Charge your headlamp and dive into an exhilarating evening under the stars at A Shot in the Dark, hosted on the rugged trail network of the Whitewater Center—alongside the scenic Catawba River. Participants can select between a 5K, 10K, or half marathon, all run post-sunset through dense forest single-track and shared-use trails with minimal elevation gain (5K and 10K variants)—the half marathon option returns to one loop multiple times for added distance.
Strong race infrastructure includes pre-race packet pickup the night before and day-of check-in starting at 5:30 PM at the South Conference Center. All runners must carry a headlamp or light source, and day-of alcohol-free glow gear (bracelets, neon accents) adds to the nighttime ambiance. The course opens at 6:30 PM and officially closes at 8:30 PM with final timing cutoffs.
This unique event is part of Whitewater’s broader Race Series and unites trail running with a festival-style vibe—expect post-run hot chocolate, s’mores by the bonfire, and social vibes as daylight fades into night.
🌟 Why It Stands Out
This is not your typical trail race—it’s a night running adventure through lit trails, where headlamps carve paths through darkness and forest ambience transforms into something primal and immersive. Whether you’re chasing a fast 5K PR, pacing a murky 10K, or ticking off a half marathon under moonlight, A Shot in the Dark blends thrill, community, and trail spirit in one glowing experience.
