Ozarks outdoor summer web

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SUMMER 2013 WINTER 2013

Get up. Get out. Get going.

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HIGH

OZARK MOUNTAIN ZIPLINES OPENS IN EUREKA SPRINGS

ADVENTURE Also:

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A guide to area

golf courses

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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RIVER RACING IN THE OZARKS

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KINGS RIVER FLOAT TRIP AN OZARK ADVENTURE

outdoors Get up. Get out. Get going.

EDITOR Lisa Schlichtman editor@monett-times.com ART DIRECTOR Veronica Zucca connection@monett-times.com ADVERTISING Robyn Blankenship Sheila Harris Marion Chrysler Cassie Brewer Chip Ford Jim Sexton Anastasia Shilling GRAPHIC ARTISTS Melody Rust

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SUMMER 2013

INSIDE

RIVER RACING IN THE OZARKS

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ATTENDING YOUR FIRST ORGANIZED RIDE

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH The Ozark Chinquapin Trail

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CAMP HOPE A sanctuary for wounded veterans

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ALL-SEASONS RUNNER Conquering the ultra challenge

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THE REAL OZARKS CLASSROOM An essay by Terry Jamieson

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SOAR WITH THE EAGLES ON BEAVER LAKE

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HIGH ADVENTURE Ozark Mountain Ziplines opens in Eureka Springs

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GOLF GUIDE

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MODERN DAY GUNSLINGER

KINGS RIVER OUTFITTERS EUREKA SPRINGS, AR

Ozarks Outdoors is published and distributed free in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas.

Ozarks Outdoors is a publication of the Cassville Democrat, The Monett Times, the Lovely County Citizen, Carroll County News and Rust Communications.

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COOL STUFF Some must-haves for the outdoor gearhead

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THE RUN AROUND A list of running events

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FAT TIRE FESTIVAL Fun for everyone

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TAKE YOUR PIC

PHOTOGRAPHERS Charles Henry Ford II Chuck Nickle Kerry Hays Jeff Terry Jon Whitlock Joshua Boley

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Mailing address: P.O. Box 40, Monett, MO 65708

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ON THE COVER: MAKING ZIPLINING LOOK EASY IS GUIDE ALLYSON POKRZYWINSKI. PHOTO BY JOSHUA BOLEY

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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CONTRIBUTORS Melonie Roberts Beth Bartlett Sheila Harris Lee Stubblefield Mark Conner Jennifer Conner Richard Reed Joshua Boley

RIVER RACING IN THE OZARKS STO RY AND PHOTO S BY M A R K C O N N ER

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

W

e’ve all seen pictures of those East Coasters in their long skinny boats, squeezing through the morning fog while a chosen one, bullhorn to mouth, yells out strokes to the staccato rhythm of some foreign pulse.

While not the kind of thing you’d expect to see on the Elk or the Mulberry, it’s actually not all that strange of a sight here in the Ozarks.

Missouri is home to one of the nation’s premier canoe/kayak races: The Missouri 340. Held July 23-26, this race is a 340mile endurance float from Kansas City to St. Charles. It attracts racers from all over the world. Some are the serious, competitive type; others are more interested in just finishing.

It’s a crazy race. Racers have 88 hours to finish. Many don’t. Stories accumulate of flying, attacking fish (the dreaded Asian Carp), close calls with barges, exhaustion-

induced hallucinations, and fingernails falling off.

If that sounds like a little too much, there are plenty of other nearby (and shorter) races to choose from. They’re all fun and all good exercise. And they might just be enough for the New Englanders and Ozarkers to realize that, besides accents, they have quite a bit in common.

THE GAS The Gasconade is one of the Ozarks’ curviest rivers and the setting for The GAS (theaquaholics.net/THE_GAS_2013.php), a 25-mile canoe/kayak race held June 15.

It’s a well-organized, low-key race, which while attracting some serious paddlers, is also a great introduction into the world of competitive (and not-so competitive) floating.

There’s a division for just about everyone, including men’s and women’s solo and tandem, aluminum boat division and one for boats with three or more paddlers.

MISSOURI RIVER Though it does border the Ozarks, the Missouri isn’t typically considered an Ozarks river. It’s big and muddy, two things our spring-fed rivers typically aren’t. But, it is home to a number of races and for most Ozarkers isn’t too far of a drive.

In July, there is the Missouri River Freedom Race (www.MRFreedomRace. info), a 63-mile race that ends in Jefferson City.

Another Missouri River race includes the Race to the Dome (racetothedome. org), which offers a 26-mile race and a shorter 16-mile race, both of which also end in Jefferson City, near the state capitol building (the “dome” referenced in the race’s name). This year’s race will be held September 14.

2013 RACE CALENDAR Most of these races are yearly events, so if you miss this year’s race, there’s always next year.

ARKANSAS CANOE AND KAYAK RACE June 1 - Little Rock, Arkansas - 5.5 miles. www.paddlearkansas.com/node/87 THE GAS June 15 - just north of Waynesville, Missouri - 25 miles. theaquaholics.net/THE_GAS_2013.php RACE TO THE DOME September 14 - Jefferson City, Missouri - 15 and 26 miles. racetothedome.org.

HARDWATER HALF-HUNDRED June 29 - Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri - 31 miles. www.bonkhardracing.com/races/hardwater/default.asp MISSOURI RIVER FREEDOM RACE July 6 - Lamine, Missouri - 63 miles. midwestpaddleracing.com/Freedom_Race.html MISSOURI RIVER 340 July 23-26 - 340 miles. rivermiles.org WHITE RIVER CANOE RACE July 24-27 - White River State Park, Arkansas to Batesville, Arkansas. 42 and 100 miles. www.scoutrace.com Note: To be eligible for this race participants must be at least 14 years of age at race time and registered members of Venturing Crews, Boy Scout Troops, Varsity Teams or Explorer Posts.

RACE FOR THE RIVERS August 24 - Washington, Missouri - 20 and 40 miles. www.racefortherivers.org.

TWO DAM DAYS September 28 and 29 - Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri - Variety of races: 3.5 mile sprint, 15.5, 31.5, 34.5, 66 and 90 miles. 2damdays.org

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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ADVENTURE RACES

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

If you want more than just paddling, consider multi-sport adventure races. These often include two or three (or more) of the following disciplines: running, biking, paddling and orienteering. Again, like the river races, the main thing is just to get out there and have fun.

A good example of this kind of race is the Ozark Greenways Adventure Race, www. greenwayrace.org, held in Springfield, Missouri, usually in mid-spring along the Frisco Highline Trail.

There’s also the Perche Creek Fall Five (perchecreekgutbuster.blogspot.com/), held in Columbia, Missouri, on Oct. 12, which features a two-mile run on the Katy Trail, followed by a three-mile paddle on Perche Creek.

GEAR

SIGN UP, HAVE FUN

With most of these races you will need your own canoe or kayak. But it doesn’t matter if you’re in a long, skinny custommade boat made of some sort of futuristic material that’s so light a toddler could pick it up or a $30 Coleman-knockoff you found on Craigslist or borrowed from a neighbor.

There are not the uppity glances you might get if you show up to a bicycling road race on a Huffy or to a marathon wearing hi-tops.

That being said, the lighter and sleeker boats are more efficient at cutting through the water, and if you’re doing a longer race or really care about your time, are worth considering.

A lightweight paddle also helps tremendously with arm fatigue.

Life jackets are required, and most races also require the participants to have other safety gear, including an emergency whistle (even if they don’t require it, a good, loud emergency whistle is a good thing to have). Safety is taken pretty seriously at these races. There are pre-race safety meetings and, depending on the race, mandatory checkpoints and patrol boats.

Your boat will also need a number.

The easiest way to do this is to bring some bright-colored duct tape and make your own numbers for the side of your boat.

Make sure to check the rules for each race as required items may differ.

Training for a running race isn’t that fun. Even for those of us who profess to love running, it’s not like we actually love doing it. As with any love affair, it’s a complicated thing, one that’s probably best left to acceptance and not explanations. But that’s running. It’s just the nature of the shinsplinted beast.

Training for a river race, though? You go out and float. Imagine that, picking your

favorite river, floating 10 to 20 miles, or more, and calling that training.

The people you’ll meet at these river races are there because they love floating.

That’s it. Even the “serious” racers love floating, and they love others that love floating.

So, if you’re just starting out, there’s no need to run out and buy a racing boat and all the other “essential” accessories. Take your trusty old dented and scratched boat, sign up for a race and give it a go.

Attending your first organized ride What is an organized ride?

If you are new to cycling and have yet to ride with other members of the community, you may want to consider doing an organized ride. You could argue that any ride where people plan to get together and follow a particular route is somewhat organized, but for the purposes of this article, I’m talking about bicycle rides that have the following: 1. Some type of registration process.

2. Some required fee that either funds the ride or is donated to charity.

3. A predetermined route that is either marked on the road or has cue sheets for participants.

4. Provides periodic rest stops with water and nourishment.

5. Provides SAG (Support And Gear) support.

6. Often has multiple ride-length options.

I think it’s important to point out that this is a ride, not a race. You might be the first person done with the ride, but there is no “winner” per se. Our group will often choose to ride the 100-mile or longest length simply because we enjoy the challenge.

The start of a lot of rides can be somewhat uneventful. There may be a speech about where the race proceeds are going, or someone just say “let’s head out.” People slowly file out with their group or on their own, distinct from the “ready, set, go!” of a race where everyone rushes out at once for the best position.

4 – 5 a.m.

Everybody gets up, has some breakfast, gets dressed and packs their gear in their car.

5 – 6 a.m.

We all meet, pile into one or two vehicles and drive to the ride location.

6 – 7 a.m.

Typical time for registration or packet pick-up for pre-registered riders.

7 a.m.

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Typical start time for summer rides.

Finish of the ride (depending on the number of miles).

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Post-ride meal and return ride home.

Every 10 to 15 miles there are rest stops. Rest stops are just as described, places to stop and rest. But they are also places to refill your water bottle and get some nourishment for the longer than typical bike ride. You can also sit back and relax. Strike up a conversation with a fellow cyclist. Rejuvenate yourself for the next miles to come. Our group rides a lot so 20 to 30 miles isn’t too much of a push. We often stop at only every other rest stop. You can tailor your ride for your individual needs.

During the ride, you can catch up with friends. There’s plenty of time to swap stories about what’s been going on in your life and theirs. As it gets later in the day, and the sun moves higher overhead, the temperature climbs. Our speed drops a little, and our stops become more frequent. It’s really important to make sure that you always drink plenty of water. Ride, rest, drink, repeat. It’s very easy to get swept up in the fun of the day and end up dehydrated. You want to be able to make it to your goal. It seems funny to me, but no matter if we are riding 40 or 100 miles, those last few are always the hardest. Luckily, we tend to be pretty good at keeping each other going all the way through that last mile.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

I remember the first time I was told about organized rides. I didn’t quite understand what the purpose was or why I would want to do such a thing. People get into cycling in many different ways and for many different reasons. I attended spinning classes, and one of my instructors got me interested in riding for increased fitness.

Since that time, riding has become much more than a way to stay fit. Organized rides are one way that I have kept cycling fun for myself.

To give you a taste of why I like organized rides, let me describe our group’s typical day at an event. Let’s start with a time line.

BY R ICH A R D R E E D

At the end of the ride, there’s no medal and generally not a lot of fanfare. But no matter the length of the ride, there is always some sense of accomplishment. We like to celebrate that with a post-ride meal of some kind. This may be our favorite part.

We sit around and swap stories about what happened in our personal ride that day.

“Did you see that really tall guy in the pink jersey? Man was he fast!”

“I can’t believe I got a flat in the first mile.”

“The cookies at stop three were awesome!”

I think you get the picture.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

Why should I attend an organized ride?

I can think of several different groups of people who might want to attend an organized ride, and all for very different reasons.

“I would love to ride long distance, but I’m afraid I would get stranded or lost and not be able to get home.”

An organized ride is perfect for this person. If you jump on your bike and ride in any direction away from your house without turning, it doesn’t take long at all to get far enough away that walking back would be very difficult. An organized ride should help to calm those fears in a couple of ways.

First, there are rest stops every 10 to 15 miles. That may seem very far apart to walk, but that means you’re never farther than five to eight miles from help. There are also SAG vehicles that patrol the route for your safety. SAG stands for Support And Gear. A SAG vehicle will typically carry spare tubes, an air pump and a first aid kit, should trouble arise.

Maybe most important, a SAG vehicle can pick you up and return you to the start should you need a lift. SAG support, along with the fact that there are many other riders on the same route with you, means that you can be in the middle of nowhere but still not far from help.

“I like to ride, but don’t have anyone to ride with.”

An organized ride is a great place to find people to ride with. If you would like to find someone to ride with that day, simply talk to the organizers and tell them you would like to ride with someone. Or strike up a conversation with a group of riders and see if you can tag along. Again, with everyone traveling the same route, even if you strike out on your own, there are always others around you to converse with.

You’re bound to find someone in the same situation.

“I would ride, but I’m afraid of dogs and traffic on the roads.”

In no way do I want to minimize these dangers. Dogs can be a nuisance and a danger to riders. Not only is it possible to have a dog run after you on a bike, but they can also run out in front of you while chasing a fellow cyclist and cause cyclists to fall.

Traffic is also a real threat to cyclists. In my opinion, an organized ride is a safer way to avoid these threats than riding alone.

The sheer number of riders present help to lessen both of these threats. The old saying, “safety in numbers” tends to hold true. For dogs, a large group of riders is a much more formidable opponent, making some less likely to chase. Those that do chase have usually tired themselves out by chasing the riders at the front of the pack

who just so happen to be those with the most experience in dealing with dogs. Ride organizers can also help to minimize these issues by contacting the owners of known nuisance dogs and ask them to put them in for a few hours during the ride.

As for traffic, a car or truck is much more likely to pass slowly around 10 riders than a single rider in the middle of nowhere.

The presence of highly visible SAG vehicles can also help to slow traffic. They are a reminder to other drivers to keep an eye out for cyclists.

Above all, riders themselves are the best defense. Keep your eyes open and your wits about you, and you should be just fine. However, there are some things that a rider can do to make the whole experience better.

Richard Reed is an avid amateur cyclist logging 6,000-plus miles a year on his road bike. Several years ago a mid-life change had him move from total couch potato to major fitness advocate. He is an AFAA-certified group fitness instructor and Mad Dogg-certified spinning instructor who currently works as an instructor for Cox Monett Hospital’s spinning program at the Monett YMCA.

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1. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids on the day before your ride. Hydrate!

Hydrate! Hydrate!

2. Keep a spare tube, tire change levers, an air pump or CO2 cartridge pump with you on the road.

3. Learn how to change a tire and tube.

SAG is out there but may not be there as fast as you would like.

4. Get to know your route. You can often download maps of your ride before an event. Being familiar with the route will give you more confidence and help you avoid getting lost.

5. Take some friends. It’s a great place to meet people but bring some of yours along to meet others as well.

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I hope that this has given you a little taste of what you might experience at an organized ride, and given you some idea of why YOU might want to attend such an event. So go to your local bike store and ask around, or jump on the Internet and search for bike rides near you. It’s time to grab some friends and head out on the road!

Hope to see you out there!

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

6. Make sure that at least one, if not all, of the people in your group has a cell phone. This is your quickest access to SAG support.

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The Ozark C

A

s I stepped onto the trail thrumming and humming with life, my first thought was, “I’m in the Ozark Jungle.” Surely if there were ever such a place, this would be it. The valley, home to a tributary of Big Sugar Creek, boasted a thick canopy of trees growing amongst limestone shelves, carefully sculpted by eons of rain and sun.

The thick blanketing of ground cover and

MANCAVE Archery & Supplies Mark M ark & Jen Maples - Veteran Owners

14074 Lawrence 2160 Mt. Vernon, MO 65712 • 417-471-1802 • www.mancavearchery.com 14

n

FAMILY HIKE

ff STORY AND PHOTOS BY JENNIFER CONNER

k Chinquapin Trail

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A SLICK-BOTTOMED CREEK, TRIBUTARY OF BIG SUGAR CREEK.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

vines paired with the piercing call of a pileated woodpecker intensified the jungle ambience. Although we were a few short yards from the county road, the world was suddenly untamed and wild again.

The Ozark Chinquapin Trail loop winds through Elk River Breaks Natural Area located in Big Sugar Creek State Park. The trailhead is most easily accessed by heading east on County Road SEW 24 from Pineville, Missouri. Future plans for the park entail development of additional hiking trails, a specialuse camping area and a canoe access, according to the State Park website.

At present this 3.1-mile trail is the sole defining feature, which adds to the inviting element of solitude.

The first leg of the trail runs parallel to a tributary of Big Sugar Creek. The lower portion of this Ozark creek has a typical gravel-bottomed creek bed, however as you hike further up the trail and cross the creek bed for the second time, the floor of the creek transforms into a slick-bottomed bed,

11

n

OPEN WOODLANDS

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

Small wonder Sedum pulchellum, otherwise known as widow’s cross because its flower forms a cross, thrives in the acidic, shallow soils of the Ozarks. You can find this lovely light pink flower, which blooms between April and early June, on the Chinquapin Trail growing in the limestone outcroppings on the river bottoms and also in the open areas on the ridgetop.

n

WIDOW’S CROSS

n

n

PRICKLY PEAR CACTUS IN BLOOM.

n

FIRE PINK IN BLOOM.

FIELD ACROSS FROM TRAILHEAD, PART OF BIG SUGAR CREEK STATE PARK.

minimal undergrowth.

I spotted prickly pear cactus in full bloom peeking out from a rock outcropping part way up the trail. As we ascended, the trail morphed from thickly wooded bottomland to exquisitely rocky terrain, and the oaks and hickory trees stood towering over early summer wildflowers and milkweed.

It is in this rocky terrain that the vestiges of the Ozark Chinquapin tree, the trail’s namesake, survive as scrubby stump sprouts. Once revered for its tasty nuts, the Ozark Chinquapin succumbed to chestnut blight in the 1950s and 1960s and continues to be ravaged by this disease, which inhibits the tree from reaching its full potential as a standard-sized tree.

We returned to the trailhead renewed, and we marveled at the lush field of grasses and wildflowers directly across the road, also managed by the State Park. On our way home, we stopped to watch the sun go down on Big Sugar Creek, a lovely finale to an Ozark hike.

If you are looking for a couple of hours out in the Ozark woods on a trail that is easily accessible but evokes the solace and rugged wonder of a wilderness area, add this one to your list!

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

geologically younger and characterized by large flat limestone rocks and picturesque cascades of water maneuvering across and down the multi-layered strata.

The Elk River Breaks Natural Area was designated as such due to the array of unique plant and animal life. According to Tim Smith, park naturalist for Roaring River and Big Sugar Creek state parks, many species rare to Missouri flourish because the park lies within the south-draining watershed of Big Sugar Creek, which eventually empties into the larger Elk River watershed.

Uncommon plant species include the trail’s namesake Ozark Chinquapin, royal catchfly and a rare species of low prickly pear cactus. In addition, many unique animal species abound in the Big Sugar Creek that flows through the park, including the Arkansas darter, Neosho midget crawdad and purple mussel.

My husband, daughter and I took the connector trail, which offers some steep elevation change, allowing you to get a workout while enjoying the scenery. The trail follows the ridge of an Ozark mountain through an area being managed as an open woodland -- a habitat characterized by a relatively open canopy of trees with

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CAMP

HOPE

S TO R Y BY S H EI L A HA R R I S PH OTO S BY S A RA H L E E

A sanctuary for wounded w

L

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

ocated near Farmington, Missouri, Camp Hope, a sanctuary for wounded military veterans and wounded active duty service men, was created

by Gold Star Parents, William “Mike” and Galia White, in memory of their son, Pfc. Christopher Neal White, a Marine killed in action in Iraq at age 23.

Camp Hope’s mission is to provide a healing retreat, not only for the physically wounded, but also for those who bear mental and emotional scars from battle.

With 170 acres nestled in the trees with abundant wildlife, winding creeks and gravel pathways, Camp Hope offers a place of refuge for those whose greatest need is for peaceful surroundings.

Camp Hope, a non-profit organization, provides an opportunity for outdoor adventures for wounded soldiers, who have the opportunity to hunt, fish, skeet-shoot, hike or just relax around a firepit. The camp also features ADA-compliant cabins, a new lodge and a staff of volunteers experienced in helping people with disabilities.

Mark Maples, who owns Mancave Archery & Supplies in rural Mt. Vernon with his wife, Jen, understands the effects of battle.

“Sometimes, the emotional wounds take the longest to heal,” said Mark, who has been in the military himself for 18 years, first in the Army and currently in the Missouri National Guard where he works as a military recruiter.

It is this empathy for wounded soldiers that prompted he and Jen to begin

FOR THOSE UNABLE TO ATTEND THE BENEFIT, DONATIONS MAY BE MAILED TO MANCAVE ARCHERY, 14074 LAWRENCE 2160, MT. VERNON, MO 65712. PLEASE MARK THE ENVELOPE WITH THE WORDS, “CAMP HOPE.”

d warriors

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may pay one price to participate in all four.

According to Jen, the top shooters will receive some very nice gifts. Last year’s prizes included a sizable amount of cash and a Bowtech bow. In addition to the prizes awarded to contest winners, various drawings will be held throughout the day for a chance to win other donated items.

Breakfast and lunch will be provided on Saturday, and the Maples plan to bring in a bounce house and have other activities to entertain the children.

“We raised over $2,500 with our benefit last year,” stated Jen, “and 100 percent of the money was given to Camp Hope. We hope to do even better this year.”

For more information about Mancave Archery and the upcoming Camp Hope benefit scheduled for September 6 and 7, please call 417-471-1802.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

hosting annual fundraisers for Camp Hope at their archery supply business at 14074 Lawrence 2160, west of Highway 39, between Aurora and Mt. Vernon.

They first heard about Camp Hope from their friend, Sgt. Bobby Lisek, a disabled veteran from Clever, Missouri, who has attended the camp on more than one occasion.

“Camp Hope is the greatest place ever,” said Sgt. Lisek. “They don’t hold you back, and they don’t say ‘no, you can’t.’ There’s no limit to what you can do there. I don’t know where I’d be today if I didn’t have somewhere I could go like Camp Hope. I’m just at peace there.”

Mark and Jen, who opened Mancave Archery in August of 2010, began hosting the Camp Hope fundraisers two years ago in September. The two-day benefit, scheduled this year for Friday, September 6, and Saturday, September 7, will feature a pig roast and live music beginning at 6 p.m. Friday night.

“Friday night will be a social time,” declared Jen, “but it’s a lot of fun, and it gives people who are not archers a chance to come and enjoy the food and music and donate to Camp Hope.”

Saturday’s events will include four different archery competitions beginning at 8 a.m., including: Techno-Hunt, a simulated, computerized hunting experience, which allows archers to shoot at life-sized computerized images displayed on a screen at the end of the indoor shooting range.

A 5-Spot competition, featuring paper targets with archers allowed to shoot 60 arrows.

The Iron Buck competition, featuring a quarter-inch steel-cast buck with a four-inch hole with archers required to shoot into the hole from a prescribed distance.

The Long Shot, a competition where archers vie to shoot four-inch clay pigeons from the farthest distance.

Archers may pay to enter individual competitions, or they

BY LEE STUBBLEFIELD

Conquering the ultra challenge I haven’t run a lot since the Mother Road Marathon last LONG RUNS ARE CRITICAL. Remember when you first worked October. After a long hiatus, I hope I can adhere to my training up to running 20-plus miles on your long schedule and string together a few months of consecutive runs during marathon training? Remember training. The goal this year -- completing my first 50-mile ultra. how you staggered back to the house and

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

Ultras are the bane of many distance runners. I know many exceptional runners who excel at everything from the 10K to the marathon but absolutely balk at the idea of running anything farther than 26.2 miles. That’s a shame, because many of these highly conditioned athletes might be surprised to discover that their best racing distance lies well beyond the standard marathon.

If you are competitive at the marathon distance, you can be a successful ultra runner. The training regimen is not that much more severe, and many find it surprisingly less stressful. Moving up from racing at 26.2 miles to 50K, 50 miles, or even 100 miles is not an impossible feat.

For those who struggle with the intense longer tempo runs and speed work required for a superior marathon, backing off on intensity and adding more but slower miles can be a delightfully exhilarating experience.

I remember training for my first 50K race, and the mental demons that were involved.

A lot of trial and error went into that training season, but I was determined to find out what worked best for me instead of adopting a onesize-fits-all schedule off the Internet or from a how-to book. It just seemed obvious that if I could successfully train for a marathon on my own terms, then I could tweak and adjust my program to handle an ultra.

Here are the most important points in training for a 50K or 50 mile race.

MILEAGE IS KEY. I have run a Boston-qualifying marathon time on less than 50 miles per week training. You can run a 50K on less than 70 miles per week, but most prefer a deeper base than that. Unlike 5K and 10K training, you won’t be going to the track for speed work. However, if you follow my advice, you will go to the track for some special training.

About the author: Lee Stubblefield, who currently lives in Cassville, Missouri, was an All-State half-miler and state champion cross country runner for Fayetteville (Arkansas) High School. He led the Bulldogs to their fifth consecutive state team cross country title in 1973 and ran collegiately for Henderson State University and John Brown University.

Stubblefield served as head track and cross country coach for Southwest High School in Washburn, Missouri, from 1999 to 2009 and served as interim track coach for the 2012 season.

The Trojans won the Missouri Class 1 boys state cross country title in 2000 – the only state championship in any MSHSAA sport in the history of the school – and finished in the top three at state four times during Stubblefield’s coaching stint. Under Stubblefield, the Southwest boys won the Ozark 7 Track and Field Championships in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2012.

Stubblefield is also an accomplished masters road racer with a best masters marathon time of 3:17:54 at the Oklahoma Marathon in 1999 and a 3:21:22 at the Frisco Highline Marathon in 2005. His best masters 10K is a 38:20 from the 2005 Sunshine Run at age 49. He holds Missouri state 55-59 age-group records for the 25K (1:47:50) and 50K (4:23:44).

said, “How in the world am I going to run another six miles and average a faster pace per mile for the whole thing?” What seemed impossible at the time eventually became reality as your body adapted to the stress of being on your feet for that extended period of time.

The difference in ultra training and marathon training is that your ultra program will include two long runs a week.

To help your body learn how to cope with the challenge TRYING TO RUSH of running 30 to 50 miles in a race, those THE PROG RESSION two long runs must IS INVITING occur on consecutive A L MOST CERTAIN days. It will take INJURY. longer for you to S O SLOW DOWN reach the 20-mile A ND BUIL D YOUR plateau for your long D I STANCE SLOWLY runs in ultra training, A ND G RADUAL LY. because even early YO U SHOUL D in the schedule you P L AN ON AT will be running long on back-to-back days. LE AST A THREEMONTH TRAINING The transition from P ROG RAM TO running six miles on consecutive days to P REPARE FOR running 20 is a long A N ULTRA. and arduous process.

I ran my first long 50K with a longest training run of 24 miles. You don’t have to run your race distance in practice, but you need to surpass your race distance a number of times with the total mileage of your consecutive long runs. You can’t and won’t run 10 or more miles every day. Every week will contain your

consecutive long runs, a track session and two or three days of “just running” -- medium-tempo runs of anywhere from six to 10 miles. The most important day of your training program is your rest day. You must give your body a chance to recover so it can face the next phase of training. If you need more than one rest day now and then, take it. Keep the big picture in mind.

PACE WINS THE RACE. I am normally an old-school type coach and runner, but for effective ultra training you must have a Garmin or similar GPS training watch. You need to know at all times how far you have run, your total elapsed time and your current pace. Math skills are important. The ability to figure splits in your head and then compare them to the information on your Garmin will give you an edge over other less-prepared runners. Most runners can’t get their head around an entire ultra race as far as planning specific strategy. If you don’t plan a race pace that includes hydration and refreshments, you are planning to fail. Like any other distance race, the ultra demands rehearsal. You learn what your race pace should be by what you do in practice, especially on your long runs.

SPEED IS RELATIVE.

Refueling/food is one of those personalized requirements that must be perfected in practice. Some people can eat roadkill on the run and never miss a step. Others can’t down a jar of baby food without becoming nauseous. Whether you prefer bananas, orange slices or prepackaged gels, find a replenishment schedule that your body can handle and that meets your physical needs. Then stick to it. Your digestive system is very unforgiving of new things on race day.

RUN THIS MILE.

DANCE WITH WHO BROUGHT YOU.

Funny things happen during a long run or race, many of them beyond our control. Road work, a bad dog, a train are all examples of minor inconveniences that may affect your journey. Time lost is lost forever. Don’t bear down and try to make up for a slow mile. Stick to the plan and run THIS mile according to schedule. It is better to run slower than faster, especially early in the race. Cut your race distances into shorter segments that you can grasp mentally. “Only two miles to the next water station” or “this five-mile stretch is all downhill.” Use positive phrases in your inner voice as you travel.

WATER AND BREAD WILL GET YOU AHEAD.

IF YOU DON’T MIND, IT DON’T MATTER. Ultras are truly events that require a mind-over-matter attitude. If you have survived your training program and are healthy and prepared, you should go to the starting line with a wealth of confidence. Stick to your race plan, enjoy the experience, and revel in the knowledge that you can finish and meet your time expectations for that event.

17

There is no way to run that far, that fast without taking in water and some form of food along the way. Water is critical. You need to find out early in your training what form of water container works for you and use it all the time in training. Whether you use a backpack type device, carry bottles in a belt or use a handheld bottle, you must practice drinking in practice so you will know how to handle liquids during the race. I’m not a fan of the heavy, bulky backpack water systems because of the weight. Remember that there will be water stations along the race course. One bottle or two at most are plenty. You can always refill them along the way, or have your pit crew toss you bottles at predetermined points.

What should you drink? Think “water.”

Some sports drinks can adversely affect your digestive system, with disastrous results. Late in a race on a hot day, you may want to risk one of those sugary drinks, but in most instances, water should be your choice of liquids.

Your racing uniform and shoes can make or break your ultra effort. Forget looking great. Wear the most comfortable shorts and singlet/short you own.

Undecided? What is your favorite practice ensemble? That is what you should wear on race day. It goes without saying that you never wear new shoes on race day.

I like to have a well-broken in pair, shoes that I have already run over 200 miles in.

They will still have plenty of cushioning and tread left for your race.

For shorter runs and races, I like spandex shorts -- or tights depending on the weather -- and the racing toe socks.

But anything with compression can mess up your circulation in a longer race.

Again, practice makes perfect. Don’t wear anything new, different or unusual in a race.

Don’t forget the sunscreen. The negative effects of sunburn can ruin your race. Start the day with a good coating of sunscreen and apply liberally as needed throughout the event. Some runners wear light-colored, lightweight hats to shield their heads from the sun. There is nothing wrong with this practice as long as you are accustomed to wearing a hat in practice.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

You will do some speed work in your ultra training, but you won’t be doing the repeat sprints, 400s and 800s that are a part of 5K and 10K training and even some marathon programs. Speed work for ultras is more of the interval miles, and timed fiveand 10-mile runs variety.

This is where the track work comes in. Interval miles is a pretty simple track workout. Warm up, run a mile, rest, repeat until finished. I usually run five miles in an interval workout, and run each of them two minutes faster than my planned ultra pace.

Or, you should run them at perfect pace; i.e.: every lap should be run at the same, constant speed. The five- and 10-mile runs on the track are all about learning your specific ultra race pace. Unlike the interval miles, you aren’t pushing the pace. This is about gaining muscle memory of what that race pace feels like.

Perfect pace is the goal here. If you are planning on running eight-minute miles (an ambitious goal for a middle-age

50K runner), you want to turn every lap in exactly two minutes. Nine-minute miles?

The goal becomes two minutes and 15 seconds per lap, every lap.

Some people think running distance on a track is boring. When you are reading your watch every 100 meters for a pace check, you don’t have time to be bored. That 10-mile run will pass faster than any road run you have ever done, all because of the mental scrutiny required to meet the pace goal.

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et me begin by stating that I do not expect anyone to understand.

Even my wife thinks it is silly for grown men to hike about searching for snakes. It is a compulsion however, one that began so long ago that I scarcely recall when or why my brother and I decided it would be fun to turn rocks and logs in the Ozarks to look for creatures that most folks would consider dangerous or creepy. Nevertheless we love it. It is a form of research that requires no classroom or grade. We can never be bored by a lecture, and the laboratory is nature -- a place we would rather be anyway.

B Y T E R R Y JA M I E S O N

n

she just moves to another topic. The fact is she no longer says be careful, because she figures being bitten is already on my mind, so why worry and besides it wouldn’t do any good to argue with a grown-up child.

Our hunt is successful, and we release our friends but not until I take photographs and listen to my bother talk about the science of our find. I think of school and realize that our curriculum always has been far better than any classroom had to offer.

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OZARK COTTONMOUTH

19

imaginations. I suppose our love of nature led us to where we are now. He is a zoology major who teaches college classes, and I am an educator with a painfully philosophical love of nature.

Now, we are middle aged and suffer immeasurably from wanderlust. It is not uncommon for me to receive a phone call suddenly from him and his intentions are to meet me somewhere, a glade preferably, to search for the enchanting life forms that defined our youth. Of course, he is far better at handling snakes than I, but I have certainly improved over the years.

A typical telephone conversation might go like this.

“The temps tomorrow might be around 75 or 80, and if that’s the case, we need to head to a glade because the timbers may be sunning themselves and getting over the winter,” he says.

“The middle school kids made us some new snake sticks, so I’m ready when you are,” I would reply.

Later that evening, my wife asks where I was going with my brother and I say to find snakes, and

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SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

I think we were small boys when we had our first encounter with a tarantula. My brother and I were playing in the yard, and I looked up to see a hairy spider walking up his chest. I lost my ability to speak and ran to get my mother. As I recall, my brother maintained his composure better than I did, but it’s always been that way. So I will establish that our fascination began then and there, and my mother executed the spider quickly thus allowing us to examine it closely without fear. How that led to snakes is anyone’s guess, but in the coming years, as we explored the creek near my grandparents’ home, we became more adept at finding and handling creatures that others would avoid.

The Ozarks streams of our youth were filled with water snakes and cottonmouths. The green hills were inhabited by copperheads, rat snakes and rattlers. Although we rarely saw them, we nonetheless knew they were there, and that fundamental mystery was alluring.

Turning rocks was an adventure.

Swimming and wading streams was akin to exotic excursions. Even the mere sight of a fleeting snake was enough to fuel our

The real Ozarks classroom

S TO R Y B Y B E T H B A RT L E T T P H OTO S C O U RT E S Y O F A R K A N S A S PA R K S A N D TO U R I S M

SOAR WITH THE EAGLES on Beaver Lake

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

F

or years, bird watchers have had to wait until winter to spot the elusive bald eagle on Beaver Lake in Arkansas. Thanks to the sharp eyes of Jay and Mary Anne Viator, captains of the Belle of the Ozarks excursion boat, folks can go out on the lake this summer and see a whole family of eagles.

“This is the second year we’ve discovered their nest,” said Mary Anne. “We have two pair, the adults and the fledglings.”

Since the eagles have made their nest at the lake, the parents will stay with the fledglings until the kids have learned the ropes of eagle self-sufficiency, said Mary Anne. The family will be intact for years as the fledglings develop, and once they’re on their own, they will likely come back to Beaver Lake to build their own nest, since they imprinted on this location when they hatched.

While the young eagles still have a lot to learn, they’ve already mastered some of the basics.

“We’re seeing them fly and take off now,” she said. “It’s exciting to see this

during the summer instead of waiting for winter.”

The Viators have led Eagle Watch cruises during the winter months for more than 15 years and recently began moving the special tours up to October since the eagle numbers at the lake are growing. The best way to see the eagles this summer is to take a tour aboard the Belle of the Ozarks, since both captains are experienced eagle watchers and know exactly where to go to see the majestic birds.

There’s more to the Belle of the Ozarks tours than just eagles. The pontoon trip takes visitors past notable sites like a submerged homestead and the cliffs where Native Americans made their home long before white men ever set foot in this region. Folks who take the 75-minute cruise will also see more than 60 miles of shoreline, including Whitney Mountain, Beaver Dam and a 200-acre wildlife preserve. Even on the hottest days, a breeze whips up from the lake water, making the Belle a top pick for summer activities.

The Belle of the Ozarks is docked at Starkey Park on the Eureka Springs side of Beaver Lake, and tours leave at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. every day except Thursday. For more information, tickets and detailed directions, call 479- 253-6200 or visit www.estc.net/belle.

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Ozark Mountain Ziplines opens in Eureka Springs Ozark Mountain Ziplines in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is the recent business venture of managing partner Will Wall.

“We are really into nature and getting people out of the house and away from computers.” Wall said.

The authentic Costa Rican-style canopy tour has over a mile of cable to zip with some cables 200 feet high. Ozark Mountain Ziplines opened in Eureka Springs on March 7.

“My partner builds ziplines all over the world, and he has since 1990,” Wall said.

Wall promises that you will not see

any expressways while on his ziplines.

Additionally, there are no poles or towers to climb. The easiness of the tour is something customer Pamela Bowlin of, Muskogee, Oklahoma, noticed.

“Even physically challenged people can do this,” Bowlin said. “It’s pretty easy and a lot of fun.”

Tours are typically based on reservations, but walk-ins are welcome if there is room in a tour. The smallest group the business will take on tour is two during the day and four at night.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

Wind hits your face and you are surrounded by nature. This is not a leisurely ride through the country. This is hanging from a cable suspended across a valley above the trees.

This is ziplining.

n

FROM LEFT, KENDRA WALL, ALLYSON POKRZYWINSKI, COREY CROCHET AND WILL WALL.

VENTURE

MIKE BLATTEL OF O’FALLON, MISSOURI, SOARS ABOVE THE TREES.

AT RIGHT, ESMAIL KAZEMI AND GUIDE ALLYSON POKRZYWINSKI WAIT FOR THE GO SIGNAL.

23

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SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

n

n GUIDE ALLYSON POKRZYWINSKI HOOKS MIKE BLATTEL UP FOR HIS FINAL ZIP. n

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

GUIDE COREY CROCHET RECEIVES ZIPPERS AS THEY COME IN ON THE FASTEST CABLE ON THE TOUR.

n

HARNESS AND GEAR ARE INSPECTED AFTER EVERY TOUR.

n MARCIA SILVIA ENJOYS HER FIRST ZIP.

n

RIGHT, MIKE BLATTEL COMES ZIPPING IN AMONGST THE LIMESTONE CLIFFS.

zippers relaxed during the entire tour.

“I think it was awesome,” Bowlin said after her tour. “I think that 2,000 feet overview was pretty amazing.”

Zippers cannot wear loose jewelry, clothing or flip-flops but can take a camera as long as it is secured to the person.

While zippers will no doubt enjoy their tour, Wall may have the best job.

“My office is 30 acres of limestone cliffs, pristine Arkansas hardwoods, creeks and a lot of people who want to have fun, and that’s a pretty good office.”

“We zip rain or shine, however we do abort zips for lightning and thunder,” Wall said.

The entire tour lasts around two hours depending on how many people are taking the tour. Wall asks that customers arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled tour begins at the business’ welcome center near downtown Eureka Springs. The parking lot is small, so it is recommended to take a trolley to the welcome center if possible.

After checking in, ”zippers,” as Wall calls his customers, must fill out a waiver before being able to take the tour.

“We have zipped over a million zippers since 1990, and the only injuries we have had are a twisted ankle and a bee sting,” Wall said.

Customers are fitted with a harness and helmet and loaded onto a shuttle that will take them to the tour location five minutes away. Following safety instructions and a demonstration, it’s time to zip.

Do not be discouraged with how short or close to the ground the first few cables are. These lines ensure that everyone knows how to operate their brake and understands the hand signals given by the guides.

After a few short cables, zippers will arrive at cables with some speed and height with the ultimate line spanning over 2,000 feet across a valley 200 feet below. Couples and friends will even have the chance to ride a few cables tandem if they desire.

Currently, Ozark Mountain Ziplines has seven guides on staff. While the guides take their jobs and the safety of their customers seriously, they do have fun. On the tour I took, the guides made jokes and kept the

To make a reservation, or for more information visit www.ziplineeurekasprings.com, call 479-363-6699 or email ozarkmountainziplines@gmail.com.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

THIS IS WHAT COULD BE WAITING A ZIPPER AFTER THEY FINISH A ZIP AT OZARK MOUNTAIN ZIPLINES.

25

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THE POINTE GOLF COURSE 142 Clubhouse Drive, Branson, Mo. 800-962-4710 www.pointeroyale.com

golf guide

The Pointe Royale 18-hole championship golf course in Branson, Missouri, has built a reputation as a “shot-maker” course. Designed by Ault-Clark and Associates, Pointe Royale features bent grass greens and Bermuda fairways with eight water holes, sand and grass bunkers. The 6,501-yard, par-70 course, which was remodeled in 2007, is perfect for all levels of play, offering a world class golfing experience. The facility also features a pro shop with friendly staff and a clubhouse for relaxing with friends after a round of golf. For more information, visit www.pointeroyale.com/golf-resort or call 1-800-962-4710.

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WINDMILL RIDGE GOLF COURSE 727 Hwy 60 Monett, Mo. 417-235-6076

golf guide

Windmill Ridge Golf Course offers 18 challenging holes in a pristine setting located adjacent to Monett’s scenic South Park and the new Monett YMCA facility at the intersection of Highways 37 and 60 in Monett, Missouri.

Featuring 5,700 yards of golf, the par-70 course is owned by the city of Monett, which has made a major investment in maintaining immaculate greens. Windmill Ridge, built in 1940, is open year round.

Clubhouse hours are noon to 7 p.m. on Mondays and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Greens fees are extremely reasonable at $12 to $16 on weekdays to $16 to $21 on weekends. Season passes are also available with child, student and senior discounts.

League play also is offered throughout the week, and the popular course hosts numerous tournaments. For more information, call 417-235-6076.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

s. on ti a ct pe x e est h ig h r ou y We are on par with k • Open 7 days a wee ble • Memberships availa t • Senior and studen rates available • Call for rates and reservations

Windmill Ridge Golf Course 417-235-6076 • 727 Highway 60 • Monett

golf guide

SYCAMORE VALLEY GOLF RANGE 15532 Hwy 39, Mt. Vernon, Mo. 417-466-2190

Sycamore Valley Golf Range is a golf practice facility located on Highway 39 between Aurora and Mt. Vernon in Lawrence County, Missouri. The range features a putting green, a driving range and a golf shop with a full line of Ping products. The facility is served by a certified Ping club fitter, who can help golfers find that perfect club or putter. For more information about Sycamore Valley Golf Range, call 417466-2190.

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Stonebridge Meadows Golf Club

golf guide

Stonebridge Meadows Golf Club has long been considered the premier golfing destination in Northwest Arkansas.

Stonebridge Meadows first appeared on Arkansas’ public golf scene in 1997 as an 18-hole facility designed by Randy Heckenkemper. Located at the home of the University of Arkansas Razorbacks in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Stonebridge Meadows has a reputation as the golf course you will want to play time and again. With superb course conditions, excellent guest services, and southern hospitality that is second to none, it’s easy to see why Stonebridge Meadows sets the bar for golf in Arkansas!

Play the Premier Fayetteville Golf Course at Stonebridge Meadows Being in the Natural State, Stonebridge Meadows is gently carved out of some of the most breath-taking views in Arkansas and the Ozark Mountains. Our manicured golf course features generous fairways framed by daunting hazards, wonderfully contoured greens quick as lightning, and pockets of pine and oak trees that give even the hardiest golfer a true test. It all adds up to a golf course that gives you a challenge whether you’ re a scratch golfer or someone who just picked up a golf club last week.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

Stonebridge Meadows Golf Rates Rates for 18-holes

Includes Cart

Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday Saturday after 11 am & Sunday After 1 pm 18-holes Monday-Thursday After 1pm 18-holes Friday-Sunday

$39 $49 $55 $49

Rates for 9-holes Monday - Thursday Friday - Sunday

$31 $36 Includes Cart $29 $34

*Rates/Times are subject to change without notice.

Please call the pro shop for current info.

Discount Rates Student (w/Student ID) Senior (60+) 18-holes w/cart Twilight (currently after 5pm)

Includes Cart $35* $33* $25*

Through the years, Stonebridge Meadows Golf Club has hosted several prestigious golf events such as the U.S. Amateur Qualifier, Nationwide Qualifier, the Arkansas State Match Play Championship, and recently was selected to host the 2012 U.S. Public Links Qualifier Golf Tournament. With hundreds of charity and corporate events held at Stonebridge Meadows over the years, it’s easy to see why folks keep teeing it up at Arkansas’ “Best in State” public golf course!

Free Round of Golf

Please register to participate in our eClub. By doing so you will receive a free green fee on your Birthday! Valid up to one week prior and one week after your birthday. We regularly offer specials and golf promotions to registered members.

All information is held in confidence and will only be used to provide you golf specials and promotions. To Register: www.stonebridgemeadows.com 3495 East Goff Road, Fayetteville, AR 72701 • 479-571-3674

LEDGESTONE COUNTRY CLUB 1600 Ledgestone Way, Reeds Spring, Mo. 417-335-8187 www.ledgestonegolf.com

golf guide Described by Golf Digest as a “masterpiece of mountain golf architecture,” LedgeStone Country Club at StoneBridge Village in Branson, Missouri, offers a par-71 championship course nestled in the Ozark Mountains. The course was designed by Tom Clark with five teeing areas at each hole that stretch from 4,909 to 6,881 yards through scenes of natural beauty, including creeks, forests and rock outcroppings. The course is unique in its series of distinct elevation changes that challenge golfers of all skill levels.

LedgeStone also offers top-rate practice facilities with a “putting-only” green next to a gorgeous waterfall. There is a well stocked pro shop, and the impressive 27,000-square-foot clubhouse offers dining and meeting space plus a fitness center, public locker rooms and outdoor pool. For more information, visit www. ledgestonegolf.com or call 417-335-8187.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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RESTAURANT & GRILL

golf guide

CASSVILLE GOLF CLUB 20276 Hwy 112, Cassville, Mo. 417-847-2399 www.cassvillegolfclub.com Rated as one of the top public golf courses in the state of Missouri by the Kansas City Star, the Cassville Golf Course is an 18-hole gem that is known for its spectacular greens, which are fast and playable. The entire course is immaculately maintained and situated on 137 gorgeous acres along Highway 112 between Cassville and Roaring River State Park. The Cassville Golf Course recently added new tee boxes at each of its holes, so players of all levels now have five different tee boxes from which to choose. The course offers a Friday night couples league, a Monday night men’s league and a Thursday morning ladies’ league. Members also benefit from a private swimming pool, a driving range, a pro shop and a clubhouse, which can be used for private gatherings. For more information on membership, leagues or course activities, visit www.cassvillegolfclub.com or call 417-847-2399.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

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KINGS RIVER GOLF COURSE 27777 Clubhouse Lane, Shell Knob, Mo. 417-858-6330 www.kingsrivergolf.com An 18-hole public golf course located along the shores of Table Rock Lake near Shell Knob, Missouri, Kings River Golf Course is open year-round and gorgeous in every season -- bright with dogwoods and redbuds in the spring, lush green all summer and a patchwork of yellows, oranges and reds in the fall.

Friday night is never boring at Kings River Golf. Couples play every Friday, and there is a pot luck on the first Friday of the month. Don’t have a mate for play -- come on down anyway and we’ll match you up. Special discounted rates are offered for this nine-hole play. Ladies play nine holes on Wednesdays and 18 on Mondays. The men’s regular play day is Thursdays, but they also have an informal

golf guide

group that plays on Tuesdays. They are always accepting new members so come on down to play. League play is open to members and nonmembers alike. A members-only tournament is held each fall to determine club champs, so there is a definite advantage to joining the Kings River Golf Course.

Another unique feature of the course lies in the fact that golfers can stay where they golf. The Kings River Lodges are located off the first hole and feature five luxury log cabins that were built in 2011. “Stay and Play” packages available. They feature four nights lodging plus eight rounds of golf for four in two-bedroom plus loft luxury log cabin condos for only $1,250.

Life is a Ball, Let’s Play!

“PLAY & STAY”

and lodges

27777 Clubhouse Lane, Shell Knob, Missouri

Call for a Tee Time Today

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417-858-6330

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

“8 miles South of Shell Knob or 2 miles North of Carr Lane off of HWY 39”

S TO R Y BY S H EIL A HA R R I S PH OTO S BY S A RA H L E E

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

C

ARL WEST, owner and proprietor of Old West Gunslinger gun shop in Mt. Vernon, Missouri, doesn’t think of himself as a professional gun dealer, rather a professional hunter who had to settle for selling guns, because his finger’s too quick on the trigger to make hunting videos to sell. For someone who doesn’t consider himself a professional, though, West has been in the firearms business for 14 years, 12 of which were spent running a shop in Springfield. In search of a slower pace, he relocated to Mt. Vernon about two years ago.

Prior to becoming a gun dealer, he was a taxidermist for 30 years, a fact attested to by the numerous exotic animal heads mounted on the walls of his small but well-stocked shop just south of the square. Many of the mounts are trophies from his numerous hunting trips to Africa.

“Taxidermy was great but became too labor intensive,” stated West. “There was a super-high demand for it, but I was ready to

slow down.”

However, in this political climate that has thrust gun ownership into the national spotlight, slowing down has become a relative term. According to West, his firearms business has tripled in the past three months.

“I now find it difficult to keep up with the supply to meet the demand I am faced with,” said West. “Business is booming. I used to have customers come in who were

‘just looking.’ They might make two or three trips into the shop before actually making a purchase, and even then, they would try to negotiate on the price. Now, people tend to come in once, and if they find what they’re looking for, they’ll buy it on the spot for the price I’m asking.”

West said his problem with supply actually comes from the manufacturers themselves, who are hard put to keep up with national demand. Many of the types of guns and ammunition he stocks have been on back order for quite some time, and prices have risen.

Old West Gunslinger buys, sells and trades both new and used rifles, handguns and shotguns and carries a full line of accessories, including scopes, magazines and ammunition, as well as a full line of knives.

West also runs a pawn business, mostly out of

I used to have customers come in who were ‘just looking.’ They might make two or three trips into the shop before actually making a purchase, and even then, they would try to negotiate on the price. Now, people tend to come in once, and if they find what they’re looking for, they’ll buy it on the spot for the price I’m asking.

– CARL WEST

defend themselves. People who commit violent crimes with firearms will always be able to find guns to use illegally, but when we disarm honest men, we leave them without defense.”

Carl West’s particular passion is researching and learning more about firearms, especially antiques.

“You can never learn all there is to know about them” he stated emphatically.

Considered by many to be the gold standard in the firearms industry, the Colt and its history is one of West’s specific fields of interest.

“A Colt is to a man what diamonds are to a woman,” West said.

“Along with Smith and Wessons, Brownings and Winchesters, antique Colt handguns are among the most sought after by gun collectors. Gold and collectible guns

35

keep these in stock, although sometimes the demand for .22 caliber bullets is far greater than the supply.”

In reference to the current controversy surrounding gun ownership and use, West was more than happy to offer his opinion.

“Because of the more stringent background checks, concealed carry permit holders have to be some of the most honest, responsible people in the United States,” he declared adamantly. “Those who legally conceal and carry keep us all safer.

“Handguns are against the law in London, England,” said West, “but during a two-week period when I visited there, five separate business owners were shot and killed by robbers. If the business owners would have been legally permitted to arm themselves, they might have been able to

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

curiosity.

“I’m always amazed by what people will bring in wanting to pawn,” he said.

“By far, my best-selling firearms at the moment are handguns -- guns people can conceal and carry,” said West. “Anybody who teaches concealed carry permit classes will tell you their business has doubled and tripled as well.”

When asked what type of weapon he would recommend for a woman wishing to conceal and carry, West removed a sleek, new Walther P22 semi-automatic pistol from a cabinet and passed it over for inspection. With its lightweight and compact size, it fit the hand with ergonomic precision, both a comfortable and practical tool for self-defense.

“This is probably my most popular gun,” West said. “Fortunately, I am able to

e Wher ms hing r a e r fi at T O N are he past! of t

c

BUY • SELL • TR ADE

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

are two of the best investments anyone can currently make,” added West. “If I would have held onto the antique gun collection I had at one time, I could have retired by now.

I’ve kicked myself a few times since then.”

When speaking to Carl West, though, one is given the impression that retirement is the farthest thing from his mind. With business brisk and clientele who afford him the opportunity to talk about his favorite thing, firearms, he has carved out a niche for himself in this small town, where the pace is slower and his customers have become his friends.

Old West Gunslinger is located at 209 South Main Street, one block south of the square in Mt. Vernon. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. For more information, call 417-461-7468.

We stock new and used rifles, shotguns, pistols and revolvers.

OLD WEST GUNSLINGER GUN & PAWN 209 S. MAIN • MOUNT VERNON, MO

417·461·7468

Market Street •

City Square

Court 209 S. Main House Hickory Street

I-44 Business Loop

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. • Saturday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. • Closed Wednesdays

Burgers, Enchiladas, & more!

25 kinds of beer on tap including Fat Tire Margaritas, Wine, Cocktails Open Tues. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

S.U.A.G.O.

HWY. 62 EAST • Eureka Springs • 479-253-6001

f f u t s l o o c ENO DOUBLENEST HAMMOCK

This hammock is great for the family with room for two and packs to the size of a grapefruit with a built-in stuff sack.

GO PRO HERO3 This version of the most popular sports camera is smaller, lighter and has built-in Wi-Fi.

ADVENTURE MEDICAL KITS Enjoy the outdoors safely with this ultralight, water-tight pack of medical supplies.

Coffee and friends... made for each other.

OSPREY RAVEN 6 PACK

• Specialty coffees • Fresh bakery treats • Hearty sandwiches • Delicious homemade soups

A perfect hydration pack that is extremely compact and great for trail runs, light hiking and short bike rides.

SOG BLADELIGHT Use your knife at night with ease with a handle that has 6 LEDs molded into it on either side of the knife blade.

This lightweight, hand-held run bottle carries 10 ounces of water and its shape is contoured to fit the runner’s hand, offering hydration and comfort.

TRIMBLE OUTDOORS NAVIGATOR

200 Washington • Purdy, MO 417-442-3014 Tuesday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

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Free app for Android and IOS devices that turns smart phones into a reliable wayfinder.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

CAMELBAK ARC QUICK GRIP

r e u h t n

u o n r d a

The Angie Swadley Memorial Run

Girls Just Wanna Run

Fayetteville 5K Color Vibe

Saturday, July 20 Purdy, Missouri 5K run with proceeds benefitting the Angie Swadley Memorial Scholarship Fund. For more information, visit purdyfestival@yahoo.com.

Saturday, July 20 Phelps Grove Park Springfield, Missouri The largest women’s 5K run/walk in Missouri

Saturday, August 3 Washington County Fairgrounds Fayetteville, Arkansas 5K color run

Shark Sprint Triathlon

The Memory Maker Triathlon

Sunday, July 21 Beaver Lake in Horseshoe Bend Park near Rogers, Arkansas Sprint triathlon: 500-yard swim, 15-mile bike ride and 3.1-mile run

Saturday, August 24 Bella Vista, Arkansas Sprint triathlon: 500-yard swim, 15-mile bike and 3.1-mile run Olympic distance triathlon: .93-mile swim, 25-mile bike and 6.2-mile run Proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association

OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

A Midsummer Night’s Run

38

A list of running events

Saturday, July 13 Joplin, Missouri 5K and 10K runs along the Frisco Greenway. This is the second of three Starlit Running Company’s Night-time Race Series. The third race is the Blue Moon 5K and 10K on August 10.

Cassville’s Y Not Tri Saturday, July 13 Beginning at the Cassville Aquatic Center Cassville, Missouri Sprint triathlon: 500-yard swim, 15-mile bike ride and 3.1-mile run

Inaugural Hillbilly Mud Run Saturday, August 10 Lakey Farm Billings, Missouri A challenging 5K with hills, up to 15 obstacles and plenty of mud pits

Gold Medal Glow Run Friday, August 2 Republic, Missouri Night-time 5K/1-mile fun run

Tri-Fest for MS Thursday, August 29 - Sunday, September 1 Bentonville, Arkansas Four-day celebration including super sprint, sprint and Olympic distance triathlons as well as a 1.1-mile Chalk Walk.

Turn a tiger loose!

NOT YOUR TYPICAL RACE:

SALES & SERVICE 500 S. Kyler Monett 235-7161

The Eurekan A Multi-Sport Festival in Eureka Springs, Arkansas Friday, August 9 through Sunday, August 11 Participants can enter individual events or choose “The Eurekan” challenge, which includes all three events. To earn the coveted title of Eurekan, an athlete must complete a sprint triathlon on Friday, a 100-mile bike ride on Saturday and a 10K run on Sunday. For more information, visit http://eurekasportsfestival.com.

We now have Odyssey and Tahoe Paddle Boards!

Run for a Child Monday, September 2 Rogers, Arkansas 10K and 5K runs and 1-mile walk

The Azalea Run Saturday, September 14 Beginning at the Gardens of Woodfield Nixa, Missouri Half-marathon, 10K and 5K runs

Saturday, September 21 Beginning at the Missouri Rehabilitation Center Mt. Vernon, Missouri 10K and 5K runs

151 Spring Street • Eureka Springs, Arkansas • Wed. - Sat. 9-5 Phone: 479-253-0900 or 479-466-6095 Fax: 479-253-0901

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For information on these events, visit www.runningintheusa.com.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

Brain Injury Awareness Run

Fat Tire

FESTIVAL Fun for everyone

S TO R Y BY BET H B A RT L E T T PH OTO S CO URT ES Y O F DAVI D R E NKO

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

M

ost people love to admire natural beauty, but others have a deep need to hop on two wheels and explore it, up close and personal.

Since the late 1990s, the Fat Tire Festival in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, has given folks a place to compare skills and discover new trails. This year’s festival takes place July 12-14 with a full weekend of competitive and non-competitive events, a far cry from the simple mountain bike ride to the lake, which started the annual tradition.

“That was our first event, and we built this up around it,” said David Renko, organizer of the Fat Tire Festival. Now riders can choose cross country rides, short track, downhill and other challenges. Renko noted that the favorite events differ from competitors to spectators.

“For competitors, it’s the crosscountry event on Sunday, the race to the lake,” he said. “That draws the largest number. Spectator-wise, it’s a toss-up, but observed trials have been a community favorite, because we’ve held them in town at Harmon Park.”

Renko noted that this year, the observed trials will be moved to the ball fields at Lake Leatherwood City Park, located just a few minutes from town.

Another favorite is the short track event, held at Achord’s MX Track at Elk Ranch,

located north of Eureka Springs. In all, he expects approximately 500 competitors at all events this year, and a total of 1,500 people including spectators and volunteers.

One event that takes a number of hands to coordinate is the Big Town Ride, a noncompetitive bike ride taking participants on little-known trails and streets around town. The streets of Eureka Springs can be challenging to follow at the best of times, so managing this recreational ride requires guides to help participants navigate the town’s often challenging terrain. This year, there will be two separate rides within the Big Town Ride -- a strenuous ride for those who seek a physical challenge and a sightseeing ride, so folks can appreciate the locals’ view of the area. Next year, Renko hopes to have self-guided recreational rides in place.

In addition to short track, downhill, cross country, trials and the overall Omni Challenge, there’s also a new competitive event: the Super D, a new combination cross country/downhill ride held on the trails at Lake Leatherwood.

Each competitive event offers prizes in a number of categories, giving everyone a chance to go for the gold. While competition is a vital part of the festival, one collection of events that keeps growing is the kids’ section. Young riders can participate in a short track race, a fun ride, the skills course and the most popular event, the Kids’ Rodeo. The Sunday rodeo has become a top draw for the junior set, with prizes, food and goody bags for each entrant, plus activities like barrel races and slaloms. It’s an excellent way for kids to improve their biking skills while having fun and getting a free lunch in the process.

With a tight schedule and multiple events, it takes spot-on planning and a lot of help to make the festival a success. Even though the Fat Tire Festival is one of the longest and most comprehensive mountain bike festivals in the United States, Renko believes it’s about more than just the races, it’s about the appeal of Eureka Springs.

“A lot of these mountain bike festivals don’t have as many attractions surrounding it,” he said. “They come for the races or the kids rodeo, but it’s also a great family destination.”

For more information about the Fat Tire Festival, visit www.fattirefestival.com.

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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takeyourpic

A DOE AND HER FAWN OUTSIDE A HOME IN RURAL CASSVILLE. THE FAWN WAS BORN ON JUNE 5. PHOTO BY MARTY STEARNS.

In each issue of Ozarks Outdoors, we want to feature nature photographs taken and submitted by our readers.

To submit nature photos for our fall edition of Ozarks Outdoors, send your high resolution images to editor@ monett-times.com.

TEAL ON A POND IN BARRY COUNTY, MISSOURI. PHOTO BY TERRY JAMIESON, OF CASSVILLE. GEESE LAND AT LAKE LEATHERWOOD IN EUREKA SPRINGS, ARKANSAS. PHOTO BY TERRY JAMIESON, OF CASSVILLE.

THE SUN SETS OVER A PEACEFUL PASTURE NEAR EAGLE ROCK. PHOTO

BY TERRY JAMIESON, OF CASSVILLE.

Come by land or by air

FOR B RE AKF AKFAST, AST, LUNCH OR DI NNNER NER!!

F

enu, plus weekl m l l ys u

THURSDAY NIGHTS: Fried chicken

al

s

FRIDAY NIGHTS: Frog legs/catfish

pec i

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SUNDAYS: Gospel music 1 - 4 p.m.

WEEKENDS: Patio menu beginning at 11 a.m.

HA

OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013

SATURDAY NIGHTS: Sirloin steak - Live music 6 - 10 p.m.

Our grass air strip features runway lights and rotating beacon.

N

K A F R E A G

NORTH OF STOTTS CITY IN LAWRENCE COUNTY

417-452-2277

From junction of Hwy 96 and Hwy 97, go north two miles on Hwy 97 to FR 2040.

Go east one mile on FR 2040 to FR 1070.

Go north 3/4 mile on FR 1070 to Hangar Kafe.

We Keep Your Boat Running!

Leitle Carquest Auto Parts & Service

Please call ahead for reservations and rental equipment

AUTO PARTS

417-678-4121 • 800-679-4121

We stock marine batteries.

38 West Pleasant • Aurora, Mo (one block west of the square )

Johnson Guide Service & Taxidermy Beaver Lake Striped Bass Holiday Island Bass, Walleye, Crappie, and Trout

479-253-6999

www.blackjackadventure.net

Fun in the Sun!

www.fishofexcellence.com

479-253-2258

All Major Credit Cards Accepted

Ribs, to die for!

Many have eaten here...

Few have died.

Family Owned & Operated

Float, Fish or Swim on the majestic Kings or White Rivers.

Breakfast (‘til 2 p.m.)

Lunch • Dinner Private Party Room Deck Seating Available

OPEN DAILY 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

BEER & WINE

6837 Highway 62 E, 1 mile east of Passion Play Road

479.363.0001

GPS Coordinates: N36039.5496’ W93069.8712’

2059 E Van Buren Eureka Springs, AR 65641 Hwy 62, East of downtown located in the Pine Mountain Village

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HAND-CUT STEAKS SEAFOOD BURGERS DAILY SPECIALS

SUMMER 2013 OZARKS OUTDOORS

Eureka Springs

See the city in motion!

Ride the Historic Loop, see all the artistry and enjoy the music!

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OZARKS OUTDOORS SUMMER 2013