5.5, 10.5, 21.5, 26
THE TURN FOR THE HALF MARATHON/MARATHON IS AT 6.55 MILES WATCH FOR IT.
Total mileage marathon: 26.26mi Total mileage 50K: 31.16mi
COURSE MARKINGS
The course will be marked with sports paint. The course will be marked at important turnaround points and intersections.
No ability for emergency evacuation. If you are injured on the course, there are three spots where you can be evacuated from. That is the 5.5 mile area where you cross a road to continue on the trail, the start/finish line, or the Landsburg trailhead turnaround. If you become injured you need to 1) Inform another runner and call for help 2) have runners alert the RD to your injury, we need to know you’re not coming back and to check on you the next day. It is important to carry a cell phone. Not as a means for music during the run. The cold atmosphere drains batteries more quickly. Be smart. If you have an emergency contact listed that is out of state we will contact them and also 911.
SPONSOR AND DISCOUNTS
SPONSORS
There is currently no sponsor set for this year’s race. we have had hammer nutrition and even kachava support our runners. we’re grateful for their past support. Unfortunately, Hammer’s support is now too costly to continue this partnership. Kachava was so amazing with the full-size bags for every runner, we heard loud and clear how much you loved it. We hope to partner with them again.
DISCOUNTS
Madison is always asked where I got her awesome light-up harness. I got it at Noxgear and I urge anyone who takes their pup out either to go for a walk or a run anytime from dusk and beyond to get one of these harnesses. Your pet will be seen and noticed and safe. Click the button below to be taken to their site and receive Madison’s Special Savings LITEITUP4U discount on this harness and all Noxgear items.
BUSINESSES
Gravity Coffee: Across the street from the race start
23912 SE Kent Kangley Rd, Maple Valley, WA 98038 – Opens at 5am!
Johnson’s Home and Garden:
26625 Maple Valley Black Diamond Rd SE, Maple Valley, WA 98038
OPEN EARLY! It is a huge store but whatever you need the staff is super helpful. If you need last-minute snacks, gloves, water bottles, or the hard-to-find last-minute need, they are closest to the race start. While your family is waiting for you to finish they can shop the Christmas decor, cat and dog toys, and even get propane and popcorn or a new grill! This is the go-to store of the race director!
Groceries and Fuel:
Fred Meyer and Safeway are less than .5 miles away on Maple Valley Black Diamond Road.
NEW CO-RACE DIRECTOR
Meet Madison –
She is working tirelessly behind the scenes to help her mom respond to all your emails and ensure everyone has a great race day.
She’s learning the ropes of being an RD and she may respond to your emails to assist us get through them all. Just remember she has little legs so her typing speed is not that fast, but she’ll get back to you soon. Honestly, please remember for a lot of this race and prep, it’s just me please utilize the website for information that’s already there for you.
DISCLAIMER
PARTICIPANTS IN THIS EVENT ASSUME ALL RISKS OF SUCH PARTICIPATION. PARTICIPANTS CERTIFY THAT THEY ARE PHYSICALLY FIT AND SUFFICIENTLY TRAINED TO COMPLETE SUCH PORTION OF THIS EVENT AS THEY CHOOSE TO COMPLETE. BY ELECTING TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS EVENT, THE PARTICIPANT WAIVES, RELEASES AND DISCHARGES FROM ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, LOSSES OR LIABILITIES FOR DEATH, PERSONAL INJURY, PARTIAL OR PERMANENT DISABILITY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, MEDICAL OR HOSPITAL BILLS OR THEFT WHICH MAY ARISE OUT OF OR RELATE TO PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT. PARTICIPANTS AGREE NOT TO SUE, AND TO HOLD HARMLESS ANY AND ALL PERSONS, SPONSORS, VOLUNTEERS, PARTICIPANTS OR GOVERNMENT AGENCIES FOR ANY AND ALL CLAIMS OR LIABILITIES THAT THEY HAVE WAIVED, RELEASED OR DISCHARGED BY THEIR PARTICIPATION IN THE PIGTAILS RUN. IF A RUNNER DEMEANS VOLUNTEERS THEY WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. IF THERE IS ANY DISCREPANCY OF TIME THE RD IS/HAS THE DECIDING AND FINAL SAY.
Thanks and Happy Running
April
2025 and Beyond
What is to come?
Medals – the medals for the coming years will be series medals seen below.
Swag – To be updated
VIRTUAL IS COMING BACK – In 2025 virtual racers can also purchase additional swag to be mailed with their medal and fob and patch or sticker and patch.
Some of the 2025 hats. The billed ear hats are coming too
PIGTAILS RUN 
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