Race Reviews

Beacon Rock

2011-06-21T10:34:00.002-06:00

Distances: 50k, 25k

Location: Stevenson, WA

http://beaconrock50k.blogspot.com/

This race stands out for all the related social events. You could show up as early as Friday night to camp out for the Sunday race. Post-race there was not just a barbecue, but a live bluegrass band. The race course was a short stretch of paved and dirt road from the group campsite at Beacon Rock State Park to a figure-eight loop on dirt road and single-track, the 25k group does one loop and the 50k group does two. Aid station volunteers are always saints, but I was particularly impressed with the helpfulness of these volunteers. But maybe that's because I ran the 50k and we passed the same the aid station, strategically located at the junction of the figure-eight, four times in total and got to know the volunteers rather well. This is the first of the many races directed by James Varner that I've run and I would certainly be willing to do another of his events.

Don't Fence Me In Trail Run

2011-05-14T10:34:00.001-06:00

Distances:5k, 5k dog walk, 12k, 30k
Location: Helena, MT
http://www.pricklypearlt.org/eventscalendar/detailedinformation.asp?ID=1628
I've done the 12k in 2007 & 2008 and the 30k in 2009, 2010 & 2011. The 12k race hits the most popular trails in the Mt. Ascension and Rodney Ridge areas of Helena's South Hills. It's a hilly course, but none of the hills are much longer than a 1/2 mile or so. Which makes it a challenging course, but by trail race standards, not overwhelmingly so. The course was well-marked and the single track trail well-maintained, which makes it a good trail race for those new to trail running. The 30k was added in 2008 and has become very popular. I would particularly recommend it as an intermediate step for anyone considering their first ultra. The 30k course became notably more challenging in 2010 when it was modified to include trips up and down both Mt. Ascension and Mt. Helena. It also runs for several miles on the Helena Ridge Trail- one of most scenic trails in town by my book. Generally, the atmosphere at the race is very relaxed, attracting the full array of serious racers, not-so-serious runners, and people mostly interested in supporting the land trust. However, the 30k became much more competitive in 2011 when the race was made part of the LaSportiva trail series. All-in-all a very fun day.

Monument Peak 15k

2011-04-23T14:39:00.001-06:00

Distance: 15k

Location: Gates, OR

http://www.runwildadventures.com/index.php?p=1_22_Monument-Peak-15K-Trail-Run

The course was on some fantastic trails east of Salem that seemed to be little used by runners, but are probably well-known to horsemen in the area. The race was staged out of a campground that hasn't yet opened for the year so racers had the place to themselves. It was mostly single track with some short stretches of dirt road. Theoretically, I think a spectator could drive around to see runners on one of the dirt roads, but the roads may still be closed for the season and I never saw anyone cheering. Hills on this course were different in that the climbs and descents weren't terribly consistent; for example, the 4 miles of climb in the middle of the race didn't have a very consistent grade but instead was a mix of flat, gentle runnable climbs, and steeper switchbacks. In general you're faced with a mile or so of downhill, a flat-ish mile, 4 miles of climbing, and then downhill mostly to the finish. There's one aid station slightly before the top of the climb, but I was surprised not to top out on a summit, or even a ridge, rather the grade levels off more and more until you realize you've been headed downhill for a while now. Race directors opted for cheaper entry and no t-shirts, which appealed to me as a veteran racer with a few to many t-shirts. I also liked that winners got small prizes (pizza & coffee gift certs.) while the big prizes (free shoes) were given away in a random drawing. I do think, however, the race director should tone down the Max King love fest. (Max King kicks ass, it was great to see him at a little race like this, but winning this was hardly a challenge for him.) It would make this a much more competitive race by changing the '$100 to Max King if he wins, or anyone who beats him' to a more standard '$50 each to men's and women's winners.'

Hagg Lake Mud Run

2011-02-20T14:06:00.003-07:00

Distances: 50k, 25k

Location: Forest Grove, OR

http://www.haggmud.com/

This race is all about the mud, so times can vary greatly from year to year. In 2011 it was considered a 'fast' year but that mostly meant that conditions tended more toward the slick than the boggy and everyone I talked to fell at least once. I'd recommend screw shoes for maximum traction if it weren't for the 1/2 mi of pavement as you cross the dam. The 25k is a short out-and-back followed by one lap on the single track around Hagg Lake. The 50k is a slightly longer out-and-back and 2 laps around Hagg Lake. The terrain is mostly rolling with the longest hill of at the start of the race on the out-and-back. This is a fantastic course for spectators because the trail comes up to the road 4-5 times on each lap. The 50k is run on Saturday with the 25k on Sunday. In 2011, there was an option for a few 25k runners to non-competitively run on Saturday, but this is unlikely to be an option in the future. Apparently too many runners were changing their mind and asking to be moved from one day to the other. Post race burgers and grilled cheese were provided but, despite sunny weather on race day, many runners dispersed an hour or 2 after they finished. There are a series of training runs in the months leading up the the event and the RD tries to give small benefits, like better parking spots, to the folks who attend them. The training events start very punctually, almost a hair early, so make sure you arrive on time!

South Hills Annual Trail Series Race 4- Goat Grind

2010-10-17T11:08:00.001-06:00

Distance: 4 mi
Location: Helena, MT
http://www.bquickrunning.com/trailseries/home.html
This is a tough one out in the Elkhorn Mtns. You run through a horse pasture, then down a steep road, across a very sketchy bridge, up a steep hill to a loop of rolling, technical single track, back down the steep hill, across the sketchy bridge, up the road and then finally down a short hill to the finish. This race really calls on all your trail running skills- uphilling, downhilling, technical footing, and your ability to stay on course. The trail series in general is a great place to hang out with the Helena running community and this last race is especially good because the awards for the series get handed out after this one at the post-race pancake breakfast. It is usuall pretty cold, so have plenty of extra layers to put on after the race.
*disclaimer: I have helped put on this race in the past, though for the last few years my help was limited to typing up the results*

Portland Marathon

2010-10-10T00:44:00.004-06:00

Distances: marathon, half-marathon

Location: Portland, OR

http://www.portlandmarathon.org/

I did the marathon in 2010. The course was fairly flat with the exception the climb onto the bridge around mi 18. After the climb, I was looking forward to a downhill to get off the bridge on the other side, but there really wasn't one. The number of fans cheering at the start at 6 AM was impressive. There were also drummers playing near the start and I found it really hard to stay slow and on pace when I heard them. They don't provide water in the starting area, so I'd recommend bringing your own in a disposable bottle. I was kind of surprised they gave us a participant shirt and medal, as well as a finisher's shirt and medal. I wouldn't mind just finishers shirts/medals. (What am I supposed to do with a participant medal?) It was well organized with one glaring exception- the drop bag pick up. I waited nearly an hour in the rain to get my warm clothes. At the start there were several trucks for drop bags, but it seemed like everyone dumped their bag in the 1st one- making finding any specific bag nearly impossible. Unless they do a better job of controlling who drops off their bag where, choose the truck for the back-of-the-pack folks. If you want to do the half-marathon, it fills quickly, so register early.

South Hills Annual Trail Series Race 2- Goats In The Dark

2010-09-24T10:23:00.001-06:00

Distance: 3.1 mi
Location: Helena, MT
http://www.bquickrunning.com/trailseries/home.html
This is a night race, which intimidates a lot of people. I think it's a fun twist to run in the dark. Your brightest headlamp will be helpful, but the course is well marked with glow sticks, so if you stay alert you shouldn't have any problems. It starts out running down a road for maybe a 1/3 mile before it gets on single track trail at the Tubbs trailhead. Do your best to establish an accurate position before you turn onto the trail, because passing is difficult. Most everyone has seemed to be pretty polite about stepping aside if someone comes up behind them who is moving faster. You return to the road about 1/4 mile from the finish so you have space to open up for a finishing sprint. There is a right turn about 1/2 way through the race which someone missed every year until 2010 when the race director took the overdue step of posting a volunteer there. There is usually a post-race gathering with beer and snacks at the race director's house.
*disclaimer: I have helped put on this race in the past, though for the last few years my help was limited to typing up the results*

Mt. Helena Classic

2010-09-18T18:14:00.000-06:00

Distance: 5.6 mi
Location: Helena, MT
http://vigilanterunning.org/mthelena/home.shtml
This race up Mt. Helena has been around since 1975 so it is definately a classic. I enjoyed it, but it is TOUGH. The race starts downtown, winds through a few neighborhoods to the Mt. Helena trailhead, then up the Prairie Trail, Backside Trail, and Hogback Trail to the summit of Mt. Helena. Then down the 1906 Trail to Mt. Helena trailhead, retrace your steps through the neighborhoods back to downtown. You will see some technical footing on the Backside and Hogback Trails and at the top of the 1906 Trail. The main challenge of this race is in the 1300 foot climb, but coming down the hard-packed 1906 Trail can also be a bit tough on the ol' knees. In 2008, the sponsorship of the local outdoor store was a nice addition.

Badlands Trail Run

2010-08-28T20:58:00.002-06:00

Distances: 10k, 5k
Location: Medora, ND
http://www.medora.com/events/?Badlands-Trail-Run

I had not expected North Dakota to be this beautiful! Make sure you have the time to explore the trails in the nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park. There aren't many hotels in Medora, but camping is available in the National Park (Cottonwood Campground), a state park (Sully Creek), and the National Grasslands (Buffalo Gap).

The race was an out-and-back course through the rolling hills just south of National Park. It's pretty much all singletrack, so stay alert for oncoming runners near the turn around. The trail was easy to follow and not very technical, making it a good race for those new to trail running. Note that Medora is near the boundary between time zones; all times are Mountain time.

Beartooth Run

2010-08-28T20:43:00.001-06:00

Distances: 4.2 mile, 8.4 mile
Location: Red Lodge, MT
http://www.beartoothevents.com/

Despite its long history the event didn’t draw many runners. Both races are point to point, finishing at the Vista Point scenic pull-out. The races start at the same time, with the shorter one starting at about the midpoint of the longer one, farther on up the switchbacks. Buses shuttle racers from the Lake Fork parking area to the starting lines. The buses are exclusively for one race or the other so make sure you know which is which! Plastic bags are provided to carry warm, dry clothing to the finish.

The course is all uphill with a 4% average grade and middle and back-of-the-pack runners can run most of it. Elevation gain is about 2000 feet for the 8.4 mile race. With the finish line at over 9000 feet elevation, you will likely notice the elevation (and the amazing views!) before the race is over. The number of water stations was more than adequate. (I don’t believe any offered snacks.) Due to the early start, the course lies almost entirely in the shade. It was a cool with no wind at the start and most people went with bare arms or shoulders. However, with the big change in elevation and exposure, unexpected winds could make it miserable for slower runners looking at a couple hours on the course without enough clothing.

Motels in nearby Red Lodge are pricey this time of year; therefore, many people camp at one of the nearby campgrounds.
****reviewed by a guest reviewer****

HURL Elkhorn Endurance Runs

2010-08-07T21:29:00.002-06:00

Distances: 50 mile, 50k, 23k
Location: Helena, MT
http://vigilanterunning.org/elkhorn/home.shtml

The 50k was my first ultramarathon and it may have turned me on to this ultra corner of the racing world. It had a great family atmosphere. The volunteers at the 6 aid stations were very friendly and helpful. There is about a mile and a half of dirt road at the beginning and end of the race, but everything else is singletrack. Although the course is adequately marked, this is not a heavily used trail, so stay alert for flagging and other trail markings as you cross the meadows. There are a lot of substatial climbs and descents in the course- almost 7000' of elevation gain/loss in the 50k and nearly 11,500' in the 50 mile. The 23k was added in 2010 to provide an option for carpool buddies, spouses, etc. The intent is to keep the 23k small and entries for it are likely to be limited so it doesn't overwhelm the ultras.

XTERRA Wild Horse Creek Triathalon

2010-07-25T21:53:00.002-06:00

Distances: long course (1200 yd swim, 16 mi mtn bike, 6 mi run), short course (600 yd swim, 7 mi mtn bike, 3 mi run), long course relay
Location: Bozeman, MT
http://www.bigskytri.com/

Hyalite Canyon was a great venue for an off road triathalon. The short course racers did one loop of each route, while the long course folks did two. The run course was on a fairly technical trail with a number of short steep climbs and descents. Since I'm a mostly lousy mountain biker, I found the bike course more technically challenging than the run course. Course marking was good, but there were a few spots on both the bike and run courses which may have benefited from having a volunteer there as well.

I generally enjoyed this event, but I had two complaints. First there was the problem of some early finishers loitering around the finish line and blocking the start of the run course for racers still coming out of the bike-run transition. Also, a race this long should have food available to finishers. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, but a few bagels or some fruit would have been very welcome and all I saw was water and a few abandoned gel packets.

Wulfman's Continental Divide Trail Run

2010-06-19T20:19:00.000-06:00

Distance: 14k
Location: Butte, MT
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.

Pengelly Double Dip

2010-06-12T22:23:00.004-06:00

Distances: about 13 miles, about 6 miles, 1 mile
Location: Missoula, MT
http://www.runwildmissoula.org/rwm/pengelly.html
Another particpant mentioned that he had a love-hate relationship with this race. To love: all on trails, great views, friendly atmosphere. To hate: HILLS!! Almost all of this race is spent going up or down a hill, some of them quite steep, so brush up on your power hiking skills. The course starts near the University and heads up to the "M," then goes around the south side of Mt. Sentinel and up to a saddle on the ridge. From the saddle, (here's where you get your 'dips') you go east up the ridge to a peak, back to the saddle, then west up the ridge to the top of Mt. Sentinel, back to the saddle, and finally all the way back down the north side to the start area. 'Single dippers' turn off before the saddle so they don't properly get any dips, though that trip up to the 'M' at the beginning still makes it a hilly course.
I've run this in 2008 and 2010 and noticed a big improvement in organization between the two years. Aid stations were better stocked, they made course maps available, and it was generally easier to get information. It would, however, be nice for the race to start punctually. In 2010, the awards took place in the evening at a local brewhouse. So if you're traveling from out of town, you may want to plan to spend the day in Missoula and swing by the awards before heading home. This event seems to be growing and the Double Dip is limited to 200 entrants, so this blogger recommends early registration.

Bloomsday

2010-05-02T12:27:00.000-06:00

Distance: 12k
Location: Spokane, WA
http://www.bloomsday.org/
Probably the biggest race in the pacific northwest. Since I grew up in Washington, I've been hearing legends about the difficulty of Doomsday Hill... and when I first ran it (in 2006) ended up almost disappointed with how easy it was. Which is not to say the course, or Doomsday Hill, is easy. It is a tough, hilly course for a road race. But the LEGEND of Bloomsday's difficulty was created by the majority of participants who train to do just this one race every year. Any runner who has trained to race a 12k should have no problems. I enjoyed it immensely and have been particularly impressed with how good natured all the volunteers and participants seem to be. Even though they use chip timing, if you are hoping to put in a fast time, try to get into the second seed. Things are just far less chaotic at the start and finish. Even from the first box of the general starters, there are so many people to weave around that it's hard to do more than 7 min/mile for the first 2 miles. Second seed has gotten more difficult to get into, so you will need to 1) register on-line with a qualifying time from a past Bloomsday 2) mail a qualifying time from another race to the Bloomsday folks in advance or 3) cross your fingers and get to the check-in as early as possible on Friday. Start is cold and there are no drop bags, so wear old clothes, hang them on the trees in the start and they will be collected and given to thrift stores. Lots of food booths in the finish area so I recommend bringing a little money so you can hang out in the park and have some lunch after the race.

Big Butte Run

2010-04-03T11:41:00.001-06:00

Distances: 1 mile, 5k, 11k
Location: Butte, MT
http://buttespissandmoanrunners.com/Butte%20Races/Big%20Butte/big_butte.htm
I did the 11k in 2007 and 2009. The only overlap between the 11k and the 5k is the finish. Starts at the World Museum of Mining up a steep hill on single track trail. Before the end of the first mile, you've gotten onto a dirt road that is rolling with a slight downhill grade. About halfway through you turn onto a paved road for about a 1/4 mile then turn up a different dirt road which is rolling with a slight uphill grade. There is another steep hill right before the finish back at the World Museum of Mining. It's mostly low key, but since it's probably the first "trail run" of the year in Montana, it can get competitive. The check-in and awards were originally held outdoors, which could be quite cold. Moving those indoors was a nice improvement. Not a bad early season race.

St. Patrick's Day Race

2010-03-13T10:40:00.001-07:00

Distances: 3 mile, 6 mile
Location: Anaconda, MT
I did the 3 mile in 2010 and the 6 mile in 2007. This race attracts a decent field despite its poor organization. For example, in 2010, the race started 40 minutes late because they didn't have enough busses- 1/2 an hour after the race was supposed to start an empty bus came to the 3 mile start, picked up ONE person too dumb to figure out the bus system and took them to the 6 mile start! There's no drop bags to bring warm-up clothes from the start to the finish, so that was a long time to be waiting in the cold. In addition, there was only 1 porta-potty at the start for several hundred runners. The course is fairly scenic with a steady downgrade, making it a fast course. Both races start in the hills west of Anaconda then run into town and finish on the main street. Participants in the 6 mile should expect weaving through the walkers in the 3 mile for the last 2 miles. It would be nice if they could make some effort to keep the 3 milers on one side of the road so the 6 milers can run through. If the race organizers can update their race to accomadate it's increasing popularity, it would be a nice way to start off the Montana running season.

Powderhound Winter Triathalon

2010-01-31T09:34:00.005-07:00

Distance: 5k run, 10k mountain bike, 5k cross country ski
Location: Butte, MT
http://www.homestakelodge.com/events1.html
Disclaimer: I'm a lousy biker and tried skate skiing only a handful of times prior to race day. Keep this in mind when I tell you how difficult those legs are.
This was a fun mid-winter event, and I wouldn't be afraid to show up if you aren't comfortable racing one of the events because most people seemed prepared to have fun. The run was two loops on an ungroomed path- which meant you post-holed on the first loop and ran through churned up snow in the second. The bike was also two loops on a groomed x-c ski trail. The bike course got really torn up and became increasingly difficult to ride on as more people had been on it- which gave fast runners a distinct advantage because they saw better conditions. (The second loop of the bike was so bad the organizers have PROMISED a one-loop course for next year). The x-c ski leg was a single loop. There is a short overlap in the x-c ski leg between people leaving the exchange zone and the finishing stretch so be alert. Terrain for all events was rolling hills.
As with all the events I've participated at the Homestake Pass Lodge, it was well organized with a great atmosphere and they provided a post-race meal/socializing opportunity, in this case, a chili feed.

South Hills Annual Trail Series Race 3- Goat Pursuit

2009-10-11T10:38:00.000-06:00

Distance: 6.6 mi
Location: Helena, MT
http://www.helenarunningclub.com/trailseries/home.html
My favorite of the whole trail series! But then I might be biased because this is the only race where I have ever held a course record for more than a year. The race starts at the far end of the Mt. Helena Ridge Trail and runs toward town to the Dump Gulch Trail head. The first mile or so is a climb to the ridge and then it's downhill almost the whole way to the finish. The unique thing about this race is that it is run in a time trial format. Slowest person starts first, then every 30 seconds the next faster person starts. I like the fact that there is always someone ahead of you to pass. Cross your fingers for good weather because both the 2008 and 2009 races were snowy. My hat is off to the runners who started first in 2008 who had to break trail through a foot of untracked powder!
*disclaimer: I have helped put on this race in the past, though last year my help was limited to typing up the results*

Mesa Falls Marathon

2009-08-22T21:35:00.001-06:00

Distances: marathon, half-marathon, 5k, 1 mile
Location: Ashton, ID
http://mesafallsmarathon.com/
It is a beautiful place and a fun race. Apparently, it is also a destination race as there were running clubs from Lawrence KS and Austin TX as well as Marathon Maniacs and 50 Staters from all over. Mile 11 of the marathon goes by the overlook to the Mesa Falls.
The highlight of the race for me was the hometown participation. Ashton is small and this race fills every motel room and restaurant. The locals made the spaghetti dinner and deserts while their kids helped dish it out. Pre-race morning there were bagel and homemade jams as well as fruit, donuts and coffee. All finishers received a huckleberry shake from the ice cream shop on Main Street.
****reviewed by a guest reviewer****

Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon

2009-08-15T21:46:00.004-06:00

Distances: marathon, 13.32 mi
Location: Manitou Springs, CO
http://www.pikespeakmarathon.org/index.htm
Pikes Peak Ascent is a butt-kicker and an education. The Ascent starts in Manitou Springs, CO and finishes on the 14,115 ft-high summit of Pikes Peak --a vertical gain of 7815 feet. The Marathon is out and back --or more to the point --up and down. Both races draw participants from all over the country and the globe. The Ascent starts in two "waves:" the first for more competitive racers and the second, 30 minutes later, for everyone else. Qualifying times from past races are required to get in. The course, except for the short stretch through town, lies on a trail that gradually becomes more narrow and rocky as the hours go by.
It's a first-rate event with a 54 year history and a lot of extra-curricular events. The course itself has many aid stations with water and Gatorade, though most racers also carry their own hydration. Food is available at a couple of the aid stations and free beer was offered just a few yards from the summit (!) and again after touching down back in Manitou. Sweat bags are available for Ascent runners to send dry clothes to the summit. The volunteers were extremely boisterous and enthusiastic, which I appreciated toward the end of my race. You don't get anything for entering, but a finisher's medal and a very nice jacket await you at the top if you beat the cut-off times. Views from the course are unrivaled but along with that often comes severe weather. In the past there have been lighting strikes, large hail, and even a blizzard that forced a mid-race cancellation and resulted in several cases of hypothermia. It is strongly recommended that all racers carry additional clothing to put on during the race.
The average grade is about 11%, so most middle- and back-of-the-pack runners will find this a power hike. But even that can become a faint hope if your race turns into the legendary "death march" for the last miles because you started too fast despite all the warnings not to. (That was my Pikes Peak experience and I was lucky to finish.) It would have been cool to see the winners; they're world class. I was impressed by many of the older (70's!) athletes who were all business and showed humbling strength.
****reviewed by a guest reviewer****

Missoula Marathon

2009-07-12T10:12:00.003-06:00

Distances: marathon, half-marathon, marathon relay
Location: Missoula, MT
http://www.runwildmissoula.org/
Race participation increased by about 50% between 2008 and 2009, which is a testament to the good reputation this race has earned over it's 3 years. The marathon course is notably flat with one modest hill around mile 13, followed by a modest downhill around mile 14. The half-marathon starts on a side road off the marathon course. The half-marathon is slightly uphill until it joins with the marathon course near the bottom of the mile 14 downhill. Traffic was allowed on the race course, but due to the very early morning start time (6 AM), most traffic was race related. Aid stations were consistently located every 2 miles and were stocked with both water and energy drink. All aid stations also had porta-johns. It would be good to see two or three aid stations in the last half of the race carry some minor 1st aid supplies. A bit of vaseline, band-aids, or ibuprofen can make a marathon finish much more comfortable, especially for new marathoners.

Deadwood-Mickelson Trail Marathon

2009-06-07T17:43:00.003-06:00

Distances: marathon, half-marathon
Location: Deadwood, SD
http://www.deadwoodmickelsontrailmarathon.com/
This was an awesome race on a beautiful trail! This race is run on a section of rails-to-trails so expect a 4 or 5 foot wide, non-technical path. Racers are shuttled out to their respective starts and then run into downtown Deadwood. The website warns marathoners not to expect a PR because it is a trail race; the same does not hold true for the half-marathoners. The marathon climbs for about 13 miles to the start of the half-marathon and then it's downhill all the way to the finish. I did the half-marathon and was delighted by a downhill is so gentle that it was almost imperceptible from just looking at it. Couple that with the hard-packed dirt surface and it was both easy on my knees and fast. I liked that they wrote your first name on your bib along with your race number- made me feel like an elite. If you are staying in Deadwood, this would be a good race to opt for the pre-race pasta feed as the restaurants in town are almost exclusively of the steak-and-potatoes-with-slot-machines-chiming-in-the-background variety. My only suggestion for the race directors would be to move the aid station near marathon mile marker 20 a bit further south. It was located on a 90 degree turn at the top of the course's one steep little downhill. It was really hard to both grab a drink and stretch your legs out a bit to take advantage of the downhill.

Governor's Cup

2009-06-06T10:57:00.000-06:00

Distances: 5k, 10k, 1 mile
Location: Helena, MT
http://www.govcup.bcbsmt.com/
I joined the planning committee for this race in 2009, so I am going to try to refrain from future updates of this race. But there have been so many changes I did want to acknowledge those.
For the 2008 race the race directors finally asked for advice from local runners, which was a big first step in overcoming the race's organizational problems. The nonsensical old system of charging extra to FedEx people their t-shirts & race numbers has been replaced with a standard pre-race packet pickup. More importantly, they started using chip timing at the finish. This resulted in a dramatic decrease in reports of inaccurate times and places.
I ran the 10k in 2006 and 2008 and the half marathon in 2007. The 10k is a little hilly for a road race, but it does have a downhill finish and I'm personally fond of the sections that pass the capitol building. The 5k has a lot of participants, but most aren't racing. I saw plenty of water stations in the 10k, but in 2008 the volunteers just had the cups of water on the table rather than handing them to runners. The addition of some on-course entertainment in 2008 was also nice.
In 2009, the half-marathon and marathon were discontinued. Many members of the Helena running community were disappointed with this as it was the only marathon or half-marathon in town. I did not participate in this decision but I do support it. I would rather see a well-organized 5k/10k than have resources spread between 4 or 5 poorly organized races. Hopefully someone will step up to start a new marathon/half soon.

Transmountain Challenge

2009-03-29T23:25:00.002-06:00

Distances: 20k, 20k relay, 5k
Location: El Paso, TX
http://www.runelpaso.com/main.shtml?ge_calendar.shtml
A name like 'Transmountain Challenge' makes you grit your teeth and prepare for a lot of mountain climbing. You do get a solid serving of hill running on this one- 4 miles uphill, then 3 down. But the tough part, for me at least, was the 5 miles of flat to get to the finish. The finish looked so close from the 6 mile mark! The road that the race was on was closed to vehicle traffic for the duration of the race, so make sure to allow plenty of time to get to the start before the road closes. There were about 6 water stations, all with porta-johns, though it didn't look like any of them had 1st aid supplies available. I think the aid station at the top of the hill had gatorade as well. This race gets kudos for the substantial post-race grub. Although the race was generally well organized, the information on the website is a little thin. It would have been nice if they'd publicized that there is a bus that will shuttle people from the finish back to the start and they will take drop bags to the finish area.

Snow Joke Half-marathon

2009-02-28T23:48:00.000-07:00

Distance: half-marathon
Location: Seeley Lake, MT
http://www.cheetahherders.com/snowjoke.html
Running Snow Joke is a great way to encourage yourself to get your winter mileage in. Given the time of year there is potential for ugly weather, but one perennial runner has assured me the weather is usually good. I'd recommend you hedge your bets and bring the extra layers anyways. The course starts by heading north on Hwy 83 for 5 miles of long rolling hills- should be clear of snow. Then you turn left onto a well used dirt road . Watch your footing when you turn off the highway, you're coming off a downhill and the turn can be icy! This portion of the course is flatter, but expect packed snow and ice. Depending on the year yaktrax may be helpful. The most notable hill is a gentle uphill starting at mile marker 12 until you get back on Hwy 83, about 1/4 mile from the finish. There are two aid stations, I think both had water and HEED. Since it isn't hot out this was plenty. The staging area is the elementary school gym, so there is a warm place to stretch and an opportunity to clean up post-race in the (child-size?) locker room showers. It is reasonably well organized with a low-key atmosphere- this is off-season racing after all.

Tri-Cities Marathon

2008-10-26T16:38:00.000-06:00

Distances: marathon, marathon relay
Location: Richland, WA
http://www.3rrr.org/marathon/
This race has been around almost 30 years. It's a flat and fast marathon. Or rather, it's fast if the wind isn't blowing- and it has been windy 3 of the last 4 years. You cross the Columbia River 4 times. The start is in Richland, you cross the river into into Pasco, then into Kennewick, and then cross again into Pasco (on windy days, this is where you could start running into a headwind), then a final bridge back into Richland. The only hills are over the bridges. It is very well done and worth doing.
****reviewed by a guest reviewer****

Columbia River Power Marathon

2008-10-25T16:22:00.005-06:00

Distances: marathon, half-marathon
Location: Umatilla, OR
http://www.columbiarivermarathon.com/
2008 was the 1st running of this race. The course crosses McNary Dam and runs a 5 mile loop in Washington, crosses back across the columbia via the I-82 bridge footpath and then the remainder is one big loop on the Oregon side. It is all paved except a five mile section on the Oregon side along the river. The unpaved part is old dirt road with small and large rocks and a lot of sand, which is sometimes hard to run on. Once back on pavement, heading back to town, you run on the right side of the road along mostly narrow shoulders (that is with oncoming traffic at your back). To increase safety, I suggested that they reverse the loop on the Oregon side, so runners can see the oncoming traffic. Great aid stations. Very well done for a first time event.
****reviewed by a guest reviewer****

Wolf Creek Canyon Relay

2008-10-05T19:15:00.006-06:00

Distance: 28 mile relay for 4 runners
Location: Wolf Creek to Hardy, MT
http://wolfcreekrelay.com/documents/Wolf%20Creek%20Canyon%20Relay06.pdf
The relay follows a the Missouri River along a frontage road off I-15. It is modestly scenic, but the atmosphere, rather than the course, is why most teams do it. The first leg tends to be a little chilly because it is well-shaded. The second leg is known as the hilly leg. The third leg is sort of moderate in both distance and hilliness. The fourth leg is pretty flat, but slightly longer than the others and tends to be a bit windy. There are bathrooms ast start and finish, but not in the exchange zones. Fortunately, there are several fishing access sites along the route that have pit toilets. Be extra careful parking at the exchange zone between legs 3 & 4! A few feet past the exchange on the right hand side of the road there is a culvert hidden in the weeds. Every year someone tries to park there, one wheel goes into the culvert and either rolls, or almost rolls, their vehicle. The finish is at an diner where you can buy a beer or a burger while you wait for the awards to start. The awards are worth sticking around for because of the random prize drawings. Unlike most races they don't give running paraphernalia, but rather prefer to give tools, office supplies and small kitchen appliances. The website I listed above was last updated in 2005. The leg descriptions are accurate and you can enter with this form, but if you need current info you'll have to get in touch with Carl whose contact info is on the race entry.

Leavenworth Oktoberfest Marathon

2008-10-04T19:05:00.002-06:00

Distance: marathon, half-marathon, marathon relay
Location: Leavenworth, WA
http://www.leavenworthmarathon.com/
about 800 runners, 86 for full amd 700 for half. good course. Hilly for first 3-4 miles. slightly less the next 4 miles. run through a park on gravel and dirt for about a mile. fairly flat for the next 5-6, and then you do it all over again if you are doing the full. down hill finish. the race number pickup could have been a little more organised. long lines for the half marathoners and then another long line to pick up your shirt. should have given the shirt at the same time you picked up your race number. all in all a good marathon.
****reviewed by a guest reviewer****

Homestake Pass 5-miler

2008-09-28T18:34:00.001-06:00

Distance: 5 miles, 1 mile kids' run
Location: Butte, MT
http://www.homestakelodge.com/events1.html
This is the most competitive trail race I have been to in Montana. The competition is probably drawn in by the pairing of a great trail and a modest cash prizes for the top 3 overall. The course is a single loop on cross country ski trail. The route was full of tough rolling hills ranging in length from 200 ft and 1/3 of a mile. With such stiff competition the start was particularly tough because the whole field went out so fast, and the runners were still closely packed when, less than 1/4 mile into the race, we had to negotiate a hairpin right turn on a mild downgrade. The trail surface was in great shape and it was plenty wide for passing. Since it's a ski trail, the course winds over a relatively short area- so fans willing to walk a little should be able to see most of the race and watch all the excitement unfold. After the race there is a BBQ on the deck of the lodge, which offers a lovely view of aspens in fall color (in case you missed the scenery during the race). Thumbs up for the creative prizes for all participants in the kid's race. The race is put on a by a private cross-country ski lodge that just opened for business in 2006 or 2007. I really appreciate that the owners are willing to open up their lodge and allow us runners to play on the trails, and I know they can't do the race if it loses money. That said, at $25 the race is a little on the expensive side and I would appreciate if, in a few years after the race and lodge are better established, they could lower the entry fee or at least not adjust it for inflation. Also, the race organizers were a little slow in posting results.

Madison Marathon

2008-08-31T07:45:00.004-06:00

Distance: marathon, half-marathon, marathon relay
Location: Ennis, MT
http://www.madcoedc.org/marathonresults2008.htm
The organizers believe this is the highest road marathon in the Northwest. Whatever the case, it must be right up there (pun intended), lying between 8500 and 9500 feet in elevation. Hoping to make this an annual event and a destination marathon, they did well with the inaugural (2008) race: good pre-race communication with (very useful!) directions to the start and mile-by-mile course descriptions; late weather updates, mile markers on the course and temporary signage on race morning, marking the road up to the start. The event included a half marathon, a full marathon and a marathon relay. Both distances were out and back, with the HM turning around at the marathon midpoint, at around 9350 ft in elevation. Plenty of rolling hills happened on the way out so it wasn't all just downhill on the way back. There were door prizes, shirts, an after-race BBQ and beer.

The race lies entirely along a narrow, gravel or dirt Forest Service road in the Gravelly Range, southwest of Ennis, MT, amidst beauty rivaling that of the Beartooth. Runners shared the course with a few motorists and four-wheelers, all of whom were polite and respectful of runners' safety. It is also possible that runners might share the road with moose, cattle, bears and other wildlife. Aid stations were provided along the route. The race begins at Clover Meadows campground, so camping is an alternative to making the long, bumpy drive on the morning of race day.

Given the race's exposed topography, it's probably a safe bet that the wind --which pounded runners pretty good --blows hard most of the time. Ironically, though the draw of the event is its high elevation, the wind will likely be the real challenge. In any case, this is a unique and beautiful race that's worth the trip.
****reviewed by a Helena Running Club guest reviewer****

Spokane to Sandpoint Relay

2008-08-15T23:09:00.016-06:00

Distance: 190 mile relay for 12 runners
Location: Spokane, WA through Coeur d'Alene, ID to Sandpoint, ID
http://www.spokanetosandpoint.com/index.htm
This is a great way to spend a weekend playing with your best running buddies. The views along the course are stunning and the much advertised rollercoaster was a pretty cool addition. All the teams displayed overwhelming support for all the runners. 2008 was the first year for this relay and I was very impressed with how well organized this race was, especially considering the challenges a race this long faces. Here's a few insider's tips if you are putting a team together:
*** Race start times varied from 5 AM to 11 AM on Friday morning. So if you are driving to Spokane from any distance, plan to travel on Thursday.
*** There was good cell phone coverage along the entire route. We found our 2 vans were constantly calling each other to check on the runners' progress. Make sure you've got a phone and car charger in each van.
*** The race is self-supported. Temperatures topped 100 degrees in 2008, so bring a lot of water to keep your team's runners hydrated. Most of the first 12 legs are in rural areas, which means there are no stores of any kind to replenish depleted supplies or grab forgotten items. The race organizers did provide portajohns at every exchange zone. If you or your team is interested in leg splits, you will also need to keep track of those yourself.
*** There were some problems with runners going off course. The race organizers seemed interested in improving the race, so I expect the course will be better marked next year. Unfortunately, one reason people got off course was that mischievous people in the Coeur d'Alene area moved course markers and thereby led runners astray during a night section of the race. So I recommend you stay alert and read your leg descriptions before you run. Bike pacers would also be helpful for legs 12-21.
*** Don't be intimidated by night running. Many of my teammates felt that they ran their best during the night, in the second set of legs. Our first legs at midday on Friday were hot (by the end of the race, my team was referring to them as the 'heatstroke legs') and by the third leg we were so tired we were weaving. But during that magical middle the weather had cooled, car traffic has dropped off, you were seeing other runners because teams from the different start times were catching each other. Also, adrenaline held its own against bleary-eyed sleep deprivation through most of the night.
*** There were showers available near some of the major exchanges. Runners from one of our team vans took advantage of the showers. I think they decided that the time would have been better spent getting a little extra sleep.
*** In 2008, no teams ran in the "ultra" division (6 runners rather than 12). There were 2 teams in an unadvertised "high school" division that ran only 122 miles. Race organizers hinted that a shorter version may be offered more officially in the future.

Wenatchee Marathon

2008-04-20T23:01:00.001-06:00

Distances: marathon, half-marathon, 10k, kid's run
Location: Wenatchee, WA
http://www.wenatcheemarathon.com/index.htm
This is a first-class effort by the organizers, with chip timing, lots of pre-race communications, medals for finishers, drop bags, great "poly" shirts and blocked hotel rooms with discounted (though still pricey) rates for runners. The event includes a marathon, and 10K and kids' races as well. The event is easily accessible for anyone living in western Montana and should be close enough to return home post-race. (You can postpone hotel checkout till after the race to get a shower before getting back on the road...) Except for a portion on downtown streets at the start, the course follows an asphalt trail and lies mostly within the area's river park system. The route crosses a ped bridge and then another large bridge over the Columbia (on the bridge's sidewalk). Course info has the run at about 600 feet elevation with a 60' gain, though there were several ups and downs. Some in the half-marathon may see it as a problem that the half-marathon starts first and the 10K and Marathon start shortly after with the result that slower half marathoners will be overtaken by the pace bike for the later races, before their turn-around point. Personally, I enjoyed seeing the faster people and the bikers were good about giving warnings before passing. With the river and surrounding mountains, this is a wonderful, scenic run, even on a cloudy day.
****reviewed by a Helena Running Club guest reveiwer****

Laughlin Half-Marathon

2008-03-29T18:12:00.003-06:00

Distances: half-marathon, 5k
Location: Laughlin, NV
http://www.laughlinhalfmarathon.com/
This race is on an extraordinarily flat, well-maintained dirt road. The race organizers call it a trail race. I can see their point, but I call it a road race. I ran the half-marathon. Both race distances are an out-and-back on an road along the banks of the Colorado River. Even though it was flat, I was slowed after the turn around by running into the wind. Talking to locals, it sounded like an upstream breeze is normal weather for this area. Half-marathoners can expect 5 aid stations. It would be nice to have some signs directing you through the resort to the race start and parking. Other than that, the race organizers did an exceptional job. In particular, everything started extraordinarily punctually and the timing system (Runnercard) ran very smoothly and got results out quickly .

Shamrock Shuffle

2008-03-16T17:47:00.003-06:00

Distances: 10 miles, 10k, 5k, kid's run
Location: Rio Rancho, NM
http://www.the-athletes-edge.com/
This is a new race (or at least I hope it's a new race) and once it gets around its organizational problems, there is potential for a great local race. My #1 beef- prior to the race, the "race website" had no race information except the race logo. At the bare minimum it needed a link, or even a sentence, directing you to Active.com for race info and registration. After the race, results did get posted on this "official website." I ran the 10k which was two loops around a golf course. I think the 5k was supposed to run the second of the two 10k loops, although the participants got misdirected and did the first loop instead. I think the 10 mile made a loop outside the golf course, then joined up with the 10k. The 5k and 10k were all on asphalt paths. The course was far from hilly, but it was never really flat either. The biggest hills were a few hundred meters at the start and a 1/4 mile long grade into the finish. Expect distance markers every 2 miles. Top 3 overall get gift certificates to the local running store, which is nice.

Two Bear Marathon

2007-09-16T20:44:00.000-06:00

Distance: marathon
Location: Whitefish, MT
http://www.twobearmarathon.org/
I have run this race twice, 2006 and 2007. It is hands down the finest marathon course I have ever run. The first 15 miles is trail and gravel roads through the Stillwater National Forest located outside Whitefish, MT. The remainder of the course follows around Whitefish Lake. Everything about the race is great, time of year, location, race personnel, course, after race party, nice tech race shirts and handsome finisher’s awards. If you are looking for a fun and beautiful race course that is professionally put together, try the TwoBear.
****reviewed by a Helena Running Club guest reveiwer****

Meeteetse Absaroka Challenge Mountain Run

2007-09-01T10:33:00.000-06:00

Distances: 5k, 10k, 15k
Location: Meeteetse, WY
http://www.meetrec.org/race/raceb.html
I did the 15k and it was a tough race! All 3 races start at the same time and place. The 5k heads up a jeep road and then turns off and makes a loop back to the start/finish. The 10k goes all the way up to the end of the jeep road then turns around and returns the same way. The 15k goes up the jeep road and then just continues. From the end of the jeep road you are pretty much just heading cross-country for the rest of the race. After the jeep road you head up a steep hill to a ridge, along the ridge, then it's downhill to the finish. The downhill is probably the hardest part because it's so steep you can't run, you just have to survive. The race website advises 15k runners to wear gloves. I was fine without gloves, but a pair of low gaiters to keep the rocks out of my shoes on the downhills would have been very welcome. The race was well-marked but nonetheless, the leaders still managed to get off-course, so I would not recommend the 15k for anyone new to trail running. Race directors did a great job providing aid stations (there were 5). I really appreciated having my hands free of a water bottle on those hills. Barbeque at the end was also welcome because it took quite awhile for everyone to trickle in.

South Hills Annual Trail Series Race 1- Goats In The Meadow

2007-08-18T11:25:00.002-06:00

Distance: 7.3 mi
Location: Helena, MT
http://www.helenarunningclub.com/trailseries/home.html
This is a very scenic out-and-back run on one of the most underappreciated trails in the Helena area. The trail is truck width at the beginning, narrowing to ATV width or slightly less. Which means there's usually plenty of room for passing. The trail mostly follows the Little Blackfoot River. About 1 mile from the turn around there is a stream crossing where you have a choice between plowing straight across the river or a very slight detour to a bridge that is only 1 log wide. If you are trying to race, the bridge will substantially slow you down. But that option is available if you're just out for fun and don't want to get your feet wet. Usually the least well attended of the trail series races, which can be a big advantage if you are doing the whole series. The start is a 1 hour drive from downtown Helena, so make sure you allow plenty of time to get there.
*disclaimer: I have helped put on this race in the past, though last year my help was limited to typing up the results*

August Road Race

2007-08-16T11:23:00.000-06:00

Distance: 3.8 miles
Location: Helena, MT
This is a point-to-point race mostly on dirt road. At the end you can carpool back with the volunteers or just run back to the start. As the "publicity" for the race says: no prizes, numbers, t-shirts or door prizes. Just local runners getting together to race and have a fun evening. Fun and low-key.

Snow King Hill Climb

2007-07-28T18:27:00.000-06:00

Distance: 2.3 miles
Location: Jackson, WY
http://www.tetonwyo.org/parks/nav/200567.shtm
I did the 40th annual Snow King Hill Climb July 28, 2007. This was only 2.3 miles long, with the first 0.5 miles straight up the street to the base of Snow King Mountain, the ski area in town. The remaining 1.8 miles is all up, with an elevation gain of 1500 ft., (that's nearly a 16% grade!) mostly on a narrow dirt service road, except for a short initial single track. There's a short, level sprint over the ridge to the finish line at the top. There's no way to get lost and no technical expertise required. It's all about horsepower. And the view from the top is a real reward. There were aid stations on the course and runners could take the chair lift down. I ran down because the line for the lift was taking forever. The race had a great festival atmosphere, starting at the town square on Farmer's Market day. I thought it was cool that they closed the main intersection briefly and start the race from right there. There was a BBQ afterward and many drawings for some pretty decent prizes.
****reviewed by a Helena Running Club guest reveiwer****

Spring Meadow Triathalon

2007-07-08T09:02:00.000-06:00

Distances: sprint triathalon, olympic triathalon
Location: Helena, MT
http://www.helenarunningclub.com/docs/SML_Tri.pdf
Spring Meadow State Park is one of the nicer triathalon venues in the state. The park is on the west edge of town, in the shadow of Mt. Helena. The spring meadow triatahlon is beginner friendly because it features both a sprint and olympic distance. The swim is a long clockwise circle around the circumference of the lake. The water is always cool but wetsuits are allowed and recommended. The transition is a short run across grass to the paved parking lot. The bike course is arguably the strongest attraction of the race. It is an out and back route on a two lane county road through open ranch country. The road is open to traffic. On the way out it is gradually uphill with some rolling hills thrown in. On the way back, not only do you get to enjoy a fast downhill, but there are also rewarding views of Mt. Helena and its southern ridge line and the city of Helena with a backdrop of the Elkhorn mountains. The run starts with a lap around the lake on a nice dirt path and exits the park for a brief section on pavement. The olympic race runs 2 loops of the 5k sprint course which brings the runners back through the park so fans have an idea how the racers are faring. More than half the run is on dirt trails or roads. Even though this race is not chip timed, the organizers are racers themselves, so they make sure you not only get all your individual spilt times, but transition times as well. This race usually has less than 200 competitors and is well organized with friendly, outgoing volunteers. Among the volunteers is an experienced finish line announcer (and triathlete himself) who has the abilty to both to communicate with the racers and keep the fans informed about the racers and their performances. Unique awards are given to 1st thru 3rd places in 5 yr. age groups. The organizers have tried to give participants something different from the standard t-shirt. In the past, sweatshirts, singlets, or workout bags have been given. The low key awards presentation after the race also has many raffle prizes. The race is always held on the Sunday after the 4th of July and the weather has always seemed to cooperate with sunshine and no rain!! The low entry fee is just one more good reason to add this race to your schedule.
****reviewed by a Helena Running Club guest reviewer****

Keweenaw Trail Running Festival

2007-07-07T10:37:00.000-06:00

Distances: 10k, 2k kid's run, 5.8k hill climb, 25k
Location: Copper Harbor, MI
http://www.greatlakesendurance.com/
This is a trail running series composed of a 10k on Saturday morning, the hill climb Saturday evening, and the 25k on Sunday morning. The kid's run is after the 10k. You can enter individual races if you like, but I recommend doing the whole series. This series was a blast!!! The race is at the very tip of Michigan's Upper Penninsula, so it's a little difficult to get to (especially from Montana) but very scenic. The 10k is a net uphill with lots of rolling whoop-de-do hills. There was a lot of technical single-track during the middle section of the race, which made it difficult to pass, so try to get yourself into a good position by the time you cross Hwy 41. I thought that coming from the Rocky Mtns, would make the hill climb a piece of cake. Instead I found it surprisingly steep. You start out on a beach alongside Lake Superior, so you have shoes full of sand for the entire run. After a few hundred feet you get up on a road until about the 1/2 mile mark. From there it was all uphill on a jeep-width trail with some loose rock. Race followed by a dinner at the host lodge. The 25k the following morning was tough and was sort of a trail run potpourri. There is steep downhill soon after the start, you run along the shore of a lake to the aid station. You then make a loop on techincal, rolling single track. Followed by a different loop on a combination of dirt roads and single track with some mud bogging and a creek crossing. You pass by the aid station one last time before heading back up the steep hill. From the top of the hill, it's only a few hundred feet to the finish. The final race is followed by a breakfast and awards ceremony. The race had generous awards of local pottery and jam for the individual races and a wide assortment of gear for the series winners. The only minor problem was that the dinner after the hill climb was fairly late at night, which doesn't set you up for a great race the next day. I vote for a beach picnic at the race start, rather than driving all the way back to the lodge. As a last bit of advice, if you're going to go to the effort of getting to the Keweenaw penninsula, make a trip of it and spend some time before or after the race. It's a full weekend of racing and you don't have much energy between races to enjoy the other nearby trails, kayaking in Lake Superior, mtn. bike rentals, and local restaurants.

Icebreaker

2007-04-22T11:58:00.000-06:00

Distances: 5 miles, 3 miles, 1 mile
Location: Great Falls, MT
I've heard the 5 mile race is the only "money race" in Montana. That may be, but you can give up on winning any of it. The race directors bring in exactly enough professional runners to win the money. Three pros and everybody else isn't much of a race. On the other hand, it is your only chance to see pros without leaving Montana- and man, do they look smooth! The 5 mile does have an out and back section, so you should get the chance to see them even if you're racing. All three races start and finish in the same spots. They are also all pretty flat and turnout is high so you can hope for a fast time. It is also a pretty decent course for spectators- you should be able to see your friends about 3 times on either the 5 or 3 mile course.

Wheat Montana 5k

2007-04-14T11:58:00.000-06:00

Distance: 5k (or thereabouts)
Location: Missoula, MT
A very flat, fast course with tough competition because they have coveted prizes for the overall winnners- lodging for Bloomsday. They also had good gift certificates for second, third, and door prizes. Despite it being a fast course, you won't get a PR because the course was slightly longer than 5k (maybe 3.3 miles?). Apparently this was due to traffic control issues, so I'd prefer if they'd advertise it by the correct distance, rather than getting into the finish and wondering why your time was so slow. I enjoyed the race and would recommend it as a good race to stretch out and try out your speed.

Valentine's Day Race

2007-02-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

Distance: 5k
Location: Helena, MT
Follows roads and asphalt trails around the Carroll College campus and neighboring Memorial Park. The course is pretty flat, but it's not a particularly competitive race, so don't expect a PR. Easy, fun morning race with the locals.

Canyonlands Half Marathon

2006-03-16T13:31:00.002-07:00

Distance: 5 mile, half-marathon
Location: Moab, UT
http://www.moabhalfmarathon.org/halfm/halfm.html
A scenic road race that runs along the Colorado River and finishes in downtown Moab. A great location, but with so many trails in the area it was disappointing to be on a road. Low rolling hills with a slight downhill grade overall. They have a limit of 4000 runners total for the two races. Maybe by now the word is spreading and there are more entrants, but I registered early and had no problems getting in, even though the race filled in 2006.