Minelab just dropped the biggest metal detecting competition we’ve ever seen, and it’s called Race To The Realm 2026. Whether you’re a weekend hunter or a seasoned detectorist, this is your shot at a piece of over $250,000 in prizes—including a jaw-dropping $100,000 cash grand prize.
Here’s everything you need to know to get in the game.
What Is Race To The Realm?
Race To The Realm is a multi-round national challenge for metal detecting enthusiasts. Competitors earn points through a range of activities—growing Karma in the Realm app, completing in-person and online challenges, posting on social media, and more—to climb the leaderboard.
The top five finalists from each round will be invited to compete in the Race To The Realm Finals, a first-of-its-kind metal detecting event. Each finalist is gifted a brand new Minelab detector and challenged to compete for the $100,000 grand prize.
How It Works
1. Download The Realm
Download the Realm app and create an account. Select the ‘Race’ tab to sign up and get started.
2. Climb The Leaderboard
Once you’re signed up, gain points by finishing challenges to climb the leaderboard. You could also win a giveaway prize along the way.
3. Become A Finalist
There are three rounds to climb the leaderboard. Those in the top five get invited to participate in the Race To The Realm Finals for a chance to win the $100,000 grand prize.
The Rounds
Each round is 28 days long, with no breaks in between:
- Round 1: May 28 – June 24
- Round 2: June 25 – July 22
- Round 3: July 23 – August 19
Points earned by collecting Karma in the Realm app or by purchasing and registering Minelab products roll over each round, so every swing counts.
Giveaways To Up Your Game
Every other week, a new giveaway drops. Stay locked on the Realm app and the official competition page so you don’t miss your shot at an epic prize.
Who Can Enter?
No purchase necessary. Open to U.S. residents, 18 and older (some additional residential restrictions apply). The competition runs May 28 – August 19, 2026. The Realm app is required to compete, and you’ll need to own a Minelab device for the Finals.
Gear Up With Minelab
While you don’t need to buy anything to enter, owning a Minelab detector is required for the Finals—and purchasing and registering Minelab products earns you points that roll over between rounds. Explore our full lineup in the Minelab collection to find the right machine for your hunt.
New Race To The Realm bundles are coming soon—check back soon! We’re putting together special packages to help you compete at your best, so keep an eye on this page and the Minelab collection.
Ready To Race?
Sign up, start earning points, and chase your share of $250,000+ in prizes. Get all the official details, rules, and giveaways on the Minelab competition page.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to U.S. residents, 18+. Void where prohibited. May 28–August 19, 2026. See official rules for full details.
