Runners, get ready. The fourth annual DCH Toyota of Simi Valley Bandit Ultra Trail Run is happening Sun., Feb. 19.

Like last year, the race is hosting 50K, 30K and 15K races. But to inspire beginners to trek up and down Simi’s eastern hillsides, organizers added a 6K race this year.

Though shorter, the 6K (3.7- mile) race still features tough elements, including a 1,000-foot-plus elevation climb, said race director Randy Shoemaker.

The tough 50K “ultra,” the most physically and mentally challenging of the races, requires participants to run more than 50 kilometers—or 31 miles. Last year’s winner was Thousand Oaks resident Chris Price, who clocked in at 4 hours, 12 minutes and 51 seconds.

In past years, the run has drawn elite talent from all over the world, with competitors from England, Mexico, Australia and China. The 2012 race is no different, with four countries and twelve states represented— the U.S. runner traveling the greatest distance is from New York City.

So far, 300 runners have signed up to participate, Shoemaker said.

The Bandit Ultra Trail Run links five well-known trails together: Corriganville, Rocky Peak, Chumash, Hummingbird and Las Llajas. The courses are technical and steep but offer beautiful views, Shoemaker said. Aid stations are strategically placed throughout the run.

The race start is at Corriganville Park, 7001 Smith Road. Limited parking is available on site; overflow parking is allowed on Smith Road.

Registration opens at 5:30 a.m. for the 50K race. Start times for the races are staggered, from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Participants will receive a T-shirt and goodie bag while supplies last. All finishers receive a medal.

Day-of registration is cash only, ranging from $60 to $100 depending on the course chosen. For complete details, visit www.BanditTrailRun.com.

—Carissa Marsh