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running

Ache Around the Lake

Date
October 10, 2026
Distance
Ache Around the Lake 8K · The Ouch 2 Mile · Kids 1 Mile Fun Run & more

From the Organizer

Join the excitement of the 20th Annual Ache Around the Lake, a yearly running event that unfolds across the picturesque landscapes of Lake Lanier, spanning both Landrum, SC, and Tryon, NC. This unique race allows participants to traverse the scenic beauty of two states in a challenging 8K course, covering 4.97 miles of hilly terrain. While not ideal for setting personal records due to its undulating nature, the course promises a thrilling and demanding experience that will put both seasoned and novice runners to the test.
The Ache Around the Lake race kicks off with an initial descent, setting the stage for a journey filled with challenging gradients. Brace yourself for GRUNT #1, the steepest hill at just over 1/4 mile into the race, offering an early test of endurance. While this may be the most intense incline, subsequent hills will keep your legs engaged, creating a demanding course that even the most resilient runners may find themselves walking. Aid stations are strategically placed at mile 2 and again around mile 4, providing crucial support to participants facing the unique challenges of this scenic yet demanding race around Lake Lanier.
Ache Around the Lake isn't just a run; it's an immersive experience that takes you through the heart of two states, showcasing the natural beauty of the surroundings while pushing your physical limits. With its challenging hills and well-placed aid stations, this annual event is a must for those seeking both a scenic adventure and a test of their running prowess.
 
What: Ache Around the Lake 8k, 2 Mile, and Kids Fun Run
 
When: Saturday, October 10th
 
Time
  • Ache Around the Lake - 8am
  • Ouch 2 Mile - 8:05am
  • Kids 1 Mile Fun Run - 8:15am
 
Where: Tryon Antique Mall & Marketplace Start/Finish around Lake Lanier
 
Address: 1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC 28782
 
Packet Pickup
  • Race Day Only - Starting at 6:30am in the parking lot of the Tryon Antique Mall (1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC) (the old Save-A-Lot) across the street from El Sureno Mexican Restaurant on Hwy 176.
 
Post Race Eats - We will have enjoyable treats after the race...what that looks like right now is not clear, but we like good food after a race so we will deliver the same for you.
 
Awards
  • We will be announcing awards at 9:30 am this year. Official results can be found online later in the day. You can sign up for results notifications via text or email during registration. All awards are by GUN TIME - Mass start per race.**
  • THE OUCH 2 MILE AWARDS - Top 1 Overall Male & Female
  • ACHE AROUND THE LAKE 8K AWARDS
    • Top 3 Overall Male & Female
    • Top 3 Masters Male & Female
    • Top 1 Male & Female in age groups
      • 14 & under
      • 15-19
      • 20-29
      • 30-39
      • 40-49
      • 50-59
      • 60-69
      • 70+
 

Distances & Pricing

Ache Around the Lake 8K8 AMRegister →
The Ouch 2 Mile8:05 AMRegister →
Kids 1 Mile Fun Run8:15 AMRegister →
VIRTUAL RACE 8k8 AMRegister →

Race Location

About This Sport

From Endurance Grid's Founder

Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.

With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.

Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.

Running

From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Ache Around the Lake?
Ache Around the Lake is a running event held in Tryon, NC. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
When and where is the Ache Around the Lake?
Saturday, October 10, 2026 in Tryon, NC at 1005 S. Trade Street, Tryon, NC. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
How do I register for the Ache Around the Lake?
Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.

Ache Around the Lake

Oct 10, 2026

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