The Pistol Ultra

Start your spring strong at one of the most fun, inclusive, and welcoming ultra events in the country! Held just outside Knoxville, TN, The Pistol Ultra Run has been a favorite for both first-time ultrarunners and seasoned veterans since 2013.

With distances ranging from 10 miles to 100 miles, there's something for everyone—whether you're chasing a new PR, testing your limits with a longer distance, or just soaking up the positive vibes of a truly supportive running community.

Come for the challenge. Stay for the camaraderie. The Pistol Ultra is where spring racing season begins with a bang!

We unveiled a brand-new course in 2025, featuring around 200 feet of elevation gain per 10-mile loop. Runners will be treated to stunning views of serene ponds and the beautiful Pistol Creek, making each mile not just a run, but a scenic journey. With a 10.35-mile loop planned for the 50k and 100k runners, and the more daring 50-mile and 100-mile athletes tackling multiple 10-mile loops, there's something for everyone to conquer! The 50k, 100k, and 100-mile races come with a generous 32-hour cutoff, while our thrilling nighttime 50-mile race will kick off at 8 p.m. on Saturday, with a stellar 20-hour cutoff for those eager to chase the stars.

The Pistol Ultra course is a speedster's dream! It’s so fast that Chris Stayman shattered the Tennessee 100 Mile Record here in March of 2024, finishing in an astonishing 14:01:37. And let's not forget Michael Wardian, who set an American age group record (50-54) in 2025. He raved about The Pistol Ultra, saying, “I loved the vibe and community around these events and highly recommend it if you’re looking for a well-organized and fun, hometown event. The people are friendly, and the course is super fast!”