24/12 Hours of Iron Maiden: The Ultimate Endurance Test

Get ready to leave it all on the trail! The 24/12 Hours of Iron Maiden is back in Alabama, challenging mountain bikers to push their physical and mental limits. Whether you’re a solo warrior or part of a hard-charging team, this event is about grit, community, and the thrill of the ride under the Southern stars.

The Course: Iron Maiden Loop

The race takes place on a meticulously maintained, spectator-friendly loop designed to keep riders engaged lap after lap.

Terrain: A classic Alabama mix of fast-rolling singletrack, punchy climbs, and flowing descents.
The Flow: Expect a balanced mix of technical "rooty" sections to keep you honest and smooth "buff" sections where you can really open up the throttle.
Elevation: While there are no mountains, the cumulative "sawtooth" elevation profile of the rolling hills will test your legs as the hours tick by.
Night Riding: As the sun goes down, the course transforms. High-powered lights are mandatory, turning the woods into a high-speed tunnel of adrenaline.

Event Highlights

Flexible Formats: Choose your torture - the full 24-hour grind for the ultra-endurance junkies, or the 12-hour sprint for those who want to finish by midnight.
The Race Village: Our central "pit" area is the heart of the event. Expect a high-energy atmosphere with music, mechanical support, and the camaraderie of fellow riders.
Epic Awards: We honor the top finishers across Solo, Duo, and Team categories with unique, "Iron Maiden" themed trophies.
Fully Supported: Neutral support stations, hydration clinics, and plenty of snacks to keep your glycogen levels peaked.

Event Details & Logistics

Category	Start Time	Finish Time
24-Hour Solo/Team	10:00 AM (Sat)	10:00 AM (Sun)
12-Hour Solo/Team	10:00 AM (Sat)	10:00 PM (Sat)

What’s Included:

Official Event T-shirt and Swag Bag.
Professional Electronic Timing (Live Lap Tracking).
Post-race meal for all participants.
Primitive camping on-site for racers and support crews.

Why Take the Challenge?

This isn’t just a race; it’s a rite of passage. There is a specific kind of magic that happens at 3:00 AM when the woods are silent, your heart is pounding, and the only thing that matters is the next ten feet of trail in your headlight beam. Whether you’re aiming for the podium or just aiming to finish, you'll leave with a new definition of "tough."

Ready to find your edge?

A Recap of the 24 Hours of Iron Maiden

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different ways I can compete in the 24/12 Hours of Iron Maiden?

You have three options to match your style and endurance level: go solo for the ultimate personal challenge, join a team of friends to share the load and push each other through the night, or roll with a Just Having Fun team if you want to experience the event with a more relaxed, community-focused vibe.

Can I camp at the event?

Yes! The event is designed as a full weekend experience - bring your camping gear and make it a camping trip with your crew. You'll pit right where you camp on Farley Field, giving you the ultimate basecamp setup for the event.

What's the trail like at Tannehill for this event?

Check the event website for the latest details on trail conditions, technical features, and elevation profiles for the course. Since this is an endurance event, understanding the terrain will help you plan your lap strategy and gear accordingly.

What skill level do I need to compete?

The 24/12 Hours of Iron Maiden welcomes riders of all skill levels - from beginners testing their endurance to experts hunting for their personal best. Choose your team format (solo, team, or Just Having Fun) to match your experience and riding goals for the weekend.

What should I bring for a 24-hour race?

Beyond your bike and safety gear, pack camping equipment, adequate lighting for night riding, multiple sets of wheels or tires for changing conditions, plenty of food and hydration, spare parts, and a headlamp or bike light system. Having a solid support crew at your pit area makes the weekend much smoother.

How does the team format work?

With a team, riders take turns completing laps while teammates rest, recover, and provide pit support. This means you can ride for hours, tag out to a teammate, and use that time to refuel, sleep, or maintain your bike - making the 24-hour test more manageable than going solo.

When should I arrive for setup?

Check the event website for official opening times and pit setup details. Arriving early gives you time to establish your camp, scout the trails if this is your first time at Tannehill, and get your crew organized before the race kicks off.

Alabama Cycling Events

Events in Alabama

24/12 Hours of Iron Maiden

Annual Hot Hundred