Elk River Bigfoot Half Marathon/10K/5K

In loving memory of Buffy Bonwell.

Children’s Home Society needs your support. On May 30th, 2026, we are hosting our third annual 5k fundraiser at the University of Charleston. The Children’s Home Society has been serving children and families for over 129 years. Today, we have 13 primary locations and 28 physical locations to provide adoption, foster care, and emergency shelter care statewide. Our goal is to raise funds that will assist the needs of the children at the Davis Child Shelter and in our Foster Care and Adoption Program.

The 5K run/walk race will be hosted at the University of Charleton. Water stations will be set up for the convenience of the participants.

The West Virginia Cryptid Race Series is a West Virginia–based running series inspired by the state’s legendary cryptids and the unique locations they are said to roam. Each race has its own theme, atmosphere, and community feel, giving runners a fun reason to explore new places while enjoying professionally produced events.

Participants can choose to run a single race or take on the full series. Those who complete multiple races will experience a mix of local folklore, scenic courses, and memorable race-day energy across the region.

The race order begins in Clay with the Bigfoot-themed race, setting the tone in classic Appalachian surroundings. The second stop brings the series to Saint Albans for the Mothman race, offering a fast, fun, and community-focused experience centered around West Virginia’s most iconic legend. The third race takes place in Gassaway, inspired by the Braxton County Monster and one of the state’s most famous cryptid encounters. The series final will be held at Kanawha State Forest with the Sheepsquatch race. This finale features winding forest roads, scenic views, and a true wilderness feel, making it a fitting and challenging conclusion to the Cryptic Race Series.

Whether you are chasing points, personal bests, or just the legends themselves, the Cryptic Race Series delivers a one-of-a-kind running experience rooted in West Virginia lore.

Chase the legends. Run the mystery.

An Epic Adventure Through America's Newest National Park!

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of New River Gorge National Park with this extraordinary trail race! Starting in the charming town of Fayetteville, West Virginia, the course winds through the heart of the National Park, taking you deep into the forest and along trails that showcase stunning views of the river gorge, hundreds of feet below. With significant elevation gain, these challenging yet rewarding routes promise an unforgettable experience for runners seeking adventure and spectacular scenery. After crossing the finish line, extend your journey by exploring the diverse activities and iconic sights the New River Gorge National Park has to offer—making it a perfect destination for both athletes and outdoor enthusiasts!

Start Times

• 5K Start - 7:00 PM on Friday

• Half Marathon Start - 7:00 AM on Saturday

• 50K Start 7:00 AM on Saturday

Packet Pickup

• TBA

Drop Bags

All drop bags must be labeled with name and phone number. There will be a spot at packet pickup where you can leave your drop bags before the race. All drop bags will be brought back to the finish. Drop bags are available at the following aid stations:

• Aid Station 1 - Kaymoor Top - Miles 3.5 & 13.3

• Aid Station 3 - Fayette Station Rd. - Miles 9.5 & 27.2

Elevation

• 5K ~ (400 ft. of elevation gain)

• Half Marathon ~ 1400 ft. of elevation gain)

• 50K ~ (3,200 ft. of elevation gain)

Aid Stations

• Half Marathon

• Aid Station 1 - Kaymoor Top - Mile 3.5 (crew access)

• Aid Station 2 - Craig Branch - Mile 6 (no crew access)

• Aid Station 3 - Fayette Station Rd. - Mie 9.5 (crew access)

• 50K

• Aid Station 1 - Kaymoor Top - Miles 3.5 & 13.3 (crew access)

• Aid Station 2 - Craig Branch - Miles 6 & 15.7, 23.6 (no crew access)

• Aid Station 3 - Fayette Station Rd. - Miles 9.5 & 27.2 (crew access)

Date: Saturday, June 27th, 2026

Location: 125 North Court Street, Fayetteville, WV 25840

Welcome to the 2026 Captain Thurmond’s Challenge! Discover the ultimate adventure triathlon in the East, where challenge meets excitement. Tackle 16.5 miles of scenic mountain biking, 7 miles of exhilarating Class IV whitewater, and 9 miles of inspiring trail running through the heart of the New River Gorge. Whether you race Solo, share the journey in a Relay, or join a Team with rafts and guides ready to support you, you’ll experience an unforgettable mix of fun, challenge, and adventure. Fayetteville, West Virginia’s original signature adventure triathlon is waiting, are you ready to answer the call?

🏁 Race Day Information

Pre-Race Meeting & Packet Pickup

📍 Freefolk Brewery

25385 Midland Trail, Hico, WV 25854

Race Day Schedule

Friday Night

Pre-Race Meeting & Packet Pickup: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM

📍 Freefolk Brewery

25385 Midland Trail, Hico, WV 25854

Saturday Morning

Packet Pickup: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM

📍 Freefolk Brewery

25385 Midland Trail, Hico, WV 25854

Race Start: 10:00 AM

Race End: 5:00 PM

Gear Transportation Provided: We provide transport for

• Mountain bikes (from T1 to town)

• Kayaks / canoes (to T1 and from T2 to town)

• Rafts

• Personal gear bins

Transportation will be done using large moving trucks or similar vehicles.

Important: While volunteers and staff will take great care when loading/unloading, CTC is not liable for damage to high-value bikes or boats. If participants have gear they are especially concerned about, they are strongly encouraged to arrange their own transport. More details about how to tag and stage gear will arrive in a future email.

Shuttle Reservations: Shuttle reservations (for bikes, rafts, and gear transport) will open soon. You’ll receive a detailed email one month out, but please note: All shuttle reservations must be submitted by the end of that weekend, so our team has a full three weeks to plan final logistics.

Spectator-Friendly Points: Your crew, friends, and family can cheer you on at

• Start/Finish line in downtown Fayetteville

• Kaymoor Miners Trail parking area

• Cunard River Access

• Fayette Station River Access

Full spectator guidance will also be included in upcoming emails.