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READY, SET, GO! 2005 RACE CALENDAR INSIDE

TrailRunner CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS

One Dirty Magazine

RELEASE THE BEAST MENTAL TRICKS THAT WORK FIELD TESTED FIVE TOP SNOWSHOES WESTERN STATES 100 GLUTTONS DO IT IN WINTER

JANUARY 2005 | ISSUE 31

HIGH-COUNTRY

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Go through it before the road does

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CONTENTS JANUARY 2005 | WWW.TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | ISSUE 31

FEATURES

Most people think Iceland is a desolate wasteland, and they’re right—but wrong. Experience this surreal landscape, and you’ll think, “Why didn’t I come sooner?” Just be prepared for rain, snow, wind, maybe some sun, rolling peaks and glowing moss. A hut-to-hut tour of the Icelandic high country.

BY MICHAEL BENGE, PHOTOS BY PATITUCCIPHOTO

26) Right Race, Wrong Time

As if the summertime version of the Western States 100Mile Endurance Run wasn’t tough enough, these gluttons for punishment decided to run this High Sierra course in the winter, and got their just rewards.

BY DEAN KARNAZES, PHOTOS BY ROB MCKINLEY

DEPARTMENTS 4) EDITOR’S NOTE 6) LETTERS 12) NUTRITION 16) TAKE YOUR MARK 55) RUN AMOK 8) MAKING TRACKS Meet the Trail Runner Trophy Series champs; controversy at the Pike’s Peak Marathon; Q&A with mad scientist and burly trail racer Erica Larson; American women podium at the World Mountain Running Trophy; Wasatch Front 100; more.

14) TRAINING Going mental. In

our last installment of Building the Perfect Beast, we show you how to get into the right mindset.

BY DAVE HANNON

17) ASK THE COACH The truth about ibuprofen; how to recover from a 50K; water-purification possibilities.

BY THERESE IKNOIAN

33) TRAIL TESTED Bring on the white stuff: these five top-shelf snowshoes can float through it.

PLUS: Icebreaker wool top takes on winter; cross train with Leki’s Nordic Walking Poles.

37) TRAIL TIPS Don’t think you’re just going to veg on the couch—these cross-training options will keep you fit this winter.

39) 2005 RACE CALENDAR

Get ready to race. We unveil your complete resource for the year in trail racing.

COVER: Running the Laugavegur trail in Iceland. PHOTOGRAPH

BY PATITUCCIPHOTO

THIS PAGE: LUANNE PARK AT MILE 40, MOUNTAIN MASOCHIST 50, LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA. PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID CLIFFORD

(ONE DIRTY MAGAZINE)

18) Land of Fire and Ice

EDITO R’S NOTE

by MICHAEL BENGE

Looking Back AND AHEAD AS TRAIL RUNNER CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS As I pounded down the steep, rocky trail, struggling just to keep my feet under me, something caught my eye. I’m not sure why the small rock stood out among hundreds, but it stopped me in my tracks. I reached down, picked it up and rolled it around in my hand.

A human had obviously knapped the

EDITORIAL

sharp, serrated edges of the chunk of blue-gray flint. The shape was that of an arrowhead, but it was too bulky to balance on a slender wooden shaft. It could have been a spearhead, but a thumb groove convinced me that it was probably some type of hide-scraping tool or knife.

Coming face to face with this ancestral evidence, I dwelled on the mysterious concept of time. This implement was at least 200, perhaps 1000 years old! Just two centuries ago, western Colorado’s last remaining Ute Indians, their lifestyle and culture disrupted, were “relocated” to Utah as the white man took over the land.

Today, traffic, email bombardment and too-busy schedules usurp our time to look back. And the high-paced lifestyle most Americans now lead is a huge contrast to that of the simple-living hunter-gatherers. Perhaps that’s why we, as trail runners, do what we do, I thought—for the joy of connecting with a simpler headspace.

If 200 years is but an eye blink in time, what is five years? Well, that’s how long Trail Runner has been around. It’s been a great path so far, growing alongside our blossoming sport. And like that native implement, we intend to endure and bring you inspiration and knowledge for many years to come.

SOUND OFF What is your favorite trail, and why?

THE SKYLINE-TO-THE-SEA TRAIL, BIG BASIN REDWOODS STATE PARK, SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS, CA. Three glorious waterfalls, six creeks, a freshwater marsh, ocean views, old-growth redwoods, ancient firs and oaks, ferns, wildflowers, lush canyons, sunny ridges and a wide variety of wildlife. Plus, when you reach the end, you’re at the Pacific Ocean.

—MARNIE REGEN, San Jose, CA

BULL RUN OCCOQUAN TRAIL, FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA. The BROT is a slice of heaven hidden just outside of Washington D.C. It has several access points where you can jump on quickly and conquer your desired mileage while passing a reservoir, bubbling streams and a variety of terrain. The area is also teaming with wildlife, including deer, squirrel, foxes, beaver and snakes.

I tell people while they are in church on Sundays, I am, too—out on the Bull Run Occoquan Trail!

—SCOTT CRABB, Bristow, VA 4 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

PUBLISHER Duane Raleigh

draleigh@bigstonepub.com EDITOR Michael Benge mbenge@bigstonepub.com SENIOR EDITOR Garett Graubins ggraubins@bigstonepub.com COLUMNS EDITOR Alison Osius aosius@bigstonepub.com PHOTO EDITOR David Clifford dclifford@bigstonepub.com EDITORIAL INTERN Kyle Boelte kboelte@bigstonepub.com CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR Marshall McKinney mmckinney@bigstonepub.com ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Bonnie Hofto bhofto@bigstonepub.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Quent Williams qwilliams@bigstonepub.com ADVERTISING SALES ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Lisa Raleigh lraleigh@bigstonepub.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Joanne Kneafsey jkneafsey@bigstonepub.com CLASSIFIED SALES EXECUTIVE Randall Lavelle rlavelle@bigstonepub.com CIRCULATION CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Paula Stepp pstepp@bigstonepub.com SUBSCRIPTIONS MANAGER Lindsay Brown lbrown@bigstonepub.com RETAIL SALES COORDINATOR Rowan Fryer rfryer@bigstonepub.com ACCOUNTING Mark Kittay CPA accounting@bigstonepub.com BIG STONE PUBLISHING 1101 Village Road UL-4D, Carbondale, CO 81623 Office: 970-704-1442 Fax: 970-963-4965 www.trailrunnermag.com WARNING! The activities described in Trail Runner carry a significant risk of personal injury or death.

DO NOT participate in these activities unless you are an expert, have sought or obtained qualified professional instruction or guidance, are knowledgeable about the risks involved, and are willing to assume personal responsibility for all risks associated with these activities. TRAIL RUNNER MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, OF ANY KIND REGARDING THE CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE, AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY REGARDING THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. Trail Runner further disclaims any responsibility for injuries or death incurred by any person engaging in these activities.

Use the information contained in this magazine at your own risk, and do not depend on the information contained in this magazine for personal safety or for determining whether to attempt any climb, route or activity described herein.

The views herein are those of the writers and advertisers; they do not necessarily reflect the views of Trail Runner’s ownership.

•Manuscripts, photographs and correspondence are welcome. Unsolicited materials should be accompanied by return postage. Trail Runner is not responsible for unsolicited materials. All manuscripts and photos are subject to Trail Runner’s terms, conditions and rates •Please allow up to 10 weeks for the first issue after subscribing or a change of address (to expect continuous service).

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. © Copyright 2004 by Big Stone Publishing Ltd.

Darkness creeping up on you?

Petzl’s 2.75 oz TIKKA PLUS headlamp is the perfect companion for those times when you don’t want a little darkness to get in the way of your run. Its four LEDs can shine up to 33 feet – enough to push back the foreboding shadows and illuminate the next bend in the trail. A tilt feature and an emergency blinking mode round out this headlamp, making it the must-have item for any serious runner. To locate a dealer near you, call 801-926-1500 or log on to www.petzl.com

LETTERS

NEVER TOO OLD

Mark Eller’s account of “Running on the Rooftops of the World” [November 2004, No. 30] was a delight. I ran the Mount Everest Challenge Marathon a few years ago and it was the thrill of a lifetime.

It is really a double challenge, because in addition to the thin air on a rugged course at 12,000 feet, the views of four of the five highest mountains in the world over 13 miles also take your breath away.

I also enjoyed reading about Link Lindquist’s ultra heroics at age 77. I can identify with him because at the time I ran the Everest Challenge, I was 67.

—Stan Cherim, Wallingford, PA PASSING FANCY In “Dirty Dos & Don’ts” [Editor’s Note, November 2004, No. 30], the “Grey Areas” sidebar questioned whether passing someone right at the end of a very long race is good style. A race is a race, 100 miles or 10 miles, and passing should be encouraged right down to a photo finish.

What really burns me is litter on the trail. Nothing is more disgusting than stepping on someone’s discarded energygel pack or seeing fruit peels.

—Lane Proctor, Salt Lake City, UT

THE PRICE OF GAS In your last issue, you had a section on trail etiquette [“Dirty Dos & Don’ts”].

The advice was all great, but you left out two important issues. First, on an “out and back” race, an uphill runner should always yield to one going downhill. It is much easier for the uphill runner to 6 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

control his momentum, and restart after stopping or slowing.

And, aside from the obvious ones about flinging “spit, sweat and snot,” our running group has one cardinal rule: No farting in the pace line.

—John Koester, Campbell, CA

LOSE THE FAT As usual, your September issue [No. 29] was an invigorating read. However, the authors of “Eat Like a Caveman” [Nutrition] Gootman and Kirousis, missed the boat with some of their advice. They’re right on track with most of their easy-to-follow food suggestions, but they were confused regarding the fat-versus-carbohydrate issue.

They neglected to mention that the human body can’t utilize fat efficiently without sufficient carbohydrate stores and consistent availability during endurance events, especially high-altitude

trail running or any event that exceeds approximately 45 percent of VO2 Max (the maximum amount of oxygen one can use in one minute).

Moreover, Gootman and Kirousis suggested that the body should be taught to burn mostly fats, thus tapping into the “metabolic key to maintaining a fast pace.” It is well documented that despite a person’s level of training or dietary habits, the body will utilize mostly carbohydrate stores to maintain a “fast pace” over a long time, even if it is fed high amounts of fat, fasted or given a mixed- or high-carbohydrate diet three hours before an event.

They also state that fat is a better energy source than carbohydrates. Well, yes and no. It is the favored and potentially “better” energy source during rest. However, during training and racing, rarely does an athlete train below 45 percent of VO2 Max. Again, research indicates that active individuals should favor a diet rich in carbohydrates to ensure high levels of glycogen stores.

—Scott Drum, Assistant Professor Dept. of Kinesiology Western State College Gunnison, CO

Gootman and Kirousis respond: We agree that ingesting carbohydraterich foods is very important for endurance sports performance. Our article should not be construed to recommend Atkins-like diets for athletes, or promote high-protein, high-fat or low-carbohydrate diets. The intent and purpose is to help trail runners understand that eating nutrient-dense foods assists performance. As we note in the article, fat is an essential nutrient. There is a trend among athletes to cut fat from their diets and to believe that carbohydrates are the only source of energy.

CORRECTIONS • Dave Mackey was incorrectly credited with the course record for the JFK 50Miler. That distinction belongs to Eric Clifton of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

• In a recap of Vermont’s Jay Challenge, John Welch was referenced as the race director. The correct race director is Dan Des Rosiers.

■

MAKING TRACKS ALL THE TRAIL NEWS YOU CAN USE // BY GARETT GRAUBINS

TRAIL RUNNER ANNOUNCES 2004 TROPHY SERIES CHAMPS From March 1 to September 30, 2004, over 23,000 runners sweated, laughed and scratched through more than 200 trail races from Connecticut to California and Texas to Vancouver in the inaugural Trail Runner Trophy Series. Runners earned points for each mile, regardless of whether they finished first or last, and competed in two divisions: non-ultra (races of marathon or shorter) and ultra (races longer than a marathon). Trophy Series runners reaped bonus points for top three placings. ¶ While we salute the age-group winners on our website, here we honor the overall male and female champions. Congratulations to these trail demons with legs of chiseled stone.

NON-ULTRA DIVISION FEMALE: KIMBERLY EYTEL While other Trophy Series champions registered thousands of travel miles to and from races, Eytel, 35, enjoyed seven races right in her hometown of Breckenridge, Colorado. “My biggest obstacle,” she says, “was convincing my boss to let me leave work early to run them.” Still, the Series title didn’t come easily. Eytel, a physical therapist, had to duel with competitive mountain runners, altitudes over 10,000 feet and extreme weather (in one race, snow drifts and 50-mile-per-hour wind gusts pummeled participants).

But Eytel’s toughness hides beneath an easy-going, humble exterior. “Honestly, I never considered winning [the Trophy Series],” she says, “I just run to stay in shape.”

ULTRA DIVISION MALE: ERIC GROSSMAN Grossman, 36, churned out eight Trophy Series races covering 429 miles. Even more impressive, he won every one of them, collecting several hundred more Trophy Series points than second-place finisher William Emerson of Portland, Oregon.

Grossman, a high-school science teacher from Louisville, Kentucky, logged some major miles on his car, too, traveling to races in Ohio (Mohican Trail 100), Virginia (Promise Land 50K) and Mississippi (Carl Touchstone 50 Miler), and his wife, Robin, accompanied him to most of them.

“It turned into some our best quality time together,” says Grossman.

And, through it all, what was Grossman’s favorite Trophy Series race? “The Promise Land,” he says. “Running above the Shenandoah [River] really captivated me.”

FOR AGE-GROUP WINNERS, COMPLETE RESULTS AND 2005 SERIES BETA, PLEASE VISIT WWW.TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM. 8 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

ULTRA DIVISION FEMALE: MONICA SCHOLZ In the ultrarunning galaxy, Scholz is a supernova. The 37year-old divorce lawyer from Hamilton, Ontario, has garnered countless distinctions, including the world treadmillrunning record—100 miles in 20:04 last February (the record was later broken). The Canuck further padded her ultrarunning resume in 2004 by winning the Haliburton Forest (Toronto, Ontario) and Sulphur Springs (Burlington, Ontario) 100-Milers. She also trotted to a seventh-place finish in the Western States 100 (Auburn, California).

Scholz runs over 100 miles per week—mostly on southern Ontario’s 800-kilometer Bruce Trail—and her training paid off this summer, as she eked

by Trophy Series secondplace finisher Bonnie Riley of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Series-clincher came in the late-season Haliburton race, where she was the overall winner despite difficult nighttime route finding.

NON-ULTRA DIVISION MALE: SCOTT DUNLAP The numbers tell the story: over 3000 travel miles, 231 trail miles and 15 races. After all that, Dunlap, 35, squeaked to the Trophy Series title by a hair-thin margin, topping second-place Michael Robbert, 29, of Golden, Colorado, by less than two points.

Dunlap, a marketing professional from Woodside, California, made the Trophy Series title a goal early in the summer. “It helped that many events were in places I had to visit for business,” explains Dunlap, “It was a great excuse to see something other than ‘downtown and a hotel.’” One weekend, Dunlap even traveled to Colorado for back-toback races and a chance to race directly against Robbert.

“I suspected that other Trophy Series racers would go for the ‘double-header.’” he says.

And the highlight of the summer? Says Dunlap, “Each time I went blindly into a race, I would think, ‘This is the most beautiful place I’ve seen.’”

making tracks «

OVER-

HEARD “I don’t have a wife or children. The NipMuck is my closest relative.”

–DAVE RACZKOWSKI, race director of the Nipmuck Marathon in Ashford, Connecticut, on his strangely intimate relationship with the race.

“There’s Jonathan Wyatt, and then there’s the rest of the world”.

–Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team member SIMON GUTIERREZ on the 2004 World Mountain Running Trophy champion, Jonathan Wyatt of Wellington, New Zealand. Wyatt won this year’s championship—his third overall—one week after placing 20th in the Olympic Marathon in Athens.

Roc nears the top of Pikes Peak—and the marathon’s turnaround point.

PERPLEXED ON PIKES PEAK TRAIL-RUNNING RULES CLASH IN PRESTIGIOUS RACE

XAVIER FANE

AUGUST 22, 2004, PIKES PEAK MARATHON, MANITOU SPRINGS, COLORADO—Named

for the peak that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to pen “America the Beautiful,” Pikes Peak holds a revered place in U.S. folklore and, not surprisingly, so does the Pikes Peak Marathon.

Since 1956, thousands of runners have run up and down the 14,110-foot massif. And, given all the prestige and luster around the event, it’s understandable that Spain’s Agusti Roc rejoiced when he was the first to cross the finish line in the 2004 race.

That is until he was disqualified.

Says Pikes Peak Race Director, Ron Ilgen, “We received reports from the course that [Roc] was cutting the course, so we immediately placed him under investigation.” Once the reports were confirmed, Roc was disqualified and the title went to the second runner to complete the course, Galen Burrell of Boulder, Colorado.

Nobody is accusing Roc of consciously cheating. Running the race as part of the international Buff Skyrunner World Series, he merely followed the Series rules, which allow runners to descend a course in any line, so long as they pass certain points. In this case, Roc—and, allegedly other Skyrunner participants—chose more direct routes connecting aid stations by cutting switchbacks along the rocky Barr Trail on which the race takes place.

“I assumed the same rules from Buff Skyrunner World Series races would apply,” says Roc (through an interpreter), “and each racer has the obligation to know basic rules of mountain racing and the race organizer should explain if there are any gray areas.”

Ilgen counters, “We’ve never felt a pre-race rules briefing was necessary, and never had an issue like this before.” Race rules are readily available and clearly state that runners must adhere to the trail. In the future, Ilgen says there will be an official course marshall and a more deliberate attempt to communicate race rules beforehand.

Burrell, in the meantime, cherishes his victory. “I think any racer should be expected to honor the rules of the host race,” he says. “International competition adds a lot of excitement and interest, but rules need to be understood and applied fairly across the board.”

Controversy took a back seat in the women’s race, as Erica Larson of Los Alamos, New Mexico, captured her fifth Pikes Peak title in six years.

For complete race results, visit www.pikespeakmarathon.org.

“The French are super burly. They arrive at the finish looking fresh—no dirt, no sweat, nothing—and immediately start drinking beer. None of this American puking stuff for them.”

–PHOTOGRAPHER DAN PATITUCCI after observing the finish of the 155-kilometer Tour du Mont Blanc in Chamonix, France.

“Now I need to go clean the shower, throw my socks in the trash and wash my shoes at the coin laundry.”

–BETH GILDAY of Woodhaven, Michigan, on cleaning up after the Dances with Dirt 50K in Hell, Michigan. The race boasts waist-deep mud, water crossings and swampy trails.

BY THE NUMBERS

80 50 280

Percent of the 1400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail either officially closed or under damage assessment following several major hurricanes that struck the Sunshine State in 2004.

In miles per hour, the estimated strength of wind gusts during September’s Breckenridge Crest Marathon in Colorado, where racers woke to fresh snow and freezing temps.

Approximate cost, in dollars, of a winter trailrunning get-up for the runner on your Christmas list. Includes: Windstopper® tights and gloves, long-sleeve wicking top, wool socks, Polartec stocking cap and Goretex trail-running shoes.

2270

Estimated elevation gain, in feet, for the tough Hark the Herald Angels 25K, an early December race around the perimeter of Angel Island, a short ferry ride from Tiburon, California, just outside of San Francisco.

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 9

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)

WAR OF THE WORLDS U.S. WOMEN BATTLE TO BRONZE IN ITALY

SEPTEMBER 4-5, 2004, WORLD MOUNTAIN RUNNING TROPHY, SAUZE D’OULX, ITALY—

Anita Ortiz was only a half mile into the 8.4-kilometer course at the 2004 World Mountain Running Trophy when her foot slipped backwards off a log. Says the 40-year-old Ortiz, “My foot hit a rock and jammed under the log and went numb. I thought I would have to drop.” ¶ But Ortiz, who would later learn that she had chipped some bone off her heel and also suffered ligament damage, persevered. “A lot of people put their faith in me,” she says, “and I knew I had to give it my best shot.” Ortiz’s determined run placed her 11th in the field of 81 of the world’s best female trail runners.

Her placing, coupled with those of the other top Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team women (Laura Heafeli, 15th; Erica Larson, 24th; Lisa Isom, 31st), put the U.S. women third overall—the best finish ever by any American team. ¶ For Ortiz, it was an unforgettable trip. The previous weekend, she won the Masters World Mountain Running Championship.

The team’s podium finish, however, was delicious icing on the cake. “Standing with the team on the podium was awesome,” says Ortiz. ¶ The next day, the men’s team tackled the 10.1-kilometer championship course. For the second straight year, Simon Gutierrez of Taos, New Mexico, and Paul Low of Amherst, Massachusetts, led the way to an eighthplace finish. Overall, Gutierrez finished 17th and Low, 19th. Rounding out the U.S. scoring, Eric Blake of Plattsburgh, New York, and Timothy Parr of Gunnison, Colorado, finished 28th and 41st, respectively. For the first time, all U.S. men placed in the top third of the race field. ¶ Afterward, Blake said, “The men’s performance could be considered a success because we only had two runners who had run in a Mountain Trophy before. The rest of us didn’t know what to expect.”

Complete results are available at www. wmrt2004.org.

Well-earned stripes: (left to right) Ortiz, Haefeli, Larson and Isom.

WEIRD SCIENCE ERICA LARSON FUSES SPEED AND POWER Is Erica Larson part of a grand experiment to create the perfect trail runner? Don’t laugh; it doesn’t seem too far-fetched, given the fact she spends her days as a chemist at Los Alamos National Laboratory and her recent trail-running feats are simply superhuman. This is prime X-Files material. ¶ The 33-year-old Larson has rocked the trail-running world with ionic energy.

In 2004, she won her second consecutive Leadville Trail Marathon (Leadville, Colorado) and her fifth Pikes Peak Marathon (Manitou Springs, Colorado). She also flashed her brilliance on the road, winning the USA Mountain Running Championship at the prestigious Mount Washington Road Race (Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire) and defeating 8700 other women at the P.F. Changs Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon (Phoenix, Arizona). She even ran in the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in St. Louis in April, clocking a time of 2:45. ¶ Larson capped off her remarkable year by traveling to Italy in September as a member of the Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team at the World Mountain Running Trophy. The team—aided by Larson’s 24th-place finish—stood on the podium for the first time ever, taking third place. ¶ “Erica is the most solid, consistently strong runner I know,” says fellow trail runner and Pikes Peak Ascent veteran Gretchen Ellis, “Even if she’s having a bad day, she still turns in an amazing performance. She never throws in the towel.” ¶ Trail Runner spoke with Larson a few days after she returned from Team U.S.A.’s amazing performance in Italy.

CONGRATS ON YOUR RACE IN ITALY. It was so exciting! They’re really into mountain running over there and it’s like a mini trail-running Olympics, with the opening and awards ceremonies.

WHY HAS IT TAKEN SO LONG FOR THE U.S. TO WIN A MEDAL AT THE WORLD MOUNTAIN RUNNING TROPHY? Mountain running is not as big in the United States as it is overseas.

Personally, I wasn’t even aware that we had a team until a few years ago.

YOU’VE HAD TREMENDOUS SUCCESS ON THE TRAILS AND ROADS. WHICH DO YOU PREFER? I like both. I like the roads because that’s where I started before discovering the mountains. If I had to pick, though, it’d be the trails. The mountains make the roads seem so boring. Plus, you don’t need to be a great miler to do well on the trails. Just look at me.

(ROLLS EYES) RIGHT…YOU HAVE NATURAL SPEED WHEREVER YOU RUN! DIDN’T YOU RUN TRACK IN COLLEGE? Yeah, I ran both track and cross-country at Marquette University. In track, I started with the 3K and later moved to the 5K and 10K distances.

AND, AFTER THAT? While working towards my Ph.D. in chemistry at University of Kansas, I starting running longer distances with

a great running group there—the “Sand Rats.” That’s when I began running marathons.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO WORK AT THE LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY? DO YOU MAKE BOMBS? (Laughs) No, not exactly. Los Alamos is a nice place to be, and it’s great for training. When I run over lunch, I’m only 10 minutes away from trails.

DO YOU RUN WITH ANY OF THE OTHER “MAD SCIENTISTS”?

There are some good runners here.

We even have an annual lab relay on the local track. It’s a 10-leg relay for bragging rights. We’re not all nerds in lab coats.

YOU WON THE NATIONAL MOUNTAIN RUNNING CHAMPIONSHIP THIS YEAR AT MOUNT WASHINGTON, RIGHT? Yes. Going in, I wasn’t sure how I would measure up to Anna [Pichrtova, from the Czech Republic, who won for the fourth time in a row], but I felt I had a good shot against the Americans. I actually won some money, too. My husband, Chris, and I went out for a nice steak dinner afterward.

WHAT’S NEXT? Right now, I’m resting. I’ll build my base over the winter and focus on mountain running again next year. I’d like to make the Mountain Running Team again.

NANCY HOBBS, ERICA LARSON COLLECTION (ABOVE)

» making tracks

making tracks «

10TH ANNUAL

Krissy Moehl Sybrowsky (with husband) took the heat and first place.

FRONT RUNNERS MELTZER, MOEHL SYBROWSKY SURVIVE HEAT AT WASATCH FRONT SEPTEMBER 11, 2004, WASATCH FRONT 100-MILE ENDURANCE RUN, KAYSVILLE, UTAH —The 90-degree temperatures at this

year’s Wasatch Front 100 delivered the lowest finishing rate (57 percent) since the race’s inaugural running in 1980. But, oddly, it also resulted in two of the fastest winning times.

Three-time winner Karl Meltzer of Sandy, Utah, stayed conservative early, running several places behind the leaders through the Francis Peak Aid Station (mile 18).

After that, says the 36-year-old Meltzer, “I pulled into the lead [with Scott Jurek] and never looked back.” By mile 28, the heat began to slow Jurek, while Meltzer kept a steady pace. “The heat didn’t affect me much,” he said. “I just kept cranking and ran away from the field.” Meltzer’s time of 20 hours 6 minutes 8 seconds was the second-fastest ever.

For veteran trail runner Krissy Moehl Sybrowsky of Seattle, Washington, the race would be her first 100-miler.

“I had never had the experience before,” she says, “I’d never been paced or had a crew.” The 26-year-old ran the first 62 miles with her husband, Brandon, a 12-time Wasatch finisher whom Krissy met at the Wasatch Front 100 three years earlier.

At night, in the cooler weather, Moehl Sybrowsky picked up the pace and finished in 23:49:47. Only three women have run faster at the Wasatch Front 100.

DAN CAMPBELL, BEN DITTO (ABOVE)

IN MEMORIAM: NIGEL AYLOTT 1966-2004 Halfway through September’s Subaru Primal Quest Adventure Race in Washington state, Team AROC from Australia and the Aussie-American Team Montrail were working together to descend a steep, rocky gully. The teams were descending cautiously when one team member dislodged a 300-pound boulder. The boulder barreled past every racer except AROC’s Nigel Aylott, who was the farthest down the gully. Aylott was struck in the head and died instantly. ¶ Aylott, in addition to being a world-class adventure racer, was also an avid trail runner. He was Vice President of the Australian Ultra Runners Association (AURA) and the director of the popular Maroondah Dam Trail Race. Says Ian Cornelius, President of AURA, “Nigel will be sorely missed, and I’m proposing that his race be renamed the Nigel Aylott Maroondah Dam Trail Race.” ¶ Following the accident, the Primal Quest was placed on hold as organizers deliberated on whether to continue. After encouragement from racers and Aylott’s family, they resumed the race. Once the other teams had finished, Teams AROC and Montrail, support crews, volunteers and Aylott’s brother paddled to a ceremonial finish, where Aylott’s brother handed Aylott’s ashes to his mother.

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 11

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100 K

100 M

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NUTRITION

by ADAM KELINSON

» photo by DAVID CLIFFORD

fatigue, dizziness and fainting.

Most nutrition experts agree that the Atkins diet is a formula for disaster when it comes to trail running— or any other endurance sport.

“Runners need carbohydrates stored in the muscles for energy.

It’s that basic,” says Nancy Clark, a Registered Dietician (R.D.) and author of Sport’s Nutrition Guidebook. “Athletes on the Atkins diet may feel full after eating a cheese omelet for breakfast but will run out of energy during exercise.”

Suzanne Girard Eberle, R.D. and co-author of Endurance Sports Nutrition, adds, “Too few carbs per day leads to chronically depleted glycogen stores, resulting in sore legs, poor recovery and lack of desire to train.”

REAL WORLD

Ham & Eggs IS THE LOW-CARB DIET GOOD FUEL FOR TRAIL RUNNERS?

One of my greatest joys in life, aside from trail running, is eating. But to support my hard training efforts, what should my meals consist of? ¶ Today, there is a new fad diet everywhere you look, and that can be confusing to endurance athletes, whose performance hinges on proper nutrition. The word diet used to describe what people ate, but now denotes what they don’t eat. And the popular Atkins Diet tells you to cut the carbs—a longtime staple of the athlete’s meals. How do trail runners fare with that low-carb diet?

WHERE’S THE BEEF? The Atkins diet is based upon high-protein, high-fat, low-carbohydrate foods. Dr. Robert Atkins’ concept was to switch the body’s metabolism from using glucose, created by carbohydrate intake, as the body’s fuel to burning fat via a state of ketosis. This process results in the release of fatty acids into the bloodstream, which are converted into ketones, an energy source. In depleting its glycogen stores (carbohydrates in the muscle cells), the body also loses water and your appetite is curbed because proteins and fat give you the feeling of satiety, resulting in weight loss.

The reason the Atkins diet works is because every gram of glycogen is stored with almost three grams of water. This glycogen reduction, however, also puts the body into a state of dehydration. Other possible side effects of ketosis include lightheadedness, 12 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

Scott Jurek, six-time Western States 100 winner, has a vegan diet based mainly on whole grains accompanied by protein from beans and soy and essential fats from olive oil and avocados. “The evidence is clear that high-protein diets do not encourage long-term health,” says Jurek. “For athletes and regular exercisers, protein in not efficient fuel to burn for energy. Energy should be generated from ingesting carbohydrates.”

The Atkins camp is vague about how the diet works for endurance athletes.

Dr. Stuart Trager, Chairperson of the Atkins Physicians Council and Medical Director of Atkins Nutritionals Inc., who has qualified for the Hawaii Ironman, only speaks about controlling carbs. In an interview with efitness.com, Trager says, “After about 1 1/2 hours of exercise, I’ll have a carbo sports drink because I burn up all the carbs as I work out.”

When the question of carbs for endurance athletes was posed to the Atkins Online Support consultation team, they responded, “If your weight is normal, stick to whole grains, vegetables and other healthful complex carbs and ditch junk foods and sugar.” This statement suggests that the Atkins diet is really aimed at overweight, sedentary individuals while also recognizing the important role that carbohydrates play in the nutritional plan of endurance athletes.

nutrition «

VS

RANDOM SAMPLE BREAKFAST: Cheese omelet with bacon and/or sausage. OJ and/or milk.

LUNCH: Chicken salad with Caesar dressing. Piece of fruit.

DINNER: Roast beef with gravy and green beans. Ice cream.

HERE’S WHAT’S FOR DINNER (AND BREAKFAST AND LUNCH) BREAKFAST: Whole grain cereal with milk. Piece of fruit (e.g. banana). OJ. MID-MORNING SNACK: Fruit juice.

Crackers, granola bar or fig newtons.

Carrot sticks.

LUNCH: Grilled chicken breast sandwich with whole grain bread. Salad with light dressing made with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice. Piece of fruit.

MID-DAY SNACK: Cheddar cheese and apple or chopped veggies or apple with peanut butter.

DINNER: Pasta with meat sauce. Bread or roll. Salad with veggies. Piece of fruit.

EVENING SNACK: Air-popped popcorn or crackers. Fruit juice or other drink.

ATKINS PROTEIN DIET

TOTAL CALORIES: 1500 PROTEIN: 68 grams CARBS: 45 grams FAT: 108 grams

COUNTING CALORIES The answer for athletes looking to control their weight lies in caloric consumption and exercise.

“Eat less and move more,” says Eberle.

“Total calories is what counts, not the exact mix or percentage of calories from each nutrient.”

Eberle suggests that trail runners eat a carbohydrate-rich diet, while consuming an adequate amount of protein and fat,

TRAIL RUNNER’S HIGH-CARB DIET

TOTAL CALORIES: 1900 PROTEIN: 72 grams CARBS: 313 grams FAT: 43 grams

which is 10 to 15 percent and 20 percent, respectively. And watch your portion sizes. The equation is simple: if you want to lose body fat, you need to expend more calories than you consume. This does not mean exercising as much as possible while eating as little as possible, but to fuel your body properly.

Diets would not be called fads if they were viable enough to sustain the test of time. Says Scott Drum,

Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at Western State University in Gunnison, Colorado, the first three rules of endurance are “nutrition, nutrition and nutrition.” Researchers, scientists, athletes and nutritionists agree as to how to obey the three rules.

Muscles need glycogen for energy, and glycogen comes from the consumption of carbohydrates. Some things really are that simple!

■

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TRAINING

by DAVE HANNON

» Illustrations by JEREMY COLLINS

Building the Perfect Beast PART V: OVERCOME TRAIL OBSTACLES WITH YOUR HEAD

In the Perfect Beast series, we covered base building, hill work and speed and strength training. But the piece that ties everything together is mental training and preparation. Mr. Miyagi had it right in The Karate Kid: focus and balance are the keys to success in all things. That includes trail racing.

Your mental training should concentrate on two areas: how to maintain focus during races and keeping your racing in proper perspective with the rest of your life. ¶ Now listen up, young grasshopper.

HOCUS FOCUS Maintaining focus is the most challenging aspect of trail running. The continuous and unpredictable stimulation (e.g. constantly changing terrain, irregular distances and chatty camaraderie) that draws many people to trail running, in a cruel irony, can work against them in races. Many runners cite difficulty focusing during the longer races when fatigue sets in, mile marks are nowhere to be found and monster climbs loom ahead.

The friendly, encouraging banter of training runs disappears as your fellow racers battle toward the finish line. And, unlike road racing, lack of focus may mean more than simply not meeting expectations—it can mean a bad spill, missed turn or DNF. 14 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

“For me, the toughest aspect of trail running is dealing with the time on my feet,” says Ken Clark, 42, of Somers, Connecticut, a multiple winner of New England’s “Stonehead” Award for completing the most trail races in a year.

“Many trail races take longer than road races of the same distance,” he says. “And you want to avoid falling mentally asleep because you likely won’t wake up until someone blows past you. The ability to push one’s self when alone can be the skill that sets great trail runners apart.”

Laura Clark (no relation), a veteran trail racer from Saratoga Springs, New York, says her biggest challenge is avoiding slacking off when running alone. “If someone’s running with me,” she says, “it is easier to maintain a decent pace.”

Despite her trail experience, Clark says the second hardest mental aspect of trail racing is convincing herself that she is not going to fall on technical sections of trail.

“Letting your mind drift is an invitation to fall,” she says.

“Focus during the race also helps runners deal with the unknown factors inherent to trail racing,” says Ed Alibozek, 41, a veteran trail runner and race organizer in Suffield, Connecticut.

Simple tricks to improve your focus include listening more closely to your breathing to gauge effort levels, breaking the race into short stages, counting them as they pass and driving hard to certain points in the race (e.g. “I’ll keep pushing until the next aid station”).

The varied terrain of most trail races can be a distraction, but Alibozek points out that it also forces runners to concentrate more. “What I find toughest are the flatter, faster courses as opposed to hilly mountainous runs,” he says. “With the climbs to break up a race, it’s easier to divide the event into segments. It is also easier to justify slowing down on a big climb or catching your breath. On the flatter, faster trail events, everyone tries to run as hard as possible for the duration.”

Keep your speed in check in a faster section of a race by listening to your breathing and not letting yourself go anaerobic (roughly 85 percent of your maximum heart rate).

MENTAL PREP 101 Inexperienced trail runners often train hard, but fail to prepare mentally. Learn as much about the race course as pos-

training «

PERFECT BEAST RECAP BUILDING THE PERFECT BEAST IS A FIVE-STEP TRAINING REGIMEN DESIGNED TO MAKE YOU A TRAIL-RUNNING MONSTER.

BASE BUILDING

(March 2004, #26) 1. Base training is the early-season period during which you incrementally increase mileage while running at lower intensity. It’s not about leg speed.

2. Increasing mileage is easier off-road.

Don’t increase more than 10 percent each week. 3. Don’t obsess about mileage. Run more on feel and cross train.

4. Work on hill training near the end of a six-week base-building period.

HILLS

(July 2004, #28) 1. Running uphill and running downhill are two different skills. 2.

The key to stronger uphills is strength. In addition to weight training, simple pushups and sit-ups help.

3. Train for both short, fast climbs and long, gradual ascents.

4. Leg strength plus high leg turnover equals faster downhills. Much of fast downhill running is also based on the runner’s mindset and comfort level. 5. Once you’ve mastered running downhill on smooth terrain, move to more technical, steeper footing.

SPEED

(September 2004, #29) 1. Before a regular speed program, practice “strides”— occasional up-tempo running with a focus on running form. 2.

Tempo runs improve leg speed. Do your regular run 20 to 30 seconds per miles faster than your normal training pace.

3. Intervals involve shorter, faster stretches of running with rest periods in between. A popular workout involves six repetitions of 800 meters with three minutes of rest in between. 4. For added motivation, speed train with a group.

STRENGTH

(November 2004, #30) 1. Power plus endurance equals trail strength. 2.

Plyometrics (bounding and resistance exercises that get legs tired and simulate races stress) are excellent. Do repetitions of deep-knee bends (2 sets of 20) and lunges (for 25 yards). 3. Stair climbing works the uphill and downhill muscles. Run 15 flights to build power and leg strength. 4.

Focus on squats, leg extensions and calf raises. For the upper body, do bench exercises, curls and abdominal work. 5.

Build strength in the pre-season, maintain it during the season and ease up in the post-season.

Battling Bonks: DON’T BE A QUITTER 1. MAKE SURE YOUR BODY IS WELL-FUELED. HOW ARE YOUR SUGAR AND SALT LEVELS? ARE YOU DRINKING ENOUGH WATER? 2. DO AN ATTITUDE CHECK. INSTEAD OF DREADING THE NEXT HILL, PICK ONE POSITIVE THOUGHT AND FOCUS ON IT. OUR FAVORITE POSITIVE THOUGHTS: PLEASANT SCENTS, THE SUN’S WARMTH, LOUNGE CHAIRS OR POST-RACE BEER. 3. FIND A SMALL VICTORY WITHIN THE RACE. CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO CATCH THE RUNNER AROUND THE NEXT BEND. RUN EVERY STEP OF THE NEXT CLIMB. ANY SMALL CHALLENGE WILL HELP YOU FORGET THE LARGER TASK AT HAND. 4. DON’T STOP. WHEN YOU BONK, YOU CAN STAND THERE AND FEEL LOW, OR KEEP MOVING CLOSER TO THE FINISH LINE. THE MANTRA IS “RFM” (RELENTLESS FORWARD MOTION), EVEN IF IT INVOLVES WALKING.

sible. Visit websites and talk to runners who’ve run the race before. Roughly plan where to push the pace and where to hold back, depending on your strengths and weaknesses.

Many runners enter a race improperly trained and consequently have a miserable day. Inevitably, they are discouraged from racing again.

“Set realistic goals,” says Alibozek. “Not finishing time or place goals, which hinge

on factors beyond your control (e.g. who else shows up or trail conditions).”

Ken Clark says he visualizes the course prior to racing, even seeing himself as a truck plowing over obstacles instead of going around them. He also tries to maintain a consistent warm-up and pre-race routine to minimize pre-race jitters. He says arriving at a race early limits stress and allows a runner to focus more on specific goals for the day.

■ 2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 15

TA KE YOUR M A R K

by GARY GLANCY

» photo courtesy of JAY CURWEN

Southern Appalachian High SNOW, SLEET AND STEEP DON’T STOP RUNNERS AT THE MOUNT MITCHELL CHALLENGE

Bethany Hunter called the 40-mile Mount Mitchell Challenge “a tough little race” upon finishing one of the East’s most rugged trail races for the first time last February. ¶ Leave it to Trail Runner magazine’s 2003 female Trail Runner of the Year and her exuberant demeanor to understate the difficulty of this event. Still, it’s hard to find a face that’s not smiling as the athletes round Lake Tomahawk and charge toward the finish line.

Set deep in the mountains of western North Carolina, the Challenge beckons runners with erratic weather, brutal trail conditions, unforgettable vistas and the chance to crest the highest peak east of the Mississippi River—following more than 4300 feet of climbing in the first 20 miles.

“The Challenge is all about unpredictability,” says 2003 women’s Challenge winner, Anne Riddle, of nearby Asheville. “You’re not running the same race each year because the conditions can change so drastically.”

“Along with the local ShutIn Ridge Trail Run (a brutal 17.8-mile race to the top of nearby Mount Pisgah) in early November, I would call these the defining races of the Southern Appalachians,” says three-time defending Challenge champ Will Harlan, also from Asheville.

“The Shut-In has been around longer, but Mount Mitchell has more majesty.

And because it’s a 40-mile race, it takes more out of you and is more dramatic.”

Starting at just over 2300 feet in the hamlet of Black Mountain, about 18

miles east of Asheville, the Challenge is run concurrently with the Black Mountain Marathon. Challengers and marathoners run side-byside for 13 miles on paved and dirt roads, and some singletrack, to the famed Blue Ridge Parkway. There, the marathoners turn around at the aid station and head back, while the Challengers continue to the 6684-foot Mount Mitchell summit before their return trip.

While the first 13 miles leading up to the Parkway can present its own challenges—such as in 2003 when the gravel Toll Road became a river bed of rushing ice water and this year when the leaders broke trail through a half foot of snow— the most treacherous part of the course is the ascent to Mount Mitchell.

Because of dangerous trail conditions resulting from heavy rain and snow, there have been three different routes up the peak in the last three years. In 2004, a winter storm two nights before the race dumped fivefoot snow drifts on Mount Mitchell. It took a “heroic job” by rangers, to clear the

16 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

snow, says race director Jay Curwen. Elite runners were reduced to crabbing on all fours in some sections.

While the weather is the big variable, one constant has been a great return for a racer’s investment. “Every year the schwag bag and finisher’s prize far exceeds the entry fee,” says Curwen.

There’s also a huge buffet dinner the evening of the race, in addition to plenty of food at the finish line.

Goodies aside, it was the energy of the crowd in Black Mountain that inspired Harlan to tear around Lake Tomahawk toward the finish last February. The final half mile around the lake gives fans a chance to watch some exciting duels. In 2004, Hunter finished just 39 seconds behind women’s Challenge winner Annette Bednosky, while the men’s marathon was decided by only 26 seconds.

There has been talk of lengthening the Challenge to the more standard 50mile distance in 2005, so Curwen surveyed runners for their opinions. His ultimate decision? Keep it just the way it is.

■

2004 Challenge champ Annette Bednosky nears the summit.

Life’s a Mitch MOUNT MITCHELL CHALLENGE AND BLACK MOUNTAIN MARATHON COURSE DESCRIPTION: Run 26.2 or 40 cold, arduous miles through the mountains of western North Carolina.

Both races are an “up and back.” 26.2 milers turn back at the Blue Ridge Parkway after uphill running on road, singletrack and gravel.

Challengers (40-milers) continue to the summit of Mount Mitchell on trails and roads, depending on trail conditions, before heading back down. Total elevation gain: 4324 feet.

RACE DATE: Saturday, February 26, 2005 ENTRY FEE: Marathon: $75; Challenge: $100 INFO: www.blackmountainmarathon.com; 828-253-6891

A S K THE CO A C H

by THERESE IKNOIAN

» Illustration by JEREMY COLLINS

PILL POPPING, PARASITES & PATIENCE TAKE TWO AND CALL ME AFTER THE RACE What are the risks and benefits associated with taking ibuprofen during a long run?

—STEVE HOGE, CHAPEL HILL, NC

Most runners have dabbled with ibuprofen to ward off soreness and pain, but don’t know much about the side effects, which include damage to kidneys, liver and intestines. We checked with Robert Lind, M.D., who has overseen medical aid and research at the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run for 30 years.

In two studies of WS100 runners, Lind found that there was no difference in kidney and liver function or muscle degradation between runners who took ibuprofen and those who didn’t. Still, he advises taking as little as possible and within prescribed dosages.

For ibuprofen, the upper limit for 30 hours is 3200 mg (eight 400-mg doses).

But Lind says he has seen symptoms of damage, such as bloody stools and urine, in WS runners who have taken as little as 400 mg, and none in some who have taken as much as 6000 mg!

“Just don’t scarf it like candy,” he says. “It’s incumbent on the runner to be very discreet about the use of medication during an event.” If you take ibuprofen, do so with food and water.

And take it only if you feel sore and not as a preventive.

“Why wreck a well-functioning body? ” says Lind.

ULTRA RECOVERY After running a 50K, how much time should you take off from running to recover?

—PAUL T. ARNETT, FAIRFAX, VA

The experts’ opinions differ.

Timothy Noakes, author of

the Lore of Running (Human Kinetics, 4th Ed., 2003) and a longtime ultrarunner, takes the conservative approach, advocating no more than one ultra per year with at least six months of recovery, including three months of little or no running while doing other workouts. “Those who race an ultra more than once a year will pay for it in the long term, because muscles may never fully recover, and will never reach their full potential,” says Noakes.

Others say you can resume running once any acute pain, stiffness or injuries diminish.

That can be up to four weeks, says Mark Jenkins, M.D., director of student health and school-teams physician at Rice University. During that time, he suggests other easy, non-running, non-pounding activities. “It is important to listen to your body,” says Jenkins, a triathlete and seven-time Ironman finisher, “and to learn through experience what sort of routine works best for you.”

PESKY PARASITES I am curious about the norm for water treatment on epic, self-supported runs. Do most runners carry water purifiers, use purification tablets or just dip from the stream?

—SCOTT ANDERSON, NASHVILLE, TN

There really is no norm, except that most folks agree that treatment is necessary. If you’ve ever had even one bout of giardia (two to six weeks of diarrhea and upset stomach brought on parasites in water), you won’t want to go there again. Some friends, however, swear by drinking directly from springs when you tap them right at their source from the ground, but that’s unfounded since bacteria can leach into the water underground.

Since both filters and drops or tablets kill the nasty parasites, you’ll need to consider the weight and bulk of a filter versus the light weight of drops or tablets. Even though chemical treatments are lighter, remember that you must wait 20 minutes to an hour until the water is safe to drink, which could result in a long, parched hiatus. Chemical treatments include iodine tablets (e.g. Potable Aqua) or chlorine dioxide drops (e.g.

Aqua Mira). Chlorine-based treatments usually don’t taste as bad as iodine.

If you’re willing to deal with the weight and bulk and don’t mind stopping to pump for awhile, a filter allows immediate refreshment (compact versions such as the MSR Sweetwater model tip the scales at 9.7 ounces).

An innovative, new chemical treatment is the 3.5-ounce MSR Miox Purifier. It uses an electri-

cal charge to activate oxidants from a salt tablet, and treats up to four liters of water—enough for everybody! It’s about the size of a Maglite and easy to operate. But it’s still a chemical treatment, meaning you’ll have to wait 15 to 30 minutes to drink. And all that convenience costs about $130. ■

TREAT IT OR REGRET IT. 2004 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 17

fire& land of

THE AUTHOR AND JANINE PATITUCCI RUNNING UP BLAHNUKUR, A PEAK NEAR THE LANDMANNALAUGAR TRAILHEAD (SPREAD);

18 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005 AND JANINE RELISHING THE THERAPEUTIC BLUE LAGOON, A SURREAL HOT SPRINGS NEAR THE CAPITAL OF REYKJAVIK.

ice &

ICELAND IS A DESOLATE WASTELAND, RIGHT? WRONG. AS MICHAEL BENGE FOUND OUT, JUST BE PREPARED FOR RAIN, SNOW, WIND, MAYBE SOME SUN, ROLLING PEAKS AND GLOWING MOSS. A HUT-TOHUT TOUR OF THE ICELANDIC HIGH COUNTRY PHOTOS

BY PATITUCCI PHOTO

D

(HUT-TO-HUT)

“Do you feel like a hobbit?” asked Janine, as we snaked through black volcanic rocks capped in shaggy, sage-colored mosses. Around us rose peaks laced with snow veins and flanked by talus of yellow, mauve and charcoal. Gurgling steam vents spewed plumes of white clouds, and gave off a sulfurous bouquet. ¶ The setting was other-worldly: my friends Dan and Janine Patitucci and I had just begun running the 55-kilometer Laugavegur trail in Iceland. It’s not as though Iceland had topped my list of places to visit. In fact, it would have been one of the last until Dan sent me pictures of his trip there last year. The images were stunning—a treeless but wildly colorful rolling topography threaded through by singletrack. ¶ As soon as I even hinted at any interest in visiting Iceland, Dan jumped. “I’ll go back,” he said. A week before our departure, Janine couldn’t stand the thought of missing out, and bought a plane ticket, too.

Getting there was surprisingly painless. A six-hour flight from Minneapolis landed us at the airport outside of Reykjavik, capital of the land of fire and ice. A low grey sky greeted us. The seemingly mild-mannered (we would find out later that he was a mountain madman) Karl Ingolfsson of Ultima Thule Expeditions shuttled us downtown, where a handful of revelers—at

20 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

8:30 a.m.—stumbled around outside an alley bar near our hotel.

Reykjavik (raké-ya-veck) is a clean, cosmopolitan city, packed with restaurants, bars and art galleries. The architecture is simple and a little funky, with corrugated metal siding on the older houses, and no trace of the ornate styles typical in mainland Europe. The city center is a vibrant hub, and the streets

and sidewalks are busy day and evening.

We stood out like, well, Americans in our pumpkin and red rain jackets. Icelanders dress in more refined style—mainly a lot of black. And, yes, you see a lot of blue eyes, blond hair and beautiful people.

Greater Reykjavik holds around 170,000 people, and is one of the cleanest cities in Europe, owing to the geothermal energy that powers most of the country.

We did a quick re-packing job at the hotel, stashed extra gear for our return trip and hopped back in Karl’s Mercedes, an SUV tricked out for serious off-roading.

Icelanders don’t let the rough countryside impede them. On the three-and-a-halfhour drive from the coastal lowlands to the highlands, we plowed through numerous crystalline rivers. Icelanders also take their jacked-up rigs on the country’s numerous glaciers, where they deflate the tires down to pancakes for traction.

As we neared the Landmannalaugar hut, the snow-capped Hekla, an active volcano that erupts every 10 or so years, loomed ominously above dark lava fields marking past eruptions.

Dan and Janine, who live in Bishop, California, have ambled the globe, photographing mountain sports as both observers and participants. Dan grew up in Sacramento, and Janine is Swiss. Both 36, the two are hardened adventurers, spinning horrific stories of commercial fishing in Alaska, Janine with fish guts hanging from her glasses, baiting fish hooks while being cussed at incessantly by the owner of the boat.

Dan and Janine had done the

TRAILS END AT THÖRSMORK (LEFT); AND DAY 1 ON THE LAUGAVEGUR TRAIL (ABOVE).

Laugavegur last year, lugging 60-pound backpacks and camping, taking four days. This time, since we would be staying in huts, we took only daypacks with our basic running kit, food, water and lightweight sleeping bags. We planned to run the 55-kilometer trail in three days, giving us time to take in the sights and kick back.

WE ARRIVED AT THE Landmannalaugar hut, the trailhead, in brisk temps but under sunny skies. Nestled in a flat alluvial plain at about 1800 feet, the hut is surrounded by rugged peaks ranging in color from yellow to manila to slate, riven with snow-filled gullies and dotted with patches of the area’s trademark glowing green moss, Myrarmosi. Owing to its northern latitude—it nudges the Arctic Circle—Iceland is virtually treeless, save for spatterings of scraggly birches and imported pines at lower elevations.

Karl introduced us to the hutkeeper, Freyr Bjornsson, a youthful, athletic mountaineer in his second year on the job. He and a work crew were the only people around, prepping the hut for the

upcoming season. We would likely be the first—and perhaps only—foot travelers on the route in May. “You are lucky,” said Freyr. “Normally, the trail would be all snow right now.”

In the summer high season, the Landmannalaugar hut is a bustle of international energy, housing up to 75 people. On the flat gravel outside the hut reside another 100 or more tent campers, many gunning for the Laugavegur trail, backpacking-style. Each day, three busloads of tourists—many naïve as to the realities of their remoteness—are dropped off to day hike in the area.

“You get people asking, ‘Where can I charge my cell phone?’” said Freyr. “And sinking into the muck in high heels.”

Freyr showed us to our wood-paneled bunkroom, where we—eager to stretch our legs despite being jetlagged—quickly changed and ran out the door. We headed out for a few miles, marveling at the sheer fact that we were in Iceland.

This tiny country isolated in the North Atlantic Sea was first settled in the ninth century, by Norwegian Vikings, and the official language is still the Old

Norse of the Vikings. Leif Erickson is perhaps the best-known Icelandic historic figure and the first European to reach North America, landing in present-day Newfoundland in 1001. Today, Reykjavik’s singer-actor Bjork is Iceland’s most visible character, and her no-instrument new album, Medulla, perpetuates her eccentric image.

Early life in Iceland was austere and desolate, particularly in winter, as characterized in the classic Icelandic novel Independent People, for which the author, Halldor Laxness, won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955. The book’s main character, Bjartur of Summerhouses, ekes out an existence herding sheep in a constant battle with the elements. Modern Icelanders still raise sheep and cattle, meeting all their country’s needs for meat and dairy. Today, tourism has become one of the country’s chief industries, next to fishing.

What amazes many visitors to Iceland is its natural beauty and temperate climate. The low-lying coastal regions are the primary areas for agriculture, while the interior is a complex topography that includes jagged mountains, active volcanos, huge glaciers and innumerable waterfalls and hot springs.

Hunger interrupted our reverie, and sent us scrambling back to the hut. As we prepared the bland angel-hair pasta we had brought, the work crew hauled

ICELAND AT A GLANCE LOCATION: North Atlantic (180 miles east of Greenland, 600 miles west of Norway).

POPULATION: 290,000 (more than half live in greater Reykjavik area).

SIZE: 40,000 square miles (about the size of Kentucky).

CAPITAL: Reykjavik.

ENERGY: Primarily non-polluting geothermal energy.

GLACIERS: Over 11 percent of the country is covered by glaciers, although they are shrinking fast. In southeast Iceland lies the Vatnajokull glacier, which equals the size of all the glaciers on continental Europe put together.

CURRENCY: Icelandic Krona.

LANGUAGE: Icelandic, derived from Old Norse, is the official language, although most Icelanders speak excellent English.

GOVERNMENT: Independent republic, governed by a prime minister, supreme court and parliament.

RELIGION: Over 90 percent Lutheran.

HEALTH: One of the highest life expectancies in the world: men/74; women/80.

MAIN INDUSTRIES: Fishing, tourism.

SOAKING IN THE SIGHTS NEAR THE LANDMANNALAUGAR HUT (ABOVE); AND GORGEOUS ICELANDIC HORSES.

SLEEP CAME EASILY. I awoke to daylight,

ready to leap into my running clothes until I looked at my watch—it was 3 a.m.

Remembering through my jetlag fog that Iceland has 24 hours of daylight (with only a slight twilight) during this time of year, I turned over for more zees.

Not knowing what to expect from the weather, we had built in a couple of extra days, and decided to burn one at this hut. Early in the morning, we ran up a nearby peak called Blahnukur, which offered sprawling views of mountains in all directions.

Then the weather socked us in, and Dan and I hit the natural hot springs a short stroll from the hut. Rain turned to snow, and flakes the size of business cards drifted into the steamy, dreamy pool. Dan said, “Iceland is all about dealing with water, in all its forms—rain, snow, hot springs.” He warned, “And don’t forget about the wind.”

The hot springs part wasn’t so bad. Three hours later, we dragged our noodley bodies back to the hut.

That night, Freyr offered us leftovers from the lamb feast. We coyly accepted.

OUR ADVENTURE BEGAN IN EARNEST

the next morning, with our trip through the lava and steam-vent field, where we stopped briefly, to warm our hands over the hot spots.

22 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

MAP BY JEAN-PIERRE BIARD

steaming leg after leg of lamb into the community kitchen for their dinner. The overwhelming smell had us drooling like hound dogs at a barbeque. Our consolation came later, as we raided their pan of scraps, sneaking glances over our shoulders to avoid detection.

“Check out the cloud machines,” said Janine, pointing to the steam plumes floating from the hillside above us.

We climbed 500 feet to a snowy plateau, where we trudged through breakable crust.

“We’ve got to check out the ‘heartbeat of the earth,” raved Dan, remembering something from his last trip, as we dropped into a small green valley.

We soon heard a dull throbbing, and came upon a frothing, two-foot-diameter steam vent that rhythmically spewed boiling water. The whole area was rife with the hissing vents.

By now, Freyr had trotted up the trail, and joined us. “Some people use the steam holes to cook their food,” he said. “We should go see the ice caves.”

We climbed onto the snowy plateau, guided by the occasional trail marker and Freyr’s familiarity with the area.

Snowflakes pelted us. Alone, we could have easily wandered off trail (this area is notorious for whiteouts). We postholed behind Freyr, hardly believing that a cave existed in this monochromatic whiteness. But as we dropped over a ridge, we observed steam hissing from a field of vent holes that led from the ice caves beneath the snowfield. One cavernous room was bigger than an Aspen mansion, and eerie. Freyr showed us the fragile surface crust over the steam vents by stepping on a 10-foot-square area that flexed under his foot. “Some people break through, and boil their legs,” he said matter-of-factly.

Next stop is normally the Hrafntinnusker hut, which lies 12 kilometers from our starting point in Landmannalaugar, and which we had decided to bypass in favor of making the next hut, Alftavatn.

We hoped that Alftavatn, which lay by a big lake of the same name, would be out of the snow zone. Snow fell at temps just below freezing. Janine led the way, postholing through the snow. In the melted-off spots, we trudged through mud so gooey it sucked at our shoes.

A long series of quad-pulverizing downhill switchbacks on mud and snow and a couple of icy stream crossings finally deposited us below the clouds and onto a gently descending singletrack through an open valley. Like horses sensing the barn, we turned on a final two-mile kick to the hut (actually one of two small huts here) set out on the flats hemmed by sharp peaks in alpenglow and a glimmering Lake Alftavatn beyond. We were cooked

LAY(er) IT ON ME WEATHERPROOFING: Rain gear is essential in Iceland.

And don’t think about the water resistant stuff. Bring a lightweight waterproofbreathable top (with a hood) and pair of pants; we used Patagonia’s Specter top and Supercell pants, which were super light and effective at keeping moisture and wind at bay.

FLEET FEET: If there were ever an occasion for GoreTex shoes, a trip to Iceland is it. The rugged terrain also necessitates a beefy model with good lugs for traction on mud, rock, snow and ice; all three of us were happy with the performance of our Montrail Hurricane Ridge XCRs. I augmented my

from the cold, wet day, and frantic to fire up the hut’s little propane heater.

HAVING THE HUT TO OURSELVES, we

could sprawl and dry out in comfort, hanging our clothes and lounging unselfconsciously. Normally, these huts are packed. We lived the high-season hut experience only through the hut log books.

Virtually all the entries raved about the beauty of the trail—and the ferocity of the weather. “After a solid week of rain, it finally cleared up,” wrote a previous visitor.

As warmth returned, so did conversation, and the topic that inevitably surfaced was the Alaskan commercial fishing that Dan and Janine did in 1997 and 2000.

One stint involved 35 days straight at sea—in squalid conditions—with Dan’s crazed cousin Mike.

In one incident, a seagull dropped a load that happened to land smack in Mike’s ear, sending him into hysterics. He grabbed a fish from the deck, ran into the cabin and appeared seconds later with a “seal bomb” implanted in the fish’s mouth. Mike heaved the explosive fish skyward toward the flock of hovering, scavenging gulls. As

shoes with a pair of GoreTex socks, which really helped, particularly when water sneaked in over the shoe’s cuff.

DOWN UNDER: Use good wicking underlayers, such as Capilene or wool. I wore SmartWool socks; bring an extra pair. A wool or synthetic stocking cap and pair of gloves are highly recommended.

PACK IT IN: A light day pack will suffice for hut “camping,” but test drive it before the trip. We used the Deuter Trans Alpine 25, which carried wonderfully while running and offered numerous wellplaced pockets.

H 20: There is plenty of water en route, but as you would anywhere, purify it with a chemical treatment or pump filter (see Ask the Coach, page 17).

My choice for the past six years has been the Aqua Mira solution.

they converged, the blast sent gull parts in all directions. At this part of the story, I nearly choked on my dried cod “jerky” (which was slightly better tasting than cardboard, but drier).

Dan and Janine had used the fishing trips to kick start their photography careers. “You could make $1500 on a good day of fishing,” said Dan. “So we’d sit in our bunks tallying up the booty— ‘Today, we just bought a Canon 300 2.8 lens,” or ‘There’s our G4 Mac …’”

THE NEXT DAY BEGAN IN COLD, GUSTY

conditions. We wore every stitch of clothing we had, and still had to run to stay warm. While Dan and Janine doffed their shoes and socks and waded, I rock-hopped through the day’s first river crossing. The second, a mile later, was thigh-deep. Janine waded stoically across the rock-bottomed stream barefoot, while I contorted and yelled as the frigid water numbed my legs and feet—and I was wearing sandals.

As we climbed to a broad ridge, we slowed to a walk, in awe. A symmetrical, triangular peak stood to our right, to the 2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 23

left lay an immense glistening glacier, and dropping away in front was the rolling, green Hvanngil valley that ended in distant walls of mountains. We crossed two rivers into a Nevada-like, desert-dry flat with black rock, then motored along on the gently undulating terrain to the Emstrur huts. Our route tomorrow would lead down along Markarfljotsgljufur canyon, an outlet for a raging glacial river.

“This is why we came back,” said Dan. “We didn’t get to see this whole section last year because it was dumping rain.”

ALTHOUGH THE TEMPER ATURES SO far had been cold, we had had—at least

by Icelandic standards—good, albeit changeable, weather, with quickly passing storms that still allowed us to admire the countryside. Again, the hut book entries carried the same theme: “I love Iceland weather and its 300 days of rain,” read one. And another, “Don’t hate the rain. Hate the sun for teasing you.”

In the morning, we awoke to three inches of fresh snow. Fortunately, by the time we had quaffed our instant coffee and oatmeal, blue patches appeared in the sky, and we headed out for our final destination: Thorsmork, 15 kilometers distant. We began descending and the snow quickly melted. Wild

24 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

GAZING INTO THE RUGGED MARKARFLJOTSGLJUFUR GORGE (ABOVE); HEADING INTO THE LANDMANNALAUGAR HUT WITH STEAMING HOT SPRINGS BEYOND (BELOW); AND A FRIGID RIVER CROSSING ON DAY 2.

(HUT-TO-HUT)

RAVE RACES LAUGAVEGUR ULTRA MARATHON: If you’re looking for an exotic ultra, put this one at the top of your list. It runs the stunning Laugavegur trail (approximately 55 kilometers), where your main challenge will be avoiding stopping to marvel at the scenery. Race date: July 16, 2005. REYKJAVIK MARATHON: Scenic road race around Reykjavik with much of the course overlooking the North Atlantic. Race date: August 20, 2005. Info for both races: http://web2.toto.is/rmar/

TRAILHEAD

THE LAUGAVEGUR TRAIL, ICELAND

black, rocky peaks lined one side of the valley, while the Myrdalsjokull glacier capped the other side. Dropping closer to Thorsmork, we trod along the Markarfljot river gorge on perfect singletrack and were soon scouting our final river crossing. The quarter-milewide braided river was but a fraction of the torrent Dan and Janine had experienced last year. Once across, we cruised through thin-trunked birch trees and the final stretch to Thorsmork, perched on the banks of the Krossa river.

The luminous green moss covered the mountainsides and white glacial tongues spilled off an icy plateau. In the summer high season, the area can see 2000 tourists in a day.

As we entered the hut at the trailhead, an Italian trekker looked at us in dismay.

“Is this the pack you carried?!” he said, incredulous. “I hate you.”

He and a friend had backpacked the route ahead of us, and he looked down at the behemoth pack he had carried, shaking his head. “And this is what you wore on your feet?” he asked. “Those are tennis shoes!”

My favorite entry in that hut’s book was, “Thorsmork is so beautiful. I wish God were alive to see it.”

SEASONS: Iceland has a relatively mild, coastal climate. The snow typically melts enough to allow trail running in the high mountains by mid-June until the end of September.

ACCOMMODATIONS: A wide variety exists, including hotels and guesthouses, farm houses, youth and family hostels, and campgrounds (see www. icetourist.is).

HUTS: The Iceland Touring Association owns and runs the huts on the Laugavegur trail, among others. In the open season (mid-June until the end of September, weather depending), all huts have a warden on site. The basic hut cost is approximately $22 per night, and includes a comfortable sleeping bunk, latrine, water supply and communal kitchen. Some huts (on our tour—Landmannalaugar, Alftavatn, Emstur and Thorsmork) offer showers as well. Camping is also available outside the huts for approximately $8 per night. For reservations and information, contact: 354-568-2533; fax: 354-5682535; email: fi@fi.is.

GUIDES: Ultima Thule, www.ute.is.

ACTIVITIES: Iceland is packed with natural wonders, offering many outdoor pursuits, including trail running, sea kayaking, ski mountaineering, mountain and road biking, glacier caving, and fishing. Don’t miss the surreal Blue Lagoon (www.bluelagoon.com), a commercial geothermal pool (comprised of two-thirds saltwater and one-third fresh water).

MISCELLANEOUS: A passport (but not visa) is required, so plan ahead if you don’t already have one.

Even before we left the hut, Dan began scheming to come back next year, to run the trail in one push during the annual Laugavegur Ultra Marathon. Janine is thinking of joining him. So am I. Michael Benge is the editor of Trail Runner.

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 25

RIGHT RACE, WRONG TIME

AS IF RUNNING THE SUMMER WESTERN STATES 100 ISN’T ENOUGH, THESE GLUTTONOUS SOULS TOOK IT ON IN WINTER.

WITH THE SUN RISING OVER LAKE TAHOE, TWO TEAM MEMBERS PONDER THE ROUTE. RIGHT: TWIETMEYER SURRENDERS TO GRAVITY.

BY DEAN KARNAZES

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROB MCKINLEY

I should have known better than to take

“Twiet’s” call. Every time the man phones, it’s to enlist me in some hair-raising escapade involving sleep deprivation, hundreds of trail miles and extreme bodily punishment. This time, however, his proposal was the most spectacular yet.

“You want to do what?” I responded, thinking—no, hoping—that I had misunderstood him.

“Yep, you heard me right, Karnazes, run the Western States 100-Mile course in winter.”

“But last time someone attempted it,” I sputtered, “limbs and lives were lost.”

In 1858 two men had embarked on the same trek he was proposing—one lost both his feet to frostbite and the other his life.

“That’s my inspiration,” Tim Twietmeyer replied, “I think it can be done.”

At what price? I wondered, hanging up the phone. After all, he was talking about traversing one of the most demanding high-mountain trails around, in the middle of winter. I couldn’t envision it buried under 10 feet of snow. How would we even know where to go? The whole thing seemed to violate the laws of self-preservation. Nevertheless, I accepted his invitation, which, I guess, doesn’t speak too highly of my mental aptitude.

That conversation took place back in 2001,

and, as of Christmas 2003, we’d had three false starts on the “Winter Western States” (or “WX” as we began calling it). On these foiled attempts, severe winter storms had pounded the Sierra Nevada just as we were preparing to depart. Perhaps we should have taken these as omens …

The Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run is the granddaddy of ultra-distance trail racing. It was the first organized hundred-mile wilderness run, and, 31 years later, is still considered one of the ultimate tests of human endurance.

Traditionally held on the last weekend in June, the race starts at the base of the Squaw Valley ski resort near Lake Tahoe and traverses west along the Sierra Nevada to the town of Auburn east of Sacramento.

As time passed and the storms kept rolling in, we realized the enormity of our goal and, believing in safety in numbers, decided to recruit two other adventurers (or lunatics, your call). Bill Finkbeiner was one. Finkbeiner holds the record for the most Leadville Trail 100 finishes, with a remarkable 21. Still, with most of the trail under snow, the WX would be an entirely different animal. That’s where Jim Northey fit in.

Northey is a veteran adventure racer, backcountry explorer and expert navigator—a veritable walking GPS. A chiseled Nordic figure, with twin bazookas for arms, Northey had pioneered many routes through the Sierra and was the perfect addition to our group.

Twietmeyer is no slouch himself, having notched 22 Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run finishes, winning it five times. Between Twietmeyer, Finkbeiner and myself, we had 43 Western States finishes.

The emails began flying between team, and we worked out the logistics and equipment needs. We would require avalanche gear, safety equipment, walkie-talkies, maps,

28 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

NORTHEY AND TWIETMEYER PINPOINTING THE TRAIL—FOR NOW.

THE TEAM (LEFT TO RIGHT)—DEAN KARNAZES, TIM TWIETMEYER, BILL FINKBEINER AND JIM NORTHEY— RIDES THE CREST.

(

tion and disappointments, the WX was officially underway.

“It’s taken a couple of years,” I said to Twiet, “but we’re finally off.”

“Yeah,” he said, apprehensively, “let’s just hope that the weather holds.”

The stars were twinkling in the predawn sky, not a cloud around.

The first few miles of the course were not trails at all—as they are during the summer run—but ski slopes. We trekked up the mountain alongside the snow-grooming machinery, moving swiftly without the need for snowshoes on the neatly graded snow. We reached the summit before dawn, and were greeted by the first golden rays of sun dancing across Lake Tahoe in the distance.

Then things got a little dicey.

Dropping down the backside of the mountain involved a steep traverse, requiring snowshoes. The metal teeth of our snowshoes kept us from sliding downhill. A slip would be disastrous, resulting in an out-of-control fall, broken bones and possibly worse.

Not only was the slope angle extreme, we were top heavy—our packs tipped the scales at 30 pounds—and had to execute every step with caution.

“Now would be a good time to use your poles,” Jim advised. I pulled mine

)

EVERY TIME THE MAN PHONES, IT’S TO ENLIST ME IN SOME HAIR-RAISING ESCAPADE INVOLVING SLEEP DEPRIVATION, HUNDREDS OF TRAIL MILES AND BODILY PUNISHMENT.

food, lights and extra clothes. But, mostly, we would need good weather.

5:00 a.m., Saturday, January 17, 2004, Squaw Valley, California.

Finally, a high-pressure cell in California’s interior diverted the winter storm track to the north, and it was time to mobilize the troops. After a quick volley of phone calls, we acquired the necessary wilderness permits and “hall passes,” and jumped in the car.

A small group of well-wishers assembled to see us off.

Encouraged by their hoots and hollers, we departed from the base of the Squaw Valley ski resort. After years of prepara-

out of my pack. They did provide more stability, but running in snowshoes at such an angle put abnormal pressure on the knees and quadriceps. By mile eight the awkwardness was taking a toll. We stopped to stretch and regroup.

“How was that?” Twiet asked the group.

“My knees are feeling it,” Bill replied, “that’s a lot of lateral torque.”

As we snacked, the morning sun shone brightly in a cloudless, windless sky. Familiar contours in the granite peaks above the pines were clearly recognizable, allowing us to navigate largely by sight. Northey periodically pinpointed our whereabouts on his map just to make certain.

Soon, the terrain leveled out some, but the snow became

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 29

KARNAZES CRESTING EMIGRANT PASS—JUST 95 MILES TO GO.

(

hours to reach this point; summertime racers make it here in less than four.

Although we had trained in snowshoes, none of us had ever run so far in them. By the time we reached our support crew at the turnoff to Deadwood Road, it was well past dark, and Bill’s feet were wet and blistering badly.

Despite his discomfort, he elected to forge on, sans snowshoes, in hopes that the change of footgear would ease the rubbing. In fact, since the trail was now only partially covered in snow, we all decided to ditch our snowshoes.

Bad decision.

We hit more snow. At first it was just a cold inconvenience, barely ankle deep. But soon we were postholing up to our waists. For some inexplicable reason, the snow got deeper as we dropped lower in elevation.

“This is brutal,” I sputtered between icy steps, “it might be easier to swim through this stuff.”

“Yeah,” Twiet said, “we could turn this into a triathlon.”

We postholed through the frozen landscape, cold, wet and miserable. Then, to add insult to injury, we realized we were off course, which wouldn’t have been a problem if we hadn’t forgotten the trail maps back at Deadwood Road.

Lost in the pitch-black of night, the cold quickly took hold as we stopped to formulate a plan.

)

WE POSTHOLED THROUGH THE FROZEN LANDSCAPE, COLD, WET &MISERABLE. THEN TO ADD INSULT TO INJURY, WE REALIZED WE WERE OFF COURSE.

deeper. Our snowshoes sank below the surface with every step, and we labored through this frozen quicksand for most of the day. We passed several noteworthy spectacles, Cougar Rock being the most anomalous. During the summer race, runners thread this towering 40-foot volcanic spire along the narrow ridge leading up to Elephant’s Trunk, a rocky singletrack. Now Cougar Rock looked like little more than a misplaced boulder, with only its tip exposed above the snow.

Later we passed a sign for the junction of Foresthill and Soda Springs/French Meadows. Temperatures can sometimes reach triple digits at this point during the summer race.

Today the sign was barely visible above the snow, and the temperature was in the 40s.

By the time we reached Robinson Flat—the first medical checkpoint in the summertime race—a scant 24 miles from the start, dusk was approaching. It had taken us over 11

30 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

“Let’s go back,” Finkbeiner suggested.

“Let’s keep going,” Twiet insisted.

“Let’s do something,” I sputtered feebly. “My toes are going numb.”

Retracing our steps was demoralizing.

While the snow had melted on both sides of the trail, the thickets were too dense to run through, leaving us no choice but to forge back down our chilly trench.

We searched for the juncture where we made the wrong turn, but found only our own footprints crisscrossing the trail in every direction. It was as though we were running in circles, a frozen Blair Witch-like nightmare. The only thing missing was a graveyard.

Oops … spoke too soon. We somehow stumbled upon Deadwood Cemetery, which actually turned out to be a good

thing. Located at mile 50 on the Western States trail, it told us that we were back on course. Established in 1852, the Deadwood Cemetery is rumored to be haunted. Maybe those early miners encountered a tormenting snow-labyrinth before being laid to rest on this lonely mountainside. Or perhaps they went mad, as did old John Harkness, one of Deadwood Cemetery’s earliest residents. Either way, finding the cemetery was a blessing. We began the steep descent into El Dorado canyon knowing we were back on the Western States trail.

Situated between Deadwood Cemetery and Michigan Bluff, El Dorado canyon is arguably the nastiest section of the Western States. Typically the air is hot and stagnant, and a merciless, dusty 2500-foot descent is followed by an immediate climb that drags out for three brutal miles. But now the snow was gone, the trail damp and cushiony and the midnight air cool and fresh. In my nine years of running the Western State 100-Mile Endurance Run, the climb out of El Dorado had never been so forgiving.

As we ran into Michigan Bluff, an even more pleasant surprise awaited us—a raging party thrown in our honor. Carol and Richard Shields’ house sits adjacent to the Michigan Bluff checkpoint, and they had planned the lively get-together. One minute we were alone in the wilderness, the next we were wolfing down In-N-Out burgers. If only old Harkness had it so good.

“I think we’re in heaven,” I said to the team.

“It feels good to be out of there,” Bill said. “That was like hell, only cold.”

Twiet said something, but I couldn’t understand him. His mouth was stuffed with fries.

Leaving the party refueled and re-energized,

we picked up our pace to make up lost time. Reaching Foresthill at mile 62 along the Western States course, we faced a decision. On the Western States trail, we would be forced to forge the Rucky Chucky—the middle fork of the American River. Not only was the water frigid with snow runoff, the water level was over head deep and running swiftly.

During the summer race, runners cross the waist-deep river on foot using a cable for balance.

A friend of Twiet’s had volunteered to get us across via canoe, but this alternative sounded sketchy and we nixed it. Instead we ran parallel to the Western States Trail on an adjoining route that avoided crossing the river and allowed us to rejoin the Western States course at mile 96. This cut some distance from the course, but was a better choice than being swept downstream.

As we worked our way back to the Western States trail, the 24-hour clock struck. We had spent a day running, which is the official cutoff time to earn a coveted Western States Silver Buckle. Scarcely did it matter to us, however, as there would be no prizes associated with our endeavor.

Dawn broke foggy and damp, and the air had the strong smell of earth. Birds chirped, deer fed nearby and squirrels scurried. All was good.

Until we hit the final ascent of the course.

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 31

The climb from No Hands Bridge, the historic rail-less footbridge that crosses back over the river, to Robbie Point, the juncture where the Western States trail exits onto the back streets of Auburn, rises abruptly and is wickedly steep in sections, a cruel way to conclude a long mountain run. On heavy legs, we lumbered up the steep grade, stopping periodically to gather our breath. Fallen tree limbs obstructed the path, adding more effort to the slog.

“Karno, you still with us?” Twiet inquired, not looking back.

“Still here,” I puffed, trying to keep up the pace.

Nearing the top of the incline, a curious sight materialized through the gloom: a crowd of people. It was 7 a.m. on Sunday morning, yet awaiting us in the morning chill were fellow runners, kids on bicycles, a small group of townsfolk and a procession of cars ready to escort us as we left the trail and ran the final mile through the outskirts of Auburn to the official finish of the Western States 100 on the Placer High School track. Suddenly the mood was upbeat and celebratory.

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“You guys are awesome!” someone yelled from the crowd.

“We got hot chocolate and donuts waiting!” came a (very welcome) pronouncement.

As we covered the last few steps into the stadium, there were congratulatory handshakes and high-fives, but the adventure wasn’t quite over. Twiet had grander visions. Instead of finishing at Placer High School, he wanted to conclude our epic journey at the spot where the two settlers who inspired the undertaking had hoped their ill-fated travels would lead them, the Placer County Courthouse, about a mile from the high school. Our legs were leaden, but we all agreed.

So we ran from the high school through town to the historic courthouse. Awaiting our arrival was Greg Soderlund, Race Director of the Western States, with a surprise. He presented us with bronze Western States belt buckles altered for the occasion, with snow-covered mountains painted on the standard Western States buckle design. I have no idea how he knew we would make it. I guess the commemorative buckles would have

served as fitting epitaphs had we not.

After 26 hours 38 minutes, we accomplished our mission, and the next day were fortunate to read about our adventure in the sports section of the local papers rather than the obituaries.

As Soderlund told one reporter, “Now that somebody’s done it, that should be sufficient. [Running the Western States 100 in winter] definitely has some serious risks.”

It took over a century to complete the task, but now the job was done. To our brethren who first attempted this crossing back in 1858 and provided us with the inspiration to finish what was started, we salute you not for the way you tragically died, but for the way you boldly lived.

Dean Karnazes lives in San Francisco.

When he’s not running, you can find him mountain biking or surfing in the Bay area. He is a member of The North Face Athlete Team and PowerBar Team Elite.

His upcoming memoir: Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner (Penguin Press) will be in bookstores March 2005.

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T R AIL TES T E D

by GARETT GRAUBINS

» photos by DAVID CLIFFORD

LET IT SNOW SNOWSHOES TO HELP YOU CRUISE THROUGH ANY WINTER WONDERLAND

It’s official: snowshoeing is the winter-time craze. From casual hikers to trail-running speedsters jones-ing for an off-season burn, more and more people are strapping these tennis racketshaped contraptions to their feet. According to a recent study by The Leisure Trends Group, there have been three million new participants to snowshoeing since 1998—a 203-percent increase. ¶ Long ago, bulky snowshoes of wood and animal sinew graced the feet of hirsute backcountry hunters and trappers decked out in wool shirts and coonskin hats. Today, snowshoeing isn’t such a labor, with models featuring lightweight aluminum frames, nylon platforms and foot-hugging strap systems. Those old-time shoes are best left as cabin decorations.

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 33

» trail tested

BUY RIGHT:

HOW TO CHOOSE THE SHOES

1.

ARE YOU A HIKER OR A RACER? HIKING SNOWHOES ARE GENERALLY BULKIER TO ACCOMMODATE DEEPER SNOW AND HEAVIER LOADS (E.G. A BACKPACK). THEY’LL WORK FINE IN RACES, BUT YOU’LL BE AT A DISADVANTAGE AGAINST MORE STREAMLINED RACING MODELS.

2.

CONSIDER YOUR WEIGHT. THE NAME OF THE GAME IS FLOTATION AND THE GREATER THE SURFACE AREA OF THE SHOE, THE LESS YOU’LL GET THAT SINKING FEELING. MANY RECOMMEND ONE SQUARE INCH OF SURFACE AREA PER POUND (YOUR WEIGHT PLUS WHATEVER ELSE YOU PLAN TO CARRY). THE TRADEOFF? THE LARGER THE SHOE, THE HEAVIER AND MORE CUMBERSOME IT MAY BE.

3.

HOW DEEP ARE YOUR POCKETS? SNOWSHOE COSTS RANGE FROM $100 TO $300. ON THE HIGH END, YOU’LL FIND LIGHTWEIGHT, STRONG ALUMINUM FRAMES AND CORROSIONRESISTANT COATING. IF YOU’D LIKE TO SPEND LESS AND DON’T PLAN TO RACE, GO WITH MOLDED-PLASTIC-FRAMED HIKING MODELS. SOME COMPOSITE-MATERIAL FRAMES (E.G. CARBON FIBER) ARE SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT AND STRONG—BUT COST SOME SERIOUS COIN.

34 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

*

TrailRunner EDITOR’S CHOICE

ATLAS DUAL TRAC $239; 2 LBS 8 OZ (WEIGHTS ARE PER PAIR) Thanks to a rocker footbed provided by a tension strap under the midfoot, the Dual Trac has a springy feel that propels the foot into each stride. The result is quick leg turnover during long, groomed straightaways and a natural toe plant on uphills. The trim design and wispy weight also made this a tester favorite for races. We trusted the bindings, too—they held tight in all types of conditions and created a snug fit free of pressure points. BIFF: Relatively small surface area (134 square inches) means they’re slower—and sink more—in deep snow. RECOMMENDED FOR: Entrylevel racers. Elite racers choose the lighterweight Dual-Tral SL ($289), cut off the straps and rivet their running flats directly to the footbed. Atlas also offers a womenspecific model, the Elektra. INFO: www. atlassnowshoe.com; 888-48-ATLAS

TUBBS CATALYST $249; 2 LBS 18 OZ The Catalyst is a bullet-proof shoe that can take the toughest winter conditions.

Its mondo 146-square-inch surface area provides excellent flotation in the deep stuff, while 23 crampon points—more than any other shoes we tested—ensure a reliable grip on ice and hardpacked surfaces. It’s fine for light running, with a mid-foot bar that gives just the right amount of bounce. The binding toe box prevents the foot from sliding forward during longer jaunts. BIFF: The toe cleat under the toe box grows uncomfortable after a few miles because it applies pressure underfoot. The soft “footbed” forces the foot to adjust to underfoot obstacles—fine for short runs, but troublesome on longer ones. RECOMMENDED FOR: “Clydesdale” snowshoe racers, deep-snow hikes or training runs. INFO: www.tubbssnowshoes. com; 800-882-2748

trail tested «

REDFEATHER SPORT RACE

DION SNOWSHOES 130

NORTHERN LITES ELITE RACER

$229; 2 LBS 14.8 OZ Looks are deceiving. The Sport Race was not as clunky as it first appeared. It’s surprisingly lightweight. The upturned front and tail deliver the sort of seamless heel-to-toe roll normally reserved for road-running shoes.

Durable, full decking makes this a good deepsnow option, too. A sturdy midfoot plate provides good protection and stability, and also swivels up and down at the forefoot, making for a smooth stride. Three heavyduty straps keep your foot firmly in place.

BIFF: Although light weight, the frame is large, and the platform material tends to fray.

RECOMMENDED FOR: Races with a foot of fresh snow or those that have a minimum size requirement that negates other models.

Excellent all-purpose snowshoe for running and hiking. INFO: www.redfeather.com; 800525-0081

$207; 2 LBS 11 OZ The only customizable shoes on the market, Dions offer a choice between several frames, two binding types (basic and quick-fit) and two cleats (for groomed trails or deep snow).

The 130 is the marquee model and its feathery weight can go toe-to-toe with other racing models, while the flotation makes it popular with powder junkies. The front of the shoe angles upward more than other shoes and the tail is very short, contributing to a ride that feels like an extension of your trail shoe—not the usual “clop…clop…clop.” BIFF: The binding system consists of several sets of interlocking, velcro-like teeth. They held fast most of the time, but were difficult to adjust if packed with snow. RECOMMENDED FOR: Racers or hikers weighing less than 160 pounds. Since they are adjustable in many ways, multi-day trippers will also love them. Top racers go with Dion’s 130-L, a lighter version of the 130 with quick-fit bindings. INFO: www. dionsnowshoes.com; 802-423-7537

$199; 2 LBS The Elite Racer could become this winter’s racing shoe of choice on deep-snow courses. Its flotation (thanks in part to its 8-inch-by-25-inch solid decking) creates buoyancy—minus the clunkiness—at a weight comparable to some trail-running shoes.

The polyurethane-coated-nylon decking is seemingly tatter-proof and non-abrasive, meaning the snow won’t stick. A “spacecraft” aluminum-tubing frame adds extra durability as well—at less weight than regular aluminum.

A set of three rubber straps with numerous size settings ensure a firm grip over the top of the foot. BIFF: The heel strap may have a tendency to slip and loosen over many miles.

A toe basket would prevent the running shoe from slipping forward. RECOMMENDED FOR: Novice or beginner snowshoe racers.

Frontrunners will also enjoy the Elite, but should consider removing the straps and bolting their shoes for more reliable binding.

INFO: www.northernlites.com; 800-360-LITE 2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 35

JUST IN SHEEP TRICK ICEBREAKER TECH TOP The velvety-soft Icebreaker Tech Top dispels the myth that wool is as comfortable as a brillo pad. What’s more, Icebreaker’s fine merino wool—exclusively harvested in the highlands of New Zealand’s South Island—is extremely breathable, quick-drying and B.O.-resistant.

After long trail runs, my aromatic bouquet normally chases my wife away, but that wasn’t the case when I wore the Tech Top. In cold weather, it was a reliable insulator—the high-neck collar and thumb loops made it toasty at even lower temps.

And, when the mercury rose, I just opened the zipper and pulled up the sleeves. By adding a wind-resistant jacket, I was able to run through winter’s most biting cold. www. icebreaker.com; 866-3-MERINO —Garett Graubins

+

LEKI SUPREME NORDIC WALKING POLES When I slinked out of the office this summer with the Leki Nordic Walking Poles, I cast furtive glances over my shoulder, hoping friends wouldn’t spy me on the street with the gizmos. Once on the trail, however, I didn’t have the energy to be self-conscious—I needed to focus on my technique. It came quickly (I’m a longtime Nordic skier), and so did the sweat. Don’t let the “Walking” in Nordic Walking fool you—these poles are designed for serious exercise. As with running, you can monitor your pace but you’ll be surprised at how high you can raise your heart rate. Nordic Walking is an all-body pump, and the next day I felt the results in my upper body, from triceps to abs. (For more information on Nordic Walking, see Trail Tips, page 37.) ¶ The Lekis have comfortable cork grips and straps that grip your hands firmly. The Supreme offers an adjustable twosection system, with a carbide tip for trail and snow use and a rubber one to avoid clanking along on roads or bike paths. ¶ Now, when I head out for a power walk, I hold my head high. www.leki.com; 716-683-1022 —Michael Benge

36 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

ICEBREAKER TECH TOP $85

LEKI SUPREME NORDIC WALKING POLES $100

T R AIL TIPS

by GARETT GRAUBINS

Cross Dressing THIS WINTER, RESOLVE TO STAY FIT WITH THESE SPORTS

When the first snow hits, many trail runners chuck their shoes in a trunk and put their feet up. And that’s OK. After all, you ran hard this season and your dogs need a chance to heal. ¶ But resting your legs does not mean it’s time to hibernate. By trying a new activity you can boost your fitness and offset muscle imbalances caused by repetitive running. Better yet, when the snow melts next spring, you’ll be miles ahead of the couch potatoes.

CROSS-COUNTRY/ SKATE SKIING

1

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING IS ELEGANCE, SOLITUDE AND FITNESS ALL ROLLED INTO ONE SLICK RIDE.

There are two XC skiing methods: classic and skate. Classic utilizes the alternating movement of arms and legs—along with pole plants—to slide the skis directly forward. It is best performed on pre-set tracks. Skate skiing is typically faster, and more physically demanding. It involves kicking the skis sideways to propel the body and generally requires a compact surface for a good glide. ¶ To get started, head to a local XC ski area (there are over 350 in North America alone) that offers rental equipment and lessons. While armchair coaches may argue that lessons aren’t necessary, sign up for at least a clinic or two. Proper form and technique are essential, particularly if you plan on racing.

2

NORDIC WALKING

THOUSANDS OF EUROS CAN’T BE WRONG. NORDIC WALKING IS A HEART-PUMPING WORKOUT. It’s speed walking with ski poles, and— done right—can burn 40 percent more calories. Plus, it doesn’t require much gear—just trail shoes and a pair of poles (try leki.com, echosportsgroup.com, blackdiamondequipment.com or see Trail Tested, page 36). ¶ Work on form.

The poles swing forward with the arms opposite the leg you are extending. Like XC skiing, the poles should point diagonally backwards and strike the ground, even with the heel of the opposite foot.

Keep your shoulders relaxed and low, and avoid gripping the poles tightly (let them swing from the wrist straps). Push the poles back as far as possible (you’ll feel it in your triceps).

SNOWSHOEING

1. Find a good pair of snowshoes—costs range from $150 to $300—or you can rent from most outdoor specialty shops for around $15 a day.

2. First-timers should start on a packed-down area. Brace yourself; it feels clunky at first.

3. As you stride, remember to lift your foot more than usual, since the snowshoe’s tail drops and needs to clear the snow.

TO LEARN 4. Snowshoeing demands a MORE ABOUT THIS YEAR’S greater, more powerful arm swing.

CROP OF SNOWSHOES 5. Your pace will be slower than SEE PAGE 33. running and your heart rate will WANT TO KNOW MORE max out faster. Settle for a slower ABOUT NORDIC pace and build your speed with WALKING POLES? occasional sprints.

SEE PAGE 36.

3

TOP: DAVID CLIFFORD; BOTTOM TWO: BRIAN BAILEY

SNOWSHOEING IS THE OFF-SEASON SPORT-OF-CHOICE FOR TRAIL RUNNERS BECAUSE IT’S THE CLOSEST RELATIVE. IF YOU CAN RUN, YOU CAN SNOWSHOE.

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 37

GEAR FINDER

INFERNO SELF-HEATING MEAL Just Lift The Flap, Pull The Strap and in 15-minutes you’re enjoying the ultimate convenience of a hot meal, Anytime/Anywhere

800-322-6325 www.aa-foods.com

YakTrax Run confidently on packed snow or ice this winter.

You will feel the same solid, predictable grip you are accustomed to feeling on dry surfaces. Easy on/off, spikeless and ultralight, the Yaktrax Pro will help to reduce falls and injuries while you are out running on those icy/snowy trails and roads.

866-YAKTRAX (925-8729) www.yaktrax.com

THE PERFECT RUNNING GIFT! Don’t let the runner on your gift list go another mile without Road ID®! This necessary part of running gear is invaluable in the event of an unforeseen accident while running. Road ID® is available in 4 models: the SHOE ID (pictured), WRIST ID, ANKLE ID, & NECK ID. Only $19.99!

800-345-6336 www.RoadID.com

When your Best Friend is your biggest Motivator The Buddy System is an innovative, hands free leash designed for walkers, runners, hikers, and anyone who likes both hands free yet, still wants to take along their best friend. It is set apart from other hands-free leash systems by its built in safety mechanisms and the ability to store the unused leash on the belt when the dog is off-leash.

888-363-2818 www.buddysys.com

La Sportiva Exum Ridge The ultimate technical footwear tool for any mountain or adventure runner. Sticky FriXion® dot rubber outsoles for excellent grip on all surfaces.

Hydrophobic synthetic leather and mesh upper provides lightweight, breathable support. Lateral flex windows provide anatomically correct flex and draining points. Dual-density RockShock midsole for cushioning and support. To-the-toe lacing for adjustability and forefoot security.

303-443-8710 www.sportiva.com

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2005 RACE CALENDAR

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ROCKIES: CO, ID, MT, NM, UT, WY HEARTLAND: AL, AR, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MI, MN, MO, MS, ND, NE, OH, OK, SD, TN, TX, WI EAST: CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, SC, VT, VA, WV PACIFIC/DESERT: AK, AZ, CA, HI, NV, OR, WA INTERNATIONAL (INCLUDING CANADA)

01/15 01/16 01/16

It is wise to confirm any race in this calendar before making plans.

01/22 FOR REGULAR UPDATES TO OUR 2005 RACE CALENDAR, VISIT WWW. TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM.

Performance Conditioning Tights

By CW-X

Featuring the patented Conditioning Web™, CW-X Conditioning Tights are anatomically-engineered and designed to maximize support for the runner in the key areas of the leg, specifically the knee joint, quadriceps, hamstrings and calf muscles. By minimizing muscle vibration and keeping muscle groups in alignment the tights also improve running efficiency.

CW-X tights retail for $80.00 and shorts for $60.00 and are available at leading running specialty shops.

December PACIFIC/DESERT 12/07 OTHTC High Desert Ultra 30K,50K; Ridgecrest, CA; (760) 384-3764; christopher.rios@navy.mil;www.othtc.com 12/12 Ho-Ho 5K; Tigard, OR; (503) 497-4080; events@xdogevents.com; www.xdogevents.com 12/18 Muir Beach Trail Run 11K,17K,33K,50K; Muir Beach, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com

EAST 12/11 Hellgate 100K; Lynchburg, VA; dhorton@liberty.edu; www.extremeultrarunning.com 12/12 Performance AR Series #6 4H,8H; Jacksonville, FL; (904) 285-1552; rd@performancemultisports.com; www.performacemultisports.com/eventcal1.htm INTERNATIONAL 12/19 Patagonia Running Adventure 166M; Chile & Argentina; (310) 395-5265; www.andesadventures.com

EAST 01/02 River, Roots & Ruts Trail Run; Alva, FL; (239) 6947572; www.rrrtrail.com

12/04 12/10 12/13 12/18

Vasque This light-weight Vasque Velocity trail runner is supportive and stable on the roughest trails. The high-tech platform provides durable cushioning, support and traction while minimizing pronation. Breathable uppers incorporate synthetic leather and Airmesh. Named “Gear of the Year”

by Outside Magazine. Suggested retail: $80.

www.vasque.com

ROCKIES 01/09 Beaver Creek Snowshoe Series Race #2 5K, 10K; Vail, CO; (970) 476-6797 x108; info@gohighline.com; www.gohighline.com/bcsnowshoe 01/22 Pazzo’s Colorado State Snowshoe Championship 9M; Vail, CO; (970) 845-0931; pedalpwr@vail.net; www.pedalpowerbike.com HEARTLAND 01/08 Bandera 100K 25K, 50K, 100K; Bandera, TX; (512) 895-6100; jprusaitis@austin.rr.com; www. hillcountrytrailrunners.com/raceBandera.html 01/08 Siberian Express 7.6M; Danville, IL; (217) 469-2134; krr@kennekuk.com; www.kennekuk.com 01/16 Big Bend 50 50M; Big Bend National Park, TX; (210) 805-0845; pcarroll@fleetfeetsanantonio.com; www. bigbend50.com 01/22 Norm’s Run 50K; El Paso, TX; (915) 581-9541; markd@utep.edu; www.utminers.utep.edu/markd/ 01/29 Narrows 5 Miler Trail Run 5M; Beavercreek, OH; (937) 299-6712; michael.d.allen@delphi.com; www.orrrc. org 01/29 Run for the State Line! 30K, 50K; El Paso, TX; (915) 581-9541; markd@utep.edu; www.utminers.utep. edu/markd/ 01/29 Winter Buckeye Trail Marathon & 50K; Brecksville, OH; cadyrun100@aol.com; www.bt50k.org

www.cw-x.com

Vasque Velocity trail runner

01/22

January PACIFIC/DESERT Angel Island New Year’s Day 7K; Tiburon, CA; (925) 947-3787; info@pacifictrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com Avalon Benefit 50 50M; Avalon, CA; (909) 399-3553; wesley@spectrumsports.net; www.spectrumsports.net Briddle Trails Winter Trail Running Festival 5M, 10M, 50K, 50M; Kirkland, WA; (206) 329-1469; searunco@aol.com; www.seattlerunningcompany. com RND Winter Trail Running Series #1 9K; Cleveland National Forest, CA; (949) 857-1055; rndrunning@aol. com; www.rndrunning.com H.U.R.T. 100 100K, 100M; Honolulu, HI; (808) 2350577; hurtpals@aol.com; www.HurtHawaii.com Pioneertown Ride & Tie 12M, 24M; Pioneertown, CA; (661) 510-9863; barbara.robertson@ngc.com; www. rideandtie.org Calico Trail Run 50K; Calico, CA; (760) 244-7321; jrobins760@charter.net; www.calicotrailrun.org Carlsbad Marathon & Half 13.1M, 26.2M; Carlsbad, CA; (762) 692-2900; djceadams@aol.com; www. carlsbadmarathon.com Capitol Peak Fat Ass 25K, 50K; Olympia, WA; (360) 455-1400; j.pearch@comcast.net; www. capitolpeakultras.com RND Winter Trail Running Series #2 12K; Cleveland National Forest, CA; (949) 857-1055; rndrunning@aol. com; www.rndrunning.com

HEARTLAND Tecumseh Trail Marathon 5.5M,26.2M; Bloomington, IN; (317) 308-6449; Brian@DINOseries.com; www. dinoseries.com Table Rock Challenge 15H,30H; Cassville, MO; (816) 213-6931; brandi@tabelrockchallenge.com; www. tablerockchallenge.com Deer Run Cross Country Race 8K; Hudson , IL; (309) 726-2022 x230; msteffa@mclean.gov H.U.F.F. 10.8M,50K; Huntington, IN; (260) 436-0739; huff50k@aol.com; ianms@iquest.net; www.huff50K.com

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 39

» race calendar 01/08 Atlanta Fat Ass 50K; Atlanta, GA; (678) 778-8211; getguts@earathlink.net; www.getguts.com 01/08 Frozen Assets 5K Snowshoe Race; Canadice, NY; (585) 271-7045; goutnow@yahoo.com; www. geocities.com/goutnow 01/23 Mendon Ponds Winterfest 5K Snowshoe Race; Mendon, NY; (585) 271-7045; goutnow@yahoo.com; www.geocities.com/goutnow 01/23 Performance Jetty-2-Jetty Ultramarathon & Team Relay 35M; Jacksonville, FL; (904) 2851552; RD@PerformanceMultiSports.com; www.

PerformanceMultiSports.com/Jetty2Jetty.htm 01/29 Finger Lakes Snowshoe Race 1M, 7.6M; Hector, NY; www.fingerlakesrunners.org 01/29 Mist Trail Run 50K; Huntsville, AL; (256) 6507063; runstrong@fleetfeethuntsville.com; www. huntsvilletrackclub.org

HEARTLAND 02/05 Rocky Raccoon Trail Runs 50M, 100M; Huntsville, TX; (512) 895-6100; jprusaitis@austin.rr.com; www. hillcountrytrailrunners.com/raceRockyRaccoon. html 02/06 Groundhog’s Revenge 6H; Laurelville, OH; (614) 397-6112; bradhunt@americanbushwhackingclub. org; www.americanbushwhackingclub.org 02/12 East Texas Ultra Runners 25K/50K; Tyler, TX; (903) 894-3788; pstone@palestineherald.com; www. hillcountrytrailrunners.com 02/12 El Paso Franklin Mountains Wilderness Runs 15K, 42K, 50K; El Paso, TX; (915) 581-9541; markd@utep. edu; www.utminers.utep.edu/markd/ 02/26 Steel Sports Martin Dies Adventure Challenge 50M; Jasper, TX; (903) 871-8466; rodney@steelsports. net; www.steelsports.net

INTERNATIONAL 01/01 New Years Fat Ass 50 Resolution Run 50K; Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.ClubFatAss.com/CABCVan_NYday 01/22 Yeti Mountain Snowshoe Series 5K, 10K; Mt Washington, BC, Canada; (604) 220-5083; info@theyeti.ca; www.theyeti.ca

EAST 02/05 Masai 5K Trail Race; Charlottesville, VA; (434) 293-7115; badtothebone@adelphia.net; www. badtothebone.biz 02/05 Uwharrie Mountain Run 8M, 20M, 40M; Uwharrie National Forest, NC; (919) 833-4776; info@raceuwharrie.com; www.raceuwharrie.com 02/12 Holiday Lake 50K; Lynchburg, VA; dhorton@liberty.edu; www.extremeultrarunning. com 02/19 Kinabalu 10K Trail Race; Charlottesville, VA; (434) 293-7115; badtothebone@adelphia.net; www. badtothebone.biz 02/19 Swamp Stomp 24Hr Adventure Race; Tampa, FL; (727) 504-3110; info@wecefar.com; www.wecefar. com 02/20 Florida Challenge Trail Runs 5K, 13.1M; Tampa, FL; (813) 404-9002; ricky@tamparaces.com; www. tamparaces.com/challenge/index.html 02/27 Greater Long Island Running Club Trail Relay 6M; Bethpage, NY; (516) 349-7646; spolansky@aol.com; www.glirc.org 02/27 Ugly Mudder Trail Run 7M; Reading, PA; (610) 7792668; rhornpcs@aol.com; www.pagodapacers.com

02/05 02/05 02/05 02/05 02/11 02/12 02/15 02/19 02/19 02/19 02/26 02/26

February PACIFIC/DESERT Death Valley Trail Marathon and 30K 30K, 26.2M; Death Valley, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports.com Pemberton Trail 50K; Fountain Hills, AZ; (480) 8160089; bquick50k@hotmail.com; www.ultrazone. us/Pemberton Purisima Creek Redwoods 14K, 33K, 50K; Woodside, CA; (925) 947-3787; info@pacifictrailruns.com; www.pctrailruns.com RND Winter Trail Running Series #3 15K; Cleveland National Forest, CA; (949) 857-1055; rndrunning@aol.com; www.rndrunning.com Winteroba Adventure Race 8H; WA; (253) 7098232; info@trioba.com; www.trioba.com Great American Adventure Run 2.8M, 4.8M; Huntington Beach, CA; (714) 841-5417; ojrfinish@aol.com; www.nealand.com/finishline RND Winter Trail Running Series Half Marathon 13.1M; Cleveland National Forest, CA; (949) 857-1055; rndrunning@aol.com; www.rndrunning.com Hagg Lake Trail Run 25K, 50K; Forest Grove, OR; (503) 643-6779; running@scottdiamond.com; www.haggmud.com Little Su 50K; Susitna Valley, AK; BrooksandRita@aol.com; www.susitna100.com Susitna 100 100M; Susitna Valley, AK; BrooksandRita@aol.com; www.susitna100.com Lake Hodges 50K Trail Race; Escondido, CA; www. movinshoes.com/surf RedwoodTrail Run 10K, 25K, 50K; Oakland, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com

ROCKIES 02/TBA Midnight Mountain 50K; Preston, ID; (435) 7341968; racers@brigham.net 02/20 Beaver Creek Snowshoe Series Race #3 5K, 10K; Vail, CO; (970) 476-6797 x108; info@gohighline. com; www.gohighline.com/bcsnowshoe 40 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

02/05 02/19 02/19 02/20 02/27

INTERNATIONAL Yeti Mountain Snowshoe Series 5K, 10K; Silver Star, BC, Canada; (604) 220-5083; info@theyeti.ca; www.theyeti.ca Mardi Gras Night Run 12K, 18K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.clubfatass.com/CABCVan_ mardigrasnite Yeti Mountain Snowshoe Series 5K, 10K; Mount Seymour, BC, Canada; (604) 220-5083; info@theyeti.ca; www.theyeti.ca Yeti Mountain Snowshoe Series 5K, 10K; Cypress Mountain, BC, Canada; (604) 220-5083; info@theyeti.ca; www.theyeti.ca Mount Kilimanjaro Marathon 5K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Tanzania, Africa; (619) 298-7400; kathy@kathyloperevents.com; www. kathyloperevents.com/kilimanjaro

March PACIFIC/DESERT 03/05 RND Winter Trail Running Series - Team Event; Cleveland National Forest, CA; (949) 857-1055; rndrunning@aol.com; www.rndrunning.com

03/05 Woodside King’s Mountain Trail Races 5M, 13.1M; Woodside, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports. com; www.envirosports.com 03/06 Old Pueblo 50 Mile Endurance Run; Sonoita, AZ; (520) 529-2985; oldpueblo50@bblabs.net; www. ultrazone.us/OP50 03/12 Marin Trail Races 10K & 20K; San Rafael, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www. envirosports.com 03/12 Way Too Cool 50K; Cool, CA; (916) 387 8796; wser100@comcast.net; www.run100s.com/wtc.htm 03/19 Catalina Marathon 5K, 10K, 26.2M; Two Harbors, CA; (714) 978-1528; catmar@pacificsportsllc.com; www. pacificsportsllc.com 03/19 Chesebro Half Marathon 13.1M; Agoura Hills, CA; (818) 874-1405; help@greatraceofagoura.com; www.greatraceofagoura.com 03/19 Chuckanut Mountain 50K; Bellingham, WA; (206) 715-0919; krissy@montrail.com; www.gbrc.net/ chuckanut50k.html 03/19 Romancing the Island 12K, 25K; Tiburon, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www. envirosports.com 03/19 Rucky Chuck Roundabout 50K/50K Relay 50K, 50M; Forest Hill, CA; (541) 301-0589; Robert@ultrarunner.net; www.ultrarunner.net/ ruckychuckyroundabout50K.html 03/25 Haleakala Run to the Sun 36.2M; Kahului, Maui, HI; (808) 808-6543; hurtpals@aol.com; www.

HurtHawaii.com 03/26 March Mudness! 13.2M, 31M, 62M; Portland, OR; (503) 970-4228; longrun@pcez.com; www.orrc.net 03/26 Pirates Cove Trail Run 8K, 20K, 30K, 50K; Sausalito, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@PCTrailRuns.com; www.pctrailruns.com 03/26 Redwood Wild River Run 5K, 15K; Crescent City, CA; (707) 464-3779; ccultra37@hotmail.com; 03/26 RND San Juan Trail 50 50K; Cleveland National Forest, CA; (949) 857-1055; rndrunning@aol.com; www.rndrunning.com ROCKIES 03/05 Vail Mountain Race 5M; Vail, CO; (970) 845-0931; pedalpwr@vail.net; www.pedalpowerbike.com 03/13 Beaver Creek Snowshoe Series Race #4 5K, 10K; Vail, CO; (970) 476-6797 x108; info@gohighline. com; www.gohighline.com/bcsnowshoe 03/26 Snowshoe Shuffle 1K, 5K, 10K; Vail, CO; www. snowshoeshuffle.com HEARTLAND 03/TBA Run in the Pines at Camp Allen 5K; Navasota, TX; (512) 263-9710; trailevents@ustrailrunner.com; www.ustrailrunner.com 03/06 A-OK 25K/50K; Atoka, OK; (972) 424-7844; mam3217@ev1.net 03/12 DINO Trail Run Series #1 - Eagle Creek Park 5K, 15K; Indianapolis, IN; (317) 336-7552; Brian@DINOseries.com; www.DINOseries.com 03/12 Carl Touchstone Mississippi Trail 50 20K, 50K, 50M; Laurel, MS; (601) 426-3347; info@ms50.com; www. ms50.com 03/19 Cross Timbers Trail Run 5M, 13M, 25M, 50M; Lake Texoma, TX; (580) 924-9293; h_t_rex@yahoo.com; www.geocities.com/cross_timbers_04

race calendar ÂŤ 03/19 Kentucky Ultra Trail Sojourn 50K, 50M; Morehead, KY; (606) 674-6286; h.hedgec@morehead-st.edu; www.people.morehead-st.edu/fs/h.hedgec 03/19 Land Between the Lakes 14M, 58K; Grand Rivers, KY; (800) 456-9404; sdurbin@marquettetrans. com; www.krc.org 03/20 Brew to Brew 44-Mile Solo & Relay; Kansas City, MO; (816) 228-3842; ljoline@aol.com; www. brewtobrew.com 03/24 Steel Sports Canyons 2-Day Adventure Challenge 120-150M; Quitique, TX; (903) 871-8466; rodney@steelsports.net; www.steelsports.net 03/26 Germantown Trail 7M, 14M; Germantown, OH; (937) 586-6546; jsmindak@juno.com; www.orrrc.org 03/26 Grasslands Run 13.1M, 26.2M, 50M; Decatur, TX; (817) 410-2401; www.nttr.org EAST 03/TBA Gator Trail 50K Run; (910) 646-4851; gatortrailrun31@yahoo.com 03/05 Seneca Creek Greenway Trail Marathon 26.2M, 50K; Damascus, MD; (310) 258-0281; ed516p@aol. com; www.mcrrc.org/gallery/greenway04.html 03/05 Umstead Trail Marathon 26.2M; (919) 676-2347; mnelson13@nc.rr.com; www.carolinagodiva.org/ umsteadmarathon 03/13 Virginia Creeper Marathon 26.2M; Abingdon, VA; (276) 452-4724; runfrankrun@hotmail.com; www. runtricities.org/creepermarathon 03/18 Three Days Of Syllamo 20K, 40K, 60K; Fifty Six, AR; (501) 753-6910; threedaysofsyllamo@mail.com; www.runarkansas.com

RACE #1 MASAI 5K, February 5, 2005 Observatory Hill Trails, Charlottesville, VA

03/26 Bel Monte Endurance Run 50K & Hardrock 25K; Charlottesville, VA; (434) 293-7115; badtothebone@adelphia.net; www.badtothebone.biz 03/26 Merrimack River Trail Race 10M; Andover, MA; (508) 486-4519; SPeterson@concord.com; www. coolrunning.com 03/26 Mudfest 15K; Reading, PA; (610) 779-2668; rhornpcs@aol.com; www.pagodapacers.com INTERNATIONAL 03/05 Dirty Duo 25K, 50K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 924-0008; melissa@vancouvertours.com; www.dirtyduo.com 03/05 Yeti Mountain Snowshoe Series 5K, 10K; Sun Peaks, BC; (604) 220-5083; info@theyeti.ca; www.theyeti.ca 03/06 Run Inn Sane 10K; Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 657-7403; silvio@ironlung.ca; www.ironlung.ca 03/12 Adidas GutBuster Trail Run #1 5K, 10K; Victoria, BC, Canada; (250) 715-8933; info@gutbustertrailrn. com; www.gutbustertrailrun.com 03/20 Spring Mountain Highway Madness 15K, 30K, 45K, 60K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.

ClubFatAss.com/CABCVan_MHMadness April PACIFIC/DESERT 04/02 American River Endurance Run 50M; Sacramento, CA; (510) 534-3440; info@ar50.org; www.run100s.com/AR50/ 04/02 Golden Gate Headlands 7M, 13.1M, 26.2M; Sausalito, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www. envirosports.com

PRESENTED BY

RACE #2 KINABALU 10K, February 19, 2005 Foxhaven Trails, Charlottesville, VA

RACE #3 AND #4 BEL MONTE ENDURANCE RUN 50K AND HARDROCK 25K, March 26, 2005 Sherando Lake Recreation Area, VA RACE #5 HIGHLANDS SKY 40 MILE TRAIL RACE, June 18, 2005 Monongahela National Forest, Davis, West Virginia RACE #6 VERMONT 100 MILE ENDURANCE RUN, July 2005 Green Mountains, Woodstock, VT RACE #7 AND #8 GREAT EASTERN ENDURANCE RUNS 100K/50K, September 2005 George Washington National Forest, Charlottesville, VA RACE #9 AND #10 VITESSE 10 MILE AND HALF MARATHON TRAIL RACES, November 19, 2005 Walnut Creek Park, Charlottesville, VA

Second Annual

Great Eastern Trail Run Series

Got Trails?

We do.....

Race Registration/Information www.badtothebone.biz badtothebone@adelphia.net Phone: 434-293-7115 Contact: Gill, Race Director

04/09 Napa Valley Wine Country Classic Marathon 10K, 10M, 26.2M; Calistoga, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports.com 04/16 Diablo Marathon & 50 Mile Endurance 26.2M, 50M; Clayton, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@PCTrailRuns. com; www.pctrailruns.com 04/16 Leona Divide 50 Miler; Lake Hughes, CA; (760) 765-1149; kimmerlys@yahoo.com; www. leonadivide.com 04/16 Muir Woods Marathon 7M, 25K, 26.2M; Stinson Beach, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports.com 04/16 Pony Express 30K, 50K, 50M, 100K; Cameron Park, CA; (775) 232-7933; robert@ultrarunner.net; www. ultrarunner.net 04/17 Grizzly Mountain Ride & Tie 20M; Madra, OR; (360) 681-5218; rideandtiedon@aol.com; www. rideandtie.org 04/17 Mt Si Relay and Ultra Runs 50K, 50M, 57M; Snoqualmie, WA; (206) 300-4585; mtsirelay@mail. com; www.ontherun.com/mtsirelay 04/17 Spokane River Run 5K, 10K, 25K; Spokane, WA; (509) 324-8804; spokeaho@msn.com; www. spokaneriverrun.com 04/23 Skyline Ridge Half Marathon & 10K 10K, 13.1M; Palo Alto, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports.com 04/23 Zane Grey Highline 50 Mile Trail Race; Payson, AZ; (520) 575-5777; jazzzaz@comcast.net; www. zanegrey50.com 04/30 Miwok Trail 100K; Sausalito, CA; (303) 333-1822; Miwok100K@aol.com; www.run100s.com/wmw.htm

p.025 Gortex/FP.27 2/26/04 4:35 PM Page 1

race calendar « 04/30 Prescott YMCA Whiskey Row Marathon 2M, 10K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Prescott, AZ; (928) 445-7221; sports@prescottymca.org; www.prescottymca.org

04/30 The Last Great Race GMRAS 2005 50M; Mt. Carroll, IL; (970) 349-5711; dreemer61@yahoo.com; www. g-o-events.com

ROCKIES 04/17 Canine Classic 5K, 10K; Boulder, CO; (303) 443-0400 x107; info@movingtoendsexualassault.org; www. movingtoendsexualassault.org 04/23 Spring Desert Ultra 25M, 50M; Fruita, CO; (303) 249-1112; reid_delman@geminiadventures.com; www.geminiadventures.com 04/24 Spring Desert Ultra Festival 5M, 10M; Fruita, CO; (303) 249-1112; reid_delman@geminiadventures. com; www.geminiadventures.com

EAST 04/02 I’m Not a Fool 50K; Brooksville, FL; (727) 504-3113; ediet@knology.net; www.wfyrc.com 04/02 Umstead 100 Mile Endurance Run 50M, 100M; Raleigh, NC; (919) 847-7613; BlakeNorwood@nc. rr.com; www.ncroadrunners.org/umstead/ 04/03 Mudders and Grunters 5M; Yorktown, NY; (845) 628-0648; squinn@rcn.com; www.runner.org 04/09 Bull Run Run 50M; Clifton, VA; (703) 548-9466; dirtyshooze@yahoo.com; www.vhtrc.org/brr 04/09 Croom Trail 50 Mile Fools Run 15M, 50K, 50M; Brooksville, FL; (727) 504-3110; shawn@wecefar. com; www.wecefar.com 04/09 No Frills Ride and Tie 30M, 50M; Star Tannery, VA; (703) 868-5283; kdenisar@att.net; www. rideandtie.org 04/09 Sofa King Lazy 15 Mile; Brooksville, FL; (727) 5043110; shawn@wecefar.com; www.wecefar.com 04/10 Flatwoods Four Trail Race 4M; Tampa, FL; (813) 404-9002; ricky@tamparaces.com; www. tamparaces.com/challenge/index.html 04/16 Muddy Sneaker 20K; Italy, NY; (585) 271-7045; goutnow@yahoo.com; www.geocities.com/ goutnow 04/23 Owl’s Roost Rumble Half Marathon 5K, 13.1M; Greensboro, NC; (336) 288-7071; smbassett@hotmail.com; www.offnrunningsports. com 04/23 Promise Land 50K; Bedford, VA; (434) 582-2386; runhorton@juno.com; www.extremeultrarunning. com 04/24 Muddy Moose Trail Races 4M, 14M; Wolfeboro, NH; (603) 520-5450; FergusCullen@aol.com; www. metricmarathon.com 04/30 Trail Triple Crown 5K, 10K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Newark, DE; (302) 453-0859; johnmack@udel.edu; www. udel.edu/traildawgs

HEARTLAND 04/TBA Illinois 100 Mile Trail Run; Pekin, IL; (309) 346-3601; aweinberg@pekinhigh.net; www. geocities.com/running_50/homepage.html 04/TBA McNaughton Park Trail Races 30M, 50M; Pekin, IL; (309) 346-3601; aweinberg@pekinhigh.net; www.geocities.com/running_50/homepage. html 04/TBA Rock Creek River Gorge Trail Race 6.5M, 10.2M; Chattanooga, TN; (423) 265-1177; simsmatt@msn. com; www.rockcreek.com 04/TBA USTrailrunner Pedernales Trail Race 5K; Austin, TX; (512) 263-9710; trailevents@ustrailrunner. com; www.ustrailrunner.com 04/02 Eisenhower Marathon 26.2M; Abilene, KS; (785) 263-2341; redcross@access-one.com; www. eisenhowermarathon.com 04/02 Hog’s Hunt Trail Run 25K, 50K; Huntsville, TX; (903) 894-3788; pstone@palestineherald.com; www. hillcountrytrailrunners.com 04/02 Trailbreaker Marathon 5K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Waukesha, WI; (262) 549-2249; remax@execpc.com; www. trailbreakermarathon.com 04/09 Lake McMurtry Trail Run 25K, 50K; Stillwater, OK; (918) 744-1562; TriSloth@earlblewett.net; www. earlblewett.net/lmtr.htm 04/09 The Mad Cow 6H; Columbus, OH; (614) 397-6112; bradhunt@americanbushwhackingclub.org; www. americanbushwhackingclub.org 04/16 DINO Trail Run Series #2 - Washington Township Park 5K, 15K; Avon, IN; (317) 336-7552; Brian@DINOseries.com; www.DINOseries.com 04/16 Double Chubb Trail Runs 25K, 50K; St. Louis, MO; (573) 763-5704; princessmudpuddle@yahoo.com; www.stlouisultrarunnersgroup.net 04/16 Ouachita Trail 50 50K, 50M; Little Rock, AR; (501) 329-6688; Stanchrissy@earthlink.net; www. runarkansas.com 04/16 Steel Sports Pain in the Pines Adventure Race 50M; Tyler, TX; (903) 871-8466; rodney@steelsports.net; www.steelsports.net 04/21 Run with the Foxes 5K, 10K, 10M, 13.1M; Martinsville, IN; (765) 349-0204; hikers@scican.net; www.hoosierhikerscouncil.org 04/23 Otter Creek Adventure Challenge 6H; Louisville, KY; (614) 397-6112; bradhunt@americanbushwhacki ngclub.org; www.americanbushwhackingclub.org 04/23 Pine Line Trail Marathon 26.3M; Medford, WI; (888) 682-9567; chamber@dwave.net; www.medfordwis. com 04/23 Trail Mix 25K, 50K; Bloomington, MN; (763) 5881132; OCW1949@aol.com; www.trailmixracemn.org

INTERNATIONAL 04/02 Yeti Mountain Snowshoe Series 5K, 10K; Whistler, BC, Canada; (604) 220-5083; info@theyeti.ca; www.theyeti.ca 04/09 Adidas GutBuster Trail Run #2 5K, 10K; Duncan, BC, Canada; (250) 715-8933; info@gutbustertrailrn. com; www.gutbustertrailrun.com 04/09 Diez Vista 50K; Port Moody, BC, Canada; (604) 4618330; pslayer@mail.com; www.diezvista.itgo.com 04/10 Giant’s Rib Raid Adventure Run 25K; Bolton, ON, Canada; (905) 523-7645; raid@dontgetlost.ca; www.dontgetlost.ca/raid 04/10 Squamish Thunder 10M; Squamish, BC, Canada; (604) 988-6564; info@ironlung.ca; www.ironlung. ca 04/13 North Pole Arctic Marathon 26.2M; Camp Borneo,NP; 353-91-566077; rd@npmarathon.com; www.npmarathon.com 04/16 Yeti Mountain Snowshoe Series -- Ultra Yeti 12.5K, 25K; Manning Park, BC, Canada; (604) 220-5083; info@theyeti.ca; www.theyeti.ca 04/18 Marathon des Sables 145M; Ouarzazate, Morocco; (208) 787-2077; info@dreamchaserevents.com; www.dreamchaserevents.com 2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 43

Âť race calendar 04/24 Gobi March 250K; Dunhuang, Gansu, China; 12024780218; info@racingtheplanet.com; www. racingtheplanet.com 04/30 Ganaraska Trail Runs 25K, 50K; Horseshoe Valley, ON, Canada; (705) 327-2156; cdanrun@sympatico. ca; www.ous.kw.net

05/02 05/07 05/07

05/07 05/07

05/08 05/14 05/14 05/14 05/14 05/14 05/15 05/19 05/21 05/21 05/21 05/21 05/21

May PACIFIC/DESERT Ohlone Wilderness Trail Run 50K; Fremont, CA; (510) 653-5271; Ohlone50K@abovethefog.net; www.abovethefog.net Bolinas Ridge Wild Boar Run 10K, 18K; Mill Valley, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www. envirosports.com Mike Popolizio Quicksilver Endurance Run 50K, 50M; San Jose, CA; (408) 358-3603; JanoTomo@earthlink.net; www.quicksilverrunning.com Southern California Hillsea 7.6M; Huntington Beach, CA; (714) 841-5417; OJRFINISH@aol.com; www.nealand.com/finishline Wild Wild West Marathon 10M, 26.2M, 50K; Lone Pine, CA; (760) 876-4444; director@lonepinechamber.org; www. lonepinechamber.org Spring Salmon Run 10K; Nevada City, CA; (530) 2733183; susanm@woolman.org; www.woolman.org Carmel Valley Trail Run 8K, 17K, 33K, 50K; Carmel Valley, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@PCTrailRuns. com; www.pctrailruns.com Lost Boys 50 Miler; Cuyamaca State Park, CA; info@lostboys50.com; www.lostboys50.com Malibu Creek Trail Challenge 4M, 14M; Calabasas, CA; (310) 260-7898; info@trailrace.com; www. trailrace.com McDonald Forest 50K; Corvallis, OR; (541)758-8124; macultra@proaxis.com; www.proaxis.com/~lacava Quicksilver Ride & Tie 5M, 14M, 23M; San Jose, CA; (650) 949-2321; crriffle@earthlink.net; www. rideandtie.org Tilden Tough Ten 10M; Berkeley, CA; (510) 6444224; ernesti@pacbell.net; www.lmjs.org TRIOBA Sprint Adventure Race Series 35M; Ellensburg, WA; (253) 709-8232; ingo@trioba.com; www.trioba.com Bishop High Sierra Ultras 20M, 50K, 50M; Bishop, CA; (760) 873-5373; Andrew.boyd2@verizon.net; www.bhs50.com Cougar Mountain Trail Run Serries #1 5M; Newcastle, WA; (206) 329-1469; searunco@aol. com; www.seattlerunningcompany.com Silver State 50K, 50M; Reno, NV; (775) 324-5310; gallagher@gbis.com; www.silverstatestriders.com TRIOBA Adventure Race Series 50M; WA; (253) 709-8232; info@trioba.com; www.trioba.com Watershed Preserve 12-Hour Trail Race; Redmond, WA; (206) 795-0338; cdralph@comcast.net; www. cascaderunningclub.com

ROCKIES 05/TBA Twisted 10K; Salt Lake City, UT; (801) 597-5177; info@highmountains.com; www.twisted10K.com 05/07 Collegiate Peaks Races 25M, 50M; Buena Vista, CO; (719) 395-6612; Burke.Kaiser@collegiatepeaksbank. com; www.collegiatepeakstrailrun.org 44 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

05/14 Pricky Pear Land Trust Don’t Fence Me In 5K, 12K; Helena, MT; (406) 443-1343; mpmiller93@yahoo. com; www.pricklypearlt.org 05/21 24 Hours of Boulder...The Run 24H; Boulder, CO; (303) 249-1112; reid_delman@geminiadventures. com; www.geminiadventures.com 05/21 Buffalo Creek Marathon 10K, 25M; Pine, CO; (303) 399-5174; info@runuphillracing.com; www. runuphillracing.com 05/21 Hayden Cog Run 5K, 10K, 8.4M; Hayden, CO; (970) 276 3741; lheer@amigo.net; www.townofhayden. org 05/29 Wyoming Marathon Races 13.1M, 26.2M, 52.4M; Laramie, WY; (307) 635-3316; RunWyo@msn.com; www.angelfire.com/wy2/marathon HEARTLAND 05/07 Pilot Knob Trail Race 15K; Forest City, IA; (641) 377-3321; pilotknobtrailrace@yahoo.com; www. pilotknobtrailrace.com/pktr.html 05/07 Prickly Pear 50K and 10 Mile Trail Runs; San Antonio, TX; (210) 559-1570; bgardner@bisonbuilding.com; www.pp1050.com 05/07 Top of the Hill 5K; Grayling, MI; (989) 348-9266; hansonhills@hotmail.com; www.hansonhills.org 05/14 Ice Age Trail Race 50K, 50M; LaGrange, WI; (262) 628-3270; marathon1@charter.net; www.

IceAgeTrail50.com 05/21 Superior Trail 25K and 50K; Lutsen, MN; (763) 551-0099; superiortrail@aol.com; www. superiortrailrace.com 05/28 Berryman Trail Run 26.2M, 50M; Potosi, MO; (573) 763-5704; DavidWhite465280@cs.com; www. stlouisultrarunnersgroup.net 05/28 Potomac Highlands Expedition Adventure 60H; Columbus, OH; (614) 397-6112; bradhunt@ambushadventuresports.com; www. ambushadventuresports.com EAST 05/01 Mountain Sports Festival Adventure Race 12H; Asheville, NC; (207) 836-2772; info@racingahead. com; www.racingahead.com 05/07 Massanutten Mountain Trails 100 100M; Front Royal, VA; (410) 987-8172; stanruns@att.net; www. vhtrc.org/mmt 05/07 Shad Bloom Trail Run 10K; Block Island, RI; (401) 466-3223; recreation@new-shoreham.com 05/08 Spring Trail Run 5.3M; Kingston Township, PA; (570) 474-5363; vddlvince@aol.com; www.members.aol. com/wyovalstri/wyoval.htm 05/08 Thom B Trail Run 13K, 26K; Dryden, NY; (607) 844-8081; kurtzes@usadatanet.net; www. fingerlakesrunners.org 05/08 Tom Bugliosi Trail Run 13K, 26K; Dryden, NY; www. fingerlakesrunners.org 05/14 Are We Having Fun Yet? 50K; Charlotte, NC; (704) 875-6421; www.claudesinclair.com 05/14 Capon Valley Run 50K; Yellow Spring, WV; (304) 856-2987; lynn@edgebrook.org; www. iplayoutside.com/capon50/ 05/14 Long Island Greenbelt Trail 50K Run; Plainview, NY; (631) 957-6056; npalazzo@optonline.net; www. glirc.org 05/14 XTERRA Camp; Sherando Lake, VA; (757) 645-3397; info@oarevents.com; www.oarevents.com

05/15 Highland Forest 1-2-3 10M, 20M, 30M; Fabius, NY; www.syracusechargers.org 05/15 Odyssey Off-Road Triathlon; Sherando Lake Recreation Area, VA; (757) 645-3397; info@oarevents.com; www.OARevents.com 05/15 Soapstone Mountain Trail Race and Sampler 4M, 14.5M; Stafford Springs, CT; (860) 8704375; deb@horstengineering.com; www. shenipsitstriders.org 05/20 Appalachian Extreme Adventure Race; (207) 8362772; info@racingahead.com; www.racingahead. com 05/21 Dirty Dog Trail Run 15K; Charleston, WV; (304) 741-3531; danieltodd@charter.net; www.wvmtr.org 05/21 HUMP Trail Run 50K; Landenburg, PA; (215) 2043315; hunt.bartine@temple.edu; www.TrailDawgs. org 05/21 Odyssey SEAL Adventure Challenge 24H; Virginia Beach, VA; (757) 645-3397; info@oarevents.com; www.OARevents.com 05/26 VCTC Summer Cross-Country Series 5K; Bronx, NY; (201) 768-0202; maryfred919@aol.com; www. vctc.org INTERNATIONAL 05/01 Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; ON, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 05/01 Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; BC, Canada; (604) 308-4666; www.fivepeaks.com 05/01 Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; AB, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 05/07 Adidas GutBuster Trail Run #3 5K, 10K; Victoria, BC, Canada; (250) 715-8933; info@gutbustertrailrn. com; www.gutbustertrailrun.com 05/14 Keremeos Kruncher 25K, 50K; Keremeos, BC, Canada; (250) 499-2680; eaglemoe@img.net; www.eagleruns.com 05/21 Great Wall Marathon 10K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Moshi, Tanzania, Africa; (619) 298-7400; kathy@kathyloperevents.com; www. kathyloperevents.com/gwm 05/21 North Shore Enduro 6-Hour; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.ClubFatAss.com/CABCVan_6hour 05/22 Great Canadian Trail Race 12K; Kelowna, BC, Canada; (250) 863-4718; bill@tmtadventures.com; www.tmtadventures.com 05/28 Sulphur Springs Trail Run 10K, 25K, 50K, 50M, 100M; Ancaster, ON, Canada; (905) 333-0652; jhewitt@pathcom.com; www.burlingtonrunners. com 05/29 Half Knacker Trail Race 25K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 988-6564; info@ironlung.ca; www. halfknacker.ca June PACIFIC/DESERT 06/TBA Camp Pendleton World Famous Mud Run 10K; Camp Pendleton, CA; (760) 725-6836; DuckworthJE@pendleton.usmc.mil; www. camppendletonraces.com 06/04 Mount Diablo Trail Runs - PCTR 8K, 25K, 50K; Clayton, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@PCTrailRuns. com; www.pctrailruns.com 06/04 Sacred Mountain Prayer Run 2K, 5K, 10K; Flagstaff, AZ; (928) 526-2968; cpohl@nacainc.org; www. nacainc.org

race calendar « 06/04 Shadow of the Giants 11K, 50K; Fish Camp, CA; (559) 760-5008; bazhawleyrd@yahoo.com; www. shadowofthegiants50k.com 06/05 DSE Practice Dipsea 6.8M; Mill Valley, CA; (415) 978-0837; dse.pekingduck@juno.com; www. dserunners.com 06/05 Lake Chabot Trail Challenge 5K, 13.1M; Castro Valley, CA; (925) 484-1339; mraffee@comcast.net; www.goldenbayrunners.org 06/11 Cougar Mountain Trail Run Serries #2 7.5M; Newcastle, WA; (206) 329-1469; searunco@aol. com; www.seattlerunningcompany.com 06/11 Dipsea 7.1M; Mill Valley, CA; (415) 331-3550; DipseaInfo@dipsea.org; www.dipsea.org 06/11 Skyline Ridge Trail Runs 14K, 23K, 50K; Palo Alto, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@PCTrailRuns.com; www.pctrailruns.com 06/12 Holcomb Valley Trail Run 15M, 33M; Big Bear Lake, CA; (909) 584-7925; raceinfo@holcombvalleytrailru ns.com; www.holcombvalleytrailruns.com 06/12 North Olympic Discovery Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Port Angeles, WA; (360) 417-1301; info@nodm.com; www.nodm.com 06/18 Cape Mountain 10 Mile Trail Run; Florence, OR; (541) 997-6627; jand@oregonfast.net 06/19 Dick Houston Memorial Woodminster Run 9M; Oakland, CA; (510) 523-2647; mhovermale@attbi. com; www.home.comcast.net/~mhovermale/ indexWoodmin2003results.htm 06/25 Walt Stack Double Dipsea Handicap Race 10K; Stinson Beach, CA; (415) 586-3104; RunKenRun@aol.com; www.dserunners.com 06/25 Western States 100 100M; Squaw Valley, CA; (916) 387 8796; wser100@comcast.net; www.ws100.com 06/27 R.A.C.E. Race Across California E-Venture; Lake Tahoe-San Francisco, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports.com ROCKIES 06/TBA Summit Trail Running Series #1 & #2; Breckenridge, CO; (970) 543-1734; staceyt@townofb reckenridge.com; www.townofbreckenridge.com 06/04 Governor’s Cup Marathon 5K, 10K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Marysville, MT; (406) 447-3414; trinda@caring4kidsmt.com; www.govcup.bcbsmt. com 06/04 Adam’s Gulch Fun Run 4.2M; Ketchum, ID; (208) 726-3497; brosso@elephantsperch.com; www. elephantsperch.com 06/04 Big Mountain Adventure Racing Series - Sprint; Boise, ID; (801) 597-5177; info@highmountains.com; www.highmountains.com 06/04 Caring Foundation of Montana Governor’s Cup 5K, 10K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Helena, MT; (800) 447-7828 ext.

8261; trinda@caring4kidsmt.com; www.govcup. bcbsmt.com 06/04 Squaw Peak 50 Mile Trail Run; Provo, UT; (801) 226-6789; jbozung@aol.com; www.hometown.aol. com/jbozung/oasis.htm 06/04 Teva Spring Run Off 6.5M; Vail, CO; (970) 479-2280; mortiz@vailrec.com; www.vailrec.com 06/05 Steamboat Marathon 10K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Steamboat, CO; (970) 879-0880; marathon@steamboatchambe r.com; www.steamboatchamber.com 06/11 Park City Marathon 26.2M; Park City, UT; (435) 647-0314; info@pcmarathon.com; www. pcmarathon.com

06/11 Wagon Box Social Mountain Run 5K, 10K, 15K; Meeteetse, WY; (307) 868-2603; meetrec@tctwest. net; www.meetrec.org 06/12 Horsetooth Mountain Trail Run 8M; Fort Collins,CO; (970) 224-9114; roostftc@cs.com; www. runnersroostftcollins.com 06/16 Big Horn Trail 100 100M; Dayton, WY; (307) 6725356; shspst@fiberpipe.net; www.bighorntrailrun. com 06/17 Big Horn Mountain Wild and Scenic Runs 30K, 50K, 50M; Dayton, WY; (307) 672-5356; shspst@fiberpipe.net; www.bighorntrailrun.com 06/18 Red Bull Divide & Conquer 7M; Silverton, CO; (303) 567-2933; stephen.nilsen@us.redbull.com; www. redbulldiveandconquer.com 06/18 San Juan Solstice 50 50M; Lake City, CO; (970) 9442269; grayj@lakecity.net; www.lakecity50.com 06/19 Joe Colton’s Off-Road Adventure Run 5K, 10M, 15M; Rollinsville, CO; (303) 258-7113; lori.kinczel@igc.org; www.joecoltonadventure.org 06/22 Twilight Trail Series #1 10K; Golden, CO; (303) 399-5174; info@runuphillracing.com; www. runuphillracing.com 06/24 Leadville Trail 100 Training Camp; Leadville, CO; (719) 486-3502; lt100@chaffee.net; www. leadvilletrail100.com 06/25 Jim Bridger 50K; Bozeman, MT; (406) 556-1496; runtrails@theglobal.net; www.math.montana. edu/~thayes 06/25 Pilot Hill Trail Run 8K, 25K; Laramie, WY; (307) 742-0971; alexander_brenda@hotmail.com; www. highplainsharriers.org 06/25 Wahsatch Steeplechase 17M; Salt Lake City, UT; (801) 541-6949; butch@butchadams.com; www. wahsatchsteeplechase.com HEARTLAND 06/02 Afton Trail Run 25K, 50K; Afton, MN; (651) 429-8342; aftontrailrun@yahoo.com; www. aftontrailrun.com 06/04 DINO Trail Run Series #3 - Town Run Trail Park 5K, 15K; Indianapolis, IN; (317) 336-7552; Brian@DINOseries.com; www.DINOseries.com 06/04 FANS 12 & 24 Hour Run 12H, 24H; Minneapolis, MN; (651) 737-0467; FANS24hour@lycos.com; www. fans24hour.org 06/04 Kettle Moraine 100 Endurance Runs & Relay 100K, 100M; Whitewater, WI; (608) 873-1556; kettle100run@yahoo.com; www.kettle100.com 06/05 Deadwood Mickelson Trail Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Deadwood, SD; (605) 642-2382; leanhorse@rushmore.com; www.deadwoodmickel sontrailmarathon.com 06/11 Aviary Trail Run 10M; Rochester, MN; (507) 287-0613; jslove@charter.net; www. rochestertrackclub.com 06/11 Lake Mingo Trail Run 7.1M; Danville, IL; (217) 4315318; krr@kennekuk.com; www.kennekuk.com 06/11 North Country Trail Relay 76.8M; Manistee, MI; (616) 786-2945; nctrelay@nctrelay.org; www. nctrelay.org 06/18 Mohican Trail 100 100M; Loudonville, OH; (440) 994-7526; rlstrong@neo.rr.com; www. mohican100.org 06/19 Metea County Cedar Creek Run 4 Trails 5K; Fort Wayne, IN; (260) 436-0739; ftwaynerun@aol.com 2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 45

Âť race calendar 06/25 Paddlefest Duathlon; South Bend, IN; (574) 2431604; pnsawyer@comcast.net; www.paddlefest. org/duathlon.html EAST 06/TBA Hartshorne Woods-Spring Trail Run 4M, 5M, 7.2M; Highlands, NJ; (732) 578-1771; webmaster@njrrc.org; www.njrrc.org 06/04 Tortoise & Hare Trail Run 1M, 10K; Ithaca, NY; www. fingerlakesrunners.org 06/05 Deckers Creek Trail Half Marathon 13.1M; Morgantown, WV; (304) 864-5242; mwthorne@access.k12.wv.us; www.montrails.org 06/05 NipMuck Trail Marathon 26.4M; Ashford, CT; (860) 455-1096; nipmuckdave@wmconnect.com; www. newenglandtrailrunner.com 06/09 VCTC Summer XC Relay 22M; Bronx, NY; (201) 7680202; Maryfred919@aol.com; www.vctc.org 06/11 Discover Portland Urban AR; Portland, ME; (207) 836-2772; info@racingahead.com; www. racingahead.com 06/11 Laurel Highlands Ultra 70M; Ohiopyle, PA; (724) 832-1018; runhewitt@comcast.net; www. laurelultra.com 06/11 Whiteface Mountain Uphill Footrace 8M; Wilmington, NY; (888) WHITEFACE; info@whitefacerace.com; www.whitefacerace.com 06/12 ACE Big Canyon ORT 1.5M, 7M, 10M; Oak Hill, WV; (888) 223-7238; beth@aceraft.com; www. aceraft.com 06/18 Highlands Sky 40 Mile Trail Run; Davis, WV; helvetiawv@starband.net; www.wvmtr.org

06/19 Greylock Gallop 13M; Adams, MA; (413) 743-5669; saharczewski@aol.com; www.runwmac.com 06/19 Greylock Uphill Road Run 8M; Adams, MA; (802) 423-7537; dion@bcn.net; www.runwmac.com 06/19 Tanglewood Tanglefoot Trail Run 5M, 10M; Elmira, NY; (607) 732-6060; twood2004@aol.com; www. tangle-wood.org 06/20 Odyssey Adventure Racing Academy; Virginia Beach, VA; (757) 645-3397; info@oarevents.com; www.oarevents.com 06/23 VCTC Summer XC Series 5K; Bronx, NY; (201) 7680202; Maryfred919@aol.com; www.vctc.org 06/24 Odyssey Endorphin FIX; New River Gorge N.P., WV; (757) 645-3397; info@oarevents.com; www.

OARevents.com 06/25 Bear Swamp Ride & Tie 6M, 12M, 20M; Ithaca, NY; (607) 724-7080; rschmid@stny.rr.com; www.rideandtie.org 06/26 Double Trouble Trail Runs 15K, 30K; Morgantown, PA; (610) 779-2668; rhornpcs@aol.com; www. pagodapacers.com INTERNATIONAL 06/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; BC, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 06/03 Ecuador Running Adventure 520M; Ecuador; (800) 289-9470; info@andesadventures.com; www. andesadventures.com/runadv.htm 06/06 Quelle Challenge Roth Triathlon Festival; Roth, Germany; info@challenge-roth.de; www.challengeroth.com 06/11 Adidas GutBuster Trail Run #4 5K, 10K, 26.2M; Nanaimo, BC, Canada; (250) 715-8933; info@gutbustertrailrn.com; www.gutbustertrailrun.com

WICKED GLACIERS SACRED MOUNTAINS TURQUOISE LAKES

INCA TRAIL MARATHON & CHASQUI CHALLENGE - PERU June 12 to 26, 2005 PERUVIAN ANDES RUNNING ADVENTURE July 17 to 31, 2005 ECUADOR RUNNING ADVENTURE May 26 - June 3, 2005 PATAGONIA RUNNING ADVENTURE December 16, 2005 to January 2, 2006

(800) 289-9470 www.andesadventures.com

06/11 XTC X-Country Trail Challenge 25K, 50K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.ClubFatAss.com/ CABCVan_XTC 06/12 Chasqui Challenge 528M; Cusco, Peru; (800) 289-9470; info@andesadventures.com; www. andesadventures.com 06/12 Inca Trail to Machu Piccu 27.5M; Cusco, Peru; (800) 289-9470; info@andesadventures.com; www. andesadventures.com 06/12 Maratun Alpino Madrileo 42K; Madrid, Spain; 34594-30-34; asociacion@tierratragame.com; www. tierratragame.com/maraton 06/17 Ameri-Cana International Relay 90M, 140M, 170M, 220M; Nelson, BC, Canada; (208) 664-3114; acrelay@acrelay.com; www.acrelay.com 06/18 Seek the Peak Relay 10M; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 998-5043; elanghjelm@grousemoun tain.com; www.grousemountain.com July PACIFIC/DESERT 07/TBA Hernia Hill Half Marathon 5K, 10K, 13.1M; Arnold, CA; (209) 795-7832; info@onyourmarkevents.com; www.onyourmarkevents.com 07/02 Angel Island Trail Runs 8K, 16K, 25K, 50K; Tiburon, CA; (925) 947-3787; info@pacifictrailruns.com; www.pctrailruns.com 07/04 Mount Angel 4th of July Run 5K; Mount Angel, OR; (503) 845-2211; marhondo@hotmail.com; www. mtangel.net/~matthew 07/09 Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Fun Run 6M; Morro Bay, CA; (805) 772-6278; ksweeny@morro-bay. ca.us; www.leaguelineup.com/mbsports

race calendar « 07/09 Cougar Mountain Trail Run Serries #3 10M; Newcastle, WA; (206) 329-1469; searunco@aol. com; www.seattlerunningcompany.com 07/09 Gold Country Ride & Tie 20M; Georgetown, CA; (530) 273-5668; cdefpe@aol.com; www.rideandtie. org 07/09 Ride & Tie Championships 32M, 35M; Truckee, CA; (650) 949-0620; webmail@rideandtie.org; www. rideandtie.org 07/09 Siskiyou Out Back Trail Run 15K, 50K; Ashland, OR; (541) 482-1530; marilyn@siskiyououtback.com; www.siskiyououtback.com 07/11 Daybreak Climb a Mountain 34.3M; Spokane, WA; (509) 927-1688; mbuan@daybreakrun.org; www. daybreakrun.org 07/16 Bandit Springs Ride and Tie 20M; Princeville, OR; (360) 681-5218; rideandtiedon@aol.com; www. rideandtie.org 07/16 Gorge Games Trail Run 10K, 13.1M; White Salmon, WA; (541) 386-7774; ovidio@gorgegames.com; www.gorgegames.com 07/16 Santa Cruz Mountains Trail Runs 7K, 24K, 32K, 50K; Santa Cruz, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns. com; www.pctrailruns.com 07/16 Tahoe Rim Trail 50K, 50M; Spooner Summit, NV; (530) 542-3424; trt50k50m@sbcglobal.net; www. tahoemtnmilers.org/trt50/ 07/23 Baldy Peaks 50K 32M; Mt Baldy Village, CA; (323) 655-8177; L_GASSAN@beachnet.com; www. larrygassan.com/BP50k_index.html 07/30 Kilauea Volcano Wilderness Run 5M, 10M, 26.2M; Volcanoes National Park, HI; (808) 985-8725; vacmln@gte.net; www.volcanoartcenter.org

07/30 Scott McQueeney Memorial Mt. Hood PCT 50/50 50K, 50M; Portland, OR; (503) 282-5692; longrun@pcez.com; www.pctultra.com_ 07/30 Tahoe City Trail Run 10K, 20K, 30K, 50K; Tahoe City, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com 07/30 White River 50 Mile Trail Run; Crystal Mountain, WA; (206) 329-1466; searunco@aol.com; www. whiteriver50.org 07/31 Original Bare Buns Fun Run 5K; Loon Lake, WA; (509) 327-NUDE; bbfr5k@aol.com; www. kaniksufamily.com ROCKIES 07/TBA Summit Trail Running Series #3, #4 & #5; Breckenridge, CO; (970) 543-1734; staceyt@townofb reckenridge.com; www.townofbreckenridge.com 07/TBA Snow King Hill Climb 2.3M; Jackson Hole, WY; (307) 733-5056; jharkness@tetonwyo.org; www. tetonwyo.org 07/02 Leadville Trail Marathon 26.2M; Leadville, CO; (719) 486-3502; lt100@chaffee.net; www. leadvilletrail100.com 07/08 Hardrock 100 100M; Silverton, CO; (970) 259-3693; ddmb@frontier.net; www.run100s.com/HR 07/09 Canyon to Canyon 10K, 13.1M; Salt Lake City, UT; (801) 583-6281; sports-am@abac.com; www.sports-am.com 07/10 Fort Stanton Ride & Tie (I) 35M; Fort Stanton, NM; (520) 384-2948; arabians@libby.org; www. rideandtie.org 07/10 Summer Roundup Trail Run 12K; Colorado Springs, CO; (719) 473-2625; raceinfo@pikespeakmarathon. org; www.pikespeakmarathon.org

JOIN TODAY AND SUPPORT OUR SPORT. The All American Trail Running Association (AATRA), is a 501(c) not-for-profit corporation founded in 1996 to represent and promote trail and mountain running.

Visit our web site, www.trailrunner.com Our goals: • Educate and provide information about our sport to the media and non-running entities that have similar • Organize AATRA-sponsored and supported events • Provide a forum whereby the business of the sport can be discussed and organized • Create and nurture alliances with other organizations • Develop recreational participation and provide opportunities for families to enjoy our sport In addition to benefits that include our newsletter Trail Times, $9 of your $25 annual membership entitles you to one-year subscription to Trail Runner.

(Current Trail Runner subscribers who join AATRA receive one additional year.)

AATRA Membership Form (check one) � Individual = $25/year � Race = $50/year � Club = $50/year � Corporation = $100/year Name: ______________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: ________________________________________________________ Phone/Fax: __________________________________________________________ E-mail: ______________________________________________________________ Birth Date: ________________ Age: ________________ Sex: _______________ Corp/Club/Race: ______________________________________________________ Race Date: __________________________________________________________

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Questions? Call (719) 573-4405

07/12 Fort Stanton Ride & Tie (II) 35M; Fort Stanton, NM; (520) 384-2948; arabians@libby.org; www. rideandtie.org 07/13 Twilight Trail Series #2 10K; Golden, CO; (303) 3995174; runahill@yahoo.com; www.runuphillracing.com 07/14 Fort Stanton Ride & Tie (III) 35M; Fort Stanton, NM; (520) 384-2948; arabians@libby.org; www. rideandtie.org 07/16 Backcountry Run 10M, 16.5M; Ketchum, ID; (208) 726-3497; brosso@elephantsperch.com; www. elephantsperch.com 07/16 Devil’s Backbone 50 Miler; Bozeman, MT; (406) 556-1496; runtrails@theglobal.net; www.math. montana.edu/~thayes/Runs/DB50Info.html 07/16 Fort Stanton Ride & Tie (IV) 35M; Fort Stanton, NM; (520) 384-2948; arabians@libby.org; www. rideandtie.org 07/16 Lory Trail Run 5K, 10K; Fort Collins, CO; (970) 224-9114; roostftc@cs.com; www.runnersroostftcollins.com 07/16 Mountain Challenge Trail Run 5K, 10K; Park City, UT; info@mountaintrails.org; www. mountaintrails.org 07/17 Barr Trail Mountain Race 12M; Manitou Springs, CO; (719) 685-5654; info@runpikespeak.com; www. runpikespeak.com 07/17 High Mountain Trail Run 25K, 50K; Leadville, CO; kbartlett@hminet.org 07/23 Grin and Bear It Trail Run 9.3M; Crested Butte, CO; (970) 349-5326; cristian@rmi.net; www. visitcrestedbutte.com/mtnrunners 07/27 Twilight Trail Series #3 10K; Golden, CO; (303) 399-5174; info@runuphillracing.com; www. runuphillracing.com

» race calendar 07/30 Big Mountain Adventure Racing Series - Sprint; Jackson Hole, WY; (801) 597-5177; info@highmountains.com; www.highmountains. com 07/30 Burning Bear Trail Run and Ultra 18M, 40M; Grant, CO; (303) 399-5174; info@runuphillracing.com; www.runuphillracing.com 07/30 Grand Prix Classic 10K; Colorado Springs, CO; (719) 635-8803; director@csgrandprix.com; www. csgrandprix.com 07/31 State Games of America 5K; Colorado Springs, CO; (719) 634-7333 x1007; doug@thesportscorp.org; www.theStateGames.org HEARTLAND 07/02 DINO Trail Run Series #4 - Muscatatuck Park 5K, 15K; North Vernon, IN; (317) 336-7552; Brian@DINOseries.com; www.DINOseries.com 07/09 Great Coast-to-Coast Multisport Race Across Ohio 36H; Cleveland-Marietta, OH; (614) 397-6112; bradhunt@ambushadventuresports.com; www. ambushadventuresports.com 07/10 Mystic Mountain Run 8M; Rapid City, SD; (605) 348-7866; runnersshop@rushmore.com 07/16 Minnesota Voyageur Trail Marathon 26.2M; Carlton, MN; (218) 729-5949; BDCURNOW@msn.com; www. computerpro.com/~hsloan 07/16 Steel Sports Mineral Wells Adventure Race 60M; Mineral Wells, TX; (903) 871-8466; rodney@steelsports.net; www.steelsports.net 07/30 Minnesota Voyageur Trail Ultra 50M; Carlton, MN; (218) 729-5949; www.computerpro.com/~hsloan

EAST 07/02 Finger Lakes Fifties Trail Runs 25K, 50K, 50M; Hector, NY; www.fingerlakesrunners.org 07/16 Vermont 100 100M; West Windsor, VT; (802) 728-5294; vt100@vermontadaptive.org; www. vermont100.com 07/17 Forest Frolic Runs 7K, 15K; Virgil, NY; www. fingerlakesrunners.org 07/17 Indian Ladder Trail Run 1M, 3.5M, 15K; Albany, NY; (518) 439-5822; mjkhome@yahoo.com; www. hmrrc.com 07/17 New England Adventure Race Series - Race 1 40M; West Dover, VT; (207) 836-2772; info@racingahead. com; www.racingahead.com 07/21 VCTC Summer XC Series 5K; Bronx, NY; (201) 7680202; Maryfred919@aol.com; www.vctc.org 07/23 Damn Wakely Dam Ultra 32.6M; Pisceo, NY; (315) 456-2590; TrailRunner@WakelyDam.com; www. wakelydam.com 07/30 Empire Haven 4-Leaf Clover Run 4.8M, 16.8M; Summerhill, NY; www.fingerlakesrunners.org 07/30 Jay Mountain Marathon 27M; Jay, VT; (514) 8877535; rd@Jaychallenge.com; www.jaychallenge. com 07/31 Escarpment Trail Run 30K; Windham, NY; (518) 678-3293; EscarpmentTrail@aol.com; www. escarpmenttrail.com INTERNATIONAL 07/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; ON, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com

07/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; BC, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 07/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; AB, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 07/09 Knee Knackering North Shore Trail Run 30M; West Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 9787-9097; rd@kneeknacker.com; www.kneeknacker.com 07/11 Adidas GutBuster Trail Run #5 5K, 10K; Victoria, BC, Canada; (250) 715-8933; info@gutbustertrailrn. com; www.gutbustertrailrun.com 07/16 Damn Tuff Ruff Bluff Trail Run 25K, 50K; Owen Sound, ON, Canada; (519) 371-2475; barber. dj@sympatico.ca; www.ous.kw.net 07/16 Eagle 50M, 100M; Keremeos, BC, Canada; (250) 4992680; eaglemoe@img.net; www.eagleruns.com 07/16 Powderface 42 Trail Race 21K, 42K; Calgary, AB, Canada; (403) 202-3917; info@powderface42.com; www.powderface42.com 07/17 Inca Trail Running Adventure 518M; Cusco, Peru; (800) 289-9470; info@andesadventures.com; www.andesadventures.com/runadv.htm 07/25 Bill’s Grouse Peak Ascent 25K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.clubfatass.com/CABCVan_Bills/ 07/30 Conquer the Canuck 10K, 25K, 42.2K, 50K; Waterloo, ON, Canada; (519) 742-3513; conquertheca nuck@sympatico.ca; www.ous.kw.net August PACIFIC/DESERT 08/TBA Bulldog Ultra 30K, 50K; Malibu, CA; (818) 3687895; bulldogultra@yahoo.com; www.bulldogrun.com

race calendar « 08/TBA Round Valley Run 5.3M; Greenville, CA; (530) 284-6856; theshowers@frontiernet.net; www. roundvalleyrun.com 08/TBA Sunrise to Summit 4M; Bend, OR; (541) 388-0002; www.mbsef.org/foundation/suntosum.htm 08/TBA Wasatch Adventure Race 100M; Sandy, UT; (801) 597-5177; info@highmountains.com; www. highmountains.com 08/05 Resurrection Pass 100 100M; Hope, AK; (907) 3461544; katpat@customcpu.com 08/05 Skyline 50K; Castro Valley, CA; (510) 247-9774; skyline50k@comcast.net; www.skyline50k.us 08/06 Fireworks Ride & Tie 12M, 25M; Santa Cruz, CA; (650) 949-2321; crriffle@earthlink.net; www. rideandtie.org 08/06 Resurrection Pass 50 50M; Cooper Landing, AK; (907) 346-1544; katpat@customcpu.com; 08/07 Manzanita Park XC Fun Run 5K, 10K; Castroville, CA; (831) 663-2108; sewcoach@cs.com 08/13 Cougar Mountain Trail Run Serries #4 13.2M; Newcastle, WA; (206) 329-1466; searunco@aol. com; www.seattlerunningcompany.com 08/13 Dammit Run 5M; Los Gatos, CA; (408) 354-2005; eds322@comcast.net 08/13 Santiam Cascade Ride & Tie 20M; Santiam Pass, OR; (503) 829-5321; flyingn@molalla.net; www. rideandtie.org 08/18 Psychedelic Climatric Run 28.5M; Berkeley, CA; (510) 642-5034; mikepalmer@mail.summer.berkeley.edu 08/18 Sunset in the Park HS Teams 2.8M, 4.8M; Huntington Beach, CA; (714) 841-5417; Redwood Trails.31 10/12/04 4:36 PM OJRFINISH@aol.com; www.nealand.com/finishline

08/20 Swanton Pacific Ride & Tie 75M, 100M; Davenport, CA; (831) 423-6089; ellenm@big-creek.com; www. rideandtie.org 08/20 Where’s Waldo 100K & Relay; Willamette Pass, OR; (541) 686-6580; thornley@wpsp.org; www.wpsp. org/ww100k 08/21 Salt Point Trail Run 11K, 26K, 50K; Jenner, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com 08/27 Angel Island 12K and 25K; Tiburon, CA; (415) 8681829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports. com 08/28 San Francisco Coastal Trail Challenge 10K, 13.1M; San Francisco, CA; (650) 438-9589; georgerehmet@yahoo.com; www.dserunners.com ROCKIES 08/TBA Summit Trail Running Series #6 & #7; Breckenridge, CO; (970) 543-1734; staceyt@town ofbreckenridge.com; www.townofbreckenridge. com 08/06 Katcina Mosa Mountain Challenge Run 100K; Provo, UT; (801) 226-6789; jbozung@aol.com; www.hometown.aol.com/jbozung/oasis.htm 08/07 La Luz Trail Run 9M; Albuquerque, NM; (505) 7970791; rodger_j._sack@ffic.com; www.aroadrun. org 08/10 Twilight Trail Series #4 10K; Golden, CO; (303) 399-5174; info@runuphillracing.com; www. runuphillracing.com 08/13 Jupiter Peak Steeplechase Trail Run 16M; Park City, UT; info@mountaintrails.org; www.mountaintrails.

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Bizz Johnson Marathon

A fast scenic course that’s groomed to perfection and easy on your knees, winds through northeast California’s most gorgeous landscapes. You might set a PR, as the course is never steep and loses 1000’ in elevation. Arguably the country’s most scenic marathon, the trail dives through the magnificent Susan River Canyon, crossing the river twelve times on picturesque wooden railroad bridges and passing through two railroad tunnels, 800’ & 450’ in length.The Bizz Marathon takes you the fast way through the mountain, instead of over it. 1/2 Marathon, 10K & 5K races too.

Sunday, October 9, 2005 - Westwood to Susanville, CA Redwood Trails | www.redwoodtrails.com | info@redwoodtrails.com | 650-364-8256

08/14 Leadville 100 10K; Leadville, CO; (719) 486-3502; lt100@chaffee.net; www.leadvilletrail100.com 08/20 Leadville Trail 100 100M; Leadville, CO; (719) 486-3502; leadville@leadvilleusa.com; www. leadvilletrail100.com 08/20 Pikes Peak Ascent 13.4M; Manitou Springs, CO; (719) 473-2625; raceinfo@pikespeakmarathon.org; www. pikespeakmarathon.org 08/20 Shop to the Top of Baldy 5M, 6M; Ketchum, ID; (208) 726-3497; brosso@elephantsperch.com; www.elephantsperch.com 08/21 Pikes Peak Marathon 26.2M; Manitou Springs, CO; (719) 473-2625; raceinfo@pikespeakmarathon.org; www.pikespeakmarathon.org 08/26 Big Mountain Adventure Racing Series - WAR 24H; Provo, UT; (801) 597-5177; info@highmountains. com; www.highmountains.com 08/27 Silverton Alpine Marathon 26.2M; Silverton, CO; (970) 387-5247; emilybaer@gobrainstorm.net; www.silvertonalpinemarathon.com 08/28 Golden Gate Canyon Trail Run 12M; Denver, CO; (303) 399-5174; info@runuphillracing.com; www.runuphillracing.com HEARTLAND 08/20 Cleveland Professional Firefighters CrossCountry 5K; Cleveland, TN; (423) 593-1037; cpffa5k@tennesseerunner.com; www.tennesseerunner.com 08/13 Steel Sports Super Cooper Adventure Race 30-50M; Suphur Springs, TX; (903) 871-8466; rodney@steelsports.net; www.steelsports.net

» race calendar 08/20 DINO Trail Run Series #5 - Westwood Park 5K, 15K; New Castle, IN; (317) 336-7552; Brian@DINOseries. com; www.DINOseries.com 08/27 All Kidding Aside Ride and Tie 10M, 25M, 50M; Waverly, OH; (740) 947-2883; maggieszoo@dragonbbs.com; www.rideandtie.org 08/27 Directors Challenge Endurance Trail Run 6.5M; Grayling, MI; (989) 348-9266; hansonhills@hotamail.com; www.hansonhills.org 08/28 All Kidding Aside Ride & Tie II 10M, 25M, 50M; Waverly, OH; (740) 947-2883; maggieszoo@dragonbbs.com; www.rideandtie.org EAST 08/TBA Turkey Swamp Race Day 5M, 10M, 25K, 20M, 50K; Freehold, NJ; (732) 872-1255; martyfrumkin@comcast.net; www.njrrc.org 08/03 Forge the Gorgeous 7-Mile Trail Run; Moravia, NY; www.fingerlakesrunners.org 08/04 VCTC Summer XC Series 5K; Bronx, NY; (201) 7680202; Maryfred919@aol.com; www.vctc.org 08/06 Block Island Triathalon; Block Island, RI; (401) 466-3223; recreation@new-shoreham.com; 08/06 Catoctin Trail Run 50K; Frederick, MD; (301) 6626620; kevin@ultrunr.com; www.ultrunr.com 08/07 Gauley Wildwater Adventure Challenge 12H; Oak Hill, WV; (614) 397-6112; bradhunt@ambushadventu resports.com; www.ambushadventuresports.com 08/07 Rock Run 50M; Nantucket, MA; (705) 515-7206; Hectormacd@yahoo.com; www.therockrun.com 08/13 New England Adventure Race Series - Race 3 75M; Waterville Valley Resort, NH; (207) 836-2772; info@racingahead.com; www.racingahead.com 08/14 Half Wit Trail Run Half Marathon 13.1M; Reading, PA; (610) 779-2668; rhornpcs@aol.com; www. pretzelcitysports.com 08/18 VCTC Summer XC Series 5K; Bronx, NY; (201) 7680202; Maryfred919@aol.com; www.vctc.org 08/21 Savoy Mountain Trail Race 20M; Savoy, MA; (413) 743-5669; saharczewski@aol.com; www.runwmac. com 08/21 Virgil Mountain Madness 12K, 30K; Virgil, NY; www.fingerlakesrunners.org INTERNATIONAL 08/TBA Blackberry Trail Run 50K; Powell River, BC, Canada; (604) 485-5393; nickjtc@shaw.ca 08/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; Moose Mountain, AB, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 08/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; Dagmar, ON, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 08/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; Cypress, BC, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 08/07 Valhalla Pure Yukon River Trail Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Whitehorse, YK, Canada; (867) 668-2858; run@yukonmarathon.com; www.yukonmarathon. com 08/08 Northwest Passage Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M, 50K Resolute, Nunavut, Canada; (819) 4591794; mail@CanadianArcticHolidays.ca; www. canadianarcticholidays.ca/ArcticMarathon.html 08/13 Stormy 67 67K; Squamish, BC, Canada; (604) 8981752; paulcubbon@shaw.ca; www.stormytrailrace.ca 50 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | JANUARY 2005

08/14 ENDURrun 160K; Waterloo, ON, Canada; (519) 6641331; info@endurrun.com; www.endurrun.com 08/20 Iroquoia Trail Run 32K; Burlington, ON, Canada; (905) 319-2629; ous@cogeco.ca; www.ous.kw.net 08/20 Midsummer Night’s Dream Night Run 12K, 18K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.ClubFatAss. com/CABCVan_summernite 08/21 Wreck Beach Bare Buns Fun Run 5K; Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 856-9598; Judyw@wreckbeach.org; www.wreckbeach.org 08/27 Go Deep or Go Home 20/80 20K, 40K, 60K, 80K; Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 699-0065; domrepta@telus.net; www.focs.ca

09/03 09/04 09/05 09/10 09/10 09/17

09/17 09/17 09/17 09/24

September PACIFIC/DESERT Northwest Labor Day Ride & Tie 25M; Mount Vernon, WA; (360) 681-5218; rideandtiedon@aol. com; www.rideandtie.org Run on the Sly 8M, 20K, 50K, 50M; Pollock Pines, CA; (775) 232-7933; robert@ultrarunner.net; www. runsly.org Wildwood Trail Trial 10K; Portland, OR; (503) 6670480; bemrose@earthlink.net; www.orrc.net McKenzie River Trail Run 50K; McKenzie Bridge, OR; (541) 726-6203; phvaughn@mindspring.com; www.mckenzie.walkingman.us/ Plain 100 Mile Endurance Run; Plain, WA; (206) 795-0338; cdralph@comcast.net; www. cascaderunningclub.com Mount Angel Oktoberfest Fun Run 5K, 10K; Mount Angel, OR; (503) 845-2211; oktoberfest_ funrun@hotmail.com; www.mtangel.net/ ~matthew Pacifica Trail Run 9K, 21K, 35K, 50K; Pacifica, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com Rio Del Lago 100M; Granite Bay, CA; (916) 8590821; robert@ultrarunner.net; www.ultrarunner. net Sierra Nevada Endurance Run 53.4K; Folsom, CA; (916) 859-0821; robert@ultrarunner.net; www. ultrarunner.net Mount Diablo Trail Runs - PCTR 8K, 25K, 50K; Clayton, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@PCTrailRuns. com; www.pctrailruns.com

ROCKIES 09/TBA Moab’s Alpine to Slickrock Race & Relay 50M; Moab, UT; (435) 259-3053; mas50miler@yahoo. com; www.mas50.com 09/03 Creede Mountain Runs 2M, 12M, 22M; Creede, CO; (719) 658-2925; rexs@fone.net; 09/03 Meeteetse Absaroka Challenge 5K, 10K, 15K; Meeteetse, WY; (307) 868-2603; meetrec@tctwest. net; www.meetrec.org 09/04 Breckenridge Crest Mountain Marathon 5M, 13.1M, 24.5M; Breckenridge, CO; (970) 453-6422; jim@boec.org; www.boec.org/marathon 09/10 Imogene Pass Run 17.1M; Ouray, CO; (970) 728-0251; staff@imogenerun.com; www.imogenerun.com 09/10 LungBuster Adventure Race; Pagosa Springs, CO; (970) 731-1819; carole@lungbuster.com; www. lungbuster.com 09/10 Mid-Mountain Marathon 26.2M; Park City, UT; info@mountaintrails.org; www.mountaintrails.org

09/10 Wasatch Front 100 Miler; (801) 278-1021; info@wasatch100.com; www.wasatch100.com 09/11 Desert R.A.T.S. 148M; Fruita, CO; (303) 249-1112; reid_delman@geminiadventures.com; www. geminiadventures.com 09/16 Colorado Outward Bound Relay; Idaho Springs, CO; (888) 837-5201 x4; info@outwardboundrelay.com; www.outwardboundrelay.com 09/17 Autumn Color Run 5K, 10K, 13.1M; Buena Vista, CO; (719) 395-2649; naturespantry@buenavistaco.com; www.fourteenernet.com/colorrun 09/17 Jelm Mountain Run 11M; Laramie, WY; (307) 7420971; alexander_brenda@hotmail.com; www. highplainsharriers.org 09/17 Mount Helena Classic 5.6M; Helena, MT; (406) 4420924; slengebrecht@msn.com 09/17 Sombrero Ranch Round-Up 4.4M; Estes Park, CO; (303) 444-7223 x29; mattjenkins@bolderboulder. com; www.bolderboulder.com/sombrero.cfm 09/18 Golden Leaf Half Marathon 13.3M; Aspen, CO; (970) 925-2849; paul@utemountaineer.com; www. utemountaineer.com 09/23 The Bear 100M; Preston, ID; (435) 563-3647; barkers@mstar2.net; www.bear100.com 09/25 Dick Walter Subaru Lewis & Clark Marathon & Relay 5K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Bozeman, MT; (406) 582-1944; gkneil@in-tch.com; www. lewisandclarkmarathon.com 09/25 Lead King Loop Half Marathon 13.1M; Marble, CO; (970) 384-5887; cmacek@rfsd.k12.co.us 09/25 Nike ACG Boulder Backroads Marathon & Half Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Boulder, CO; (303) 9399661; bouldermarathon@comcast.net; www. boulderbackroads.com 09/25 Summit Adventure 24H; Frisco, CO; (303) 635-2815; emgmh@emgcolorado.com; www.emgcolorado.com HEARTLAND 09/TBA Dances with Dirt 50K, 50M, 100K; Hell, MI; (734) 769-5675; susan@runningfit.com; www. danceswithdirt.com 09/03 Bannerman Trail Run 5K, 10K, 13.1M; Redgranite, WI; (920) 787-4222; favecd@vbe.com; www. cwainc.org 09/03 Steel Sports Tyler Adventure Sprint Race 15-25M Tyler, TX; (903) 871-8466; rodney@steelsports.net; www.steelsports.net 09/05 Runner’s Edge Trail Half-Marathon 13.1K; Libertyville, IL; (847) 853-8531; runedgeil@yahoo. com; www.runswim.com 09/10 Backroads Boogie 10K Trail Run; Hayward, WI; www.haywardhalfmarathon.com 09/10 Big South Fork Ride & Tie 25M, 50M; Onieda, TN; (865) 693-4308; JFGHorse@netzero.net; www. rideandtie.org 09/10 Rock the Race 10H; Rockford, IL; (815) 654-0758 x12; abrefeld@rockfordymca.org; www.rockfordymca. org/rocktherace 09/10 Superior Trail Race Marathon/50Mile 26.2M, 50M; Lutsen, MN; (507) 753-2240; mntrailrun@hotmail. com; www.superiortrailrace.com 09/17 Lake Superior Shore Run - Race Against Tobacco 5K, 13.1M; Marquette, MI; (888) 578-6489; jharrington@hline.org; www.smokefreeup.org 09/17 North Country Trail Run 26.2M, 50M; Manistee, MI; (616) 261-9706; steve@stridersrun.com; www.stridersrun.com

race calendar ÂŤ 09/17 Pilot Knob Trail Race 5M; Forest City, IA; (641) 377-3321; pilotknobtrailrace@yahoo.com; www. pilotknobtrailrace.com/pktr.html 09/17 Walker North Country Marathon 10K, 26.2M, 13.2M; Walker, MN; (218) 547-4157; ltemplin@arvig.net; www.raceberryjam.com/walker/htm 09/18 Mount Baldhead Challenge 5K, 15K; Saugatuck, MI; (616) 355-9156; michaelrayshaw@yahoo.com; www.mtbaldhead.com 09/24 Applefest 10K; Lebanon, OH; (513) 932-1424 x116; ruthsue@countrysideymca.org; www. countrysideymca.org 09/24 Fall Color Classic 4M; Rockford, IL; (815) 544-0879; RRRNewsletter@aol.com; www. rockfordroadrunners.com 09/24 Flat Rock Endurance Trail Runs 25K, 50K; Independence, KS; (316) 258-9602; ultrarunner@ericsteele.com; www.ultrarunners. info 09/24 Mickelson Trail Ultra 100M; Deadwood, SD; (307) 672-5356; shspst@fiberpipe.net 09/24 Newton Hills Trail Challenge 8M; Canton, SD; (605) 335-7213; marathnr@hotmail.com; www. siouxfallsarearunningclub.org 09/24 Running Bares XC 5K; Weatherford, TX; (817) 5981312; vgr1@airmail.net; www.vistagranderanch.com 09/24 VASA Trail Run 5K, 11K, 25K; Traverse City, MI; (231) 947-6417; ac156@tcnet.org; www.tctrackclub.com 09/25 Rock Cut Hobo Run 25K, 50K; Rock Cut State Park, IL; (815) 494-3048; ultrajim@charter.net 09/25 Wild Wild Wilderness Trail Run 7.6M; Danville, IL; (217) 267-3595; krr@kennekuk.com; www. kennekuk.com EAST 09/TBA Great Eastern Endurance Run 50K, 100K; Charlottesville, VA; (434) 293-7115; badtothebone@adelphia.net; www. badtothebone.biz 09/03 Pilgrim Pride Open 1M, 2M, 5K; Henniker, NH; (603) 428-2484; enott@nec.edu; www.nec.edu/athletics/ varsity/xcountry/index.html 09/04 Virgil Forest Monster Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Virgil, NY; www.fingerlakesrunners.org 09/10 Groundhog Fall 50K; Punxsutawney, PA; (814) 9384149; jgoss02@adelphia.net; www.runpunxsyrun. org 09/10 Odyssey Off-Road IRON Duathlon; Allegheny Mountains, VA; (757) 645-3397; info@oarevents. com; www.OARevents.com 09/10 Odyssey Off-Road IRON Triathlon; Allegheny Mountains, VA; (757) 645-3397; info@oarevents. com; www.OARevents.com 09/10 Paper Mill Run 5K; Philadelphia, PA; (215) 438-5711; HistRitTwn@aol.com; www.rittenhousetown.org 09/11 Big South Fork Ride & Tie II 10M; Onieda, TN; (865) 693-4308; JFGHorse@netzero.net; www.rideandtie. org 09/11 Helvetia Mountain Trail Run 10K; Helvetia, WV; (304) 924-5835; irun@starband.net; www.wvmtr. org 09/16 EMS Reach the Beach Relay 200M; NH; mdionne@comcast.net; www.rtbrelay.com 09/24 Bald Eagle Mountain Megatransect 23M; Lock Haven, PA; (570) 893-1868; jstover33@verizon.net; www.ultrahike.com 2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 51

Âť race calendar 09/24 Odyssey Half Iron Triathlon; Lake Anna State Park, VA; (757) 645-3397; info@oarevents.com; www.

OARevents.com 09/24 Triennial Relay; Ithaca, NY; www. fingerlakesrunners.org 09/25 Vermont 50/50 50K, 50M; Brownsville, VT; (603) 643-65637; Michael.J.Silverman@valley.net; www. vermont50.com INTERNATIONAL 09/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; Canmore Nordic Center, AB, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 09/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; Hardwood Hills, ON, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 09/TBA Five Peaks Trail Series 5K, 10K; Buntzen Lake, BC, Canada; (604) 308-4666; info@5peaks.com; www.fivepeaks.com 09/10 Haliburton Forest 50K, 50M, 100M; West Guilford, ON, Canada; (416) 422-5130; helen. malmberg@dhltd.com; www.ous.kw.net 09/10 Moose Mountain Trail Races 16K, 29K; Bragg Creek, AB, Canada; (403) 282-3554; jen.silverthorn@shaw. ca; www.members.shaw.ca/moosemountain 09/11 Fall Mountain Highway Madness 15K, 30K, 45K, 60K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.

ClubFatAss.com/CABCVan_MHMadness 09/16 Lost Soul Ultra 100K, 100M, 50K; Lethbridge, AB, Canada; (403) 327-2241; ron@runnersoul.com; www.runnersoul.com 09/18 Iron Lung Trail Races 10K, 20K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 988-6564; info@ironlung.ca; www.ironlung.ca 09/23 Jungle Marathon 125M; Manaus, Brazil; (208) 787-2077; info@dreamchaserevents.com; www. junglemarathon.com 09/25 Sahara Race 250K; Cairo, Egypt; 12024780218; info@racingtheplanet.com; www.racingtheplanet.com 09/25 World Mountain Running Trophy; Wellington, New Zealand; www.wmrt2005.org

10/01 10/01 10/01 10/02

10/08 10/09 10/13

October PACIFIC/DESERT Big Sur Trail Marathon 5M, 13.1M, 26.2M; Big Sur, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www. envirosports.com Manzanita Ride & Tie 14M, 25M; Boulevard, CA; (619) 445-5443; cancer@inetworld.net; www. rideandtie.org Serrano Canyon 15K; Pacific Palisades, CA; (310) 260-7898; brennan@playadelrun.com; www. trailrace.com Lake Tahoe Kokanee Trail Runs 5K, 10K, 13.1M; South Lake Tahoe, CA; (530) 542-3424; kokaneet railruns@sbcglobal.net; www.tahoemtnmilers. org/Kokanee/2003Kokanee.htm Seacliff Beach Trail Run 14K, 22K, 35K, 50K; Aptos, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon 5K, 10K, 13.1M, 26.2M; Susanville, CA; (650) 364-8256; eric@redwoodtrails.com; www.redwoodtrails.com Skyline to the Sea Trail Run 9K, 20K, 28K, 50K; Boulder Creek, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www.pctrailruns.com

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10/15 Cactus Cha-Cha 7M; Waddell, AZ; (623) 535-0860; cactuschacha@cox.net; www.nardinimanor.com/ cactuschacha.htm 10/15 Dick Collins Firetrails 50 Mile Trail Race; Castro Valley, CA; (510) 525-0337; info@firetrails50.net; www.firetrails50.net 10/15 Foothills of the Cascade Ride & Tie 20M; Santiam Pass, OR; (503) 829-5321; flyingn@molalla.net; www.rideandtie.org 10/15 Golden Hills Trail Marathon 26.2M; Berkeley, CA; (510) 525-0337; info@goldenhillsmarathon.net; www.goldenhillsmarathon.net 10/15 Lake of the Sky Trail Run 50K; Tahoe City, CA; (775) 232-7933; robert@ultrarunner.net; www. ultrarunner.net 10/16 Marin Trails II 10K, 20K; San Rafael, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports.com 10/22 Montana de Oro Trail Run 13K, 23K, 37K, 50K; Los Osos, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www.pctrailruns.com 10/22 Napa Valley Wine Country Classic Marathon 10K, 10M, 26.2M; Calistoga, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports.com 10/22 Whiskeytown Trail Runs 8M, 30K, 50K; Redding, CA; (530) 246-8560; sweatrc@sbcglobal.net; www. sweatrc.com ROCKIES 10/01 24 Hours of Frisco 24H; Frisco, CO; (303) 635-2815; emgmh@emgcolorado.com; www.emgcolorado.com 10/08 Durango Double 13.1M, 25K, 26.2M, 50K; Durango, CO; (970) 375-2413; mkelly@durangomarathon. com; www.durangomarathon.com 10/08 Horse Gulch 25K; Durango, CO; (970) 3752413; info@durangomarathon.com; www. durangomarathon.com 10/08 Silent Trails Memorial 10M; Laramie, WY; (307) 7664956; wex@uwyo.edu; www.uwyo.edu/silenttrails 10/08 Telegraph Trail 25K, 50K; Durango, CO; (970) 375-2413; info@durangomarathon.com; www. durangomarathon.com 10/09 Durango Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Durango, CO; (970) 375-2413; mkelly@durangomarathon.com; www. durangomarathon.com 10/17 Elevation Outfitters 10K Run for the Environment; Denver, CO; (303) 929-8681; john@exploreadventures.com; www. elevationoutfitters.com HEARTLAND 10/TBA DeTonty Iron Fist Trail Run; Willow Springs, IL; (773) 868-0893; www.universalsole.com 10/TBA Hoosier Mini Marathon on Low Gap Trail; Fairland, IN 10/01 Germantown 50K Trail Run; Germantown, OH; (937) 586-6546; jsmindak@juno.com; www.orrrc.org 10/02 MI Big Ten Run 10K; Ann Arbor, MI; (734) 6570214; bigtenrun@twodogsrunning.com; www. twodogsrunning.com 10/08 Thunder Rolls Two-Day Stage Race 80M; Rock Island, IL; (563) 370-2555; gerryv@teamhighprofile.com; www. thethunderrolls.org 10/21 Fischer Homes The Xtra Mile 10K, 26.2M, 50M, 100M; Lebanon, OH; (513) 932-1424 x140; Ruthsue@countrysideymca.org; www. countrysideymca.org

10/22 Knobstone Trail Mini-Marathon 5K, 10K, 10M; Monroe State Forest, IN; (765) 349-0204; hikers@scican.net; www.HoosierHikersCouncil.org 10/22 Knobstone Trail Run 5K, 10K, 10M, 13.1M; Martinsville, IN; (765) 349-0204; hikers@scican. net; www.hoosierhikerscouncil.org 10/22 Rocky Raccoon 25K/50K; Huntsville, TX; (903) 894-3788; badwater75757@yahoo.com; www. hillcountrytrailrunners.com 10/24 DeTony Iron First 50K and 3 Person 50K Relay; Willow Springs, IL; (773) 868-0893; universalsole@msn.com; www.universalsole.com 10/29 DINO Southwestway Park #6 5K, 15K; Indianapolis, IN; (317) 336-7552; Brian@DINOseries.com; www.

DINOseries.com 10/29 Great Pumpkin Chase 10K, 5K; Lake Elmo, MN; (612) 281-6639; PrimeTimeTiming@aol.com; www. thegreatpumpkinchase.com EAST 10/TBA Diamond Hill-Birchwold Trail Run 22.5K; Cumberland, RI; (508) 384-1690; trailtroll@diamond-hill-run.com; www.diamondhill-run.com 10/02 Houghton’s Pond Trail Race 6M; Milton, MA; (781) 447-2812; president@colonialrunners.org; www. colonialrunners.org/houghtonspond.htm 10/06 Steel Sports Kisatchie Adventure Race 120-150M; Alexandria, LA; (903) 871-8466; rodney@steelsports.net; www.steelsports.net 10/08 Cumberland Trail Stump Jump 50K, 11M; Chattanooga, TN; (423) 899-3516; stumpjump50k@aol.com; www.rockcreek.com 10/09 Danby Down & Dirty 10K, 20K; Danby, NY; www. fingerlakesrunners.org 10/09 Dunbar Brook Trail Race 10.5M; Monroe, MA; (413) 743-5669; saharczewski@aol.com; www.runwmac. com 10/15 Croom Trail 50K 15M, 50K; Brooksville, FL; (813) 884-1862; CTR@tampabay.rr.com; www.wfyrc.com 10/15 Mountain Masochist 50M; Lynchburg, VA; dhorton@liberty.edu; www.extremeultrarunning. com 10/15 Triad Trail Race Series: Race 1 4M; Greensboro, NC; (336) 288-7071; smbassett@hotmail.com; www. offnrunningsports.com 10/15 Tussey Mountainback 50 Mile Relay and Ultramarathon; Boalsburg, PA; (814) 2385918; info@tusseymountainback.com; www. tusseymountainback.com 10/16 Ravenswood Trail Race 4.1M; Gloucester, MA; (978) 281-2113; info@teamgloucester.com; www. teamgloucester.com/ravenswood.htm 10/16 Ridgewalk Trail Run 14M; Wellsville, NY; (585) 5935080; info@ridgewalk.com; www.ridgewalk.com 10/22 Fort Valley Ride & Tie 12M, 25M, 50M; Fort Valley, VA; (703) 435-1911; runsallday@aol.com; www. rideandtie.org 10/23 Fort Valley Ride and Tie II 12M, 25M, 50M; Fort Valley, VA; (703) 435-1911; runsallday@aol.com; www.rideandtie.org 10/23 Groton Town Forest Trail Races 3.4M, 9.5M; West Groton, MA; (978) 448-2813; pgfunch@charter.net; www.GrotonTFTR.freeservers.com 10/29 ACE New River Gorge-ous Trail Run 7M, 15M; Oak Hill, WV; (888) 223-7238; beth@aceraft.com; www. aceraft.com

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11/05 11/05 11/12 11/26

11/TBA 11/05 11/12 11/12

November PACIFIC/DESERT Helen Klein Ultra Classic 30K, 50K, 50M; Sacramento, CA; (916) 859-0821; robert@ultrarunner.net; www.ultrarunner.net Stinson Beach Marathon 7M, 25K, 26.2M; Stinson Beach, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www.envirosports.com Stinson Beach 12K, 20K, 30K, 50K; Stinson Beach, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com Topanga Turkey Trot 5K, 10K, 15K; Calabasas, CA; (310) 459-3757; info@trailrace.com; www.trailrace. com HEARTLAND Louisiana Trails 13.1M, 26.2M, 50K; Shreveport, LA; (318) 798-1241; alohaannie@aol.com; www. sportspectrumusa.com OPSF 50/50 13.2M, 50K, 50M; Spencer, IN; (812) 829-3543; normc@ccrtc.com DINO Southeastway Park #8 5K, 15K; Indianapolis, IN; (317) 336-7552; Brian@DINOseries.com; www.

DINOseries.com Rock Ledge Rumble X 10K, 25K, 50K; Grapevine, TX; (972) 588-9023; tcrull@folmarine.com; www. nttr.org

EAST 11/05 Triad Triple Lake Trail Marathon & Relay 26.2M; Greensboro, NC; (336) 288-7071; smbassett@hotmail.com; www.offnrunningsports. com 11/12 Triad Trail Race Series: Race 2 8K; Greensboro, NC; (336) 288-7071; smbassett@hotmail.com; www. offnrunningsports.com

NORTHERN ATHLETIC EXPERIENCES

INTERNATIONAL 11/TBA Mt. Everest Challenge Marathon 26.2M; Sandakphu Nat’l Park, India; 91-11-22772700; cspandey@vsnl. com; www.himalayan.com 11/TBA Desert Cup 115M; Mopti, Mali; (208) 7872077; info@dreamchaserevents.com; www. dreamchaserevents.com 11/06 Castillos de Avila 45K; Avila, Spain; 34 91 651 0902; castillosdeavila@gmail.com; www.castillosdeavila.com 11/13 Raid the Hammer Adventure Run 25K; Hamilton, ON, Canada; raid@dontgetlost.ca; www. dontgetlost.ca/raid

TRAINING AIDS

Trail Running, ultra, marathon and adventure racing vacation in the Yukon Canada, Yukon Arctic Ultra. Mayo Midnight Marathon. www.northernathleticexperiences.com

INCREASE PERFORMANCE & REDUCE INJURIES

with the Runner’s FitKit — a portable, convenient strength and flexibility program designed to meet the demands of running. www.simplefitnesssolutions.com 866-402-2105

Sting or BEE Stung!

Enhance Performance with our Natural Energy Bars & Gels Available at: REI, EMS & Nashbar

12/03 12/04 12/10 12/17

December PACIFIC/DESERT PCTR Woodside Trail Run 10K, 20K, 35K, 50K; Woodside, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns. com; www.pctrailruns.com OTHTC High Desert Ultra 30K, 50K; Ridgecrest, CA; (760) 939-5399; canddrios@aol.com; www.othtc. com Hark the Herald Angels Run 12K, 25K; Tiburon, CA; (415) 868-1829; info@envirosports.com; www. envirosports.com Muir Beach Trail Run 11K, 17K, 33K, 50K; Muir Beach, CA; (925) 947-3787; events@pctrailruns.com; www. pctrailruns.com

HEARTLAND 12/03 Tecumseh Trail Marathon 5M, 26.2M; Bloomington, IN; (317) 308-6449; Brian@DINOseries.com; www. dinoseries.com 12/10 Deer Run Cross Country Race 8K; Hudson, IL; (309) 726-2022 x221; parks@mclean.gov; www.mclean. gov/parks 12/17 HUFF 50K, 10.8M; Huntington, IN; (260) 436-0739; huff50k@aol.com; www.huff50K.com EAST 12/TBA Hartshorne Woods-Autumn End Trail Run 4M, 5M, 7.2M; Highlands, NJ; (732) 578-1771; webmaster@njrrc.org; www.njrrc.org 12/03 Steel Sports Bulldog Adventure Sprint Race 15-25M; Ruston, LA; (903) 871-8466; rodney@steelsports.net; www.steelsports.net 12/10 Hellgate 100 100K; Lynchburg, VA; dhorton@liberty.edu; www.extremeultrarunning. com 12/10 Triad Trail Race Series: Race 3 10K; Greensboro, NC; (336) 288-7071; smbassett@hotmail.com; www. offnrunningsports.com 12/31 Alabama Version 50K; Huntsville, AL; (256) 6507063; runstrong@fleetfeethuntsville.com; www. fleetfeethuntsville.com INTERNATIONAL 12/16 Patagonia Running Adventure 519M; Chile & Argentina, Chile & Argentina; (800) 2899470; info@andesadventures.com; www. andesadventures.com

www.honeystinger.com

866-GO HONEY • Steamboat Springs, CO.

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT www.trailrunnermag.com

FOR ANSWERS, PEOPLE NEED TO KNOW YOU’RE OUT THERE. CONTACT

■

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 53

RANDALL LAVELLE 877-762-5423 ext.28 rlavelle@bigstonepub.com for rates and information

RESOURCE

INTERNATIONAL 10/01 Cypress High Altitude Trail Challenge; Maple Creek, SK, Canada; (206) 662-4477; deng@transgas.com 10/09 Jungfrau Marathon 42K; Interlaken, Switzerland; info@jungfrau-marathon.ch; www.jungfraumarathon.ch/e/mainpage.htm 10/15 Vulture Bait Trail Races 10K, 25K, 50K London, ON, Canada; (519) 951-0119; vulturebaittrailruns@hotm ail.com; www.ous.kw.net 10/15 Wendy’s “Get Your Fat Ass Off the Couch” Runs 20K, 45K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.

ClubFatAss.com/CABCVan_Wendys 10/21 Himalayan 100-Mile Stage Race; Sandakphu Nat’l Park, India; 91-11-22772700; cspandey@vsnl.com; www.himalayan.com 10/30 Hallow’s Eve Trail Marathon 26.2M; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; (604) 988-6564; info@ironlung.ca; www.hallowseve.ca

11/19 Vitesse 10 Mile and Half Marathon Trail Races 10M, 13.1M; Charlottesville, VA; (434) 293-7115; badtothebone@adelphia.net; www.badtothebone.biz 11/27 Dirty Bird 8.88M; Reading, PA; (610) 779-2668; rhornpcs@aol.com; www.pretzelcitysports.com

RUNNER’S

10/29 Fall Frolic 8K 1M, 8K; Henniker, NH; (603) 428-2484; enott@nec.edu; www.nec.edu/athletics/varsity/ xcountry/index.html 10/30 Evansburg Challenge 5K, 10M; Reading, PA; (610) 779-2668; rhornpcs@aol.com; www.pagodapacers. com 10/30 Fall Trail Run 5.5M; Kingston Township, PA; (570) 474-5363; WYOVALSTR@aol.com; www.members. aol.com/wyovalstri/wyoval.htm

OUTFITTERS LIST YOUR STORE! contact ROWAN FRYER 877-762-5423 ext. 17 or rfryer@bigstonepub.com AUTHORIZED DEALER

RUNNING REVOLUTION 511 E Campbell Ave Campbell, CA 95008 408-374-9310 www.runningrevolution.com info@runningrevolution.com

CANADA ALABAMA

NORTH SHORE ATHLETICS 1200 Londsdale # 101 N. Vancouver, BC V7M3H6 604-990-6888 www.northshoreathletics.com info@northshoreathletics.com

2750 Carl P Jones Drive, Ste 1210 Huntsville AL 35802 256-650-7063 www.fleetfeethutsville.com dink@fleetfeethuntsville.com

GORD’S RUNNING STORE 919 Centre St. NW Calgary, Alberta T2E 2P6 403-270-8606 F 403-283-8341 www.gordsrunningstore.com info@gordsrunningstore.com

ARIZONA FOOTHILLS RUNNING COMPANY 4025 E Chandler Blvd Ste #54 Phoenix AZ 85048 480-706-3103 www.foothillsrunning.com foothillsrunning@aol.com RUNNING SHOP 3055 N Campbell #153 Tucson, AZ 85719 520-325-5097 www.runningshopaz.com SUMMIT HUT 5045 E Speedway Tucson AZ 85712 520-325-1554 www.summithut.com SUMMIT HUT 605 E Wetmore Tucson AZ 85705 520-888-1000 www.summithut.com

RUNNER’S DEN 239 Newport Dr. Port Moody, BC V3H5C9 604-461-8330 www.runnersden.ca

COLORADO BOULDER RUNNING COMPANY 2775 Pearl St. #103 Boulder, CO 80302 303-RUN-WALK www.boulderrunningcompany.com BOULDER RUNNING COMPANY 3659 Austin Bluffs Pkwy #32 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 719-278-3535 www.boulderrunningcompany.co BOULDER RUNNING COMPANY 8116 W. Bowles #C Littleton, CO 80123 303-932-6000 www.boulderrunningcompany.com

CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE 16 1116 W. Pico Blvd.

West Los Angeles, CA 90064 310-473-4574 for other SO CAL locations see: www.adventure16.com

1850 Douglas Blvd Roseville CA 95661 916-783-4558 F 916-784-9150 www.fleetfeet-fairoaks.com danelle@fleetfeet-fairoaks.com RUNNING AND RACING 6160 Stanford Ranch Road, Ste. 200 Rocklin CA 95765 916-316-6202 www.runningracing.com info@runningracing.com

FLORIDA RUNNING WILD INC. 1133 N Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954-565-9400 F 954-565-9421 www.runningwild.com runwild4@bellsouth.net

GEORGIA

3906 Roswell Rd Atlanta, GA 30342 404-814-0999 www.highcountryoutfitters.com bubba@highcountryoutfitters.com

ILLINOIS

209 W. Hampden Ave. Englewood, CO 80110 800-841-0707 www.mountainmiser.com Free Shipping!

OUTDOOR DIVAS 1133 Pearl Street Boulder CO 80302 303-449-DIVA www.outdoordivas.com memaha4@yahoo.com SUMMIT CANYON MOUNTAINEERING 732 Grand Ave Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 970-945-6994 F 970-945-7586 800-360-6994 www.summitcanyon.com shop@summitcanyon.com THE TRAILHEAD 707 Hwy 24 North Buena Vista, CO 81211 719-395-8001 F 719-395-8002 866-595-8001 www.TheTrailheadCO.com info@TheTrailheadCO.com

CONNECTICUT SOUND RUNNER 1008 Main St. Branford, CT 06405 203-483-8222 F 203-483-8298 www.soundrunner.net soundrunner@snet.net

54 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MONTH TK 2004

NEW JERSEY CAMPMOR 810 Route 17 N Paramus, NJ 07652 201-445-5000 800-CAMPMOR F 800-230-2153 www.campmor.com customerservice@campmor.com THE RUNNING COMPANY OF MONTVALE 14 A Chestnut Ridge Rd Montvale, NJ 07645 201-391-6008 F 201-391-6012 www.njrunningco.com montvalerunning@aol.com

NEW MEXICO

8204-A Menaul Blvd NE Albuquerque NM 87110 505-299-8922 F 505-294-4480 www.fleetfeet.com ffabqjb@aol.com

RUNNER’S HIGH 7 S. Dunton Ave Arlington Heights, IL 60005 847-670-9255 www.runnershigh.biz runrshigh@aol.com

TAOS MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS 114 S. Plaza Taos, NM 87571 505-758-9292 www.taosmountainoutfitters.com

MARYLAND

PEAK PERFORMANCE SPORTS 184 Main St New Paltz NY 12561 845-255-8200 www.hvsports.net peakper4mancesports@earthlink.net

9220 Pulaski Highway Baltimore, MD 21220 410-687-6400 F 410-687-7311 www.holabirdsports.com

MASSACHUSETTS

ARKANSAS

209 W Sunbridge Drive Fayetteville AR 72703 479-521-6340 F 479-521-8059 877-521-6340 www.packrat.biz info@packrat.biz

SOUND RUNNER WITH NO BOUNDARIES 264 York St New Haven CT 06511 203-865-IRUN (4786) F 203-483-8223 www.soundrunner.net soundrunner@snet.net

CARABINER’S INDOOR CLIMBING INC 328 Parker St New Bedford MA 02740 508-984-0808 F 508-984-7577 www.carabiners.com info@carabiners.com

MISSOURI METRO WALK + RUN 7449 Broadway (NE corner of 75th and Wornall) Kansas City, MO 64114 816-822-9000 F 816-822-9003 www.metrowalkandrun.com info@metrowalkandrun.com

NEBRASKA MOOSES TOOTH OUTDOOR COMPANY 720 N 27th Street Lincoln NE 68503 402-475-4453 F 402-475-2897 www.moosestoothusa.com sales@moosestooth.com

NEW YORK

ROCKVILLE CENTRE RUNNING COMPANY 220 Sunrise Hwy Rockville Centre, NY 11570 516-594-3405 F 516-594-3406 rvcrunco@aol.com WEST CHESTER ROAD RUNNER 179 E Post Rd White Plains, NY 10601 914-682-0637 F 914-949-4166 www.westchesterroadrunner.com westchesterrr@aol.com

NORTH CAROLINA

CAMPMOR www.campmor.com customerservice@campmor.com 800-CAMPMOR

www.rockcreek.com info@rockcreek.com 888-707-6708 100 Tremont St. Chattanooga, TN 37405

www.summithut.com summit@summithut.com 800-499-8696 5045 E Speedway Tucson AZ 85712

www.TheTriathleteStore.com sales@TheTriathleteStore.com 216-849-5468 3570 Bainbridge Road Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 Free Shipping!

TENNESSEE ROCK CREEK OUTFITTERS 100 Tremont St. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-265-5969 and 2220 Hamilton Place Blvd.

Chattanooga, TN 37421 423-485-8775 www.rockcreek.com RUNNER’S MARKET 4443 Kingston Pike Knoxville TN 37919 865-588-1650 www.runnersmarket.com runnersmarket@nxs.net

UTAH WASATCH RUNNING CENTER 8946 S State St. Sandy UT 84070 801-566-8786 www.wasatchrunningcenter.com info@wasatchrunningcenter.com

VERMONT

JUS RUNNING 523 Merrimon Ave, Ste. 1 Asheville, NC 28804 828-252-7867 F 828-252-7817 www.jusrunning.com jusrun@bellsouth.net

SKIRACK 85 Main St. Burlington, VT 05401 802-658-3313 F 802-658-5083 800-882-4530 www.skirack.com skirack@skirack.com

OHIO

WASHINGTON

SECOND SOLE ATHLETIC FOOTWEAR 5114 Mayfield Rd Lyndhurst, OH 44124 440-449-8508 secondsole@adelphia.net

FAIRHAVEN RUNNERS 1209 Eleventh St. Bellingham, WA 98225 360-676-4955 www.fairhavenrunners.com steve@fairhavenrunners.com

NEW HAMPSHIRE

PENNSYLVANIA

ENDURANCE 122 Key Rd Keene NH 03431 603-357-3232 enduranceathletics@hotmail.com

ELITE RUNNERS & WALKERS 5992-E Steubenville Pike McKees Rocks, PA 15136 412-490-0881 F 412-490-0882 877-RUN-WALK www.eliterunners.com shoes@eliterunners.com

TED’S SHOE & SPORT 115 Main St Keene NH 03431 603-357-TED’S (8337) www.tedsports.com tedsports@juno.com

ONLINE

SOUND SPORTS 80 Madison St Seattle WA 98104 206-624-6717 F 206-622-3121 800-279-7551 SPORT TOWNSEND 1044 Water St Port Townsend WA 98368 360-379-9711 www.sporttownsend.com

RUN AMOK

by BRIAN METZLER

» Illustration by JEREMY COLLINS

Beaned & Bitten A LOOK BACK AT HIGH-SCHOOL RUNNING I vividly remember the sound of the apple whizzing past my head.

It was the first week of cross-country practice and, I, as a 130-pound high school freshman, found out right away that our warm-up runs through Katherine Legge Memorial Park in Hinsdale, Illinois, were a gauntlet. A few of my greenhorn teammates were nailed by the long-range apple bombs, courtesy of four seniors hiding in a grove of pine trees. I was lucky enough to survive the day—but not the season—without any fruit-sized welts.

When I look back on four years of running on the cross-country team, I remember apple barrages (I joined the throwing end as quickly as possible), ogling girls, rowdy bus rides to meets, slurping down tennis-ball-green Gatorade (the only flavor sold at 7-Eleven back then), getting arrested for swimming at a quarry after a 110-degree

summer training run (a serious situation until we were laughed out of court), post-race seven-layer brownies, dozens of trips to Taco Bell and cruising town in John Byrne’s beat-up 1970 Chevy Nova.

Somehow, I don’t remember much about running. Sure, I recall a race here and there, like The Mustang Run in Downers Grove, my first experience at singletrack trail running through the woods; it had gnarly roots, stream crossings and many twists and turns. Or the killer 20 x 200 workout our coach made us do three days before a meet. But what I really remember are snippets of crazy, teenage fun.

Unlike running on the track team in the spring—when workouts were more rigid and differentiated for sprinters, middledistance runners and long-distance runners—everybody trained and raced the same distances during cross-country season, and that fostered a unique sense of community (aside from one-sided apple fights). It was my first inkling as to what trail running and its close-knit community would be all about.

Cross-country is, in fact, a team sport— your five fastest runners in a race score points for the team—although that hardly mattered for our school. We were known for sixth-place finishes in our eight-team conference meet, and only rarely did one of our runners earn a top-10 finish.

Cross-country at my high school, like many schools, was a sport for the spindly kids who weren’t big enough to play football, didn’t want to play soccer and probably couldn’t get a date (not for lack of trying). As a result, it certainly wasn’t a launching pad for many running careers.

Most of my fellow freshmen on the team didn’t even stick with it for four years.

But I still keep in touch with many of my cross-country teammates nearly 25 years later, even though I’m the only one who still runs on a regular basis. (Not only do most of them not run at all, but most haven’t in more than a decade.)

I’m not sure how or why the running bug bit me so hard and not my friends, but I’m glad it did, because running took me to the trails and now I’ll always have both. I no longer go to Taco Bell or swim at quarries, but I still enjoy seven-layer brownies. And I keep an eye out for airborn apples, just in case.

Brian Metzler is the author of Running Colorado’s Front Range.

2005 JANUARY | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 55