On top of the obvious challenge that comes with running on sand (runners expend up to 2x more energy on sand than running on a road surface), the course is rigged with giant sand mounds, trenches and rollers, giving competitors a real test of endurance.

New to this year’s event will also be the Relay Division, in addition to the Solo Division competition. The Relay Division will be a group of two runners, with one runner running a ½ mile lap, then handing off their bracelet to their relay partner to complete the second lap for their total time.