Saturday, June 19, 2010

Wulfman's Continental Divide Trail Run

Distance: 14k
http://buttespissandmoanrunners.com/Butte%20Races/CDT-14K/cdt_14k.htm

This fantastic trail run has become quite popular since it started in 2008. In 2010 it filled in May, so it's best to register early. This is a point-to-point race along the a newly constructed section of the Continental Divide Trail. The race switches directions every year, heading south in even years and north in odd numbered years. Since it is all single-track, it is too narrow for the standard mass start. So the race is run in a time trial format with one runner starting every 10 seconds, fastest runner starts first, then the 2nd fastest and so on down the line to the person with the slowest predicted finish time. The course is rolling with two notable hills. Both climbs are longer, but less steep than those on the Prickly Pear 12k course. If you are running southbound, you know you're at the top and can start a steady, switchbacking downhill to the finish when stunning views of snow-covered peaks appear in the distance. Sadly the views are behind you when running northbound. This is definately a course where running the trail in advance will benefit you. Expect distance markers every kilometer and one aid station about half-way through. The trail is in good shape without too much technical footing.

I've found this an exceptionally well organized event, particularly given the challenges of a point-to-point race. I would prefer if the slowest runner was started first, working up the fastest. This would lead to more passing, but I think the trail was wide enough and the runners polite enough to handle it. It would also allow more time for the timing crew to get from the start to the finish. I highly recommend this race for new trail runners and old veterans alike.

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