The 2008 championship field includes some of the Nation’s top ultra runners in both the men’s and women’s competition. Leading the women’s field is 2006 champion Connie Gardner (Medina, Ohio), who has also recorded national championships wins in the 100-mile run in 2003 and the 100-kilometer run in 2002; and Nikki Kimball (Bozeman, Mont.), the USA 50 Mile Trail champion in 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006, and added the road race title in 2005.

Among the favorites in the men’s field will be, Jon Olsen (Modesto, Calif.), Erik Skaden (Folsom, Calif.), and Ian Torrence (Ashland, Ore.).

This year’s overall 100-mile men’s and women’s winners of the USA Track & Field National 100-mile championship will receive $1000 each. The top ten men and women USA Track & Field runners will receive overall medals. Additionally, the top three finishers in each five-year age division starting at 40 years of age will also receive medals.

For more information on the 2008 Mountain/Ultra/Trail circuit visithttp://www.usatf.org"> http://www.usatf.org.

Via: USA Track & Field

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

“It is with deep regret that we announce today that the 35th running of the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run has been cancelled, due to the unprecedented amount of wildfires that have struck northern California in recent days and the health risks that have been associated with these wildfires,” wrote Western States Board President Tim Twietmeyer in an e-mail message to registered runners.  Twietmeyer continued: “Since the beginning of more than 840 wildfires statewide, 312 wildfires in northern California and more than 3,200 lightning strikes in the Tahoe National Forest alone on June 21, the race’s organizers have worked closely with a variety local, county and state agencies in determining the best course of action for our race. It has become apparent that given our race’s paramount concern - the safety or our runners - holding this year’s race would pose too great a risk to our runners, to our aid station personnel and to our volunteers.”

Twietmeyer pointd out that at least two of the fires were within two miles of the race course which runs from Squaw Valley to Auburn.  The storied course has some 40,000 feet of climbing and descending, which much of it held at extremely high altitudes.

Organizers are pulling together alternate activities for the runners including annual events such as runner check-in for goodie bag pickup on Friday morning, the pre-race briefing and raffle on Friday afternoon, the showing of Western States documentaries on Friday night, and a special gathering of runners commemorating the race’s start on Saturday.

“You have dreamed big and made countless personal sacrifices to prepare for one of the greatest days any trail runner can ever have,” Twietmeyer’s statement read.  “As a group, the Western States Board would like to commend you for your
dedication and devotion not only to the preparation that is required for our race, but to the community of trail runners of which we are all a part.”

The race was founded in 1977, and it’s winners’ list boast such ultra legends as Ann Trason, who won 14 times, Scott Jurek, who won seven times, and Twietmeyer who had won five times.

(c) 2008 Race Results Weekly, all rights reserved.  Used with permission.

Written by David Monti for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

Wardian, who also won the USA 50 km championships last month, was content to let Steve Stowers (Berkley, Calif.) and Adam Lint (Patton, Pa.) handle the pace work for the first 40 km before moving into the lead before the 50 km mark. Over the last 50 km Wardian continued to build his lead and by the time he hit the tape, had recorded a win by 17:31 over Stowers. Lint would finish 4:32 later for third.

Leading the women’s field was Carolyn Smith (Milwaukee, Wis.), taking the championship in 8:25:26 for a 26:41 win over Connie Gardner (Medina, Ohio).

Former 2-time national champion Ann Heaslett (Madison, Wis.) was third in 9:40:37.

In addition to earning $2,000 each for their victories, Wardian and Smith earned spots on the U.S. team going to 100 km World Cup race in Tuscania, Italy, on November 8, 2008.

Official Results:

MEN -
1. Michael Wardian 6:56:57
2. Steve Stowers 7:14:34
3. Adam Lint 7:19:06
4. Mark Godale 7:36:31

WOMEN -
1. Carolyn Smith 8:25:26
2. Connie Gardner 8:52:07
3. Ann Heaslett 9:40:37

For more information, please visit: [Mad City 100k], [Lisa Smith-Batchen]

Via: Jim Estes, USA Track & Field [USATF]

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Ultramarathons

The distance, 100 kilometers, is just over 62 miles, where 37 competitors will run a scenic 10-kilometer course around Lake Wingra ten times, providing support crews and spectators many opportunities to see the athletes during the event.

Crowther will have his work cut out for him as Michael Wardian (Arlington, Va.), makes his first appearance at the 100 km championships. Wardian won the USA 50 km championships last month, setting a championship record of 2:55:05.

Age-group aces Kevin Setnes (Eagle, Wis.) and Roy Pirrung (Kohler, Wis.) are also entered in the men’s field. Last year they finished third and fourth respectively.

Leading the women’s field will be Carolyn Smith (Milwaukee, Wis.), third in last year’s championships. Smith is a frequent competitor in international ultramarathons, in 2005 she finished 11th in the world at the 24-hour run championships, helping the U.S. win the team bronze medal.

Joining Smith will be U.S. national team member Connie Gardner (Medina, Ohio), who finished 5th among the women in last year’s national championship race in Madison. Gardner has also recorded national championships wins in the 100-mile run in 2003 and the 100-kilometer run in 2002.

Former 2-time national champion Ann Heaslett (Madison, Wis.) will also compete in the championship. In last year’s national championship, Heaslett finished as the 4th-place woman in a time of 8 hours, 45 minutes, 27 seconds.

At stake are spots on the U.S. team going to 100 km World Cup race in Tuscania, Italy, on November 8, 2008. Guaranteed spots on the team will be offered to the first male and the first female in the USA 100 km championship race. Additional athletes may qualify if they run 7 hours, 20 minutes or faster for men, or 8 hours, 40 minutes for women.

A prize purse of $9,650 will be awarded to the top six U.S. male and female finishers in the championships division with the champions taking home $2,000.

For more information on the 2008 MUT circuit visit www.usatf.org.

Via: Jim Estes, USA Track & Field

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Ultramarathons

Karnazes, an elite (and at times controversial) ultra endurance athlete, is coming off of an impressive victory at the grueling Atacama Crossing, a 275-K race across the Atacama Desert in Chile.  He was also the recipient of ESPN’s 2007 ESPY Award for “Best Outdoor Athlete”. 

In his announcement about being selected for - and accepting - this honor, Karnazes wrote:

“It is with great honor that I am letting you know I have been selected to carry the Olympic Torch as it passes through my home city of San Francisco.  The selection process had begun quite some time ago, but it was requested that all those being considered for this distinction keep the information confidential.

The Olympic Torch Relay is a highly emotional event, one that accentuates excitement, passion, joy, optimism, and inspiration.  It also sets the tone for messages of good-will and unity, hope, peace, harmony, friendship and pride.”

To read Karnazes entire blog post, which includes his stance on the now extremely politicized torch relay and the Beijing Olympic Games in general, please visit:  http://dean.runnersworld.com/

To learn more about Karnazes, check out the following episodes of TheFinalSprint.com Running Podcast:

• TFS Podcast 9: Interview with extreme ultramarathoner Dean Karnazes
• TFS Podcast 83: Dean Karnazes on the ESPY, 24-hr record, and criticisms from Scott Jurek

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Ultramarathons

The retreat is for runners who can already run for at least an hour at eight- to 10-minutes-per-mile pace, want to boost their fitness and learn training principles in a fun and social atmosphere. Retreat packages start at $300 and include group trail runs, seminars, morning yoga classes, a cooking class, meals and accommodation. 

Elinor and Adam will conduct three seminars covering training plans, goal setting, running form, injury prevention, buying shoes and other gear, nutrition/fuelling, intervals, hill training and race strategy. In addition, the two writing seminars will provide aspiring writers with tips and tools for composing entertaining (and potentially sellable) stories for a personal blog, website or magazine.

The retreat is an enriching weekend all about healthy food, beautiful trails, fresh air and camaraderie in a beautiful and relaxing environment. On Saturday evening, Celeste Magnuson will lead a Living Foods Lifestyle class about cooking fresh, health-boosting and satisfying raw-food meals. Massages by On the River Massage’s Jacqui Chiplin will also be available at an additional cost.

To view a full retreat itinerary and to reserve a space now, visit www.activeataltitude.com.

ABOUT US
Elinor Fish is Managing Editor of Trail Runner (www.trailrunnermag.com), has been a competitive trail runner for 17 years and has led running clinics and retreats in Canada and the US for 10 years.

Adam Chase of Boulder, Colorado, is the Trail Editor at Running Times (www.runningtimes.com), author of The Ultimate Guide to Trail Running and President of the American Trail Running Association.

LIMITED TO ONLY 12 PARTICIPANTS!

Rates are $300 plus tax per person sharing a bunk room; $350 plus tax per person for a double room.  For further information email Terry Chiplin at activeataltitude@gmail.com or call 970-586-4432 www.activeataltitude.com

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News, Trail Running, Training

The camp will be held on the campus of the University of Utah with heavily supported runs within the beautiful Wasatch Mountains. It will involve discussions on nutrition, training techniques, preparation for ultras and many secrets Karl has used to train efficiently and perform successfully.

Guest runners Nikki Kimball and Ian Torrence among other speakers will lend their expertise to making this camp a spectacular event for ultra runners interested in improving their current practices.

The camp includes most meals, lodging (if necessary), transportation to/from and support during all trail runs, interactive lecture sessions from a variety of noted experts, roundtable discussions with world-class ultra runners, laboratory testing, video analysis of technique, a final dinner provided by Karl’s sponsors and much more.

Camp prices are $900 for Utah locals, or $1200 for those who opt to stay at the plush hotel accommodations arranged on the university campus. A discount of $150 will be provided to those who share a room (two queen-size beds).

For the camp itinerary, more information and to register, please visit www.karlmeltzer.com

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons, Training

Jurek won Colorado’s Hardrock 100 Mile in July, generally considered the toughest of the 39 100-mile races in North America, and set a new course record of 26:08:34 in the process. In September he raced against Europe’s finest in the 246-km Spartathlon in from Athens to Sparta, Greece, winning the race in 23:12:14. It is the fourth time in the past five years that Jurek has won the award.

Kimball won the prestigious Western States 100 Mile in June in 18:12:37, the second fastest women’s time in the race’s 34-year history. She also won the 101.2-mile Ultra Tour du Mont Blanc, Europe’s largest ultramarathon, in a course record 25:43:45 and two of the most competitive 50-mile races in the country, White River in Washington State and Mountain Masochist in Virginia. Kimball easily out-polled her nearest rivals, California’s Beverly Anderson-Abbs, Anne Lundblad of North Carolina, and Oregon’s Krissy Moehl, who finished in a virtual tie for second.

Jurek’s Hardrock win and Krissy Moehl’s women’s course record in the same event were honored as top Performances of the Year.

In age group awards, 53-year-old Kevin Setnes’ impressive 7:39:21 100 km at the IAU Championships in Winschoten, Netherlands was honored as the top male performance. Gunhild Swanson, who finished South Dakota’s Lean Horse 100 Mile in 23:13:00 at age 63, was voted the top female performance.

A board of 21 voters from all regions of North America submitted ballots this year. Complete voting results will appear in the March 2008 issue of UltraRunning and on the UltraRunning website at www.ultrarunning.com. UltraRunning, with offices in Healdsburg, California and Denver, Colorado, covers running events that are longer than a 26.2-mile marathon. For further information, please contact publisher John Medinger at johnm@ultrarunning.com or call 707.431.9898.

ULTRA RUNNING 2007 UltraRunning Magazine’s Runners of the Year
(first place votes in parentheses)

Men
1. Scott Jurek, 34, Seattle, WA (9) 199
2. Karl Meltzer, 40, Sandy, UT (5) 153
3. Kyle Skaggs, 22, Ashland, OR (3) 137
4. Hal Koerner, 31, Ashland, OR 131
5. Anton Krupicka, 23, Bozeman, MT (1) 105
6. Greg Crowther, 34, Seattle, WA (2) 96
7. Akos Konya, 33, Oceanside, CA (1) 84
8. Andy Jones-Wilkins, 39, Ketchum, ID 52
9. Philip McCarthy, 39, New York, NY 42
10. Jasper Halekas, 31, Oakland, CA 32

Performance of the Year
1. Scott Jurek’s Hardrock 100 Mile, 26:08:34 (7) 80
2. Scott Jurek’s Spartathlon 246 km, 23:12:14 (9) 77
3. Lon Freeman’s Miwok 100 km, 8:09:52 (2) 37
4. Howard Nippert’s IAU 100 km, 6:49:31 33
5. Kyle Skaggs’ Wasatch 100 Mile, 19:35:14 (1) 26

Women
1. Nikki Kimball, 36, Bozeman, MT (13) 223
2. Bev Anderson-Abbs, 43, Red Bluff, CA (1) 148
3. Anne Lundblad, 41, Swannonoa, NC (3) 146
4. Krissy Moehl, 30, Bend, OR (2) 145
5. Connie Gardner, 43, Medina, OH (2) 132
6. Kami Semick, 41, Bend, OR 90
7. Annette Bednosky, 41, Jefferson, NC 64
8. Devon Crosby-Helms, 25, Seattle, WA 54
9. Caren Spore, 39, Davis, CA 45
10. Suzanna Bon, 43, Sonoma, CA 38

Performance of the Year
1. Krissy Moehl’s Hardrock 100 Mile, 29:24:25 (8) 95
2. Connie Gardner’s Ultracentric 24-Hour, 145.26 miles (6) 87
3. Nikki Kimball’s Tour du Mont Blanc 163 km, 25:43:45 (3) 57
4. Jenn Shelton - Rocky Raccoon 100 Mile, 14:57:18 (2) 51
5. Nikki Kimball’s Western States 100 Mile, 18:12:37 (1) 31

Age Group Performances of the Year

Men
1. Kevin Setnes, 53, WI, IAU 100 km, 7:39:21 (7) 65
2. Roy Pirrung, 59, WI Ultracentric 24-Hour, 138.51 miles (2) 47
3. John DeWalt, 71, PA, Hardrock 100 Mile, 47:36:23 (5) 46
4. Scott Mills, 56, CA, Hardrock 100 Mile, 32:43:17 (3) 32
5. Karsten Solheim, 70, AZ, Western States 100 Mile, 29:57:38 (2) 25

Women
1. Gunhild Swanson, 63, WA, Lean Horse 100 Mile, 23:13:00 (7) 89
2. Nancy March, 59, CA, Leona Divide 50 Mile, 10:06:50 (1) 53
3. Juliane Scheberies, 73, CA, Ruth Anderson 50 km, 6:36:23 (2) 41
4. Suprabha Beckjord 53, DC, Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile, 58+7:54:27 (4) 35
5. Admas Beligne, 54, NY, Pioneer Trek 100 Mile 3-stage, 18:13:14 (3) 31

UltraRunning Runners of the Year
1981 – 2007
1981 Marcy Schwam Bernd Heinrich
1982 Marcy Schwam Stu Mittleman
1983 Janis Klecker Bernd Heinrich
1984 Donna Hudson Bernd Heinrich
1985 Sandra Kiddy Stu Mittleman
1986 Sandra Kiddy Chuck Jones
1987 Mary Hanudel Charlie Trayer
1988 Ann Trason Stefan Fekner
1989 Ann Trason Sean Crom
1990 Ann Trason Andy Jones
1991 Ann Trason Andy Jones
1992 Ann Trason Eric Clifton
1993 Ann Trason Kevin Setnes
1994 Ann Trason Tom Johnson
1995 Ann Trason Tom Johnson
1996 Ann Trason Tom Johnson
1997 Ann Trason Tom Johnson
1998 Ann Trason Kevin Setnes
1999 Daniele Cherniak Mark Godale
2000 Deb Bolig Dan Held
2001 Ann Trason Rich Hanna
2002 Ann Heaslett Chad Ricklefs
2003 Nikki Kimball Scott Jurek
2004 Nikki Kimball Scott Jurek
2005 Anne Lundblad Scott Jurek
2006 Anne Lundblad Karl Meltzer
2007 Nikki Kimball Scott Jurek

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

Product: New Balance MR790
Price: $80.00
Shoe Type: Lightweight Trail / Racing
Fit: Half a size small
Weight: 7.9 oz
Pronation Factor: Neutral
Best for: Lighter runners with access to softer surfaces

Many trails near my home in northern Utah are steep, rocky, and foreboding, requiring heavy tank-like trail running shoes that can withstand the punishment of the terrain—and protect my feet as well. Many of these dedicated trail running shoes weigh up to a pound apiece in order to offer high levels of support and protection.

However, there are times in my trail running when I don’t quite need that level of stability and “armor”, but rather, I want speed and agility. In other words, I want a lightweight trail shoe, the trail equivalent to a road racing flat.

Fortunately, New Balance has come through with this wish, with their MR790 model trail shoe. At a feather-light 7.9 ounces, this trail shoe is lighter than my road-racing flats! But how will they perform on a trail?

Read the rest of this review at our partner site: TheFinalSprint.com

Written by Paul Peterson for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Gear & Apparel, Footwear, Reviews, Special Features, T.F. Reviews

The trials will run from June 27 through July 6, with a two-day break in action on July 1 and 2.  The Oregon Bach Festival runs from June 27 through July 13.  For those individuals and families using these events as the basis for more extended vacations to the area, Obsidian hikes will be offered during the weeks before and after the trials, as well as during the two-day break in the middle.  Most hikes will be easy to moderate, in the five to six-mile range.

On the mornings of the meet itself, the Obsidians will lead urban hikes along the city’s riverside paths and forested ridgeline trails, as well as pilgrimages to the Steve Prefontaine Memorial (“Pre’s Rock”) [Pictured] and a togas optional tour of “Animal House” film locations.

The full schedule (presented below) is available along with additional information and registration procedures online at http://www.obsidians.org/otrials. The website can also be accessed through the Obsidians primary home page at http://www.obsidians.org.  All sign-ups will be done online using a unique registration system designed by the Obsidians just for this project.

Obsidians, Inc., is an 80-year-old not-for-profit, all volunteer, organization with more than 500 members.  All hikes will be led by experienced men and women familiar with the areas.  There will be a $5 nonmember fee per person (minors under 18 free, with parents) with a suggested sharing of driving costs.

To check out the complete hiking schedule offered to visitors of the 2008 U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials in Euegene Oregon, please visit: http://www.obsidians.org/otrials

Written by Martin Kennedy for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News

Janicki, 41, former winner of several high profile ultra marathons including the Comrades Marathon in South Africa, set the pace from the beginning and slowly separated himself from the rest of the field.

“I am happy about winning, but somewhat surprised by my results,” stated Janicki who usually competes on the roads and was attempting a trail ultra for the first time. Janicki won his first Sunmart, the famous Stallion trophy and the $1000 victor’s purse. Coming in 22 minutes behind Janicki was Marc Vanderlinden of Belgium in 6:29:21 and third place went to Jose Azevedo of Luxembourg in 6:32:04.

Sakurai, 36, is also well known internationally in the women’s ultra marathon community and was this year’s winner of the IAU 100K World cup in The Netherlands. Sakurai ran with the men’s leaders and her most serious challenge was the weather.

“The conditions were tough,” stated Sakurai. “I am happy about winning, but this effort was very tiring.”

There was a seesaw battle for second and third place as Helen Crossan of Ireland passed Adela Salt of England on last lap and finished in 7:18:24. Salt finished in 7:22:03.

In the men’s 50K Jim Harrington, 42, from Negaunee, Mich. defended his title in 3:42:33. Harrington surged to the lead from the beginning and no one attempted to stay with his pace on a hot day.

“I’m lucky to win this event,” stated Harrington, “Everything went well, I drank a lot of Gatorade and that is what saved me.”

Harrington won the trophy and the $600 cash prize for the 50K victory. He spoke for everyone by complementing the race organization and was especially appreciative for the support on the course on a tough day. Jamie Cleveland, 35, from Austin, a newcomer to ultras finished runner-up in 3:55:53. Francisco Garza, 42, from Houston rounded out the top three and finished in 3:58:59.

The women’s 50K was the best race of the day as Andrea Jarzombek, 33, from San Antonio bested defending champion Wendy Terris, 38, of Portland, Ore.

Jarzombek stated, “Being new to this distance my goal was to finish and I wanted to run within myself. At a certain point, I felt I could open things up.”

Terris was in the lead, but probably had gone out too fast for the conditions. Jarzombek passed Terris going into the final lap and won in 3:46:12 (second overall). Terris bettered her time from last year and came in 3:51:59 (third overall). Tania Pacev, 48, from Littleton, Colo. placed third in 4:19:55.

This year’s Sunmart event attracted over 1,100 runners from 32 states and twelve countries.

18th Sunmart Texas Trails Endurance Runs
Huntsville, TX, Saturday, December 8, 2007

50 Mile - IAU Trail World Challenge
MEN
1) Jaroslaw Janicki, 41, (POL), 6:07:46, $1000
2) Marc Vanderlinden, 49, (BEL), 6:29:21
3) Jose Azevedo, 42, (LUX), 6:32:04

WOMEN
1) Norimi Sakurai (JPN), 6:34:58, $1000
2) Helen Crossan, 40, (IRL), 7:18:24
3) Adela Salt (GBR), 7:22:03

50K
MEN
1) Jim Harrington, 42, MI, 3:42:33, $600
2) Jamie Cleveland (TX), 3:55:53
3) Francisco Garza, 42, TX, 3:58:59

WOMEN
1) Andrea Jarzombek (TX), 3:46:12, $600
2) Wendy Terris (OR), 3:51:59
3) Tania Pacev, 48, CO, 4:19:55

Deeper results at: http://www.doitsports.com/results/page.tcl?id=14723

Via: Running USA

Written by Jamal Walker for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

Rickey Gates, 26, Boulder, CO, (Pictured)is the mountain runner of the year. This is the first time Gates has received this award. He had a stellar year winning the USA Mountain Champs and USA Trail (10km) Champs on back-to-back weekends in June, and made his second consecutive Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team. Gates raced extensively on the European Mountain Running Circuit this past summer with his best finish, a fourth place at the WMRA Grand Prix event Grossglockner in Austria. He finished 57th at the World Mountain Running Trophy as part of the ninth-place U.S. team.

Simon Gutierrez, 41, Alamosa, CO, is a repeat winner of the masters mountain runner of the year honors. Gutierrez made his sixth consecutive Teva U.S. Mountain Team with his second place finish at the USA 10km Trail Championships in Steamboat Springs where he won the masters title. He was first master at the Mount Washington Road Race where he finished in third position overall. He was the overall winner at the La Luz Hill Climb. He won the WMRA World Masters Mountain Running Championships in Bludenz, Austria in September, one week after the World Mountain Running Trophy where he placed 65th. He works at the San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center as an outpatient manual /orthopedic physical therapist and works closely with the Adams State men’s and women’s cross country and track teams.

Christine Lundy, 37, Sausalito, CA, is the women’s mountain runner of the year. Lundy was the USA Trail Champion at Steamboat Springs, CO, and with the win made her third consecutive Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team. She placed second at the USA Mountain Championships, was first at the NACAC Mountain Running Championships, and finished seventh at the Mt Obudu Mountain Race (Nigeria). Lundy placed eighth and was the second scoring team member for the Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team at the World Mountain Running Trophy and with her teammates won the gold medal for the second year in a row. Lundy also directed the Mt. Tam Trophy Race which served as the final mountain team selection race. She is a veterinarian in San Francisco.

Anita Ortiz, 43, Eagle, CO, is the masters mountain runner of the year having also won the award in 2004. As the USA Mountain Running Champion, Ortiz made her record fifth Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team. This mother of four was also the overall female champion at the very competitive Teva Mountain Games 10Km in Vail, and was the masters USA 50 Mile Trail Champion at White River 50 Miler. Ortiz is an elementary school teacher and serves on the USATF Mountain Ultra Trail Council.

Greg Crowther, 34, Seattle, WA, is the ultrarunner of the year. Crowther was the USA National 50km Champion setting a course record of 3:04:35. He was the USA 100km Road Champion running 7:14:31, placed second at Miwok 100km trail, finished in eleventh place to score for the bronze-medal winning USA 100km Team at the IAU World Cup in The Netherlands running 6:52:52, first place and course record at Bridle Trails 50km, and first place at SunMart 50 Miler in 5:37:36. Crowther is on the faculty at the University of Washington, where he is acting lecturer in the Department of Chemical Engineering. He graduated from Williams College in Vermont in 1995 with a degree in biology and earned a Ph.D. in Physiology & Biophysics from the University of Washington.

Roy Pirrung, 59, Sheboygan, WI, is the masters ultrarunner of the year. Pirrung dominated his age group in most every race he entered. He finished 1st at the 24-hour national championships, second at Sunmart Texas Trail Endurance 50-mile, second at the USA 50km Road Championships, first at the USA 100km National Road Championships in an American Record time, first at the Ice Age Trail 50 miler, second at the USA 100km National Masters Trail Championships, fourth at the USA 50km Trail Championships, third at the IAU World Cup Masters 100km Road event, breaking his own American Record, and was first master at the USA 50 Mile Road Championships and the Door County Fall 50-miler. Pirrung organizes the USA 24 Hour Team and also has been a member of the team for the past six years.. He is a fitness trainer at Sports Core for Kohler Company and is the Vice Chair of the USATF Mountain Ultra Trail Council.

Nikki Kimball, 36, Bozeman, MT, is a repeat winner of the ultrarunner of the year award. Kimball finished first in course record time at the Spokane River 50km Race, finished second at Miwok 100km, first at Western States 100 Miler setting a course record, and finished first in course record time at the Ultra Tour Du Mont Blanc. She was also winner of Mount Masochist. Kimball, like Crowther, is a graduate of Williams College. She is a physical therapist in Livingston, Montana.

Beverly Anderson-Abbs, 43, Red Bluff, CA, is the masters ultrarunner of the year. Anderson-Abbs finished first at the Muir Beach 50km, finished first at the Costa Rica Coastal Challenge, first masters and course record at the Way Too Cool Race, first place and course record at the Pony Express 50km, second place at the Peterson Ridge Rumble, first place and course record at the Diablo 50 Miler, third place at Miwok 100km, first place and course record at the Mt Diablo 50km, second place at Western States 100 Miler, second place at Where’s Waldo 100km, National Champion at the USA 50km Trail Championships, and first place at the Whiskeytown 50km which served as the Pacific Association USATF championship.

Contributors of the Year:

The White Mountain Milers Running Club is the Mountain Running Contributor of the Year. The Milers hosted the USA Mountain Running Championships and was very supportive of the USA mountain running program and the USATF New England Mountain Running Circuit. The Mad City 100km Road Race is the Ultrarunning Contributor of the Year. The event, directed by Tim Yanacheck, hosted the USA 100km Road Championships and served as a selection race for the USA 100km Team. The event earned the prestigious designation as a bronze IAU event. Other nominees in the Contributor of the Year category included Running Times magazine, Teva, Windermere Real Estate, Fleet Feet Sports Boulder. Past winners in this category include the American Ultra Running Association, Teva, North Texas Trail Runners, and La Sportiva/GoLite.

In order to be considered for the USATF Mountain and Ultrarunning awards an athlete must show top results in U.S. competitions for 2007 (November 1, 2006 through October 31, 2007) to include mountain races (these may be on paved/gravel surfaces as long as there is significant elevation loss or gain) and trail races of varying lengths, as well as road races for the ultra category (distances beyond the marathon). International results are also considered. The nominee must be an ambassador for the sport. Nominee must be a USATF member for 2007 and to be considered for the masters category, athlete must be a minimum of 40 years of age.

To see the MUT award criteria and the lists of past recipients, click here.

Photograph: Mountain Runner fo the Year Ricky Gates (Courtesy of Team Bacon Strip)

Written by Jamal Walker for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

Casio has introduced the Pathfinder Series as a way to disseminate vital information to trekkers using the low-profile and convenient platform of a wristwatch. I recently had the pleasure of exploring the 3V model of Casio’s Pathfinder PAW1300 Series and tested it on several types of training runs and within various environments.

Many of the PAW1300’s features and attributes were very appealing.  The following list is comprised of the features that I found most beneficial:

• Atomic Timekeeping. With this watch you will always have the correct time, thanks to direct radio communication from the atomic transmitter in Fort Collins, Colorado.


• Solar Battery. The solar cell is charged frequently from both direct sunlight and artificial indoor light. Not only is this environmentally friendly, both you’ll never have to worry about your watch going dead in the middle of an adventure.


• Digital Compass. Know your bearing at all times. The embedded compass displays the angle value, direction indicator, and four graphic direction pointers. The watch also allows the user to store and recall compass readings.


• Barometer. The Pathfinder stores barometric readings every two hours, and graphs pressure for the last 26 hours. This allows users to predict weather patterns on the fly.


• Altimeter. Using air pressure readings, the watch estimates, stores, and graphs current elevation and elevation changes. It even can alert you when nearing a target elevation.


• Thermometer. A built-in sensor can display temperature in degrees F or C. It also works underwater, and be used to take stream or lake readings.


• Auto Backlight. At night, just tilt the watch toward your face, and the LEDs automatically light up.


• Tough Band. This watch can truly take a pounding without breaking.

As seen above, the feature list of this watch is truly impressive. I remember being impressed by calculator watches when I was kid, but these Pathfinders truly raise the bar of features that can be assimilated into a normal-sized wristwatch.

This bevy of features leads to the only real downside of the watch: its tremendous complexity. This is demonstrated by its hefty 153-page user’s guide, which I had to wade through several times before I became adept enough to calibrate and operate the Pathfinder’s sensors. Plan on investing some serious time into properly learning this piece of equipment.

Once the watch sensors were properly calibrated and I had conquered the learning curve, I found the various measurements to be fairly accurate. I particularly had good experiences with the altimeter, and determined its readings to be quite close to known benchmarks along some of my favorite hikes. And the elevation profile is a nice feature as well.

The Casio Pathfinder PAW1300-3V (Pictured, above right) retails for $300. With this hefty price-tag, the Pathfinder is certainly not for everyone, but should find a strong niche among outdoor enthusiasts and athletes (both recreational and competitive).  If you are a trailrunner, adventure racer or even a dedicated back-country trekker, I would recommend adding one of the Pathfinder models to your running arsenal as it’s features will be specifically appealing and advantageous for your purposes.

Written by Paul Peterson for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Gear & Apparel

Many of the world’s most elite endurance runners have registered for the event in hopes of going home with the big prize. The entrant list is highlighted by several members of The North Face Endurance Team as well as many other legends of the sport that have never competed toe-to-toe.

WOMEN’S 50-MILE CHAMPIONSHIP

Devon Crosby-Helms (San Francisco, CA)
Crosby-Helms, 24, has quickly established herself as one of the up-and-coming elite female endurance runners in the country. In March 2007, she won the Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon with a time of 2:52:49. She is also a member of the U.S. Women’s National 100K Team, having finishing 15th overall at the 2007 World 100K Championships in September.

Susie Gray Dyck (Ankeny, IA)
Dyck arrives at this weekend’s Endurance Challenge championship courtesy of her impressive win at the September 1 Des Moines race, where she credits positive energy—and pacing from her dad—for delivering a win in her first-ever ultramarathon. Her time of 8:10:10 was 45 minutes faster than that of her closest competitor.

Elizabeth Hawker (Chester, United Kingdom)
A member of The North Face Endurance Team in Europe, Hawker arrives at the Endurance Challenge Championship just two months after registering a record run from Mount Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu – a distance of 188 miles with over 32,000 feet of climbing and 46,000 feet of descent which she covered in three days, two hours, and 35 minutes. Sporting a unique blend of mountain durability and road-running legspeed, “Lizzy” won gold at the 2006 100K World Championships in Korea and is a past champion of The North Face Ultra Tour du Mont Blanc, widely considered the most difficult and prized mountain endurance title on the continent.

Justine Morrison (Washington, DC)
Morrison, 27, is still a relative newcomer to endurance running, but had an attention-grabbing, breakthrough win in the August 4 Washington DC Endurance Challenge when she finished with a time of 8:32:20. Morrison registered a strong sixth-place showing at the Mountain Masochist 50 (Lynchburg, VA) on November 3 in what appeared to be a warm-up for the Challenge Championship.

Kami Semick (Bend, OR)
Semick, a member of The North Face Endurance Team, headlines one of the most competitive women’s endurance race fields in some time. She has had remarkable success racing on the trails where the Endurance Challenge championship takes place; in 2007, she won the prestigious Miwok 100K here, and she also took the 2006 Headlands 50K USATF Trail Championship. She enters this weekend’s race after winning the October 6 Endurance Challenge 50K (Seattle) and the November 4 San Jose Marathon with a time of 2:55:28.

Jenn Shelton (Virginia Beach, VA)
At 23 years old, Shelton is more than one of the future stars of endurance running – she is a current star. In 2006, she won the Lynchburg (VA) Ultra Series, a circuit of three tough 50K and 50-mile mountain races. Also in 2006, she placed second in the highly competitive Mountain Masochist 50 (Lynchburg, VA), clocking an astounding time of 7:57.

Caren Spore (Davis, CA)
Spore, 39, brings legspeed and a bevy of experience to The North Face Endurance challenge Championship. Locally, she has won two consecutive Dick Collins 50 Milers (Oakland, CA) as well as the very burly Ohlone 50K Wilderness Run (in course record time). In 2007, she was a very close third at the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run.

Diane Van Deren (Sedalia, CO)
Van Deren, who is a member of The North Face Endurance Team, clicked off a streak of impressive ultramarathon wins on her way to the 2007 Trail Runner Trophy Series Ultra Title. She won the Dances with Dirt 50 Miler (Hell, MI), McNaughton Park 150 (IL), and the 24 Hours of Frisco (CO), where she registered a record 114 miles on high altitude trail along the way. The 10,000+ of vertical climbing on the Endurance Challenge course will play to Van Deren’s strengths, as she trains and races regularly in the rugged Rocky Mountains.

MEN’S 50-MILE CHAMPIONSHIP

Matt Carpenter (Manitou Springs, CO)
Matt Carpenter casts a long shadow over every race in which he toes the line. The 43-year-old has claimed titles in some of the world’s most prestigious off-road running events, ranging in distance from 10K to 100 miles. In 2005, he demolished the Leadville Trail 100 course record with a time of 15:42:59—90 minutes better than the previous record. Also, Carpenter owns the course record and has won eight times at the Pikes Peak Marathon, a beyond-grueling event which climbs 7,815 feet to the top of 14,115-foot Pikes Peak before descending another 13 bone-crunching miles. He also has the record for the Pikes Peak Ascent—a race which he has won a record six times.

William Emerson (Portland, OR)
Emerson, 44, is a past champion at the Quad Dipsea, a 28.4-mile run on some of the same trails covered in The North Face Endurance Challenge Championship. He is the recipient of multiple USATF Masters Ultrarunner of the Year Awards and in 2004 won an amazing 18 ultramarathons.

Karl Gilpin (Russellville, MO)
A newcomer to the sport of endurance running, Gilpin won the Endurance Challenge 50 in Des Moines, Iowa, by averaging a 6:47-per-mile pace. Iowa was his first-ever attempt at the ultra distance, but his pedigree indicates he could be a diamond in the rough. Gilpin, 28, was a former Division II All-American cross-country runner.

Phil Kochik (Seattle, WA)
Kochik nipped at the heels of Uli Steidl (see below) during the October 6 Endurance Challenge and promises to be right near the front of the pack again on December 1. He owns the very fast course record at the Rainier-to-Ruston 50-mile ultramarathon (6:19, set in 2006) and placed fifth at the 2007 Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run (17:26). No stranger to the 50-mile distance, Kochik won the USATF 50-Mile Trail Championship in 2005 when he ran 6:58 on a very difficult mountain course in Crystal Mountain, WA.

Hal Koerner (Ashland, OR)
Koerner comes into the Endurance Challenge Championship after claiming one of the sport’s most prestigious and sacred titles: in June, he beat out a deep, elite field to win the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run. Koerner’s record also includes a win at the 2006 Angeles Crest 100-Miler and five victories and a course record at The Bear 100 in Idaho’s rugged backcountry.

Joe Kulak. (Oreland, PA)
Kulak, who runs on The North Face Endurance Team, has completed the grueling Leadville Trail 100 Mile Endurance Run in high-altitude Colorado 11 times. A past Trail Runner Magazine Trail Runner of the Year, he owns the speed record for the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning, having completed the nation’s four most renowned 100-mile races (Western States 100, Vermont 100, Wasatch Front 100, Leadville Trail 100) in the same summer in a cumulative time of 75 hours and seven minutes.

Guillermo Medina. (Solvang, CA)
A member of The North Face Endurance Team, Medina has won many ultramarathons covering distances up to 100 miles. In 2005, he was the winner of the Angeles Crest 100-Mile Endurance Run in southern California and is a perennial top-three finisher at the nation’s toughest endurance races.

Leigh Schmitt (Conway, MA)
Schmitt comes to The North Face Endurance Challenge Championship by way of winning the August 4 50-Mile Endurance Challenge in Washington, DC, with a blazing time of 6:59:34. Schmitt owns course records at the Vermont 50, Vermont 100, Jay Challenge Marathon (VT), and Finger Lakes 50 (NY).

Uli Steidl (Shoreline, WA)
Steidl, who received a trip to The North Face Endurance Challenge Championship by winning the Endurance Challenge 50-mile race in Seattle on October 6, excels at a wide range of distances. He’s run in the World Cross Country Championships and notched 13 sub-2:20 marathons—a distinction that places him among the world’s most elite runners. At the ultramarathon distance, he has been unbeatable—literally. He has won every 50K and 50-mile trail ultramarathon he has ever entered, breaking course records in all but two of them.

Sam Thompson (Seattle, WA)
Thompson is widely considered one of the sport’s up-and-comers and has exhibited remarkable durability and resilience in notching top finishes at the country’s toughest ultramarathons in 2007. In 2006, Thompson shuttled throughout the country while completing 51 marathons in 51 days in 50 states, plus Washington, DC.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Results to The North Face Endurance Challenge Championship, plus the other three distances offered by the event (10K, Half Marathon, and 50K), will be posted at www.thenorthface.com/endurancechallenge by Monday, December 3, 2007.

Written by Jamal Walker for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

The annual 100 km World Cup race is the one international venue at which USA Track & Field (USATF) has fielded an ultra distance team for over a decade.  The United States will be represented by the USATF 100 km Team of up to six men and up to six women ultrarunners. 

The team and alternates will be selected by the USATF Mountain/Ultra/Trail (MUT) Running Council which was established in 1998 to help USATF administer ultrarunning in the United States.

Qualifying Window: May 8, 2007 - August 10, 2008
Team Announced: August 13, 2008

For more information, including the standards for consideration for 2008 US National 100 km Team, please visit: USA Track & Field

Written by Hariz Siddiqui for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, International, News, Ultramarathons

The 50 mile race and 50 kilometer event are expected to attract over 1,000 ultra-marathoners from more than 40 states and 14 countries. The 50 mile route is comprised of four 12.5 mile loops through the park’s extensive trail network. The 50K route covers a two loop course. The 50 mile event begins at 7:00am, with the 50K race set to start at 7:30am at Huntsville State Park, which is 60 miles north of Houston. A prize purse will be awarded in both the 50 Miler and the 50K.

Sunmart’s popularity as one of the premier ultra events in the U.S. is well established. Sunmart has a scenic course in the piney wood of Southeastern Texas, smiling and helpful volunteers, great food and plentiful race premiums. The addition of a world class international field will add to the race’s reputation and commitment to excellence.

For more information on the event, call Roger Soler’s Sports at (210) 366-3701 or visit: RogerSoler.com or Sunmart.net

Via: Running USA Wire

Written by Hariz Siddiqui for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

So how does altitude training work? When you are exposed to hypoxia (oxygen reduced environments) your body struggles to produce the required energy needed to perform due to less oxygen available.  This struggle initiates many physiological adaptations that enhance the efficiency of your body’s respiratory, cardiovascular, and oxygen transport systems.

Scientists now believe that the best method for improving sports performance is by following the “live high, train low” concept.  Traditional altitude training has athletes train at high altitudes, but the positive benefits were canceled out by the fact that with such little oxygen athletes have a reduced ability to train hard. Athletes can still benefit from training at high altitudes, but it is necessary to come back to sea level for high intensity training sessions where oxygen is more available. The “live high train low” concept allows for the best of both worlds.

Read the rest at our partner site: TheFinalSprint.com

Written by Jamal Walker for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Training

“The Adventure Xstream Adventure Race Series is a great programming acquisition for Altitude,” said Doug Ballmer, Director of Programming for Altitude Sports Network. “The race series is located in the Rocky Mountain region and the multi-sport racing family has a loyal fan base within our telecast territory. We are excited to bring the fast growing sport of adventure racing to Altitude.”

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Gravity Play Sports. All of us in the adventure racing arena, from the Gravity Play Sports office to our participants throughout the nation, are looking forward to the Adventure Xstream Adventure Race Series on TV,” said Will Newcomer, President of Gravity Play Sports.

Trousdale Productions out of Durango, Colorado produced the television broadcast and the DVD. Music on the television broadcast is from Durango based bands Formula 151 and the Lawn Chair Kings. Trousdale Productions is an independent video and digital media production house specializing in custom video production. To purchase the Xstream Expedition DVD that Trousdale Productions produced please visit http://www.GravityPlay.com

Gravity Play’s commitment to the sport of endurance and adventure racing continues as the Adventure Xstream Adventure Race Series advances into its eight year as the Rocky Mountain Region’s premier and nation’s largest, Adventure Racing Series. Combining a multitude of outdoor sports including; mountain biking, kayaking, trail running, rappelling, navigation and more… Gravity Play Sports provides premier athletes as well as the weekend warrior an outdoor venue for competition and personal achievement.

Nestled into the heart of the Rocky Mountains, spectacular race venues include: Buena Vista, CO; Durango, CO; Breckenridge, CO; Vail, CO; and Moab, UT. Teams of solo, two or four will be challenged in a number of multi-sport disciplines. 4-person coed teams will vie for significant prizes and prize money throughout the Series.

Altitude Sports & Entertainment is a regional sports and entertainment network. Altitude is the television home of the Colorado Avalanche (NHL), Denver Nuggets (NBA), Colorado Rapids (MLS), Colorado Mammoth (NLL), Colorado Eagles (CHL) and Colorado Springs Sky Sox (PCL). In addition, Altitude offers entertainment and community programming as well as boxing, rodeo, auto racing, golf, skiing and extreme sports, as well as outdoor and lifestyle shows. Altitude is currently available in more than 5.2 million homes.

* Channels: DirecTV channel 644; Dish Network channel 410; for cable listings visit www.Altitudesports.com

Via: Outdoor Newswire

Written by Jeremy Sussman for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Adventure/Relay

Although enjoyable, trail running, like other forms of exercise, also comes with some inherent and potential risks.  Rocky terrain, unknown paths, and unfriendly wildlife can make any trail run a challenging experience.  So the next time you’re heading out to a trail, keep these helpful tips in mind to stay safe and have fun:

1) Get the low-down on a particular trail before you begin your run.  Consult trail guidebooks, check the internet if possible, talk to people who have already run the trail you’re considering, or speak with the appropriate land-management agency to ensure the trail is safe and open to the public – whatever you do, make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into!

2) Pick the right shoes --the wrong shoe can make any running experience a drag.  For trail running, stick to shoes that provide adequate ankle support and provide a snug (but not overly tight) fit.  Also, you want to find a sneaker that has a water resistant, yet breathable upper, and a sturdy sole to protect you from rough terrain.  There are plenty of models to choose from - but make sure that you choose something that is both comfortable and protective.

3) Let someone know what trail you’ll be running on.  This way, should you get lost or injured, that person will know where to look for you.  Better yet, bring a running buddy with you if possible, to even better lessen your chance of getting lost, and to ensure help if you fall to injury.

4) Use common sense. If the trail conditions aren’t what you expected or what you prepared for, turn around and head towards a running path you’re more familiar with.

5) Keep your eyes on the trail.  Many trails tend to be loose, rocky, and steep, which makes it imperative to pay attention while running. 

6) Be a smart faller.  This may sound silly, but it is a legitimate thing to keep in mind.  Trails can be tricky places to run on, so the occasional wipe-out isn’t uncommon.  To help avoid serious injury to your collarbone and head, either roll into the fall or try to brace yourself with an extended arm.  This strategy may not ward off scratches and bruises, but it may just save you from a serious injury.

7) Head out early enough so you’re off the trail before it becomes dark out. Without street lights to help guide your way, trail running after dark can turn into a potentially dangerous situation.  However, if you think you might end up on the trail after sunset, make sure to have consulted tip #3.

8) Let wildlife know you have entered their territory.  Most animals will avoid contact with you if they can help it.  An article from Running Times gives a detailed description of how to conduct oneself while on the trail.  Making loud noises will not only announce your presence, but it will often scare aware even large animals such as bears and wolves.  Talking to a running mate or singing will usually do the trick.  The article stresses to also keep in mind that you should be particularly cautious during dawn and dusk, as these are the times when most predators are roaming about.

Stay safe and have fun!  See you on the trails!

Research sources and for more information on trail running, please visit: [Trail Runner Magazine], [eHow: How to Choose Trails], [eHow.com: Trail Running Safety], [Outside Online], [A Trail Runner’s Blog], [Trails.com], [Trail Running Blog]

Via: TheFinalSprint.com

Written by Lisa Cieplechowicz for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section:

Diane van Deren of Sedalia, Colorado, dominates the Ultramarathon Division standings with 1356 points, with no other competitor (male or female) breaking the 1000-point mark. Van Deren capped off a busy summer, including eight ultras, with the 24 Hours of Frisco in Frisco, Colorado, on September 23. There, she logged 114 miles for the women’s victory and 456 Trophy Series points.

Christine Crawford of Whitewater, Wisconsin, is second with 885.8 points after a speedy 4:35:36 second-place performance at the Rock Cut Hobo 50K in Rockford, Illinois, in September. Third is Laurie McGrath, of Baden, Ontario, a fast-rising ultrarunner profiled in the January 2007 issue of Trail Runner, who covered 110 miles at the Dirty Girl 24-Hour ultra in August for the women’s victory.

Right behind McGrath at the Dirty Girl 24-Hour race was Jim Orr, also of Ontario, who logged 108.5 miles there, earning enough Trophy Series points to place him at the top of the men’s Ultra Division and fourth in overall. Orr also took top honors at the Sulphur Springs 100-miler, in Ancaster, Ontario, with a time of 17:14:53.

Dale Reicheneder topped the Marathon and Shorter Division once again (he was the 2005 champion), after competing in 19 races and scoring five age-group victories. The 41-year-old litigation attorney from Malibu, California, held off defending champion Hugh Davis and Brian Beckort, both from Tell City, Indiana, by only a handful of points to become the 2007 Series champion.

Canadian Janice MacKay of Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario, capped off her successful racing season, punctuated by three age-group wins at the Keweenaw Trail Running Festival in Copper Harbor, Michigan, with a second-place age-group performance at Mount Hood, Oregon’s Timberline Marathon in 4:20:57. MacKay’s six impressive trail-race performances kept her ahead of second-place Julie Gerke of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, who won her age group at the Odyssey and Running Fit Trail Marathons, and Donna Gering (Ironwood, Michigan), in third place after four Trophy Series events.

Top male and female winners in the Ultramarathon Division and Marathon-and-Under Division’s 10 age group categories will receive prize packages including gifts from Trophy Series sponsors La Sportiva, Injinji, Spenco, Julbo, Mont-Bell, Kahtoola and Petzl.

Mark Tanaka of Castro Valley, California, is winner of the randomly drawn Grand Prize of an honorary position on La Sportiva’s Mountain Running Team. Tanaka will receive four pairs of La Sportiva running shoes plus a team-apparel package including socks, headlamp, singlet, running T-shirt, shorts, warm-up jacket and headwear. La Sportiva will offer this same Grand Prize in the 2008 Trail Runner Trophy Series.

Pick up a copy of Trail Runner’s January 2008 issue to read more about the male and female division winners. This special Trophy Series issue will also include the 2008 Trophy Series Race Directory, a special Take Your Mark story highlighting three outstanding races belonging to the series and training and nutrition articles to get you primed for race day.

Plans for the 2008 Trophy Series are already underway. Race directors interested in being a Trophy Series race should apply before November 12, 2007 here.

2007 Trophy Series Standings Highlights

Top Ultramarathon Women
1. Diane Van Deren, Sedalia, Colorado, 1356 points
2. Christine Crawford, Whitewater, Wisconsin, 885.8 points
3. Laurie McGrath, Baden, Ontario, 840.2 points

Top Ultramarathon Men
1. Jim Orr, Toronto, Ontario, 834 points
2. Karl Meltzer, Sandy, Utah, 800 points
3. Akos Konya, Oceanside, California, 700 points

Marathon and Shorter Age-Group Winners, Men
10-19 years old-Clint Hugie, Salt Lake City, Utah, 107.1 points
20-29 years old-Dan Dehlin, Marquette, Michigan, 285.5 points
30-39 years old-Brian Beckort, Tell City, Indiana, 460.4 points
40-49 years old-Dale Reicheneder, Malibu, California, 683.2 points
50 and over-Heath Hibbard, Montrose, Colorado, 319.1 points

Marathon and Shorter Age-Group Winners, Women
10-19 years old-Alanna Wildman, Milaca, Minnesota, 104.8 points*
20-29 years old-Rachel Post, Plymouth, Michigan, 144.1 points
30-39 years old-Mary White, Kirkwood, Missouri, 166.8 points
40-49 years old-Julie Gerke, Basking Ridge, New Jersey, 209.6 points
50 and over-Janice Mackay, Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario, 346.6 points

*Wildman had the same number of points as several other women in her age group, but was named the winner for logging the fastest marathon time of 4:41:43.

For full results, please click here.

Via: Trail Runner Magazine

Written by Jamal Walker for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

Competitors chose from two off-road courses, a 10K or a 5K - each serving up a plateful of Mother Nature’s finest ingredients including loose gravel and lava rocks, soft sand and humid temperatures.

XTERRA 10K
It was Mexico’s Octavio Vincente who stole first place in the XTERRA Makena Beach 10K in 46 minutes and 34 seconds. His first time in Maui, Vincente came to support his three friends competing in Sunday’s XTERRA off-road triathlon. On a whim, he decided yesterday at registration to compete. With victory sweet, he said with a smile “Maui is beautiful and I like XTERRA, I want to come back next year.”

Right on his heels was local star Paul Hopwood of Paia, Maui in a time of 46:48. Hopwood was followed by Paul Welch of Stowe, Vermont who took third in 48:47.

The women’s winner of the XTERRA Makena Beach 10K and the Hawaiian Airlines prize of roundtrip airfare from the West Coast to Hawaii was Hungarian triathlete Erika Csomor, who broke the finish tape in a speedy time of 49 minutes and 43 seconds. A few weeks back, she raced in the Ironman World Championship in Kona, finishing 10th place and plans to compete in the XTERRA World Championship off-road triathlon on Sunday. “This was a warm up of sorts; the course was quite nice, the sand hard - I think XTERRA is cool.”

Rachel Cieslewicz of Salt Lake City, Utah was runner-up in 50:19. Lindsay Krause of Littleton, Colorado had a time of 52:52 to take home third.

XTERRA 5K
The first to cross the finish tape in the short course was Lahainaluna cross-country coach, Dagen Bendixen of Lahaina, Maui in a time of 22 minutes and 37 seconds. The first time running in an XTERRA event, this first place will make his kids proud. He called the course “brutal - the hills and sand were never ending. I thought the hill would be done at any time, but we kept going up and up and up.”

He was followed by Yasuhiro Jojima of Tokyo, Japan who crossed at 23:06, while Mike Irwin of Haiku finished less than a minute later in 23:48.

For the women, it was 11-year-old phenom Dakota Grossman of Pukalani, Maui who smoked the rest of the pack, breaking the tape in 27 minutes and 10 seconds, 12th place overall. The next generation of XTERRA, she said “XTERRA is fun! The course was good. The hardest parts were the hills and the rocks.”

Kula resident Nancy Robberson finished second in 28:29 with Heather Biglow of Boulder, Colorado third (28:54).

Proceeds from this event benefit the Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Maui County.

More information on the world championship weekend can be found at: XTERRAplanet.com

Written by: Monica Bridle
Via: Running USA Wire

Written by Bart Moylan for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News, Trail Running

“Like our other relays, the American Odyssey will be a first-class destination event that attracts visitors from around the country and the world,” said Eric Lerude, president of People Burning Fat Productions. “This is our most ambitious effort to date, with an extraordinarily scenic course that showcases many attractions and historical points of interest.”

Bethesda-based Xtend Fitness is producing the American Odyssey in partnership with People Burning Fat Productions. Xtend President Bob Fleshner is serving as the event director. He has almost 30 years experience running and has been involved in planning numerous events in the Washington D.C. running community.

“We’re extremely excited to host this event, which is the first of its kind in the region. These types of races draw thousands of runners in other parts of the country, and we have all of the opportunity to rival similar world-class relay runs. I can’t wait to share our great running resources with other runners,” said Fleshner.

The American Odyssey course will be divided into 36 legs. Teams of 12 run three legs each. It will take about 24 hours to complete the relay. Relay organizers are currently in the process of obtaining approvals and permits for the course. The event is expected to occur in the spring 2009.

Event organizers are currently seeking approvals for the relay. Bob Fleshner, the event director, can be reached at (301) 706-2266 or bob@americanodysseyrelay.com

People Burning Fat Productions has founded and produced two additional relay runs: the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey, which is prepping for its fourth year and will occur on June 6-7, 2008, and the recently held inaugural Arizona Odyssey.

Via: Running USA Wire

Written by Hariz Siddiqui for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News, Adventure/Relay

Monica Carlin won the Open Race (3h32m17s) by the women but didn’t take part in any of the selection races so couldn’t be ranked in the final ranking of the Trophy.  The Australian June Petrie finished second in 3h35m38s only 29 seconds ahead of Sabine Hofer (AUT) who finished in 3h36m07s just fast enough to win the Trophy.

The top ranking by the men and women:
series Final TOTAL
1 PAPANIKITAS MARC BEL 3:10:47 GISTEL 3:06:36 6:17:23
2 RENDALL JULIAN GBR 3:13:10 BODDINGTON 3:09:39 6:22:49
3 SANTNER BERNHARD AUT 3:17:10 50K MANK 3:12:44 6:29:54
4 MASAMI SOEDA JPN 3:16:31 LAKE SAROMA 3:14:41 6:31:12
5 FARQUHARSON ANDREW GBR 3:14:53 BODDINGTON 3:25:24 6:40:17
6 PELGRIM BERT AUS 3:15:33 CANBERRA 3:46:32 7:02:05
7 STEIB PÉTER HUN 3:09:10 WINSCHOTEN 4:21:29 7:30:39
8 BORDONI CARLUCCIO ITA 3:44:40 ROMAGNA 3:48:59 7:33:39
9 SALA LUCA ITA 3:58:06 ROMAGNA 3:52:12 7:50:18

series final total
1 HOFER SABINE AUT 3:44:36 50K MANK 3:36:07 7:20:43
2 PETRIE JUNE AUS 3:46:13 CANBERRA 3:35:38 7:21:51
3 SATOMI MATSUO JPN 3:48:56 LAKE SAROMA 3:42:14 7:31:10
4 WILSON HEIDI GBR 3:45:33 BODDINGTON 3:45:55 7:31:28
5 TUCKER SARAH GBR 3:43:01 BODDINGTON 3:50:57 7:33:58
6 GOODERHAM EMMA GBR 3:50:11 BODDINGTON 3:45:17 7:35:28

Via: International Association of Ultrarunners
Photograph: Marc Papanikita (Courtesy of Sporten Voor Nabestaanden Van Geweld)

Written by Bart Moylan for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, International, News, Ultramarathons

Fastpacking is about taking as little gear as possible so you can travel greater distances in the wilderness unhampered.  And what gear you do take with you should be necessary camping gear: (sleeping bag and tarp), food, cooking utensils, water, and everything should be durable and light.  The total weight of your pack should be around twenty pounds or what you can comfortably run with for a long period of time.

Read the rest of this entry at our partner site: TheFinalSprint.com

Written by Amanda Black for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Gear & Apparel, Training

On Saturday, Paul completed the St. George Marathon’s fast course in 2:18:09; meeting the U.S. Olympic “A” qualifying standard. 

A former cross country runner at Calvin College, Paul now trains and lives with his wife in Logan, Utah. 

He also works as a GIS and Photogrammetry Specialist at GEO/Graphics, Inc. and is the owner of Marathon GIS.

Read the rest of this entry at our partner site: TheFinalSprint.com

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: News

The 26th Le Grizz Ultramarathon. Startled by such a name, I wondered if the name was a play on the word “grizzled,” as in, some grizzled veterans will be running this 50 mile race, or if there might actually be grizzly bears on, or near, the race course. Once I glanced over at the location (Hungry Horse, MT), I suspected that the latter might be just as accurate as the former.

link to the official race website and, sure enough, the page background displayed a growling bear. With a mixture of excitement and trepidation, I surfed the website, run by the Cheetah Herders Athletics Club in Seeley Lake, MT.  There was a link titled “Great Moments”, so I clicked on it.

I’m not sure what I was hoping to find in a page title “Great Moments,” but I suspect that a great moment in an ultramarathon run in the middle of the Montana wilderness might be a little different than one in an ultramarathon in, say, the Dallas-Ft. Worth Metroplex where over 6,000,000 people (including myself) reside.  I also wondered whether one of those “Great Moments” might include an actual encounter with a grizzly.

I found one entry that read, “1991 - Andy Nicoll runs in a ripped 3-piece suit as a simulated grizzly mauling victim.” Okay, there was a little drama, but it was strictly human, not ursine, in nature. But is the risk of literally running into a Grizzly Bear a real danger while running the Le Grizz Ultramarathon?

I clicked on the “Maps” link and found out that the race is run along the banks of the Hungry Horse Reservoir, which is located just south of Glacier National Park in NW Montana. This is definitely bear country. Glacier National Park is home to both Grizzlies and Black Bears.  I found this little tidbit on the Glacier National Park Bear Page published by the National Park Service:

Trail Running
While taking a jog or a run may be good exercise, joggers and runners run the risk of surprising a bear on the trail. Trail running is discouraged as there have been an increasing number of injuries and fatalities due to runners surprising bears at close range.

Whew! I couldn’t imagine having to be aware of bears during a 50 mile race.  Still, Hungry Horse Reservoir is not actually within the boundaries of Glacier National Park. Is it close enough so that the threat of bears is a real one?

Apparently so. Hungry Horse Reservoir is located just west of the Great Bear Wilderness Area. According to the Montana’s official state state travel information site, “wildlife [in the Great Bear Wilderness Area] includes wolverine, deer, elk, moose, grizzly bear, black bear, mountain goat, and mountain sheep.”

The Le Grizz race brochure states that food storage must be “in bear-proof containers.” It also states that, “the road is lightly traveled in October (before hunting season) and winds through wild, mountainous country where grizzly bear still roam. Deer, elk, moose, black bear mountain lion, bobcat and coyote are common.” The brochure also discusses what steps need to be taken if a competitor encounters a bear.

So it seems like the real deal. An Ultramarathon you can run while being chased by a Grizzly Bear. If you’re the adventurous type (or maybe even a little crazy) you can still late-register for the event, which will be held on Saturday, October 13th, 2007. The race director, on the Entry Policy page, states that he will, “personally handles late entries, and may evaluate your character flaws as a free service.” If you’re the type who doesn’t mind running 50 miles while being chased by Grizzly Bears, perhaps you won’t mind this “free evaluation,” either.

For more information about Le Grizz Ultramarathon, bears, and Montana, visit: [Le Grizz] [State of Montana] [National Park Service]

Written by Jimmie R. Markham for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, U.S.A., News, Trail Running, Ultramarathons

Piotr Kurylo from Poland finished second in 24:29:41 and Valmir Nunes of Brazil finished third with a time of 25:37:40.

Jurek’s time is the sixth fastest in race history.  Last year, Jurek became the first North American to win the legendary race and ran the fifth fastest time in the modern race’s 25-year history.

The iconic Yannis Kouros still holds the course record of 20 hours, 25 minutes which he set in 1984; a year after the race began.  Kouros competed in four Spartahlons - winning each of them (including the inaugural race) - and holds the four fastest times ever recorded.

Although 332 runners began this year’s race at the Acropolis in Athens, only 125 were able to finish the grueling ultramarathon and cross the finish line in Sparta.

For more information, please visit the Spartathlon website: http://www.spartathlon.gr/

To hear Scott discuss his experience and victory at last year’s Spartathlon, check out: Episode 34 of The Final Sprint Podcast

PHOTOGRAPH: Jurek crowned champion of the 2006 Spartathlon
(Courtesy of Nikos Apostolakis)

Written by Adam Jacobs for Trail Fit. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!

Section: Destinations, International, News, Race Recaps, Ultra