Lost in Miami Ultra challenges runners to cover as much ground as possible through Miami within 18 hours, beginning and ending at Hero Martial Arts in Palmetto Bay. This urban ultra features an unmarked course, no repeated loops, and a field limited to 40 participants. A few days prior, organizers provide a list of required landmarks, and each runner designs a route connecting these points. Final rankings are determined by total miles completed within the time limit, verified by GPS tracking at the finish.
The event combines a running challenge with city navigation. Runners must visit the required landmarks, take selfies at each, and return on foot to be eligible for the podium. Participants can adjust their plans during the race, a crucial element given how distance, timing, traffic signals, weather, and route decisions impact the final outcome. Team entries and informal partnerships are permitted, allowing some runners to complete the day collaboratively rather than as a solo endeavor. All finishers receive a medal, shirt, and race merchandise.