A: A number of things:
A: The original Bulldog 50K course -- established in 1992 -- crossed over a number of private properties. Over the next six years there were a number of issues with some of the owners regarding access to their land on race day. In 1998, the Bulldog 50K was re-designed so that almost 100% of the course ran on park and public lands. The race has historically had difficulty with course tampering which affected the 50K runners again in 2004. Because of the aforementioned problems, the 50K and 25K courses have been re-designed to minimize the risk of course tampering while still preserving the beauty and challenge of the race's history. The race now takes place completely inside Malibu Creek State Park.
A: Runners may be legally paced by another runner, who is entered in the race, who is wearing a race bib, who does not enter the course at any point other than the start line, who does not leave the course at any point to re-enter the course at another point. All other pacing constitutes illegal pacing and will result in disqualification of the runner being paced. Pacing of runners via bicycle is forbidden. Pacing rules will be strictly enforced.
A: It is not known exactly, however, it has been estimated to be 4,000 ft. for the 25K trailrun and 8,000 ft. for the 50K trail ultrarun.
A: We don't recommend it. The course map is an approximate representation only. There are so many intersecting trails involved, you're bound to loose your way. The actual course will be clearly marked by race day.
A: The course will be marked on race day only! The markings will be chalk arrows on the ground and/or surveyors tape.
A: All runners in both races must carry a minimum of one (1) bottle. The race is held on remote fire roads/trails where access to establish aid is limited. Both races will be subject to distances of up to 5.6 hilly miles without access to water/aid. Temperatures in the canyons may exceed 100 degrees, therefore most middle-to-back-pack runners will need two (2) bottles!
A: There is one stream crossing in Tapia Park, just after aid station #3 & #7. 25K race has one stream crossing in Tapia Park. Most of the time you can jump from rock to rock, other times you have to wade through the water. However, it varies from year by year. The 25K crosses the stream once, the 50K crosses twice.
A: There are rattlesnakes in the Santa Monica Mountains along with other assorted creatures. However, there has never been a reported problem in the run's history. Use caution and always look where you are going. There is some Poison Oak on the trail -- so be careful.
A: Over the years our number one goal is to provide our participants with a highly personal, low key, fun event. We don't want to host a large cattle drive that becomes difficult to manage. Parts of the course are challenging and narrow over a good portion of the course. We don't want our runners to feel boxed in by crowds.
A:Registration for BULLDOG RUN fills up fast. By race day, the race is booked and closed. We are not allowed to exceed the number of runners provided for in our park service permit.
A: No. Registration entries ARE NOT TRANSFERABLE to another person OR DEFERRABLE to another year.
A: Yes, but only up to midnight, August 15th! ABSOLUTELY NO RACE SWITCHING BEFORE OR DURING THE EVENT!!!
A: State Park Rules - NO dogs on trails, and no dogs will be permitted in camp on race day.
A: 50K runners may have a drop bag at the MCSP/Craggs Road aid station (approx. mile 15.3). Your drop bag must be securely tied and labeled in black permanent marker with your race number. Marker pens will be available on race morning at the drop bag table. Bags will be available at the finish line as soon as you are finished with your race. There will be no drop bags for the 25K race.
A: 10 years. Age groups 20 to 29 years old, 30 to 39 years old, etc. Male and female, three deep -- 1st, 2nd, 3rd in each age group.
A: California State Parks parking fee of $8.00 will be assessed at the park entrance. Upon entering the park, please follow directions of the parking ranger. 25K runners must exercise caution when entering the parking area and may be subject to a slight delay to allow a safe start of the 50K race.
Note: Vehicles must be legally parked in a legitimate parking space. Please do not park your vehicle on dirt surfaces or you risk getting a citation.
A: In the past it has been clear, dry, and very hot. The temperature remains cool until around 8:30 to 9:00 AM then begins heating up. Afternoon race temperatures have ranged from 85°F to 108°F (29°C - 42°C).