Distances: marathon, half-marathon, marathon relay
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.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Deadwood-Mickelson Trail Marathon
Distances: marathon, half-marathon
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 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.
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 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.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Governor's Cup
Distances: 5k, 10k, 1 mile
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 and 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.
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 and 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.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Transmountain Challenge
Distances: 20k, 20k relay, 5k
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.
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.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Snow Joke Half-marathon
Distance: half-marathon
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.
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.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Tri-Cities Marathon
Distances: marathon, marathon relay
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****
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****
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Columbia River Power Marathon
Distances: marathon, half-marathon
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****
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****
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Wolf Creek Canyon Relay
Distance: 28 mile relay for 4 runners
http://wolfcreekrelay.com/documents/Wolf%20Creek%20Canyon%20Relay06.pdf
The relay follows a the Missouri River along a frontage road off I-15 from Wolf Creek to Hardy. 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 and 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 a 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.
http://wolfcreekrelay.com/documents/Wolf%20Creek%20Canyon%20Relay06.pdf
The relay follows a the Missouri River along a frontage road off I-15 from Wolf Creek to Hardy. 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 and 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 a 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.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Leavenworth Oktoberfest Marathon
Distance: marathon, half-marathon, marathon relay
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****
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****
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Homestake Pass 5-miler
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 to 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.
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 to 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.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Madison Marathon
Distance: marathon, half-marathon, marathon relay
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****
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****
Friday, August 15, 2008
Spokane to Sandpoint Relay
Distance: 190 mile relay for 12 runners
http://www.spokanetosandpoint.com/index.htm
This is a great way to spend a weekend playing with your best running buddies. The views as the course winds from Spokane, WA through Coeur d'Alene, ID to Sandpoint, ID 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. Designate a specific phone in each van, and make sure it has a car charger.
*** 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. Additionally, adrenaline was still able to hold 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.
http://www.spokanetosandpoint.com/index.htm
This is a great way to spend a weekend playing with your best running buddies. The views as the course winds from Spokane, WA through Coeur d'Alene, ID to Sandpoint, ID 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. Designate a specific phone in each van, and make sure it has a car charger.
*** 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. Additionally, adrenaline was still able to hold 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.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Wenatchee Marathon
Distances: marathon, half-marathon, 10k, kid's run
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****
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****
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Laughlin Half-Marathon
Distances: half-marathon, 5k
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 .
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 .
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Shamrock Shuffle
Distances: 10 miles, 10k, 5k, kid's run
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.
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.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Two Bear Marathon
Distance: marathon
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****
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****
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Meeteetse Absaroka Challenge Mountain Run
Distances: 5k, 10k, 15k
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.
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.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
South Hills Annual Trail Series Race 1- Goats In The Meadow
Distance: 7.3 mi
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*
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*
Thursday, August 16, 2007
August Road Race
Distance: 3.8 miles
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.
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.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Snow King Hill Climb
Distance: 2.3 miles
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****
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****
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Spring Meadow Triathalon
Distances: sprint triathalon, olympic triathalon
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****
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****
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Keweenaw Trail Running Festival
Distances: 10k, 2k kid's run, 5.8k hill climb, 25k
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.
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.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Icebreaker
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.
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.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Wheat Montana 5k
Distance: 5k (or thereabouts)
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.
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.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Valentine's Day Race
Distance: 5k
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.
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.
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