Gaylord Gauntlet

The Gaylord Gauntlet 5K Trail and Obstacle Run is an annual event held on the 400-acre campus of Gaylord Specialty Healthcare in Wallingford, CT—a 137-bed long-term acute care hospital serving individuals recovering from life-changing injuries or illnesses. As a cornerstone fundraiser for the hospital, the event supports the Gaylord Sports Association, which is dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with physical disabilities through adaptive sports and recreation.

The Gauntlet course features a mix of wooded trails and open fields, with 24 natural and manmade obstacles designed to challenge participants of all levels. The event is entirely planned, built, and run by Gaylord staff and volunteers, and includes a lively Festival Area with local vendors, live music, and food trucks.

Open to runners of all abilities, the Gaylord Gauntlet is a true community celebration that brings together participants, families, and supporters for a day of fun, fitness, and purpose.

Race Results can be found here: https://my.racewire.com/results/37904

ADAPTIVE ATHLETE INFORMATION

The Gaylord Gauntlet is a 5K obstacle race to benefit adaptive athletes and the Gaylord Sports Association. The event features 24 obstacles and is designed to be a fun challenge for everyone. The course is not built to be "accessible," and all racers utilize the same obstacles. We are excited that so many adaptive athletes would like to challenge themselves on this course and we encourage participation from athletes of all abilities. We hope this information helps you to decide if this race is for you and if so, how to best prepare for the race and what to expect.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT

It’s going to be a challenge! All teams and individuals are responsible for completing the course on their own. Assistance is not provided at any obstacle and obstacles are not modified for wheelchair accessibility. If you think you will need assistance, we recommend forming a team that can do the race with you. Plus, it’s more fun with friends! And remember, this race is rain or shine. The more it rains, the muddier the course gets!

 

THE COURSE

The race course is 3.3 miles and features obstacles such as walls to climb, cargo net to climb, logs to cross, logs to climb over, obstacles that require crawling, rope swing obstacles, waterslide obstacles, ladders, steep inclines and declines, rock walls, sand, mud, water, fire and more. The race course surface varies from grass in an open field to dirt trails in the woods with sections that may include roots, mud, and rocks. There are alternate routes around most of the obstacles, however, some obstacles are part of the trail and cannot be avoided. This includes sections with a stone wall, rock garden, steep uphill and long downhill rock garden, and steep uphill and long downhill grades. 

 

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE RACE

Every adaptive athlete has unique needs and may need different types of modifications. If you have questions or would like suggestions regarding modifications, please contact the Gaylord Sports Association at sports@gaylord.org or 203-284-2772.

 

HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTIONS TO CONSIDER: 

We recommend getting a team together or a guide to go through the course with you. If you will be completing the course using a wheelchair, we recommend off-road tires and ideally an all-terrain chair. The chair will get muddy, and wet and will be going over rough terrain, so we do not recommend using your everyday chair or cushion. You may also want to bring some webbing to attach to your chair so that helpers can pull you if needed. We also recommend bringing a repair kit with a spare tube, pump, and toolset for the chair.

Some athletes will benefit from using protective gear such as knee pads, elbow pads, gloves, chin pads, and skin protection for crawling obstacles. Please note that the Sports Association utilizes climbing equipment, including harnesses and ropes on some of the obstacles for the safety of the adaptive athlete on their team. This is done by trained and experienced team members. Set ropes or belay points are not provided, all teams are responsible for bringing any equipment that they will need throughout the race.

 

TIMES

Adaptive runner (non-wheelchair) times range from about 1-2 hours. Wheelchair athlete times have ranged from 2-3 hours or longer to complete the course. The average able-bodied runner takes about 45 minutes to finish the course. Overall race winner times range from 25-30 minutes.

 

SAFETY

Know your limits and stay within them. If an obstacle looks too difficult or not safe for you to complete, it’s okay to go around. The goal is to have fun and getting injured is not fun! Course volunteers are located at every obstacle and should be notified in case of an emergency so that they can contact race staff. Medical personnel are on standby and can respond on course if needed. Sections of the course are further from the road and are not able to be accessed immediately in the event of an emergency. There is also a first-aid tent located in the festival area.

 

RACE PARKING

Please inform the parking attendant if you need handicapped parking. There is reserved handicapped parking available for athletes near registration.

 

DIVISIONS & AWARDS

Custom Gauntlet finisher medals will be given to every participant after they cross the finish line.

 

 

Questions? Please contact the Gaylord Sports Association at 203-284-2772 if you have questions. We are here to help!

Meet our 2026 Featured Adaptive Athlete:

Check back soon for more information on this year's athlete! 

 

Gaylord Gauntlet Featured Sports Association Athlete

Each year, an athlete is selected to be the featured Gaylord Sports Association Athlete!  The featured athlete completes the race with the support of the Gaylord Sports Association Gauntlet Team.  The team typically includes a recreational therapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, and other supporting team members such as a belay team. We provide adaptive equipment as needed such as an all-terrain chair to navigate the course and a climbing harness with a belay team for safety.  The team meets prior to race day to discuss race techniques, and safety and to practice skills that will be needed on race day. The athlete and team compete on the same course and obstacles as all the Gauntlet racers!  

 

The Gaylord Sports Association featured athlete is selected by the Sports Association Gauntlet Team.  Featured athletes are typically someone who has recently been a patient at Gaylord and who would not be able to complete the race without the support of a therapy-based team and/or use of specialized adaptive equipment. Past featured athletes have included athletes with a spinal cord injury, amputation, stroke or other mobility impairment.

 

If you are interested in being considered as the Gaylord Gauntlet Featured Athlete, please contact the Gaylord Sports Association at sports@gaylord.org or 203-284-2772.

 

 

 

 

 

Can I run as an individual or do I have to be a part of a team?

You can run individually or as part of a team. We are encouraging teams of no more than five (5) as a way to share the experience and provide assistance to others during the obstacles. This is not a requirement, just a suggestion.  

 

How do I form a team?

Decide on a team name and enter it when you register. Communicate to each team member to sign up for that team and the same wave (start time).

 

Can I sign up all my team members together?

Yes. When you register, there is a drop-down that allows you to choose how many people you will be registering in that transaction.

 

What if I want to join a team after I’ve signed up as an individual?

Email gaylorddevelopment@gaylord.org with your request.

 

Will there be a pre-race packet pick-up?

Yes. Emails will be sent in June when and where the packets will be available.

 

 I see a “Donate” section on the webpage; do I have to donate?

No, but this event is a fundraiser, so participants are encouraged to donate or fundraise for their team. All proceeds from the event go to the Gaylord Sports Association to help their adaptive athletes. Some may choose to donate in addition to their registration fee, and some people have donated who can’t attend.

 

How old do you have to be to participate?

Racers must be at least 12 years old and accompanied by an adult if less than 18.

 

Will there be a children's obstacle course this year?

No, not this year.

 

What do the participants get?

All racers will receive a quality, one-of-a-kind Gauntlet t-shirt, a custom Gaylord Gauntlet finisher medal, along with a wristband and bib in their packet.  After the race, your wrist bracelet will entitle you to a free beer or beverage of your choice. Minors will receive their choice of bottled water or Powerade. Water will be given during the race at designated sections, and there will be a station in the festival area upon your completion of the race. Parking is free. Secure bag drop and showers for post-event are also available. There are no hidden charges of any kind. Rankings will be posted on race day near the Finish Line and online after the race.

 

RACEDAY

Do you have directions?

 The Gauntlet will be held on the main Gaylord Hospital campus located at 50 Gaylord Farm Road, Wallingford, CT 06492

 

Where is the parking and is there a charge?

There is no charge for parking. If you get here early, we recommend you stay in your car until ½ hour before your start time and then report directly to the Start area if you already have your race packet. If not, give yourself 45 minutes to get through registration and to the Start Line.

 

What will I need to do when I arrive at the race to get my packet?

After parking, follow the signs for Check-In. Remember to bring your government-issued or school photo ID. Check-in will occur in the Chauncey Conference Center. You will receive your bib with a timing chip, an official Gauntlet shirt,  and a non-removable bracelet. The bracelet will be necessary to be on the race course and to get your free beer in the Festival Area.

What should I bring to the race?

1. Government or school-issued picture ID.
2. Running gear- Please wear washable clothes and shoes. You will get wet and dirty, but there will be no need to throw out your gear after this race.
3. You will be able to do this race with shorts and shoes.
4. Gloves are an option, but not necessary.
5. Drinking water. As described below, drinking water will be provided, but depending on how you want to hydrate after the race, you may want to bring extra bottled water.
6. The Festival Area will be on the Gaylord Hospital South Lawn, overlooking the Farms Golf Course. Food vendors will be available, and the list of vendors will be posted before the event.
7.  Legal Tender. The Festival Area will have beverages and food supplied by food trucks, which can only be bought with cash, or some may accept credit cards.
8. No alcohol, drugs, or weapons can be brought onto Gaylord's property. In addition, the entire campus is non-smoking. Only those with proper ID showing their age above 21 will be allowed to drink beer, and security will be on hand to enforce these rules.  All bags and coolers are subject to inspection.

 Will there be a Secure Area for belongings?

Yes, this will be located in the Brooker Lobby.

 

What if I miss my start time?

If you miss your start time, we will make every effort to put you in a later wave, but only if there’s space remaining.  

 

Can I change my start time before the day of the race?

Yes, but by June 2nd and only if your desired wave isn’t already filled. Email your request to gaylorddevelopment@gaylord.org.

 

How are your events timed?

All runners have an RFID timing chip in their bib. Timing is provided by RaceWire and is very accurate to the point where the runner crosses the start and finish lines. Team times will be posted as the time of the last team member to finish. Results will be posted at approximately 3 p.m. on-site and the following week on the Gaylord webpage. 

 

Will there be awards at this race?

Yes, this year each person will receive a custom Gaylord Gauntlet finisher medal after you cross the finish line.

 

THE GAUNTLET

How does the race start?

Waves of runners leave every 10 minutes to help prevent back-ups on the course, starting at 8 a.m. Waves are limited to between 30-40 people to decrease backups on the course. Runners should report to the start area about 15 minutes before their starting time.  

 

How long will it take to complete the course?

The course is just over 5K (3.2 miles) with 24 obstacles. Your finish time will depend on your athletic ability and preparation. Top times are generally in the low 20s. Most people will finish within 40 to 60 minutes.

 

How do I train for this event?

The breakdown for muscle use for the Gauntlet is 75% lower body and 25% upper body.  It might be a good idea to get some open field and trail running experience.

 

Will there be pictures taken of me along the course?

There will be amateur photographers stationed throughout the race trying to capture as many participants as possible and posting the pictures on our webpage within two weeks of the race. There will be no charge to download pictures. We encourage you to bring your family and friends and have them cheer you on at the start and finish of the race. Photos will be posted on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GaylordGauntlet. Make sure to tag us in your photos!!

 

Does the course involve swimming, total body immersion, hypothermia, or electricity?

 No. There will be water and mud, but no obstacle will have deep water, ice, or electrical shock. The course will require you to crawl through mud.

 

Is there a course/obstacle map?

Yes. It will be posted in May on our social media pages and sent to all registered runners in an email. Have fun figuring out the obstacles from their name :)

 

What if I don’t want to do an obstacle?

All runners should assess each obstacle as they approach it to determine if their physical prowess and fitness level will enable them to complete it without injuring themselves or others. All obstacles will have the space to be circumvented if desired. Teams in competition for time should be prepared to help any teammate struggling with an obstacle.

 

Will there be drinking water during the race?

There will be two stations on the course with bottled water and again at the finish line. Runners may want to bring water to hydrate before the race, but otherwise, beverages will be available to all for purchase in the Festival Area.

 

Can I run barefoot?

This is not recommended. Just over half of the course will be on wooded trails and there is a good chance of injury from rocks, roots, sharp objects, etc., in addition to splinters.

 

Can I buy "Swag" items?

Yes, we will have our Gaylord Gear booth set up near the Brooker Building entrance. We will have a variety of items for sale there.

 

 

AFTER THE RACE

Will there be showers?

Yes. There will be an open shower area near the finish line to rinse off. 

 

Will there be a changing area?

Yes, we will have a smaller changing area set up. Please note that this is a unisex changing area.

 

What if I sustain an injury?

There will be hospital staff available at a First Aid area for minor injury help, and EMS will be on-site. Staff will decide what can be safely evaluated and initial treatment rendered versus referral to a local Urgent Center or Emergency Department. Please note that Gaylord Specialty Healthcare does not have an Emergency Department.

 

FESTIVAL AREA

What kind of beer will be sold at the race?

Each participant 21(+) will receive either a free beer or cider after the race. The bracelet you received in your registration packet will be cut once at the tent to redeem your free beverage. The beer this year has been generously donated by: TBD

 

Are pets allowed?

No. Unfortunately, only service pets will be allowed due to the crowd size and potential for disruption.

 

 What else will be in the Festival Area?

Food trucks for varying appetites and tastes will be at the finish line. Spectators may bring water, but beverages will be available for purchase in the Festival Area. Music will be provided, and we invite our runners to stay and enjoy the day.

 

MISCELLANEOUS

Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?

No. Unfortunately, all registrations are non-refundable and will be considered to Gaylord as a donation. Did you know we are a non-profit and every dollar directly supports our patients?

You can, however, transfer your registration to someone else, but you must do so before June 2nd.

 

What happens if it rains?

Rain or shine, the Gauntlet goes that’s just part of the deal. There is no Rain Date. The course and obstacles have been devised with the potential for inclement weather. The race will be halted should lightning occur or any serious weather event (ex., tornado).  Should this happen, runners will be directed to the nearest shelter by Volunteers.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering for the Gaylord Gauntlet!

The Gaylord Gauntlet is a fundraiser for Gaylord Sports Association adaptive sports programs, and volunteers are essential to making this event possible. We rely on approximately 150 volunteers to support event operations and ensure a safe, well-run experience for all participants.

Volunteering is both fun and rewarding, and your time and effort directly contribute to the success of the event and its fundraising mission. As a volunteer, you will help create a positive and encouraging atmosphere for nearly 1,000 runners as they challenge themselves to complete this 5K obstacle course. Volunteers play a key role in maintaining a safe course, supporting event logistics, and creating an energetic and welcoming environment throughout the day.

All volunteers will receive:

• Volunteer T-Shirt

• A bag lunch

• A ticket for a free beverage (beer or Gatorade) at the end of their shift

Here is some information about the event and the volunteer roles:  

Event Hours:

• Event runs from 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• First running wave: 8:00 AM

• Last running wave: 1:30 PM

Volunteer Shifts:

• All Day: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Half Day (Morning): 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM

• Half Day (Afternoon): 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Volunteer Roles:

• Obstacle Volunteer (largest and most critical need)

• Monitor the course, help ensure safety, assist runners through obstacles as needed, and provide encouragement.

• Registration Area

• Festival Area

• Race Start / Finish Line

• Medical Tent (qualified volunteers only)

If you are also participating in the race, we can often work within your availability if you would like to volunteer as well.

Additional Information

Please use the volunteer registration form to let us know if you have any physical limitations, role preferences, or other requests. This information helps us assign roles safely and appropriately. The registration form also includes space to indicate if you are part of a volunteer group or if you would like to be paired with another volunteer. We will do our best to accommodate requests when assigning volunteer roles.

If you have any questions, please contact us at gaylorddevelopment@gaylord.org.

Award Sponsor:

 

Trail Grooming Sponsor:

 

 

Silver Sponsor:

 

Adaptive Athlete Sponsor:

 

 

Tent Sponsors:

       

 

 

Bronze Sponsors:

 

 

 

Beverage Sponsors:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaylord Gauntlet 2026: T-Shirt (guaranteed until 5/22/26)