JULY 30, 2016
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HALF MARATHON
JULY 30, 2016
Vacation Races | National Park Half Marathon Series
Race Guide
EVENT SCHEDULE FRIDAY Race Expo & Packet Pickup Starts
*We cannot accommodate runners before 11:00am
Race Expo Ends 5K Starts 1/2 Marathon Bib Pickup closes 5K Awards Ceremony
11:00 am 6:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:15 pm
SATURDAY Open start line parking First prize raffle
4:00 am 4:30 am
All cars should be parked Runners line up and last call for gear check National anthem RACE STARTS - ALL DIVISIONS Awards ceremony
5:15 am 5:45 am
(Every 5 minutes)
5:55 am
6:00 AM
8:45 am
Welcome Detailed Schedule of Events Expo Map Merchandise Expo Details Vacation Races Campground
We’re so excited to see you all here for our fourth annual Rocky Mountain Half Marathon. If this is your first time running with us, welcome! This year is extra special because we’re celebrating the National Park Centennial! We hope you enjoy the celebrations! In honor of the National Park Centennial, you’ll notice the designs of the medals, finisher arch, and expo set up all reflect the tradition of our National Parks. You’ll even be able to rest by a campfire and make a s’more while you’re at the race expo. We hope you have fun while you’re here! It’s clear and green and beautiful way up above the city and the freeways. We know many of you may be nervous about how high up we areelevation can make for a tricky run. But there’s also a sense of peace and clarity up here. Sitting on Trail Ridge Road, looking over the wide
RACE INFORMATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS SCHEDULE & EXPO
WELCOME TO ROCKY MOUNTAIN!
1 2 2 3 3 3
Rules at a Glance Aid Station Guide Elevation Chart Parking & Drop Off Finish Line Staging Race Day Checklist Timing Specifics Cup-Free Racing
4 5 5 6 6 7 7 7
Post-Race Info Demographics Bib Details
ADDITIONAL RACES 5k Race Details Elk Double Info
expansion of mountains and valleys, it’s humbling to think about those who visited in 1915, when the park first opened. We’re filled with gratitude for the service that preserved and protected this land for 100 years. How amazing that we have the privilege to run, hike, and explore here. Here’s to 100 more years. Happy trails!
-Salem, Dehn, Lyle, Megan, Cherie, Kaelee, Amy, and Robin
“It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.” -Sir Edmund Hillary
7 8 8 9 9
AREA INFORMATION Discovery Map Clubs & Trifecta National Park Map NPS Centennial
VR INFORMATION
Meet the Team Partners and Sponsors 2016 ½ Marathon Series
10 12 14 15 16 17 20
1
SCHEDULE & EXPO
JULY 30, 2016
EVENT SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, JULY 29 11:00 AM
6:00 pm Race Expo Ends
RACE EXPO & PACKET PICKUP -
6:15 pm 6:30 pm 5K bib pickup 5K Starts ends/ 5K Runners line up
The expo will be held at The Estes Park Resort, 1700 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO. BYOB: Our expo is bag-free so don’t forget to Bring Your Own Bag!
SATURDAY, JULY 30 4:00 am Open start line parking- Runners can pick up bibs
4:30 am First prize raffles (every 5 minutes)
7:00 pm 1/2 Marathon bib pickup ends
7:15 pm 5K Awards Ceremony
5:58 am Sunrise
5:15 am All cars should be parked & last call for bib pickup
5:30 am Last prize raffle & start line parking lot closes. Pacers line up
5:45 am Runners line up/Last call for gear check
5:55 am 6:00 AM National RACE STARTS anthem ALL DIVISIONS
8:45 am Awards Ceremony
EXPO MAP
5
4
3 6
2 1
LAKE ESTES
KEY
VR CAMPGROUND/ EXPO 1 Bib pickup
Parking
2 Race shirt pickup
Path to Expo
3 Hydrapouch area
Expo Vendors
4 Information Center 5 Race Merchandise 6 Campfire / S’mores station
2
PARKING PARKING - There will be plenty of parking at the expo, but please get there early to avoid any rush. You can even walk from some hotels in town. Camping is not allowed in the parking lot. The start and the finish line are on the other side of the lake, so plan accordingly prior to your race. *See page 6 for race-day staging and parking.
EXPO & MERCHANDISE OFFICIAL RACE MERCHANDISE
We’ll have our official Rocky Mountain Half Marathon and Vacation Races merchandise for sale at the Race Expo and online after the race! We have a wide variety of options to commemorate your accomplishment of running
DESIGN
JULY 30, 2016
the Rocky Mountain Half Marathon! Beach hoodies, t-shirts, sweatshirts, tank tops, water bottles, stickers, hats, patches, bags, and posters will all be available for you to browse and buy! Additionally, we’ll have merchandise for sale from WOMEN’S T-SHIRT ($20)
DESCRIPTION
MEN’S T-SHIRT ($20)
Meridian Line: Check them out for some of the greatest National Parks and wanderlust-themed designs you’ve ever seen! Please note that we will not have merchandise for sale at the finish line (expo only), but will be put up online after the race.
MEN’S BEACH HOODIE SWEATSHIRT TANKTOP ($40) ($22) ($30)
WOMEN’S TANKTOP ($22)
BASEBALL TEE ($25)
Brand new Rocky Mountain Half Marathon merchandise design for 2016.
Our popular bold and retro mountain design is back for another year.
UD HANDHELD - $20
CHICO BAG - $10
POSTERS - $10
KLEAN KANTEEN - $20
STICKERS - $2 // PATCHES - $5
TRUCKER HAT - $20
The scenic Rocky Mountain landscape design with a comic book flair.
EXPO DETAILS The expo will be held at The Estes Park Resort, 1700 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO. At the expo you can pick up your bib, race shirt, and other gear. Plan to stay for awhile and relax at the Vacation Races Campground, and shop our other vendors and sponsors! Half Marathon bibs will be available until 7:00 PM (you can also get your bib race morning at the start line). You can pick up your 5K bib at the expo until 5:00 PM, then near the start line from 5:30pm to 6:15 PM as the 5K race starts at 6:30 PM on Friday, the 29th.
THE MERIDIAN LINE provides us with
our race shirts and the beautiful artwork. We’ll also have their merchandise for sale at our merch store at the expo. In the words of the artist and captain of The Meridian Line Jeremy Collins, “I wanted to build something with SOUL. Meridian Line was born to share the journey with others... I wanted to celebrate those of us who choose challenge rather than convenience, and a weekend in the dirt rather than the condo... my soul is always on the move. Join me.”
When you pick up your packet at the expo this year, we’re encouraging you to Bring Your Own Bag! To keep in line with our tradition of waste elimination and conservation of the land, we’re going completely bag-less at the expo this year! If you would like to purchase a reusable, foldable bag, we’ll have them available at our merchandise store.
VACATION RACES CAMPGROUND This year we’re celebrating the National Parks on a whole new level with our outdoor campground! The expo will be outdoors and we’ll have a campground theme throughout. Come pick up your race packet, shop at our merchandise store, check out our vendors, and treat yourself to a s’more around the campfire! Our outdoor vendors will be demonstrating gear and providing all the information you need to start your adventure. It’s going to be a party!
This year is the National Park Service Centennial. Here is to another 100 years for the NPS. Come ready to celebrate!
3
RACE INFORMATION
COURSE
This race is an open course. There will be cars on the road as well as runners. There are sections on main roads like Big Thompson where traffic is heavy and McGregor where the road is a little narrow. These spots on the course especially could get a little crowded. The course will be well marked but it is your responsibility to stay to the left when running into oncoming traffic and being courteous and mindful of cars and other runners. DO NOT step off the course into traffic, you will be disqualified. Please be courteous. There is a chance of road construction on Dry Gulch road. If this is the case, the race director will make a small adjustment to the course to try to maintain an accurate distance.
ELEVATION
You can see the elevation map on the previous page. It looks a little scary, but downhill courses are for wimps, right? Mile 5-9 will feel long, as it is a steady climb. If you aren’t used to the altitude be sure to stay hydrated. Drink lots of water the days leading up to the race to help. It’ll all be worth it to see the view once you’re coming down Devil’s Gulch.
JULY 30, 2016
PACERS
Pacers will line up at the start line around 5:30 am. There will be a pacer pacing the race in 10 minute intervals starting at a 1h40m pace up to 2h30m. We will also have a 2h45m, 3h, and 3h30m pacer. Please seat yourself near the time you expect to finish.
GEAR CHECK
You will be given a Gear Check bag at the starting line if you wish. It will be a white garbage bag that you can fill with anything you want transported to the finish line. There will be permanent markers you can use to write your name and bib number. Avoid putting valuables in your bag. *Gear check bags will be available at the finish line as soon as the first person finishes.
CLOTHING ON COURSE
We will have a clothing bin to dump items in at mile 3. Anything else found along the course will be treated as trash. Clothing dropped off at mile 3 won’t be picked up until the last runner has passed mile 3 - so you may have to wait for your clothing.
NO LITTERING
TIMING
All masters and overall awards will be based on gun time. If you plan to compete for these top spots, you will need to line up at the front of the line. All age divisions and team awards will be based on chip time. If you are standing towards the back, it may be a few minutes before you cross the start line. Your time does not officially start until you cross the starting line (unless you are competing for an overall top finisher spot), so please be courteous to others as we start the race. If you will be walking, please start towards the back to avoid congestion at the start.
AID STATIONS
We will have aid stations near miles 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 12. All aid stations will have bath-rooms, water + Gnarly, and Honey Stinger energy gels. Mile 7 and 11 will also have oranges and bananas. There will be basic first aid needs at each aid station, but the EMT will be at Mile 7.
TIME LIMIT
All runners will have 4 hours to finish the race. That is a 18.5 minute mile plenty of time for walkers! If at anytime we deem it unsafe and need to pull a runner off the course we would hope for understanding and immediate cooperation. Failure to comply will result in being banned from future events.
WAVE START
A wave start will help us organize the race and prevent overcrowding on the course. When you line up to start the race, use the colored shield on your bib and signs at the start to determine where to stand (grouping based on expected finish time runner indicated when registering for the race). 4
Wave 1: 1:30-1:55 Wave 2: 2:00 Wave 3: 2:05-2:15 Wave 4: 2:20-2:30 Wave 5: 2:35-3:00 Wave 6: 3:00+
RECOVERY FOOD BOX
At the finish line we will have a FitFul Box (full of recovery snacks), bananas, and chocolate milk, as well as water and Gnarly hydration. Please help yourself to one box, chocolate milk, and banana per runner. In an attempt to reduce waste, we will provide a place to trade/leave any unwanted snack items.
STROLLERS
Strollers are welcome on our course, but please make sure you’re comfortable using your stroller on steep hills. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the course, and be courteous to other runners!
NO DOGS
They are a liability that our insurance does not cover. However, they are welcome to greet you at the finish line with the rest of your loved ones!
PARKING
We will have plenty of parking to accommodate all of our runners. There are four designated parking spots near the fair grounds that are a short walk to both the start line and the finish line. Volunteers will be directing traffic and showing runners and spectators where to park. We will fill up the parking lots in order. You will come down Highway 7 and turn onto Manford towards the fair grounds and be directed from there. We will have a raffle in the morning and plenty of hot chocolate/coffee.
SPECTATOR INFO
Because of the significant amount of road control, spectators are not allowed to stop along the highway at any point along the race. Spectators and runners are welcome around the finish line to cheer on runners. The starting line will be closed to vehicles. Please park in designated parking in and around the fair grounds. Aside from the start and finish, the best place to see your runner would be where Big Thompson meets Dry Gulch. Runners will run past there near mile 2 and again near mile 4.5. We want you to be there to cheer on your runner, but please recognize that the runner area is for runners only! Please do not enter the runner area or partake of runners’ food and recovery supplies.
COURSE RECORDS
Our course record holders receive a FREE RACE ENTRY every year that their time remains the course record! Brandon Yonke holds the record for the men and Hanka
RACE INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
Randakova holds the record for the women. CURRENT COURSE RECORDS:
MEDALS & AGE DIVISIONS
Male- Brandon Yonke >> 1:17:37 (2015)
Female- Hanka Randakova >> 1:32:03 (2014)
Masters Male- Gerald Romera >> 1:26:59 (2015)
Masters Female- Chrisana Olson >> 1:44:56 (2015)
AID STATION MARKERS
AID STATION
Watch for these course markers during the race to let you know what will be available at the upcoming aid station.
7578 ft START ELEV
7929 ft MAX ELEV
WATER
GNARLY
Although we don’t have cups on the course, we have plenty of aid stations with water and Gnarly! At all aid stations we will have BLUE COOLERS WITH WATER and RED COOLERS WITH GNARLY (ELECTROLYTE DRINK). Both will have the same speed valves attached. So at each aid station you will have your choice of water or Gnarly.
HONEY STINGER
BATHROOM
EMT
BANANAS/ ORANGES
MILE 3 MILE 5 MILE 7
There will be trash cans all along the course before and after aid stations. PLEASE DO NOT LITTER.
ELEVATION CHART 7987 7824 7661 7498 7335 0
Place medals will be given to the top 5 male and female runners overall, as well as the Masters 40+ group. Additionally, the top 5 in each of the following age groups will also receive a place medal: 11 and younger, 12-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 and older. **There will be finisher medals for everyone who finishes the race.
CUP-FREE RACING
MILE 9 MILE 11 MILE 12
2.62
5.24
7.85
10.47
13.09
492 ft GAIN 5
RACE INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
1/2 MARATHON & 5K PARKING, DROP OFF, AND FINISH LINE STAGING
TOILET
LAKE ESTES
S FINISH
3 1
4 2
KEY RACE-DAY STAGING 1
Runner area
2 Food 3 Stage/Awards 4 Gear Check Parking Areas Entrance Route Drop-off Location
PARKING
We will have plenty of parking to accommodate all of our runners. There are four designated parking spots near the fair grounds that are a short walk to both the start line and the finish line. Volunteers will be directing traffic and showing runners and spectators where to park. We will fill up the parking lots in order. To park- you will come down Highway 7 and turn onto Manford towards the fairgrounds and be directed from there. 1. Finish line (near the lake) 2. Ball fields 3. High School & Aquatic Center 4. Fairgrounds *NOTE: The Finish line parking area will close at 5:00 am on race morning to prepare for the road closure and the race to begin.
DROP OFF
If you are dropping a runner off, please go to the orange area on the map. Enter drop off area and circle out of the parking lot to exit. This will help avoid any traffic jams near the area.
SPECTATORS, FINISH LINE, AND AWARDS
• Spectators and runners are welcome around the finish line to cheer on runners.
• At the finish line we will have a Recovery Box (full of recovery snacks),
• 6
bananas, and chocolate milk. Please help yourself to one box, chocolate milk, and banana per runner. There will be water at the finish line, but no cups. Please use your Hydrapouch or water bottle to fill up at the finish line. If you checked gear at the start of the race, you will be able to pick it up
•
• •
in the finish line area. Lucid Images (our event photographers) will have a designated spot in the finish line staging area to take photos of runners. These photos are separate from those they will take of runners crossing the finish line and will be made available FOR FREE! The awards ceremony will take place near the finish line at 8:45 AM. If you aren’t able to make it to the expo to purchase merchandise, our online store will be have official Vacation Races merchandise from the Rocky Mountain Half Marathon after the race.
RACE INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
RACE DAY CHECKLIST
CUP-FREE RACING
PRE-RACE DAY
Having our races so close to the National Parks, unnecessary waste and trash are something we are strongly against. We are dedicated to hying a clean race and preserving the beauty of the area we run in. There is nothing that will ruin a view more than seeing a piece a trash in plain view from a breathtaking landscape.
TRAIN Directions to hotel/campsite Directions to race expo Directions to race start/finish Photo ID Valid Military ID (if you registered with a Military Discount) Study the race course
RACE DAY
Bib Cup Free Hydration (Hydrapouch, hand held, water bottle, pack, etc.) Running Shoes Socks Sunglasses Hat/Visor Recovery plan Enjoy the park!
TIMING SPECIFICS BEFORE THE RACE
• Your timing chip is found on the •
•
back of your bib. You don’t have to do anything. The bib chip looks like a sticker on the back of your bib. Do not fold your bib. NO CHIP = NO TIME!
AFTER THE RACE
• The bib chip is disposable and
•
•
can be thrown away or left on your bib for you to cherish always. All masters and overall awards will be based on gun time. If you plan to compete for these top spots you will need to line up at the front of the line. All age divisions and team awards will be based on chip time. If you are standing towards the back, it may be a few minutes before you cross the start line. Your time does not officially start until you cross the starting line (unless you are competing for an overall top finisher spot), so please be courteous to others as we start the race. Stick around until 8:45am for our awards ceremony!
One of the most important things in a half marathon is ensuring that aid stations are plentiful and efficient. Hydration will make or break a race. What we do is offer a Hydrapouch for every runner that indicated they wanted one as part of their registration. Other options include running with a water bottle, Fuel Belt, Camelbak or other hydration backpack, etc. Every runner prefers something different. Just make sure you have some way to stay hydrated! Although we don’t have cups on the course, we have plenty of aid stations with water and Gnarly! At all aid stations we will have BLUE COOLERS WITH
WATER and RED COOLERS WITH GNARLY (ELECTROLYTE DRINK). Both will have the same speed valves attached. So at each aid station you will have your choice of water or Gnarly. At some places, the water will be hooked up to a system like the one pictured on above. Each of these pipes will provide water from the several speed valves we have attached. Feel free to practice at the expo!
The aid station will have a few cups in case of an emergency, do not plan on using them. Also, under no circumstances should you put your head under the valve to get a drink. Not only does this waste water, it is pretty inconsiderate of other runners. There will be water at the finish line, but no cups. Please use your Hydrapouch or water bottle to fill up at the finish line.
POST-RACE INFO
• There is no official lost & found. If we find lost items
The awards ceremony will take place at the stage at the finish line and will begin at 8:45 AM. If you checked gear at the start of the race, you will be able to pick it up just past the finish line in the runner area.
• •
RACE RESULTS
Results are available right away, scan the QR code on your bib and your results will come up. They will also be available later the day of the race online. We will post them on Facebook and also send them in a post-race email a day or two after the race. They will also be available on our website. MEDALS
All runners will receive a finisher medal. Place medals will be given to the top 5 male and female runners overall as well as the Masters 40+ group. Additionally, the top 5 in each age group and the top 3 teams will also receive a place medal.
we will hold onto them and you can contact us at info@vacationraces.com There will be gear check at the start line. There will be a bin to dump extra clothing at mile 3. Anything found littered on the course elsewhere will be considered trash and either thrown away or donated.
MEDICAL TENT
The medical tent at the finish line is for athletes only; family members are not allowed. Overcrowding in the medical tent prevents medical staff from doing their job. For information on an athlete receiving medical attention please wait outside the tent for updates. POST-RACE SURVEY
Within a week of race day we will be sending out a postrace survey. We would really appreciate it if you took the 8-10 minutes to complete the survey for us. The survey provides us with information that allows us to better work with the local community and gain more support for future races, but more importantly it provides us with If you qualify for a place medal but are not present at valuable insight into what we are doing well and what the awards ceremony to receive it we will happily ship it to you. Go to our website and request your medal and we need to improve. We love our runners and couldn’t improve our race series without your feedback. Please pay the cost of shipping (about $8). watch for the email. LOST & FOUND
7
RACE INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
49 STATES
RUNNER DEMOGRAPHIC
3 COUNTRIES
USA | CANADA | GERMANY
13 TEAMS
EVO STRON | Iowa Happy Campers | Materials Girls | Miller Street Mamas (&Papas) | Seemed like a good idea in January | Sloth Running | Smithallizzers | Team Beef | The drinking team with a running problem | The Heel Spurs | The Lumpy Runners | The Young and The Breathless | WTF? Wheres the finish
19% FIRST HALF MARATHON 35% FIRST TIME VISITING ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
0-25 Runners 25-50 Runners 50-75 Runners 75+ Runners
AGE DIVISIONS MALE
<11
12-14
15-19
20-24
25-29
30-34
35-39
40-44
45-49
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70-74
1
5
5
27
76
94
73
91
88
66
43
25
13
5
<11
12-14
15-19
20-24
25-29
30-34
35-39
40-44
45-49
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70-74
0
1
11
95
219
194
193
207
146
93
68
33
12
3
75> 2
FEMALE
BIB DETAILS Timing chip on back! DO NOT FOLD BIB
Special indication**
Your bib number
Color coded to indicate wave start
Team name (if applicable)
*see pg. 4
Runnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name
Your race shirt size Indicates if you requested a Hydrapouch when registering. **
Charity Bib Raised $1K for the NPF! Military Bib Thank you for your service!
8
Turn this in at the start line race morning. We will have a raffle from 4:30-5:30 am. Continental Divide Club We salute you.
Reminder of free photo at finish!
Chasm Club We salute you.
75> 0
5K RACE & ELK DOUBLE INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
ROCKY MOUNTAIN 5K COURSE BIB PICKUP
The race starts at 6:30pm sharp on Friday, July 29th! 5K and Elk Double runners will have until 5:00 pm to pick up their bib at the expo. After, the bibs will be available near the 5K start line from 5:30-6:15 pm. 5K fun-run registration is available until 5:00 pm.
P
SPECTATOR INFO
Because of the significant amount of road control, spectators are not allowed to stop along the highway at any point along the race. Spectators are welcome at the starting line, and encouraged to be at the finish line to cheer on all our runners. Please recognize that the runner area is for runners only! Please do not enter the runner area or partake of runner’s food and recovery supplies.
Be aware that the expo is in a different location than the 5K starting line. You can park or be dropped off at the ball fields, or the Dog and Agility Park just off of Community Dr. in Estes Park, CO. Runners will walk a short distance to the start line of the 5K. *Same-day registration for the timed 5K will be allowed until 2:00 pm.
There are no vehicles allowed on the course. The only vehicle allowed on the course will be for a medical emergency.
AID STATION
There will be one aid station on the course near the half way point (mile 1.5). The aid station will have water, Gnarly, and bathrooms. Like the half marathon, this race will be cupless!
ELK DOUBLE RACE INFO receive a special shirt and medal (in addition to the finisher medal for the separate races). Those of you running the Elk Double will still pick up your bibs and race shirt at the Rocky Mountain Half expo. Those registered for the Elk Double will receive:
What is the Elk Double? The Elk Double is for runners looking to run two distances in one weekend! We have decided to hold two races during the Rocky Mountain Half weekend. On Friday, the 29th we will hold a 5K race, and then Saturday morning the half marathon will take place. We know a lot of you will be coming with family and friends so we wanted an event where more could participate. Those that signed up for the Elk Double during registration committed to running both the 5K and the Half Marathon. Pretty hard, core right? Not only are Elk Double runners special in the eyes of their loved ones, but we think they’re pretty neat as well- So those who complete it will
1) 1 Rocky Mountain race shirt 2) 3 finisher medals (1 5K medal, 1 half marathon medal, and 1 special Elk Double medal!) 3) 1 special swag item (unless you opted out during registration)
PACKET PICKUP
We’ll have an Elk Double packet pickup station at the expo with signage marking the table where you’ll check in and pickup your bib and race shirt. *When you registered for the race, you indicated what size shirt you would like. If you get your shirts and find you don’t like the fit, you can exchange it at the half marathon finish line after the race.
SWAG
not you’d like to also receive a special swag item to commemorate your week! Runners were able to choose from a t-shirt, a tank-top, or a hat. These designs will not change year-after-year, so you still have a chance to collect them all! If you didn’t opt out, you’ll pick up this item at the race expo. Once you’ve picked up your packet, you’ll be directed to the swag table, where your item will be waiting for you!
MEDALS
Once you’ve completed the Elk Double, you’ll get to collect your special finisher medal! You can find those medals just outside the runner recovery area. Once you’re ready, make your way over to that table (which will be clearly marked) with your bib. A volunteer will give you the medal and the race portion of your vacation is officially complete!
MEDALS AND SWAG CANNOT BE BOUGHT. THEY MUST BE EARNED.
When you registered, you indicated whether or 9
10
11
CLUBS & TRIFECTA INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
CLUB HIKES EXAMPLE PHOTO
To encourage our runners to get out and enjoy the park, we have 2 club hikes and a trifecta challenge. Our club hikes are a salute to the hardcore among us. All runners who complete the hikes within 72 hours of the end of the race will receive 50% OFF next year’s race entry, and completing the Trifecta grants 20% OFF next year’s entry. Any runner who sends us a picture of him or herself at these destinations will officially join the club! The photo must be sent within 72 hours of the race and must include: • A clear view of your happy face • Your bib with bib number clearly visible • Your shiny new finisher medal in view • A clear background that shows you actually completed the hike Following the 2016 Rocky Mountain Half Marathon, we will post a link to the website where runners can send us their photos and names. Good luck!
After the race there will be a submission form online where you can upload your photo(s) and send them to us. We have a hard cutoff of 72 hours! If you don’t get it to us before Tuesday at 11 AM (MST) then we will only give you a virtual hi-five. This picture is from Hallett Peak (Continental Divide Club) and is an example of what yours should look like (for both the Clubs AND the Trifecta).
CHASM LAKE
THEROCKYMOUNTAINHALF.COM/CLUBS/
CHASM LAKE CLUB Difficulty: Moderate Total Mileage: 8.4 mi Type of Hike: Out and Back Elevation Gain: 2,456 ft Trail head Elevation = 9,405 ft. Lake Elevation = 11,803 ft.
CONTINENTAL DIVIDE
Parking Lot Coordinates Latitude: 40.27246 Longitude: -105.55725
12
CONTINENTAL DIVIDE CLUB Difficulty: Difficult Total Mileage: 10 mi round-trip Type of Hike: Out and back Elevation Gain: 3,324 ft. Trail head Elevation = 9,475 ft. Peak Elevation = 12,713 ft. Parking Lot Coordinates Latitude: 40.31196 Longitude: -105.64581
Chasm Lake is located 4.2 miles from the Longs Peak Trail head in Rocky Mountain National Park. It fills a deep cirque carved from the base of Mt Meeker (13,911 ft), Longs Peak (14,259 ft) and Mount Lady Washington (13,281 ft).
uneven talus ring the lake, requiring some minor scrambling to the best viewpoints. To avoid crowds and afternoon thunderstorms, we encourage you to start your hike early in the morning.
The trail climbs steadily from the Longs Peak Ranger Station through lodgepole, spruce and fir. Large boulders and
SNOW COVER IS POSSIBLE YEAR ROUND, BUT LARGE CAIRNS ENSURE YOU STAY ON COURSE.
Hallett Peak stands prominently along the Continental Divide over Chaos Canyon (south), and Tyndall Glacier (north). The hike to Hallett Peak begins from the Bear Lake Trail head located at the end of Bear Lake Road, 9 miles from the turn-off at Highway 36. Due to the extreme popularity of the area you may want to consider using the free park shuttle to access the trail head during the peak tourist season.
From the trail head hikers will immediately make a right turn onto the Bear Lake Loop Trail. After a short walk along the eastern shore of Bear Lake you’ll make another right turn onto the trail that leads to Flattop Mountain. No maintained trail reaches Hallett Peak, however a well-established crosscountry route leads south from Flattop Mountain to its base, where a steep scramble continues up to the summit.
CLUBS & TRIFECTA INFORMATION
THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN TRIFECTA
There are 3 different activities- all which need to be done to officially complete the Trifecta. The same rules as the Club Hikes apply: take your picture at each of the 3 with your bib and finisher medal and send them to
1) HIKE AROUND BEAR LAKE
Bear Lake is beautiful and incredibly easy to get to. You drive to the Bear Lake parking lot and it is a 1/4 mile to a beautiful view of the lake and Hallett Peak. The hike around the lake is beautiful and easily can be done with children. Those attempting the Hallett Peak hike will start at Bear Lake.
JULY 30, 2016
us 72 hours after finishing the race. The Trifecta is meant to be challenging, but less strenuous. These are iconic activities inside the park that should be experienced, and are doable with children. The 3 activities that make up the Trifecta are: HIKE AROUND BEAR LAKE, ALBERTA FALLS, AND TRAIL RIDGE ROAD.
2) ALBERTA FALLS
The hike to Alberta Falls begins from the Glacier Gorge Trail head on Bear Lake Road, located almost 8 miles from the turn-off at Highway 36. Due to the extreme popularity of the Bear Lake Road area, you may want to consider using the free park shuttle to reach the trail head during the peak tourist season. It is 1.7 miles round-trip.
3) TRAIL RIDGE ROAD
Trail Ridge Rd is an incredible byway that goes from Estes Park to Grand Lake, crosses the continental divide, climbs above the tree line, and offers incredible views. Our challenge to you is to drive to the top of Trail Ridge Rd and to make the short hike to the tallest peak. This road is only open 3 months out of the year!
*Please take these hikes seriously, and act responsibly. It is not intended to be accessible to everyone. Also, bring more water than you think you need. In July, there may still be snow packed on certain trails. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really anticipate what the weather will be like at that time of year, but are hoping it will be clear. Check the NPS website to help plan your hikes and check with park rangers to get up to date trail conditions. Also remember these parks belong to all of us. Take time to plan your hike and be sure not to disrupt the environment. Leave nothing but footprints, and be careful!
PARK INFORMATION All visitors are required to purchase a pass in order to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. Park shuttles will be running. Seniors over 62 can purchase a lifetime pass for just $10. Active members of the U.S. Military are eligible for a free pass as well as U.S. citizens with permanent disabilities. If you already own a National Park Annual Pass, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re good to go! Otherwise, you
can purchase one at the park entrance, or just a single park pass. There are 3 main shuttle routes we recommend using in the park: Hiker Shuttle Express Route, Bear Lake Route, and the Moraine Park Route. Visit www.nps.gov/romo/ for more information and to help plan your visit.
13
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
KEY RACE LOCATION Rocky Mountain Half Marathon
CLUB HIKES 1 Chasm Lake 2 Continental Divide TRIFECTA 1
Bear Lake
2 Alberta Falls 3 Trail Ridge Rd.
3
2
2
1
1
Map provided by nps.gov/romo
14
NPS CENTENNIAL
JULY 30, 2016
Rocky Mountain National Park
Celebrating the
CENTENNIAL In celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016, America invites the world to discover the meaning of national parks to their lives and inspires people to both experience and become devoted to these special places.
In celebration of the National Park Service’s 100th birthday, the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation are inviting people everywhere from all backgrounds to discover and share their own personal connections to parks. So much more than vast landscapes, there are urban parks, cultural treasures, and historical places—all within the National Park System. A park can even be a feeling or a state of mind. With more than 400 national parks and thousands of historic and recreational lands across the country, there are endless ways for you to find your unique connection. Share your park using #findyourpark and #encuentratuparque on social media. You can also share moments and memories at findyourpark.com and encuentratuparque.com.
NATIONAL PARKS FOUNDATION PARTNERSHIP Did you know that 2016 marks 100 years since the National Park Service was formed? We’re so excited to be a part of the celebration this year! Vacation Races is partnered with the National Park Foundation to support our mission of park promotion and preservation! When you register for any of our races, you will have the opportunity to join the #FindYourPark movement by donating to the National Park Foundation. 100% of your
donation goes to their organization! We have committed to donate at least $150,000 and with your help it can be even more! Come run with us and help ensure our national parks are protected now and forever.
heritage and inspiring generations of national park enthusiasts.
Additionally, the National Park Foundation will attend several of our races throughout the year. Their Mission – The National Park Foundation, in partnership with the National Park Service, enriches America’s national parks and programs through private support, safeguarding our
15
VACATION RACES INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
MEET THE TEAM SALEM STANLEY
Founder Favorite Course: Grand Canyon RM Activity: Drive Old Fall River Road Food at RM: BBQ Pork at Smokin’ Daves
DEHN CRAIG
Customer Experience - Marketing Favorite Course: Lake Powell RM Activity: Bear Lake Food at RM: Smokin’ Daves BBQ
LYLE ANDERSON
Director of Race Operations Favorite Course: Grand Canyon RM Activity: Drive Trail Ridge Road Food at RM: Smokin’ Daves BBQ
CHERIE SANTIAGO
Customer Service Favorite Course: Yellowstone RM Activity: Drive through the park Food at RM: Salt Water Taffy and Ice cream
RACE PHOTOGRAPHY FROM LUCID IMAGES
AMY NICHTER
Local Support & Partnerships Favorite Course: Zion RM Activity: Backpacking at Loomis Lake Food at RM: Anything form Notchtop Bakery & Cafe
MEGAN STANLEY
Merchandise Favorite Course: Rocky Mountain RM Activity: Driving up Trail Ridge Road Food at RM: Smokin’ Daves BBQ
ROBIN RODGERS
Communications Favorite Course: Lake Powell RM Activity: Driving up Trail Ridge Road Food at RM: Ice cream from the Danish Cone Factory
Lucid Images will be taking photos at the start line, on the course, and at the finish line. They will be at the expo so be sure to stop by and say hello! To be sure you can find your picture later, wear your bib with the numbers clearly visible at all times. If the photographers cannot identify you by your bib then your photo will end up in an “unidentified runner” folder on their website. Photos will be available on Lucid Images website on Thursday, following the race. We will send out an email to notify all runners and post it on Facebook.
FREE PHOTO
In addition to photos of runners on the course and crossing the finish line, Lucid Images will have a designated area near the awards ceremony stage where runners can pose for a finisher photo. This photo will be made available FOR FREE to runners! PHOTOS ON COURSE
As a heads up to runners, there will be signs on the course to let runners know they are coming up on photographers. Ya know, just in case you wanted to freshen up, wipe away any snot, pick up the pace or otherwise pose for the photo :) LUCIDRACES.COM
SOCIAL MEDIA
We will be making a slideshow video using all the pictures YOU post! Be sure to follow us and use the official race hashtag #RMHalf. We will be giving out prizes from our store (t-shirts and other merchandise) to the best photos featuring: • Pictures Of The Course • Race Prep • Race Recovery • Enjoying The Park
16
#RMHALF @VACATIONRACES HTTP://THEROCKYMOUNTAINHALF.COM
ULTRA ADVENTURES
VIRTUAL RUNNING CLUB
OTHER RACES
Vacation Races is proud to be a sponsor of Ultra Adventures Grand Circle Trail Series. Whether you want the challenge of a longer distance, or just want to go off road, we hope you will join us in 2016 at one of the seven trails for a half or 50/100 miler! Use the discount code VR2016 to save $10 when registering for any distance!
Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt. -John Muir
JULY 30, 2016 We are excited to announce the Virtual Running Club! We have been hosting virtual races since 2013 and now have 24 different races throughout the year. From Martin Luther King, Jr Day to Earth Day to Summer Solstice, virtual races are a great way to establish goals throughout the year and celebrate days that are important to you without the logistical hassles of race day! Plus, it’s a cost effective way to fill out your medal rack. Vacation Races is the sponsor for the virtual races held on the National Park Fee Free Days (National Park Week, Earth Day, NPS Birthday, etc). We are also proud to be hosting the first annual Surgeon Generals Virtual 5K Run, Walk, Roll in May. As we develop the Virtual Running Club over the next year you will be able to earn discounts to virtual and traditional races as well as some swag from our sponsors. Look for our booth at the expo to learn more! What is a virtual race? - A virtual race is a low cost running event where the location of the race is chosen by the individual participant rather than the event company. You still get a shirt and finisher medal shipped to you, but on race day you track your own time and you select where you run. Through pictures on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter we run together virtually.
WWW.GRANDCIRCLETRAILS.COM
WWW.VIRTUALRUNNINGCLUB.COM
TRAILFEST 3 PARKS, 3 TRAILS, 1 PARTY!
Vacation Races is proud to announce our newest series: Grand Circle Trailfest! 2016 is our inaugural yearThe Trailfest is a 3 day trail-running festival which takes place in the heart of North America’s most scenic national parks: Bryce Canyon, Zion, & Grand Canyon on October 13-15, 2016. The festival will be centralized in Kanab, UT. Activities include trail running (of course), food, live entertainment, and trail running film festival screenings from Trails In Motion.
WWW.THETRAILFEST.COM
TRAINING Meet Terry Chiplin, the official training partner of the Vacation Races series and creator of Active at Altitude. Terry offers free race specific training programs to all runners! He also organizes Training Camps, Running Vacations, Endurance Coaching & Mental Training Seminars. He has years of experience and just happens to be one of the nicest guys around.
Terry’s camps consistently receive high marks from participants, with reviews like these: “Among the top ten adult running camps in the USA” - Daily Burn, March 2015 “A once-in-a-lifetime fitness retreat for women!” -Shape Magazine, March 2015
Active at Altitude hosts running camps all year long including Women’s Running Camps (May, July, and September), Trail Running Camps (May and September), and Running Vacations!
Use code VR1002015 to save $100 on women’s camps and the code VR50TRAIL2015 to save $50 on trail camps! We couldn’t be happier to have Active at Altitude as a part of our race series. Contact camp director Terry Chiplin with any questions regarding camps, coaching, and training. terry@activeataltitude.com www.activeataltitude.com (303) 304-9159
17
AREA INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
RESTAURANT PARTNERS
SMOKIN’ DAVES BBQ IS OFFERING A FREE BEER WITH ANY ENTREE.
Friday-Sunday of race weekend, be sure to stop by Smokin’ Daves BBQ. They are offering a free beer with any entrée (only one per table and not valid with any other offer). They’re open for lunch and dinner and are known for their ribs and a long list of microbrews. Smokin’ Daves BBQ & Taphouse 820 Moraine Ave Estes Park, CO 80517 Phone (970) 557-7427 www.smokindavesq.com
18
KIND COFFEE IS OFFERING A BUY ONE DRINK, GET ONE FREE.
Race weekend only, show your bib and buy a drink, get one free (of equal or lesser value). One time per runner. Kind Coffee, locally owned and operated, is an organic coffee shop located in downtown Estes Park right along our River Walk. Offering a full service coffee and espresso bar, breakfast foods, fresh fruit smoothies, and lots of great lunch and trail options. Join them daily at 6:30 am. Free WiFi with plenty of indoor and riverside seating. Kind Coffee 470 E Elkhorn Ave Estes Park, CO 80517 Phone: (970) 586-5206 www.kindcoffee.com
WATERFRONT GRILLE AT THE ESTES PARK RESORT
While not offering any runner discounts directly, we highly recommend you go check them out. With casual fine dining and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains- enjoy a wide range of menu options. Open from 7am-10pm 7-days a week. Waterfront Grille 1700 Big Thompson Ave Estes Park, CO 80517 Phone: (970) 577-6400 www.theestesparkresort.com/waterfront.php
EVENT PARTNERS AND SPONSORS
JULY 30, 2016
THANKS TO OUR VENDORS WHO SUPPORT OUR RUNNERS! • Lucid Images
• Aetna
• Gnarly
• Garry’s Medal Engraving
• Altitude Running Company
• Altra Footwear • Kustom Medal Hangers
• Honey Stinger • Easy Camp
• Active at Altitude • Simple Squares
On course nutrition made available by Gnarly and Honey Stinger
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HALF MARATHON PARTNERS AND SPONSORS
• Leave No Trace
Proud sponsor of the Rocky Mountain Half Marathon PURE NATURAL ENERGY
ON COURSE Organic Honey Stinger Gels
honeystinger.com
Organic Stinger Waffles Gluten Free Organic Stinger Waffles Organic Energy Chews Snack Bars Protein Chews Protein Bars Energy Bars Energy Gels
Download RaceJoy to Add to Download RaceJoy to Add to Your Race Experience! Your Race Experience!
Life is more rewarding when you try new things, and this company is all about the thrill of exploration. For thirty years, Sierra Trading Post has worked hard to make many of the world’s best brands more affordable and accessible. Sierra Trading Post has grown from a small, family-owned business into a multi-channel powerhouse. In 2012, they officially became a division of The TJX Companies, Inc., the leading off-price retailer of apparel and home fashions. Sierra Trading Post’s buying team travels the globe in search of the best savings on top brands of apparel, footwear, outdoor gear and more. Whether you’re searching for a backpack, trail running shoes or a new pair of jeans, this company is the ultimate source for tremendous everyday value on your favorite brands. They are also backed by an industry-leading customer service team.
A RunSignUp Product A RunSignUp Product
Free Live Phone Tracking! Free Live Phone Tracking! GPS Progress Alerts GPS Progress Alerts Send-a-Cheer! Send-a-Cheer! Experience
Experience RaceJoy Experience RaceJoy for Free for FREE courtesy of RaceJoy for Free on Behalf of Race Vacation Races! on Behalf of Race Sponsors! Sponsors!
Available for Apple and Android devices. Available for Apple and Android devices.
Download RaceJoy Today! Download RaceJoy Today! Questions? Email: s u p p o r t @ r a c e j o y. c o m Questions?
Website: Email: s u rpapcoer jto@y.rcaocm e j o y. c o m See RaceJoy Website: r a c Buzz e j o y.Alerts c o m or FAQ in App
Like us on Facebook to see what races are offering RaceJoy! Like us on Facebook to see what races are offering RaceJoy!
See RaceJoy Buzz Alerts or FAQ in App
Key RaceJoy Features! Key RaceJoy Features! Live Tracking Live Phone Tracking LiveGPS Tracking
GPS Progress Alerts - at every mile! Live GPS Phone Tracking AudioProgress Cheer Clips GPS Alerts - at every mile! NearMe Proximity Audio Cheer Clips Alerts MeetUp NearMe Proximity Alerts
Kustom Medal Hangers
MeetUp
Progress Alerts GPS-based progress alerts at every Progress Alerts
Unique Medal Hangers for all your awarded medals!
dd jusT a le Peop
•Running •Biking •Rodeo •Military •Swimming
finish time.
Send-a-Cheer Send entertaining, motivational Send-a-Cheer
plus shipping and handling Allow two weeks for order
audio cheer clips ormotivational custom personal Send entertaining, messages text-to-cheer. audio cheerwith clips or custom personal messages with text-to-cheer.
Choose one of these or create your own personalized engraved hanger! A Great Gift Idea! ❏ Marathon Man/Woman ❏ 26.2 Piece of Cake ❏ The Journey is the Reward ❏ 13.1 Half of a Fanatic ❏ Cancer Survivor ❏ I’m A Survivor ❏ Winning Isn’t Everything ❏ Shut Up Legs
mile including pace and estimated GPS-based progress alerts at every finish time. mile including pace and estimated
18” Hanger only $60 24” Hanger only $75
ACCEPTED
Kustom Medal Hangers P.O. Box 5085 Buena Vista, CO 81211
The race participant must carry their phone and enable tracking on race day. There is norace charge to use RaceJoy at thistheir race.phone The event is sponsoring thison asrace part of your The participant must carry and enable tracking day. There race Typically, there is arace. thereThe is aevent 99 cents per race upgrade fee for these is no experience. charge to use RaceJoy at this is sponsoring this as part of your features. race experience. Typically, there is a there is a 99 cents per race upgrade fee for these features. Note: Make sure the spectator logs in as themselves or we will track their phone and not yours. Note: Make sure the spectator logs in as themselves or we will track their phone and not yours.
Questions? jb@smrocks.com James Bouma 865-356-7116
Participants! Come back on race day and click the Start My Race button as you cross start line. Participants! Come back on race daythe and click the Start My Race button as you cross the start line. Be sure to follow the in-app prompts to ensure proper setup of the various features available to you on race day. Be sure to follow the in-app prompts to ensure proper setup of the various features available to you on race day. If you have any questions about RaceJoy for this race, contact support@racejoy.com. We’re happy to help! If you have any questions about RaceJoy for this race, contact support@racejoy.com. We’re happy to help! © 2016 RaceJoy All Rights Reserved © 2016 RaceJoy All Rights Reserved
19
VACATION RACES INFORMATION
JULY 30, 2016
NATIONAL PARK HALF MARATHON SERIES Don’t stop at Rocky Mountain! We have 9 total National Park Half Marathons on the calendar! This year includes several 5Ks, Double Races, and our Caldera Triple (Grand Teton Half Marathon, Yellowstone 5K, and Yellowstone Half Marathon)!
the Everglades Half Marathon! Our goal is to put on beautiful half marathons and get people to visit and enjoy our amazing national parks.
Vacation Races was founded in 2012 when we launched registration for the Inaugural Zion Half Marathon. Since then, we’ve added 8 more races to our calendar, each centered around a different National Park, including our newest race for 2016,
DESCRIPTION
This year is extra special since 2016 marks 100 years since the National Park Service was founded! We’re so excited to be a part of the celebration this year, and you can too! Whether you do it with us or on your own, go #FindYourPark in 2016!
ELEVATION MAX/GAIN
ZION MARCH 12TH 2016
Springdale, UT Runner Cap: 2,500
3546 ft/466 ft
CLUB HIKE
VACATIONRACES.COM
#ZIONHALF | #GCHALF | #TETONHALF | #YSHALF #RMHALF | #GSMHALF | #YOSEMITEHALF | #LPHALF | #EVERGLADESHALF #RUNYOURPARK | #VACATIONRACES
AVG TEMP
YEARS RUNNING
62° 36°
4TH YEAR
SKELETON POINT
58° 31°
3RD YEAR
BRADLEY LAKE TABLE MOUNTAIN AMPHITHEATER LAKE
67° 35°
2ND YEAR
MT WASHBURN OSPREY FALLS
67° 35°
3RD YEAR
HALLETT PEAK CHASM LAKE
79° 47°
4TH YEAR
80° 56°
3RD YEAR
HALF DOME NEVADA FALLS
77° 44°
2ND YEAR
RAINBOW BRIDGE ANTELOPE CANYON
70° 47°
4TH YEAR
TBA
82° 64°
1ST YEAR
OBSERVATION POINT DOUBLE ARCH ALCOVE EAGLE CRAGS
GRAND CANYON MAY 7TH 2016
Tusayan, AZ Runner Cap: 2,000
GRAND TETON JUNE 4TH 2016
Jackson Hole, WY Runner Cap: 2,500
6651 ft/279 ft
6169 ft/580 ft
YELLOWSTONE JUNE 11TH 2016
West Yellowstone, MT Runner Cap: 2,500
ROCKY MOUNTAIN
JULY 30TH 2016
6665 ft/361 ft
7505 ft/844 ft
Estes Park, CO Runner Cap: 2,500
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS SEPTEMBER 10TH 2016
Townsend, TN Runner Cap: 2,500
893 ft/364 ft
Bass Lake, CA Runner Cap: 2,500
CHARLIES BUNION MT LECONTE (VIA ALUMN CAVE)
YOSEMITE
OCTOBER 8TH 2016
CHIMNEY TOPS
5448 ft/486 ft
LAKE POWELL OCTOBER 15TH 2016
Page, AZ Runner Cap: 2,500
4361 ft/151 ft
EVERGLADES NOVEMBER 19TH 2016
Everglades NP, FL Runner Cap: 1,000 20
22 ft/64 ft
ROAD
TRAIL STROLLER HAND CYCLE
5K