The Chase Dfw

What Is The CHASE?

THE CHASE is a trail race where you aren't just racing the clock. You're being hunted. Every runner wears a CHASE bib with a tear tag. A few minutes after the gun goes off, the CLAW is released onto the course. The CLAW's only job is to catch you and take your tag.​

Cross the finish line with your tag still on your bib and you've ESCAPED THE CLAW. Lose it on the trail and you've been CLAWED.​

This isn't just about speed. It's about pacing, strategy, and how badly you want to keep looking over your shoulder. Go out too hard and you'll fade. Go out too easy and the CLAW will be right behind you.​

Choose the 5K for a short, all-out sprint from the CLAW, or the 15K for a longer hunt where the CLAW has more time to close the gap.

HOW IT WORKS

Every runner gets a unique CHASE bib with a tear tag.
 
The race starts. You get a 5-minute head start.
​
The CLAW is released and chases runners on course.
 
If the CLAW catches you, they take your tear tag.
 
Finish your distance. If your tag is intact, you ESCAPED. If it's gone, you've been CLAWED.

What You Earn:

The CHASE Finisher Medal with a "ESCAPED THE CLAW" or "CLAWED" Medal Attachment

All participants receive a CHASE Tee.

1st Place M/F Award for 5K & 15K

*additional CHASE merch available for purchase with registration

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I have to outrun the CLAW to get a medal?
Nope. Every finisher gets THE CHASE medal. Your attachment depends on whether you ESCAPE or get CLAWED.

What happens if I get caught?
You hand over your tag and keep running. Getting caught doesn't end your race. You still finish, still get your medal, and still compete for your place. You just wear CLAWED on your medal instead of ESCAPED THE CLAW.

How much of a head start do I get?
Everyone gets a 5-minute head start before the CLAW is released.

How fast is the CLAW?
Fast enough. You'll find out on race day.

Is there more than one CLAW?
There will be one CLAW for every 150 runners, and one CLAW for each distance.

Can I hide my tag?
No. Your tag must be visible on the back of your bib at all times. Covering or hiding your tag is an automatic disqualification.

Is the race timed?
Yes. Every race is timed. 1st place male and female in each distance is decided by finish time, not by whether you ESCAPE the CLAW.

Are these trail races or road?
THE CHASE is on trail terrain: dirt, rocks, roots, and elevation. Sometimes there's some pavement and gravel too.

Can I walk?
Yes. But the CLAW won't be walking.

Are there aid stations?
Yes. There will be water, basic hydration, and snacks at the start/finish line. This is a cupless event, so bring your own bottle or hydration system.

What should I bring?
Trail shoes, a hydration system, layers (depending on the weather), and the will to survive.

Is THE CHASE for beginners?
Yes. You don't need to be fast to finish, but faster is better if you want to ESCAPE.