Hello Savannah Urban 50k Fatass Ultra Runners! Registration has opened for this event via ultrasignup.com. The run will be held Friday, November 29, 2024, starting at 8:00 am in front of the Waving Girl statue overlooking the Savannah River in downtown Savannah. This is always such a fun event with a small group of runners (capped out at 25 runners), running the streets of Savannah.
This is a traditional fatass event, although, we do hand out finisher awards to all the registered runners. Having said that, there are many newer ultra runners that do not know what the term “fatass” pertains to in the ultra running world. Here is the google definition of what a fatass ultra event is:
“In ultra running, “Fat Ass” is a term for a type of informal, low-key run that’s more like a social event than a race
Definition
A glorified group run with no fees, awards, aid, or whining
Goals
Training, social events, and a chance for aspiring ultra-runners to run an ultra distance without the pressure of a big race
Features
No course marshals or markers, and no guarantee of anything other than a course to run
Origin
In 1978, Joseph Oakes signed up for a 50-mile relay race as seven different runners to avoid the organizers’ rule against running solo
Benefits
Free events, lots of aid, and love from the organizers and volunteers”
As a pre-requisite of the Savannah Urban Ultra 50k, we ask runners to tell us why they want to run this 50k. Below are some of the reasons given by registrants…
Why would I want to run a 50K through Savannah?
There are many answers to this question. Savannah is a beautiful city with the charm of the South, not to mention that ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’ is one of my favorite movies and books. But it goes beyond this.
Dan and Kerry are special people. They are special to me because they give of themselves. There is a saying, ‘If you want good friends, be a good friend, ‘ which describes both lovely people.
I ran this course with Kelly Lee two years ago. I want to run this race to honor her and the epic struggle she is going through now.
Kevin B. Jones, MAT
Hi, there. This is Gwangbeom Jeong.
I’m from South Korea and I’ve been in the U.S for 9 months.
I live in Rincon and I love the Savannah’s vibe. So eco-friendly.
I usually run 3~4 times a week, and 2 times a weekend.
I want to unlock my full potential by participating in an ultramarathon before running a full marathon. Also, I always run alone, which feels lonely. I’d love to run alongside a diverse group of people and share the experience. I am ready to give my all for the eternal glory of Savannah. Please grant me the opportunity to participate, and I promise to finish strong.
Have a great day.Sincerely,
Gwangbeom
Dear Run 4 a Reason Rough Runners,
I hope this email finds you well and ready to indulge a slightly unconventional request. I’ve recently discovered an opportunity to stretch my legs, both literally and figuratively, while taking in the sights of Savannah—by participating in the Savannah Ultra Urban 50k Fatass!
This is not just any ordinary run; it’s a self-support, meandering journey that starts and ends in front of the iconic Waving Girl statue. The course changes each year, offering a fresh perspective on Savannah’s historic streets and hidden gems. The camaraderie with fellow runners, the thrill of discovering new parts of the city, and of course, the promise of sore muscles, make this an experience I simply can not pass up.
I’m seeking your approval to join this adventurous (and admittedly ambitious) race. I promise to return with not only a great story but also a renewed appreciation for the rich culture and vibrant history of Savannah.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response and hope you’ll support me in this exciting endeavor.
Best regards,
James Boyce
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Dear Race Directors,
Why would I want to run a free 50K through the beautiful streets of Savannah? Well it’s my last year living local (thanks to the army) and what better way to say goodbye than by conquering the city’s iconic routes on foot—at a distance that most people would only attempt with a car?
I want to take in Savannah’s spooky charm one last time, dodging Spanish moss, navigating cobblestones, and making the historic squares my personal rest stops. Also, let’s be honest, the best part of any ultra… bragging rights on Strava.
Running this 50K is about more than just another race; it’s about celebrating my time here with an epic farewell tour. So let’s make this happen—I promise to run my heart out and leave it all on the streets (and Strava of course).
Hope to see you at the start line,
Gabbi Gracia
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Why do I want to run Savannah Urban 50k?
Because I ran it last year and had a fantastic time running through this beautiful city. I really enjoy these journey runs with no pressure of race environment. Just me, road, and sightseeing with lots of photos.
The finishers award is one of my most favorite ones: custom made and unique – one I can actually proudly display instead of shoving it in a drawer to collect dust.And it was great to hang out afterwards with you guys and some other runners – felt like I’m local.
Thank youPavel Mosneaguta
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Hey Dan! So thankful for Savannah Urban 50k. This race has become a staple in our fall calendar for 4 years now. I appreciate you allowing me to start early this year as my family planned a Thanksgiving dinner that same day. If I am allowed to run then I will smash some vittles after touring downtown. We love the town of Savannah!
The sentimental reason I want to be back out there with you guys this year is really the same as last year. It has become a bit of nostalgia really… this was actually my first ultra that initiated me into the wonderful world of ULTRA! My best friend Joel Atkinson(who was actually not my best friend at the time) invited me to join him last minute for a free race! I didn’t think I could finish at the time but, hey, it was free! Joel was just another guy I knew from our workouts. We began talking one day and he told me that he was running a 50K the next week and asked me to come! I was like LETS GO!!! Man I was so stoked! We hung together for the entire 31 miles and have grown into best friends since. Covering thousands of miles together! It all started back at that ultra in the fall of 2020! Good things did come from 2020! 😉 Thank you for considering my invitation! We appreciate all you and Kerry bring to this sport for our low country!
Patrick O’Tuel
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I would love to run this race to promote local urban running and to meet some awesome like minded people!
Thanks for putting this on!
Corianna DePice
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I’d like to meet like minded people and compete in an ultra while visiting/touring the city of Savannah. Also would be running with my girlfriend which would be a great experience for us to enjoy together.
I hope to hear from you soon!
Thank you,
Nick Puglisi
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Hi my name is Ryan myers! Just signed up for your 50k race!
Nothing beats Savannah’s scenery. What better way to see it from the streets you’re running on! Taking it all in with every breath and sweat! What better way!
I would love to run the race and enjoy everything that it will offer and to see more of the community!Thank you for your consideration!
Ryan
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I would be honored to run the Savannah Ultra Urban 50k through Savannah for many reasons. First, it is where I live and work. Savannah is a beautiful place, and I feel there are so many hidden gems here. By that I mean the scenery, statues, people, nature, you name it. I also would love to run this 50k because Rough Runners is behind this race! Dan and Kerry, you guys know how much I love your events. From Stone Stairs of Death to Daufuskie 50 miler, you guys host great races and it’s a blast to be a part of them. A few friends of mine are also running, and I cherish the fact we could get to run together! Lastly, I am currently training for the Charleston 100 on December 27th and I feel the Savannah Ultra Urban 50k would be a great race to peak before my deload starts a couple weeks later. I appreciate you guys for the consideration and for all that you do for the running community.Thank you,
Tyler Barrett
