Rick O'Donnell Memorial Ultra Challenge
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Event overview
The Rick O'Donnell Memorial 5 Mile Trail Run and Ultra Challenge takes place on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Milkhouse Brewery at Stillpoint Farm, 8253 Dollyhyde Rd, Mt. Airy, MD. The event is organized by the Frederick Steeplechasers Running Club and is the 13th annual running of Rick's Run. Medical coverage is provided by MedStar Health. Net proceeds benefit the Frederick Steeplechasers Memorial Scholarship Fund; the race raised over $5,000 for the fund in 2024.
Distances and event formats
- 5 Mile Trail Run
- 4-Hour Challenge
- 8-Hour Ultra Challenge
Course, rules, and services
The course is a hilly five-mile loop using farm lanes, grassy trails cut through hay fields, and wooded trails. The 5 Mile Trail Run is a single loop; the Challenge events consist of repeated five-mile loops within the allotted time limits. Runners may complete as many loops as they wish; logging multiple loops can produce ultra distances. Cutoff rules require the last loop to be started at least one hour before the event cutoff unless the previous loop was completed in under one hour. Separate aid stations serve single-loop and challenge runners. Other notes: no outside alcohol on the premises, dogs are not allowed on the course, headphones are discouraged, and there are no bib transfers or refunds. Online registration may remain open through race day depending on a 300-runner field limit; in-person payments are not accepted. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.