June 29, 2009

Words from the Master of a Stage Race

Coach Lee Simril, the Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race Men's Masters winner, shares his impressions of the 2009 Stage Race. He is a guest writer for the Rock/Creek Chronicle, and with that said, here are some words from his three day trail experience:

"First of all, a BIG congratulations to all the finishers this weekend - what a huge accomplishment.

Secondly...Wow, what a cool race! This was my first running stage race and I was not sure how I felt about stacking multiple days of hard and long running races together. I tend to take a couple of easy days in between hard running efforts, but I just could not resist doing this race in my own backyard.

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised how my body handled the back to back days. Maybe it is the fact that the race is held on trails and not road, so it minimizes the pounding. I felt a little stiff and tired warming up each day, but once the gun fired it felt like any other trail race.

Competing for your overall raking in a stage race is very interesting. Each day you race for a finish on the day's race, while at the same time you are building an overall ranking for the combination of the three days. The concept is simple: each day you try to make up time on the people ranked in front of you. The trick is being able to do that without burning yourself out and getting caught by the people behind you.

Most people in the race had their own little battles going on with the people around them, and it made for very interesting racing. After the days' stages we all congratulated each other and had a few laughs about the events of the day.

The race organizers set up ice baths to use after each stage to aid in recovery. The ice baths were very popular and well used. Natalie Sims had one of my favorite quotes of the weekend when she advised a runner who was unsure about getting in the bucket right after he finished that "maybe you should wait on taking an ice bath...so that I can do mine now"...Now that is diplomacy!

Tempted to add this event to your calendar for next year? You do not have to be a superman or woman to finish a running stage race, you just need to build your running mileage for a few months beforehand and be willing to push yourself. The course is challenging and the weather can be hot, but it would not be a truly epic adventure if it was easy."

About the author:

Lee Simril, USAT Certified Coach, USA Swimming Coach

Since competing in his first triathlon in 1985, Lee has had a passion for the sport. Lee was the captain of his soccer team at Brevard College and went on to run track at High Point College in N.C. He was a captain and MVP at the conference and district meets.

After college, he competed nationally as a Triathlete. Lee thought he would eventually get a "real" job and leave sports behind, until he met his wife Brenda. Brenda was equally passionate about endurance sports, and within a few years, they had formed a four person Adventure Racing team that won the United States Adventure Racing Association's (USARA) National Championship.

Lee has coached Soccer, Masters Swimming, Youth Swimming, and Track and field for over twenty years. For the last thirteen years he worked for the American Bicycle Group (ABG), which manufactures Litespeed, Merlin and QR bicycles. During this time he worked with top athletes from around the world in the sales and design of wetsuits and bicycles.

Check out the Simril Multisport Coaching website to find out how you can "Reach Your Full Potential" through SMC for quality consultation and training www.simrilmultisportcoaching.com/default.html.

The next races in the Rock/Creek Trail Series have opened registration. Check out these upcoming races:

Rock/Creek Greenway
5 Mile Trail Race
August 8, 2009
Greenway Farms Chattanooga, TN
http://www.rockcreek.com/greenway

Rock/Creek Stump Jump 50K
50K & 11 Mile Trail Running Race
October 3, 2009
Chattanooga, TN
http://www.rockcreek.com/stumpjump/

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 12:43 PM | Comments (0)

June 20, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Member, John Anderson, Takes First Place Before the Summer Season

The weather might have been fair for the 19th annual Collegiate Peaks Trail Run in Buena Vista, Colorado, but that did not inhibit Rock/Creek's Race Team Member, John Anderson, from placing first on May 2, 2009; finishing in 6:58:49; only five minutes behind the course record and setting the second fastest time in race history. The following is a personal race report from the Boulder, Colorado resident, as he carries us through his day:

"I went up to Buena Vista, Colorado last weekend to get my race season going with the Collegiate Peaks 50 mile and 25 mile Trail Run as everything is finally melting out after a snowy spring. The area is probably better known to the boating crowds from Rock/Creek Down Under but with several Fourteener Peaks and hundreds of miles of trails (including the Colorado Trail) it is a sweet running or hiking destination. I might add, it's also a good Disco destination if you head to the local watering hole on Wednesday nights.

As I drove into town Friday night I relived some old memories from the several summers that I guided raft trips on the Arkansas River. The race itself is a combo 25 mile and 50 mile event, with the 50 milers turning around and repeating the same loop in the opposite direction. The course is mainly on four wheel drive roads with several miles of single track and a few of pavement. It starts at 8000 feet and has around 5-6000 ft of climbing with some decent climbs. The unpredictable changes in weather conditions influenced my decision for the following technical gear:

Patagonia Nine Trails Jacket and Shorts, Patagonia Silkweight Tee, SmartWool PhD Ultralight Running Socks, and used the Nathan Waist Pack and the Ultimate Directions Handheld bottle.

The race began at the end of Main Street by the river and with a few quick words from the race director we were off into the cold, foggy morning. I settled into my pace and took in the mountain and river views. The weather was cool and overcast for most of the morning; it just felt good to be out there running. At the turnaround there was another 50 miler, Nick Clark (a UK transplant living in Fort Collins) right behind me and a few others within a few minutes. There was a brief moment as I crossed the river and saw the town play hole that I was thinking "Maybe I should have brought my kayak and only done the 25 miler..." Then I remembered that post-run ice baths feel warm compared to the Arkansas River in May.

After the turnaround we had a several mile climb up out of the river and for the next 10 miles or so Nick stayed about 30 seconds or so back and we put 15-20 minutes on the 3rd and 4th place guys. Right before the 38 mile aid station he caught me, and we chatted for a bit as we rolled into refuel. He then put a few steps on me, but I started to feel really good (or really stupid) and decided that I should make a move on the next big climb. I passed Nick and kept running steady and soon put some distance between us. I didn't see him as I came into the last aid station at mile 44 so I chomped down a gel and headed for the finish.

The final few miles parallel the river on roads and single track, and apart from the headwind I felt pretty good, although I'm pretty sure they added a few extra miles than when I ran the same stretch at the start of the race (just like at the StumpJump 50k where Dawson and the gang seemingly make the parking lot in front of Signal Mountain High School longer at the finish). I came into the finish at 6:58, five minutes off Tony Krupicka's CR from 2007 and the second fastest time in race history. Nick came in a few minutes later at 7:03 and third place, Bryan Goding, came in at 7:37.

All in all, it was a good race and I was happy with the result. It was my first race since Rock/Creek's StumpJump 50k & 11 Miler http://www.rockcreek.com/stumpjump/, last year so I was anxious to see how my fitness was coming along for Bighorn. Besides, my brother is moving back here in a few weeks so I'd better be fit so we can pound each other down. It's time to focus on the Bighorn http://www.bighorntrailrun.com/and get some late race strength. Now, I just need to find a little polyester to wear to Disco night."

-John Anderson

Set your own course records at the Rock/Creek Trail Series. For more information on the series and upcoming races visit: http://www.rockcreek.com/trailseries/

Take a look at the upcoming Greenway 5 Mile Race, ideal for beginners at http://www.rockcreek.com/greenway/

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 9:48 AM | Comments (0)

June 11, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Member Matt Karzen Receives Local Spotlight

The Athens Banner-Herald recently published an article on Rock/Creek Race Team Member, Matt Karzen's running for a cause. Previously mentioned on Rock/Creek's blog, read more of what Online Athens had to say about Matt's goal to run the length of the Georgia Appalachian Trail (76 ish miles) straight through, as a fundraising effort for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

"Karzen is training to run nonstop all 76 miles of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia, a ridge-running feat he estimates will take at least 22 hours. He is asking people to show support by donating to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, which gives educational assistance to the children of U.S. special forces personnel killed in the line of duty..."- [Full article: OnlineAthens.com]

At the time of writing, Matt had reached 35% of his goal of raising $10,000. Check out the firstgiving box to the right of the homepage on blog.rockcreek.com for updates.

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 12:07 PM | Comments (0)

June 10, 2009

Kris Whorton's Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race "Pep Talk"

In preparation for the Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race, Rock/Creek Race Team member and 2009 Female Masters 100 Mile champion Kris Whorton takes a few moments to talk participants through a multi-day trail running race from preparation, completion, to recovery.

Physical Training:
Depending on the length of the event, you want to try to simulate the conditions you'll be running in, especially duration (both distances and number of days), and speed. Plan to do several three day back to back runs to be mentally and physically prepared. Your longer preparation runs should be no more than 30% shorter than the actual distances you will run. You will, of course, be more mentally prepared if you run the distances you will be running in the event. Additionally, you should know what foods and drinks work for you while running as well as before and after. The distances for the Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race are short enough that you should be able to pull through if you run into issues with foods and fluids. Still, it is best to bring what you need and carry it with you.

Don't surprise your system and don't leave anything that you can control to chance.

Mental Training:
As with any event, focus on what has gone well in your training and practice positive mental self-talk. Learn to stay present in your run rather than thinking about what remains. This will serve you well when you are only 10 miles into day one,15 miles into day two, or 5 miles into day three. If you've done the physical training then you have to be able to count on your mind. It can convince you to quit when there is no reason to except fatigue or the daunting fact of miles or hours remaining. Repeatedly tell yourself you feel strong, you feel fresh, your training is solid, you are enjoying the day. Don't focus on anything that isn't positive. The trails will be difficult but you are ready for them. It will be hot but you love the heat and run well in it. If your stomach starts to turn on you, tell yourself you feel good.

Another tactic is to smile or even force yourself to laugh when you are really feeling bad, and then you will start smiling or laughing at the thought that you are smiling or laughing when you feel terrible. It sounds crazy but it works.

Pre-race week:
Don't attempt to "carbo load" the week going into the event, or "really" hydrate, or "load up" on salt. Approach the event like it is a marathon or a 50k and do the things you would normally do. Eat well, drink, sleep. Run what you feel like but definitely on the light side (M - 4, T- 3, W - 4, Th- 0, F - day 1 of event).

Each day's approach:
Eat some breakfast, something you are used to, and give yourself time to digest enough that you won't have stomach problems. You typically need about 3 hours; if you don't have 3 hours, go ultra light on pre-race food and start taking in calories early in the event. Do what you would for a marathon or 50k.

Approach the start line with the idea that you are running the first part of a race and you must pace yourself accordingly. Don't go out too fast since you don't want to stress your body too much. Be mindful of food, fluids, and electrolytes over the course of the run. Be mindful of the toll of the miles, and the heat.

Each day's completion:
Be sure to have a recovery drink of choice and a snack in your car. We'll have some food at the end but it's best to go with what you are used to and supplement it with what we have. Your body will recover and be better prepared for the next day if it isn't shocked with food it isn't used to. You'll want a small amount of food and plenty of fluids, enough to get you off the mountain to your hotel or home where you can get a shower, get horizontal with your feet up, and then eat and drink some more. It is critical that you eat and drink and rest. Plan on your snack and a very light meal immediately following your run and then have something again before 7:00. Soak in a tub with Epsom salts. Get a good night's sleep.

Preparation for next day:
At the end of each day, get to your hotel and get your feet up. You must rest. Each day will be challenging (mentally and physically) in this event but each day you will know that you are closer to being done.

Recovery (the week after):
If you were properly trained and have no significant soreness, resume your running schedule. The stage race shouldn't represent any kind of upset. If you are sore or overly tired, scale back for a week or two.

Challenges:
Food -You may experience a loss of appetite during or after each stage, but you must eat and drink - you will have a significantly more difficult time finishing all three days if you don't replenish your fuel stores.
Chaffing/blisters - Wear shorts, shirts, bras that discourage chafing, and shoes and socks that you know will work for you. Lube up! Wear sunscreen, a hat, glasses. Bring all the things you need and normally use on a long run.
Mental recharging - At the end of the day, focus on what went well and what you plan to do the next day. Do not think about what didn't go well, unless you are planning to eat more, drink more (do some small adjustment to improve your run). Feel free to take time in the days following the event to consider what you will do differently next time, but until you are completely done, maintain a positive outlook and stay present. Don't think about the next stage until you are in it. What this means is don't run day one and think, "How am I going to do this for two more days?" Instead, tell yourself that you are doing great and you are enjoying the day and the course you are running.

DON'T DO ANYTHING NEW!!!

Benefits: Increased strength and confidence. A powerful sense of accomplishment!

Thank you Kris. Rock/Creek wishes everyone a safe preparation time this week and we will see all race participants bright and early on Friday, June 19.

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 2:53 PM | Comments (0)

June 8, 2009

Rock/Creek Scenic City Race Report from Coach Lee Simril

"Coach Lee" Simril, the third place overall finisher of the marathon length in the Scenic City Marathon and Half Marathon, shares his impression of the recent race, presented by Rock/Creek and The Vasque Project. Coach Lee's wife Brenda also won the women's division of the Marathon.

The Scenic City Trail Marathon was promoted as a fast trail race...

"The trails at Raccoon are fast and forgiving, making for a great leisurely race for new trail runners or a full-on speed fest for those in the hunt for the first state record for a trail race."

This may be true, but if you expected this to be a 26 mile jaunt on a Rail-Trail or a gravel road, you were in for a big surprise. The trails at Raccoon Mountain are real single track trails. The climbs are not long, but by the time you start your second lap of the course you will know that you are in for a battle.

Race day offered sun and pleasant temperatures. Any of you that have done other races in the series know that we have been racing in rain more often than not, so the sunshine was a nice treat. Between the Half Marathon and the Marathon, over 250 runners had the pleasure of running on the fantastic trails on top of Raccoon Mountain.

The entire field started together, which made the race even more interesting because marathoners were forced to monitor their own pace and avoid getting suckered into an unrealistic pace set by the half-marathoners. The great turnout made the first lap very fun and exciting with lots of company along the way. Once we made the split to head towards the 2nd loop, the familiar loneliness and single-mindedness of the distance trail runner took effect. The venue atop Raccoon Mountain is a perfect setting to enjoy the outdoors and push you to the limits.

There were many highlights of the day from the course - weather, aid stations, swag bag - but it really came down to the hamburgers at the end of the race. Shortly after completing the race, my wife Brenda said she was not sure if her stomach was ready for food. She accepted a burger anyway, knowing that she needed the nourishment. I think it took her about 30 seconds to down the whole thing after the tentative first bite. This seemed to also ease the aches associated with the major digger she took while negotiating one of the steep downhills about 4 miles from the finish. Crossing the finish line covered in sweat, mud and blood, it certainly made for a good photo op. Another reminder that this was not a stroll in the park!

From someone that travels a lot to races like this, one of the great things is that this is a true mountain run that is located within 15 minutes of a major city. Chattanooga has nice hotels, food, tourist activity, etc. so you get a great trail race and are not stuck in the middle of nowhere. This is a must do race, so add it to your calendar for 2010.

See the full results, photos, and keep tabs on next year's race details on The Scenic City Trail Marathon Web site >

About the author:

Lee Simril, USAT Certified Coach, USA Swimming Coach

Since competing in his first triathlon in 1985, Lee has had a passion for the sport. Lee was the captain of his soccer team at Brevard College and went on to run track at High Point College in N.C. He was a captain and MVP at the conference and district meets. After college, he competed nationally as a Triathlete. Lee thought he would eventually get a "real" job and leave sports behind, until he met his wife Brenda. Brenda was equally passionate about endurance sports, and within a few years, they had formed a four person Adventure Racing team that won the United States Adventure Racing Association's (USARA) National Championship.

Lee has coached Soccer, Masters Swimming, Youth Swimming, and Track and field for over twenty years. For the last thirteen years he worked for the American Bicycle Group (ABG), which manufactures Litespeed, Merlin and QR bicycles. During this time he worked with top athletes from around the world in the sales and design of wetsuits and bicycles.
Check out the Simril Multisport Coaching website to find out how you can "Reach Your Full Potential" through SMC for quality consultation and training www.simrilmultisportcoaching.com/default.html.

The next races in the Rock/Creek Trail Series have opened registration. Check out these upcoming races:

Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race
3 days of mountain trail running: 22 mile / 18 mile / 20 mile
June 19-21, 2009
Lookout, Raccoon, and Signal Mountains
http://www.rockcreek.com/stagerace/

Rock/Creek Stump Jump 50K
50K & 11 Mile Trail Running Race
October 3, 2009
Chattanooga, TN
http://www.rockcreek.com/stumpjump/

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 5:24 PM | Comments (0)

June 3, 2009

To Bail, Perchance to Run Better Another Day - Ay, There's the Rub

No one wants to even think about these things in preparation for an upcoming race...but these tips could save your life. (A few notes from our Rock/Creek Trail Series Medical Director in preparation for the upcoming Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race)

"You are in the thick of things - trees whizzing by in a blur, feet flying, wind in your face - all those days of training are paying off. You are on pace for a new PR, until...ouch!"

I hate it when that happens. Some dumb painful thing interrupts your racer's high. Sometimes you just need to cowboy (or cowgirl) up and work through it. But sometimes working through it is the worst thing you could do. How can you tell the difference? Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

The "Duh" List
These are things that you are just going to have to stop for. Sorry, Superman, Wonder Woman - bad days happen, & you will be able to live to compete another day when you stop after noticing these:

1. Broken Bones

Maybe you've met someone who kept going even though they had a broken bone in an event. They were lucky. When you continue to move with a broken bone, you are risking internal injuries to the surrounding tissue from the bone fragments. You really don't want to add a torn blood vessel to your list of things to recover from.

How can you tell if there is a fracture? Check for these signs...

• There is heavy bruising
• Even gentle pressure or movement causes pain.
• The limb or joint appears deformed.
• The bone has pierced the skin.
• The extremity of the injured arm or leg, such as a toe or finger, is numb or bluish at the tip.

2. Head Trauma

I have seen this happen up close several times. A person falls & their head hits the ground...they may be out for just a moment, or a few minutes, or perhaps not at all. Their first instinct is to jump up - usually due to embarrassment - & get right back to what they were doing. The scary thing about head trauma is that it may take some time before any internal damage shows on the outside. Even if you feel fine, you must get checked out at a hospital as soon as possible after losing consciousness.

3. Snake Bites

If you're bitten - don't suck the wound, try not to move that part of your body very much, & bail. You need to get medical attention. It takes 30 min. to prepare the anti-venom for the snakes in the Southeast. Don't waste that time.

4. Allergic Reactions

Most often this will be from an insect sting, but it could be the day that you discover you're allergic to the latest flavor of power bars that you saved up just for race day. (Bummer!) If you start to have swelling around your lips or in your throat, get help right away! If you know that you're allergic to insects, have asthma, etc., carry your medications with you during the event. The car is too far.

5. Chest Pain / "Heartburn" / Pressure in the Chest

Just this year a runner experienced a heart attack & passed away at the Nashville Marathon. Years ago I lost a relative who died during the Marine Corps Marathon. Chest pain is not normal for an athlete. Stop & call for help.

6. Dazed & Confused

If your arms and legs seem to have a mind of their own, if your mind doesn't seem to mind that you don't quite recall what it is you're doing out there, if you are getting dizzy, sleepy, severely nauseated, or are unusually short of breath, it's time to start looking for those pretty red crosses of the medical personnel. They are your friends and are there to help you find your way back to the real world!


The "What The?" List
When you deck out, especially when it happened too quickly to tuck & roll, check for these signs.

1. Sprained ankle / knee / wrist / etc.

If you can't move the joint or put any weight on it because of instability or pain, The pain is severe, If you have a fever and the joint is red and hot

2. Bleeding

Any bleeding from your skull, or bleeding that surges with your pulse needs to be addressed right away.  Put pressure on the wound with your shirt - or better yet, someone else's shirt - and get help.

3. Dizziness

See "Dazed & Confused" above.

The "Pause-&-Check" List
These are things that can be the early signs of something more serious, or you may be able to push through them.  Learn to discern which is which before race time so that you'll know when you are in the midst of your event.
   1. Rash - is it from sweating or is it hives?
   2. Redness - am I overheating or getting a sunburn?
   3. Cramping - is in one area or spreading to others?
   4. Thirst - am I drinking enough during this event?
   5. Headache - is it a searing pain or is my iPod just too loud?

Again, we all hope that none of these things happens to anyone during a race, but if they do, you can be prepared to take the right actions that will help you live to run better another day.

For more information on running in the heat or cold, or on how to stay hydrated, check out the Run Fit page on the Archer Physical Therapy web site: www.archerpt.com

About the author:

Archer Physical Therapy offers unique assistance at many events in the TN & GA area through the Event Medical Coverage & Recovery Acceleration Program, developed by Debra Martin, MSPT, CLT. Debra has combined her 15 years of experience in treating wounds & athletic injuries throughout the rehabilitation process with cutting-edge research on medical care to meet the needs of endurance and adventure-sports athletes. In fact, she's probably thinking of ways to get you better even faster while you are reading this - she's just that cool. She also set the record for the flexed arm hang test at Leda Shishoff Elementary School at a little over 2 min., & perhaps would still be there if the gym teacher had not made her come down.
You may reach Archer Physical Therapy at 423-693-5490 or find out more on the web: www.archerpt.com

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 1:57 PM | Comments (0)

June 2, 2009

Rock/Creek Announces New Finisher's Prize from SmartWool for the Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race

Two more weeks to sign up for this challenging trail running race

Today Rock/Creek announces a new finisher's prize for their 3nd annual Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race, presented by SmartWool benefiting The Boonies. The first 50 racers who finish all three grueling days will receive a merino top honoring them as finishers in one of the most challenging races in the area. The third running of the race will take place on June 19, 20, 21, 2009. This caliber of a race, never seen in the Southeast until recently, consists of 3 exhilarating days of mountainous trail running.

"All race battle wounds are healed from last year's debut race, and racers now have experience with the intense course. This should really up the ante and make for a high level of competition" says Mark McKnight, one of the race organizers; "We already have ten states represented and I imagine SmartWool's finisher's prize will attract even more world-class athletes to Chattanooga."

The course showcases three beautiful mountains surrounding Chattanooga, including 20 miles on Lookout Mountain on day one, 18 miles on Raccoon Mountain on day two, and 22 miles to a grand finish on Signal Mountain for day three.

This challenging yet attainable race benefits The Boonies (Wilderness Trail Running Association) with their ongoing trail building and maintenance campaigns. The race will be presented by Rock/Creek, sponsored by SmartWool, Marmot, Salomon, Hammer Nutrition and Greenlife. Pre-registered participants will receive a technical tee by Marmot. Prizes and raffles will be provided as well. The race is the fourth in the 2009 Rock/Creek Trail Series; the next race will be the Greenway 5 Mile Trail Race in August.

See full details and register online at
http://www.rockcreek.com/stagerace/

REGISTRATION + free Tee Shirt offer ENDS JUNE 11, 2009
Late Registrants after JUNE 11, will not receive a tee-shirt

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 4:06 PM | Comments (0)

June 1, 2009

Rock/Creek Raises $5,000 for The Boonies at 3rd Annual Scenic City Trail Marathon

(Chattanooga, TN)- Locally-owned specialty outdoor retailer Rock/Creek today announces a $5,000 donation for The Boonies, the latest in a string of donations stemming from the Rock/Creek Trail Series. The Boonies will use the money to help run future events as well as secure access to single track trails. These funds came from last Saturday morning's third annual Scenic City Trail Marathon and Half Marathon, presented by Vasque PROJECT and Rock/Creek. Other contributing sponsors include SmartWool, Marmot, The North Face, and Hammer Nutrition. Local sponsors include Greenlife Grocery and Cleveland Toyota.

Threatening clouds and the forecast rain held off just long enough for the 183 half marathon and 73 marathon finishers to come across the line. The race took place on the trails around TVA's Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility. Compared to 2008, the race saw 25% growth in half marathon runners and 62% growth in marathon runners.

The course makes this a fast race, and this years' winner set a new course record. Rock/Creek Race Team Member Matt Sims cruised through the cloudy weather for an overall winning time of 3:11:47; nearly 27 minutes faster than last years' Marathon time of 3:38:04. Sims had this to say: "I am pleased with the race and I did exactly what I wanted to do. My hope was to stay with the lead group for the first loop and then try to gain ground through miles 17 through 24. This section is the more difficult and I figured it would be a good place to get ahead. It was a great course and a quality event."

Brenda Simril from Chattanooga battled it out on the course and placed first overall female with a time of 3:52:55. Second male overall was Josh Hite from Cookeville, TN with a time of 3:17:46 and Brenda's husband and owner of Simril Multisport Coaching, Coach Lee Simril placed third in 3:25:35. Dreama Campbell, also of Chattanooga, placed second female overall with 3:58:32. Cheri Fine from Atlanta, GA placed third female overall with a time of 4:00:53.

In the half marathon, Theodore Towse of Nashville took first in 1:29:18, just 3 minutes shy of last year's winning time and the current course record of 1:26:51. Sam Linhoss from Chattanooga and Jonathan Warner from Ringgold, GA were less than a minute apart. Linhoss placed second male in 1:30:41 and Warner placed third in 1:31:11. Taking the women's title, Jan Gautier from Chattanooga finished with a time of 1:39:13 followed by Theresa Saupé from Murfreesboro, TN in 1:44:30. Rock/Creek employee Deborah Jones from Hixson, TN finished third in 1:49:55.

Race Director Jonathan Mobley enjoyed the race, as he explains: "It was a great race overall. You could feel the excitement at the start line coming from a group of runners, far surpassing the number of participants in last year's race. It is encouraging to see the Rock/Creek Trail Series grow and I look forward to seeing more people experience these races in the future. I am extremely grateful to the volunteers, the sponsors, and the Vasque PROJECT for giving their time and resources to make this race possible."

The course runs along the perimeter trail of Raccoon Mountain, a TVA pumped-storage facility, and is a low impact single track created by SORBA (Southeast Off-Road Bicycle Organization). The trails offer declines, straight-a-ways, a rock bridge bypass, and hill climbs, making it one of the best trail running and mountain biking locations within 25 minutes of downtown Chattanooga.

Proceeds from both events go to The Wilderness Trail Running Association (aka The Boonies) and will be used for future trail races, trail maintenance, and sustainability efforts in the Cumberland and Southern Appalachian Mountains. A portion of the money raised will go to help with SORBA's trail building efforts. $2,000 of the total came from Vasque's PROJECT Thanks, an initiative that has been developed to drive awareness and donations to marquee nonprofit groups working to preserve trails across the country. The Vasque PROJECT is an effort, through nation-wide sponsorship of trail races, to foster competition, community, and stewardship. Through PROJECT Thanks, Vasque PROJECT event directors encourage partners to donate a portion of race fees to trail preservation or similar philanthropic groups in their local area. The Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k on October 3rd and The Lookout Mountain 100K & 10K on December 19th will also be part of The Vasque PROJECT.

The Scenic City Trail Marathon is part of the increasingly popular Rock/Creek Trail Series, a year-long trail running race series with 9 race dates and 13 distance options. The race attained national recognition this year with runners representing 10 states. The next event in the series is the Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race, taking place on June 19, 20, and 21. For more information on the series, visit http://www.rockcreek.com/trailseries/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, travel and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek, visit www.rockcreek.com/media/

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:18 PM | Comments (0)

May 21, 2009

Nearly 300 Signed up for Saturday's Scenic City Trail Marathon

******Media Alert*********

This Saturday, Rock/Creek and the Vasque Project Present The Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, benefiting The Boonies

What: Nearly 300 runners have signed up to run a fast, forgiving trail in the second race of the Rock/Creek Trail Series
Where: TVA Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility
When: Saturday, May 23, 2009, 8:00 a.m EST race start
Who: Rock/Creek, Vasque Project, The Boonies (Wilderness Trail Running Association)

Photo Opportunities:
Nearly 300 trail runners from around the United States will be competing on a beautiful course with sweeping views of the TN River Gorge and the Raccoon Mountain Reservoir.

Interview Opportunities:
Shiloh Mielke, world-class trail runner and Vasque Project athlete
Randy Whorton, President, The Boonies
Kris Whorton, fastest Female Masters 100-mile trail runner

Map to TVA's Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility (via Google Maps):
http://tinyurl.com/6dh9tu
When you get to the TVA Road, you follow it up to the gates to the facility. From there you will see signs directing you to Laurel Point.

Rock/Creek and the Vasque Project proudly present the third annual Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, taking place at TVA's Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility on the trails developed by SORBA-Chattanooga this Saturday. Both of these trail runs begin at 8:00 a.m. EST. Race-day registration and check-in will open at 7 a.m. The race begins and ends at the Laurel Point Parking Lot.

This increasingly popular Chattanooga race will be a stunning display of several hundred runners' determination to conquer fast and lenient trails, while posing the challenge of the imminent Course Record. Racers from 10 different states will be witness to beautiful landscapes, pristine forests and incredible community as a part of Rock/Creek's Trail Series.

"With 270 runners currently signed up to race, this now eclipses the 8-year-old Rock/Creek River Gorge Trail Race in participation, and becomes our second largest event after the StumpJump. I'm impressed with the level of commitment shown by the trail running community, as well as the many first-time trail runners I've heard from, people who are willing to move off the roads and try something new," explains Mark McKnight, one of the event organizers.

The Scenic City Trail Marathon is a journey for all runners, weather a beginner or an ultra fast runner aiming for the course record. This year's event includes a running clinic Friday night at Rock/Creek's Two North Shore location. The presenter will be world class trail runner Shiloh Mielke. Sponsors for the race include: Rock/Creek, Vasque Project, Marmot, Hammer Nutrition, The North Face, SmartWool, Greenlife Grocery, and Toyota of Cleveland. Participants who pre-registered will receive a technical tshirt from Marmot. Prizes and raffles will be provided as well.

Proceeds from the race benefit the Wilderness Trail Running Association (a.k.a. "The Boonies") for trail building efforts within the Cumberland and Southern Appalachian mountains.

For more information visit:
http://www.rockcreek.com/trailmarathon/

Contact:

Jonathan Mobley, Race Director
423.991.6008
jonathan.c.mobley@gmail.com

Mark McKnight, Marketing Director, Rock/Creek
423.643.1528 (office)
423.596.1573 (mobile)
mark@rockcreek.com

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, travel and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek, visit www.rockcreek.com/media/

###

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:50 AM | Comments (0)

May 18, 2009

Shiloh Mielke Trail Running Clinic Friday at Rock/Creek

Join Rock/Creek at our Two North Shore location, on Friday, May 22, at 6 pm, as we host a trail running clinic conducted by world-class mountain runner Shiloh Mielke. Scenic City Trail Marathon racers who have pre-registered may also pick up their race packets between 4 and 7pm. The clinic is open to the general public, and we invite you to come chat with the racers who will be in town from all over the country. We currently have 265 racers signed up, with 10 states represented.

A few details about Shiloh for those of you who haven't met him at local races: Elected to the 2009 Vasque Trail Team in April, Shiloh, 29, joins other team members on the basis of their dedication and accomplishment with their sport, as well as their holistic reputation.

Shiloh, a native to the Asheville, North Carolina, area has been making his mark along the high rolling mountain ranges since 2006. What started out as a track and cross country career from Brevard College and Northern Arizona University evolved into a placement on the 2006 US World Mountain Running Team. He ran again in 2007 and placed an impressive 37th overall and 2nd American. Mielke has plans to compete in the Mount Washington Road race, the Cranmore Hill Climb (host of the 2009 US Mountain Running Championships) and the World Mountain Running Championship in Camodolcina, Italy.

In between those races, he plans to head home to Asheville and improve his race record of 2 hours 16 min 55 sec at the infamous Shut-In Ridge trail race. Shiloh's leadership in the mountain running community certainly wins him titles, but more importantly, he inspires people in the outdoor community.

We're looking forward to sharing Shiloh's accomplishments with the trail running community. His talk will be a great kickoff for the Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon weekend. This race is the first of three Rock/Creek Trail Series races supported through the Vasque Project, powered by Boa Lacing System. Vasque will also be involved with the Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k and the Lookout Mountain 100k.

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 10:56 AM | Comments (0)

May 15, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Member Matt Karzen Runs for a Cause

For over 20 years, Rock/Creek has encouraged our customers to make a difference in the world. We are passionate about community outreach and open our resources such as blogs, event postings, and advertisements to share our neighbors' efforts. Rock/Creek works for positive change in the community through monetary pledges and tangible support, not to call attention to ourselves, but to raise awareness of the impact we can all have in the world.

In this spirit, we wanted to "hand over the microphone" now and post the following from our friend and Rock/Creek Race Team Member, Matt Karzen:

"Friends - On July 25, 2009, sometime well before sunrise, I will commence to put one foot in front of the other, and run the length of the Georgia Appalachian Trail (76 ish miles) straight through, as a fundraising effort for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation

This organization provides educational opportunities through grants to the children of fallen U.S. Special Forces operators - a most worthy cause. Each of these children have sacrificed a parent so that we may be a bit more secure here in the United States. The SOWF organization's purpose is to be an avenue to help us help them. Please consider making a generous donation to this cause - you can do so by going to my sponsorship web page at www.firstgiving.com/gaatrun. I am donating $500.00.

Those of you who enjoy epic adventure, I would love to have some company for all or part of the run, or if you simply want to enjoy the north Georgia mountains for a while. I sure could use the help of someone meeting me at the various places where the AT intersects civilization with some food and drink... Any and all support is welcome and appreciated, but the most important thing you can do is contribute to the cause by making a financial donation.

A very small percentage (7.5% or so) of each donation made on the Firstgiving website goes to Firsgiving to help them absorb their costs, but ALL other funds received go to SOWF. If you would rather make a donation by check, you can mail it to me and I will forward all funds to SOWF. Please email me if you would like to make a donation by check or if you are interested in participating along the way.

Please email me, these kids need and deserve our help.

Thank you all for taking the time to consider this, and definitely spread the word!"
-Matt Karzen

email: mjkarzen@bellsouth.net.

Good luck Matt! Thanks for all you're doing for the foundation. Again, please help out by donating online at: www.firstgiving.com/gaatrun. You can check on Matt's fundraising progress with the widget below. We'll also post updates here as we hear more about the run.

For further information about Special Forces Warrior Foundation check out this short video >

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 5:05 PM | Comments (0)

May 7, 2009

Trail Running: What You Need for Healthy Speed!

Archer Physical Therapy, Providing Event Medical Coverage & The Recovery Acceleration Program at the Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon

Your body takes a beating during a competition, and you may have already been pushing your limits during training. We at Archer Physical Therapy understand what it takes to be an endurance athlete, and we will be there to help you during the race and after on Raccoon Mountain.

What is Recovery Acceleration?

The Archer Recovery Acceleration Program was developed by Debra Martin, MSPT, CLT to provide you with the top quality care you need at local events. Stop by our first aid station & learn more about making sure you have the right amount of fluids after the event. You can also receive a therapeutic massage, or information on when to contact your doctor about an injury. We also have a wide variety of ways to prevent and treat blisters, as well as cleansing and covering wounds.

Feel free to ask questions about any aches & pains & what is the best next step to take to get back on track. We want to use our knowledge & skills to speed your recovery so that you will stay healthy & continue to press on towards your goals! Even if you think you just have a small pain, bruise or cut, stop by & take advantage of the free health care available for you at the race. A few moments of aid can prevent weeks of problems down the road.

Quick Tips for Warm Weather Race Days

• Run smart and be sure to stay hydrated before, during & after the race
• If there are medical concerns you would like us to know about, & you have not already mentioned them on your entry form, send an e-mail to debra@archerpt.com, or let her know at the first aid station the day of the race
• If you have asthma, bring your inhaler
• If you have an Epi-pen - be sure it is not past the expiration date & bring it with you
• If you have other allergies, bring the medications that you usually use to treat it (Benadryl, etc.)
• Plan to carry these items with you during the race. Having your medication in your car won't be nearly as helpful as having it at hand when you need it on the trail!

A Trail Runner's Shoe Quiz:
Which of the following shoes are the best choice to wear on race day?

1. The oldest & most worn out shoes you own - they will get muddy on the trail anyway
2. Your usual road running shoes
3. New trail shoes
4. Sandals

Of the choices above, "3" - New trail shoes - are the best! Or, if your current trail shoes have over 400-500 miles on them, it's time to make the switch to a new pair.

More tips on hydration, warm weather running & information on how trail shoes differ from road shoes can be found through the Run Fit page on the Archer PT web site: www.archerpt.com. Also check out Rock/Creek's Trail Running Gear Guide.

You can find portable first aid supplies, bags to carry them as you run, and a wide variety of trail running shoes at Rock/Creek.

About the author:

Archer Physical Therapy offers unique assistance at many events in the TN & GA area through the Event Medical Coverage & Recovery Acceleration Program, developed by Debra Martin, MSPT, CLT. Debra has combined her 15 years of experience in treating wounds & athletic injuries throughout the rehabilitation process with cutting-edge research on medical care to meet the needs of endurance and adventure-sports athletes. In fact, she's probably thinking of ways to get you better even faster while you are reading this - she's just that cool. She also set the record for the flexed arm hang test at Leda Shishoff Elementary School at a little over 2 min., & perhaps would still be there if the gym teacher had not made her come down.
You may reach Archer Physical Therapy at 423-693-5490 or find out more on the web: www.archerpt.com

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:12 PM | Comments (1)

May 4, 2009

Registration Now Open for Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon

Registration is now open for one of Chattanooga's most popular trail running events of the season, the Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon. The events, taking place on May 23rd, are part of the Rock/Creek Trail Series and the 2009 Vasque PROJECT. The race weekend will also consist of an athlete clinic and a fundraiser for the Wilderness Trail Running Association, (aka The Boonies).

Proceeds from race day will be donated to the Boonies, an organization that focuses on maintaining trails in the Cumberland and southern Appalachian mountains. In addition to funds raised by Rock/Creek, Vasque footwear, event sponsor, will match donations up to a predetermined amount. Vasque donations are part of a new program, PROJECT Thanks, which is designed to assist trail preservation groups across the country.

Rock/Creek will also be hosting a trail running clinic during packet pick up, Friday May 22nd, the evening prior to the race. Shiloh Mielke, Vasque athlete and popular trail runner from Asheville, NC, will be leading the clinic and speaking on basics of trail running, his experiences, and deliver helpful tips on running gear.

To register for the race or for more details about the clinic, Rock/Creek, or the Boonies, please visit http://www.rockcreek.com/trailmarathon/.

About Vasque PROJECT 2009:

The Vasque PROJECT 2009 is a nationwide effort to foster competition, community, and environmental stewardship through Vasque's sponsorship of trail‐running events throughout the U.S. and Canada. The PROJECT includes 45 trail races in 12 states. Major races and race series include the Great Eastern Series in Charlottesville, VA, the Rock/Creek Trail Series in Chattanooga, TN, the Great Lakes Endurance Series in Northern, MI, the Golden Leaf Half Marathon in Aspen, CO, the Cougar Trail Series in Seattle, WA, the Rogue Trail Series in Austin, TX, the Fast Trax Trail Series in Edmonton, Alberta, the DINO Trail Series in Indianapolis, IN, Peter's Canyon Trail Series in Irvine, CA, the Grand Teton Races in Jackson Hole, WY, the River City Ramble in Red Wing, MN, and the Triple Lakes Races in Greensboro, NC. For more information about Vasque PROJECT 2009, or for details on products and retailers, visit www.vasque.com.

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek,visit www.rockcreek.com/media/.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:58 PM | Comments (0)

April 15, 2009

Rock/Creek Racer Kris Whorton Runs 100 Miler in 16:05

Chattanooga's Kris Whorton on Thursday ran the 100-mile Umstead 100 course in Raleigh, N.C., in 16:05, which put her ahead of the second fastest time in the world last year at 16:19 run by a Russian at a race in England.

Here is the account from her husband and fellow Rock/Creek Race Team member, Randy Whorton:

Something really special happened on Saturday that I thought you all might like to hear about, and I, of course, have to be the one that does the bragging because Kris would rather keep it quiet. This is a brief account of the Umstead 100 mile trail race.

Kris was physically fit, sure, but as many believe, the 100 miles is mostly a mental challenge, and no one, including Kris, knew how ready she was mentally. I knew that she would do well, but I must say that this one is a bit over the top.

First, a little about the race. Umstead 100 is clearly one of the most popular 100's in the country because it is quite fast and easy. It takes place in the Umstead State Park in Raleigh, N.C. It comprises of 8 laps of a 12.5 mile loop on a wide multi-use trail. It is nice to have your own stuff and supporters handy every lap and it is virtually impossible to get lost in the woods. Also, there is only 8,000 feet of elevation gain which by trail standards is a fairly flat course.

Kris ran this race in '07 with a time of 18:13, which became the 4th fastest time in the world that year for a female 100 mile trail race (1st for women over 40). This year she was hoping to break 17 hours and set what we all thought to be a ridiculously aggressive schedule that would put her at 16:40. Her thought was that she would likely not be able to hold the pace, but it would leave her with enough time in the bank to get under 17.

Well, she started out faster than the plan and held the fast pace throughout the day and finished in 16:05! Just for reference, the old record was 16:21. The fastest time in the world last year was 15:29 by an Italian lady at a race in Italy and second was 16:19 by a Russian at a race in England. In '08 there were only 7 women in the world that ran under 18 hours.

OK, here comes the crazy part - Kris running an insane time of 16:05 did not win the race. The girl that won it did so in her first-ever 100 miler and only beat Kris by 4 minutes. The two girls placed 3rd and 4th overall out of 275 starters. Kris broke the masters record by over an hour.

One final tidbit, Kris's time would have put her 10th on the world's fastest men's list for '08. Wow, I still can't quite believe what just happened and sure am proud of her.

__

Interested in more information about the Rock/Creek Trail Series or want to run them yourself? We have open registration for these upcoming events:

Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, Presented by Vasque
May 23, 2009 - Raccoon Mountain - Chattanooga, TN
http://www.rockcreek.com/trailmarathon/

Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race
3 days of mountain trail running: 22 mile / 18 mile / 20 mile
June 19-21, 2009
Lookout, Raccoon, and Signal Mountains
http://www.rockcreek.com/stagerace/

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:34 PM | Comments (0)

April 2, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Member Andy Anderson Wins Rucky Chucky 50k

Rock/Creek Race Team Member Andy Anderson ran circles around the recent Rucky Chucky Roundabout 50k on March 21, 2009 in Foresthill, CA, resulting in a first place win. Andy won the race with a time of 4:18:04.00, making it the second fastest time in the history of the Rucky Chuchy 50k. He missed the course's fastest record time, 4:15:00.00, by five minutes. As Andy states rather simply, " I ran the second fastest time in race history which was fun, but HARD! It went down for 16 miles, then back up 16 miles."

The Rucky Chucky 50k is the second race in a larger series of races facilitated through Ultrarunner.net. Runners remember the course for its 4500 ft elevation change through the duration of the race. Despite the dramatic climbs, a previous race report by Scott Dunlap provides testimony to the beautiful spring atmosphere along the American River. The course runs from Foresthill, follows the Western States 100 course to Rucky Chucky, then snakes back to Foresthill.

Find full Results for the Rucky Chucky Roundabout 50k and more information about the Race Series at www.Ultrarunner.net/raceseries.

Andy, the newest member of the Rock/Creek Race Team, grew up nearby in Signal Mountain, TN along with his brother, John Anderson, who is a Race Team Member as well.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:05 AM | Comments (0)

April 1, 2009

Rock/Creek River Gorge Race Report

A Foggy Start Clears to Reveal the Unwavering Spirit of the Trail Runner

The 2009 Rock/Creek River Gorge Trail Race started with many uncertainties -
Would everyone find the starting line after the drive up Suck Creek Road in the fog? Would the runners face a hailstorm at the finish line? And would the race organizers play retro disco music the entire morning?

Questions like these seemed to hover in the air... much like the threatened extreme weather. This 8th annual race started out with rain and a murky haze, and then continued with a wild wind that stirred up the trees over the runner's heads along the course. Thankfully, though, we dodged the hail and thunderstorms that hit Alabama, and managed to have a muddy but lightning-free time.

Athletes came from ten states, along with parents and friends to cheer them on, from as far away as Wisconsin. The course was a technical one, with wet rocks resulting in some ankle rolls, but steep and slippery downhills caused most of the falls from what we gathered at the Medical Tent. Most of the runners, however, did manage to stay upright and enjoyed the challenge of staying focused on their footwork throughout the race.

Nicholas Selbo of Chattanooga won the 10.2 mile race with a time of 1:15 for the men, keeping the times pretty close to last year's. The women's race was led by Jan Gautier (for the second year in a row) with a time of 1:35. Jack McAfee and Deb Jones, both from Chattanooga, won the 6.5 mile men's and women's divisions, with times of 48:54 and 1:02:26 respectively. Jack actually beat last year's winning time of just over 50 minutes. Congrats to all!

Big thanks to the sponsors: Rock/Creek, The Boonies, SmartWool, Marmot, The North Face, Salomon, Hammer Nutrition, Cleveland Toyota, and Greenlife Grocery.

Seeing the cheerfulness of those who run in these conditions no longer surprises me - trail runners are a gritty bunch as a whole. What has caught me off guard since this particular race was the reactions of some of the runners who were injured. It seems that some equate an injury with failure, even though they had the courage to finish, or the good sense to avoid further injury by choosing to walk back.

As athletes, it is good to set goals - they drive us to train harder and reach higher. Goals serve us well in many areas of life, providing direction and focus. Sometimes, though, hyper-focusing on goals may cause us to lose sight of what we've accomplished, and this narrow vision can undermine what the goals were meant to do in the first place. In other words, it's great to set targets for training and our competitions, yet if we beat ourselves up for being a little short, it can rob us of the joy of being in the race. We can lose the pleasure of moving swiftly through the wild, crossing streams, toughing it out over hills, breathing hard, whipping past the trees and waterfalls...and isn't that at least part of why we've chosen to run, regardless of the weather?

Storms happen, injuries happen - even to the best of athletes, with the best of coaches, nutritionists, and equipment at their disposal. Someone once said, "No wonder experience is the best teacher. It has to teach us things we don't want to learn." Life does come with unexpected speed bumps, and circumstances beyond our control. In those disappointing times we can choose to learn and grow, and get something good out of it all.

H. Weldon once said, "The crime is not to avoid failure, the crime is to not give triumph a chance." I would add that as an athlete, just showing up at the starting line is evidence that you are not interested in avoiding failure. Remember to celebrate your good efforts, even in the face of disappointment. You can allow your goals to serve you as you shape your season, yet there is no need to allow them to rob you of your joy. My congratulations to all who entered and ran.

"If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours."
--Henry David Thoreau

About the author:
Debra (Dee) Martin, MSPT, CLT
Owner, Archer Physical Therapy
Specializing in the Endurance Athlete, Lymphedema and Swelling

Debra brings her 15 years of experience as a Physical Therapist and years of running, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, climbing and cycling across the country together to provide top quality care to athletes in the GA and TN area. She also was a mean basketball player in high school - working the position of "benchwarmer" with great style. Her grandmother has accurately described her as someone who "only has a kitchen because it came with the house." For more information on how to turn your injuries into opportunities to become a better athlete than ever, call to make an appointment today at 423-693-5490.

Check out the Archer Physical Therapy website for Race Day Tips and learn more about Preventing Running Injuries at www.archerpt.com.

To see the full results and photography, visit the official race Web site:
http://www.rockcreek.com/rivergorge/

The next races in the Rock/Creek Trail Series have opened registration. Check out these upcoming races:

Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, Presented by Vasque
May 23, 2009 - Raccoon Mountain - Chattanooga, TN
http://www.rockcreek.com/trailmarathon/

Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race
3 days of mountain trail running: 22 mile / 18 mile / 20 mile
June 19-21, 2009
Lookout, Raccoon, and Signal Mountains
http://www.rockcreek.com/stagerace/

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:58 AM | Comments (1)

March 24, 2009

Rock/Creek & La Sportiva Offer You the Chance to "Give Greenback$"

Rock/Creek and La Sportiva N.A. (makers of technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running® and hiking footwear) announce the launch of their Giving Greenback$ campaign. For each pair of La Sportiva Hiking, Mountain Running® and Approach shoes sold at Rock/Creek, La Sportiva will donate a $1 to one of three charitable organizations: the Carbon Fund, The Conservation Alliance and Global Water.

"By partnering with La Sportiva on Giving Greenback$, we will be able to offer our customers the chance to make a difference today, one dollar at a time," says Mark McKnight, from Rock Creek Outfitters. "As a member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, Rock/Creek's number one priority is to provide a quality experience to our consumer base. In addition to offering great products from a great brand, Greenback$ provides our customers the chance to support quality organizations promoting environmental change directly."

La Sportiva's "Giving Greenback$" campaign is a partnership with participating retailers from the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance (GOA), a group which unites independent outdoor retailers and promotes the experience of outdoor enthusiasts across the United States.

As a part of the Greenback$ program, Rock/Creek is now offering such La Sportiva products as the Fireblade, Crosslite, Imogene, Wildcat, Cascade, FC 3.0.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:19 PM | Comments (0)

March 23, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Members & Race Included on 2008 Ultra List

The Ultra List, compiled by Ultrarunning Magazine, includes two Rock/Creek Race Team Members this year. The list highlights the fastest 100 times from each distance, from 50k up to 100 milers. John Brower, one of our newest team members, made the list as the 65th fastest 50 mile time at 6:51. He won the Mississippi 50. In fact, he won that race again this year, as we reported earlier, so we anticipate he will show up on the list again next year.

Kris Whorton made the 100 mile list twice, in #40 for her Vermont run at 22:32, and again for Pinhoti at #66 with a time of 23:25. Awesome job Kris & John!

Also, the Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k made the list as the 10th biggest 50k in North America, with 198 finishers.

Ultrarunning continues to grow as a sport. Rock/Creek added several new ultra-distance trail runs this year, most notably the Lookout Mountain 100k, which will take place again in 2009. Here are some interesting facts from the 2008 ultrarunning season:

503 North American ultra distance races
30,789 finishes by 17,139 individuals (20% growth over 2007)

The race distances break down as follows:
45% of the finishers were 50K races
26% 50 mile
9% 100 mile
3% 100K
The rest were non-standard distances

2,592 of the finishers last year were 100 mile finishers, up by 50% over 2007 and that is without the largest 100 miler (Western States) which was canceled due to fires.

84% of all finishers were on dirt, the rest were hybrid, road or track.

Also of note, the fastest 100 mile time in the world last year was 13:27 by the Greek legond Yiannis Kouros who is 52 years old and the holder of 134 world distance running records. The second fastest time was an hour back. So if you've been thinking about picking up a new sport, it'll take a couple years, but if you're healthy, you're probably not too old to start! Read our article on making the Rock/Creek StumpJump your first 50k and start training today!

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:24 AM | Comments (0)

March 18, 2009

Register by 3/19 for Rock/Creek River Gorge Trail Race!

$25 Registration fee. Synthetic wicking t-shirt from Marmot and socks from SmartWool will be included for free.
NO T-SHIRTS FOR LATE REGISTRANTS.
REGISTER BY MARCH 19TH FOR A T-SHIRT.

2009 Rock/Creek

River Gorge Trail Race

10.2 & 6.5 Mile Options

NEW DATE:
Saturday, March 28, 2009

Proceeds go to The Boonies and The Cumberland Trail Conference for trail maintenance & access.

Packet pick-up starts at 7:00 AM EST
10.2 Race starts at 8:30 AM EST
6.5 mile race starts at 9:00 AM EST

Sign up online at Raceit.com >

VOLUNTEERS Needed as well; simply follow the registration link and select "Volunteer ($0)" 

See who's signed up so far.
Questions? Contact events@rockcreek.com.

These are single track trails with varied terrain. Lots of hills, rocks, and the occasional mild stream crossing. Every participant receives a performance tee shirt.
The race starts and finishes in the Cumberland Trail parking lot, located at Prentice Cooper Wilderness Management Area. The trail footing varies considerably and in some sections are rocky and narrow.

Please support our sponsors:

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:07 AM | Comments (0)

March 10, 2009

Rock/Creek Takes Victory in Both Divisions of Mississippi Trail 50

The Rock/Creek Race Team left the Mississippi Trail 50 feeling confident and empowered despite this year's weather and course changes. What was intended to be a training run resulted in two great achievements of the day. John Brower won the overall 50 mile title (for the second time) by about 20 minutes with a final time of 7:21:50 and Kris Whorton won the women's overall 50K title with a final time of 8:05:44.

The Carl Touchstone Mississippi Trail 50 in Laurel, MS demonstrated the meaning of the phrase, "over hill, over dale, over fire burnt trail" this past race. The race trail underwent a minor change after controlled burning in the area caused some remapping. Rock/Creek Race Team Members Randy Whoton, Kris Whoton, Goug Dooley, and John Brower each had a different experience out on the trail compared to previous years.

Rock/Creek Race Team member Randy Whorton recalls the MS50 event;
The scalding 80 plus degree heat influenced Randy's decision to back down to the 50K event, but still offered enough mercy for his 7th overall finish. Randy was not the only runner to feel the heat that day. Bear comments from the MS50 race day report, "We may have the only 50K in the country where 62 people sign up, 60 start, and 92 finish!"

Randy praises Doug Dooley, who "presented good strength and pace, despite uncertainty of his healing double stress fractured foot, and placed 10th in the 20K event." His intention for the race was to test his foot strength and feel out his recovery efforts.

The weather was no match for Kris Whorton, and Rock/Creeks newest member John Brower. Kris won the women's overall 50K title. Randy explains: "Kris did have some competition. Ann Heaslett led Kris by nearly 10 minutes with 17 miles to go. Ann won two national ultra titles in 2002 (50 mile and 24 hour) and was named the USA Track and Field 'Ultrarunner of the Year' in 2005. Kris not only caught her, but ended up winning by over 12 minutes, also beating all but 4 of the guys. Doug aptly called it the 4th quarter smack down."

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:08 PM | Comments (0)

A Cold Day at Mount Mitchell Challenge

This year's Mount Mitchell Challenge turned out to be the worst, weather-wise, in the race's history. Nick Whited, one of our newest Rock/Creek Race Team members, has this report:

The challenge; What a race it was. I started off at a good clip but being smart. Everyone seemed to want to push the pace with Mark Lundblad. I was up there for a mile or so then wisely eased off the pace and let them be 15-20 seconds up on me. We then hit the hills inside of Montreat College and it seemed that everyone hit the brakes. I steadily began moving up (I was in 7th or 8th at the time); by the time we got onto the Buncombe County Horse Trail I had moved into third. All of this was occurring as the temps were in the mid 40's in a steady rain. As I approached the summit I began to notice how sluggish I was getting by my inability to move on the technical stuff. I then starting shaking uncontrollably. My jaw became so tightly clenched I thought I was going to break a tooth. I got near the top and a cameraman was worried about my appearance and told the EMT. They made me go inside a building and took my vitals - hypothermia. They stripped me down, wrapped me up and put a blanket over me. Took me over an hour to finally warm back up. An EPIC run to begin the season and with Rock/Creek. I'll get 'em another day. Seems everyone who finished had a little more beef to them. The tall skinny individuals with little body fat were the ones suffering.

Mark Lundblad ended up taking the win and Cynthia Arnold took the women's victory. In the Citizen-Times article on the race, Arnold describes the race:

"I felt like I was running in ice water," Arnold said. "The race staff and volunteers helped me to keep going. I was lucky and got some hot water near the top when I felt like I was going to pass out. The conditions got worse the higher I got up the mountain."

Glad to hear that you made it off the mountain safely, Nick, and we look forward to hearing about your next races.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:51 PM | Comments (0)

March 5, 2009

Race Team Member Greenhill in Local Paper

Rock/Creek Race Team member Jaclyn Greenhill showed up on the front page of the Chattanooga Times-Free Press this morning. In the article [read online or via PDF download], she talks about her recent experience finishing second female (9th overall) in the Coastal Challenge, a 6-day stage race in the Costa Rican jungle. There's also an audio clip on the Web version of the article; about halfway through she talks about the monkeys howling in the jungle, which seems like fun. We followed her progress here on the Chronicle on day one when she took the lead, day two, as well as in this post from stage four, and this final post.

You can read Jaclyn's race team biography online.

For a multi-day stage race closer to home, read about the Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race, also mentioned in the article.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:40 AM | Comments (0)

February 26, 2009

Matt Sims Reports on Black Warrior 25k Win

Matt Sims, Rock/Creek Race Team member, gives us this Black Warrior 50k and 25k race report. As I mentioned in a previous post, Matt took the 25k win, setting a new course record. Jamie & Wendi Dial won their 50k divisions and also set course records. Great job to all! Thanks for the report Matt.

The Black Warrior Wildlife Area is in the Bankhead National Forest. The Bankhead National Forest is south of Moulton, Alabama and Moulton is in the middle of nowhere, Alabama.

A small group of us rallied for dinner in Huntsville, Alabama. The Whortons used to live in Huntsville, so we let them pick the spot. We all had nice healthy portions of pasta while we listened to the latest greatest hero moments in the life of Stephen Smith.

After dinner we went our separate ways and planned to meet up in the morning. The Whortons, Stephen and Doug Dooley all headed to their luxury accomodations in Moulton, Alabama while we decided to meet up with Jamie and Wendi Dial in Decatur, Alabama.

The next morning we headed off to the race site for a 7am start time. The temperature was 31 degrees and as usual there was a lot of anticipation of how the day might turn out. We had a great group from Chattanooga: Tracy and Jacquell Gartman, Brenda and Lee Simril, Randy and Kris Whorton, Doug Dooley, Stephen Smith, Sal Coll, Jason Hamrick, Mark Mason and of course my beautiful bride, Natalie Sims.

The 25k and 50k started together and at mile 8 split off. As we headed off in the cool morning air I quickly realized that my new training program might be a mistake. I won't go into the details, but basically "run a lot" is the program. This goes against my exercise mantra of "do what you want, when you wanna do it".

Off we go down the dirt road for 2-3 miles. I find myself in 6th place. There are 3 guys doing the 25k and 2 guys doing the 50k in front of me. I think this is a good place to be for a normal guy like myself. I typically allow guys with ear rings, tattoos, and fancy arm warmers to be ahead of me. Jamie D is running right in front of me and before we get about the business he gives me the look followed by "those are your 3 guys right there". He was referring to the 3 guys in front of me that he expected me to catch sometime over the next 13 miles. Jamie likes to call me "rocket boy" because I normally go out fast and then blow up somewhere well before the finish line. Today, rocket boy was being a good boy and pacing himself.

The single track horse trail marks the start of the business. Hats, gloves and arm warmers are off by now and we are moving. There are now 4 guys in front of me, 1 of which was a 50k runner and he was in the lead! This guy was flying. Aid station #1 comes around mile 6 and to my surprise, of the 3 guys in front of me, the 2 guys in the 25k stopped to get water and I cruised on by them carrying my little handheld. I actually felt like I had out smarted them, which is typically how I win any race.

Mile 8 comes and the lead guy splits off to the right and I head off to the left. I knew Jamie would pass that guy relatively soon. On the tight switchbacks I could see the guys behind me and I knew Jamie was keeping his eye on the prize.

So there I was, all by myself in the front. Being chased is not my favorite thing. I would much rather be in the chase group. The 2 guys behind me could see me for the next 3 miles. I was trying to put some time on them and just get away enough so that they couldn't see me. The forest is bare from all vegetation so your line of sight was pretty far ahead. I knew we had 1 more aid station and that they would probably stop again. Sometime around mile 11.5, I had put about 40 seconds on the two guys behind me. Enough time now that I was in the "out of sight, out of mind" position. I cruised in to the finish line in 1:46:03.

One of my favorite things about doing the lesser of the 2 events is the non-reaction you get at the finish line. There was 1 guy standing there and he said, "good job man". I don't expect a marching band or anything but a few bull horns would be nice.

I took a quick shower, ate 2 hamburgers and positioned myself at the finish line to see the "main event" unfold.

I should mention that the course is 100% horse trail. The trail is a big muddy ditch filled with horse pee and whatever else finds it's way in. It's hard to run in and if you were just going to do a fun casual training run this is not where you would go. I do however think it makes a great venue for a race. It's the type of course that will mentally wear you down over a 50k distance. Constantly dodging puddles of muck is hard and hard and hard.

I wanted to set you up for what we all thought was unbelievable. When Natalie crossed the finish line she had that look on her face as she always does. The look of, "I'm so slow". The thing that caught our attention is that she looked like she hadn't even done the race. She was as clean at the finish line as she was at the start. Not a speck of mud on her. She spent the better part of the day avoiding all the mud troughs. Unbelievable!

Overall, Black Warrior is worth doing. It's a really fun, low key, low budget race. 100 people in the 50k and 100 in the 25k. They give really nice cotton sweatshirts and synthetic running shirts to all participants. The race director is a solid dude and does a great job.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:46 AM | Comments (0)

February 24, 2009

Race Results + New Photos from Southern 6 Trail Race

The Southern 6 Trail Race went well this past Sunday. Rock/Creek, Southern Adventist University and The Boonies presented this first-time event, which took place on Southern's beautiful Biology trail. Proceeds went to their Outdoor Leadership program, and we'll make a formal announcement soon about the money raised.

The results are posted on the race page, as well as a few photos that I took at the start/finish area. We'll have more photography soon from the trail. Congrats to all the winners, and the Rock/Creek Race Team members who finished well in the race, as well as Black Warrior on Saturday.

The Southern 6 was the first race in the 2009 Rock/Creek Trail Series. The next race in the series, the Rock/Creek River Gorge Trail Race, is now open for registration. This race always sells out, so go ahead and sign up early. Also, synthetic tees from Marmot will be available only to pre-registered runners.

Thanks to Sunbelt Snacks, Bi-Lo Ooltewah, and Archer Physical Therapy for their supporting sponsorships.

www.flickr.com

Posted by Mark McKnight at 2:47 PM | Comments (0)

February 23, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Sets Course Records at Black Warrior 50k

It should be considered mild to say that the Rock/Creek Race Team ran well this weekend. The Black Warrior 50K on Saturday met the runners with fantastic weather and a sloppy course due to recent rain and what appeared to be many herds of horses shortly thereafter. The mud should have led to some slower times than previous years, but previous years have not seen the likes of the Dials and Matt Sims. Jamie Dial won and broke the old coarse record set by Dewayne Satterfield who has won over 50 ultras, and Wendi Parker-Dial broke Kris Whorton's record by nearly 9 minutes (Kris placed second). The remaining R/C team members that ran the 50K, Natalie Sims and Randy Whorton also placed well. The 25K was dominated by Matt Sims, also breaking the old record.

On Sunday the first ever Southern 6 was run. Johanna Gartman finished first female. Sheridan Ames dominated the men's masters division, and for some unknown reason, Randy and Kris and a few other Sat 50K'ers, Lee and Brenda Simiril decided to give it a go. Kris won the woman's masters division and Randy placed third master. This race should prove to be a most popular event in years to come. Fantastic organization and course.

- Randy Whorton

Posted by Mark McKnight at 5:53 PM | Comments (0)

February 17, 2009

Southern 6(k) Trail Race This Sunday! Register Now

Southern 6 Trail Race
Sunday, February 22, 2009
(A little over 6k...)

Presented by Rock/Creek, The Boonies, Southern Adventist University, and Sunbelt Snacks

Proceeds go to the Southern Adventist University Outdoor Education Program

Registration & packet pick-up starts at Noon.
Race starts at 2PM

$25 Race fee
$20 for current Southern students

Click here for more details and online registration > 

Download the Course Map [PDF] >

Questions? Contact mark@rockcreek.com.

The Boonies (www.runintheboonies.org) and Rock/Creek (www.rockcreek.com) present the 1st Annual Southern Six Trail Race. Race details TBD. This will be a short and family-friendly event taking place on Southern's beautiful Biology Trail. Everyone ages 8 and above is invited to participate and compete for prizes created by local potter Loren Howard. Door prizes will also be available. Proceeds from the event will go directly to the University's Outdoor Education program and will help with development and maintenance of the Biology Trail.

Race results & photos will be posted here after the event.

Please Support Our Sponsors!

They work hard to make this event an incredible experience. Vasque, SmartWool, Mountain Hardwear, and Rock/Creek are the sponsors. The event benefits The Boonies (Wilderness Trail Running Association). If you would like to volunteer, please email Jamie at StumpJump50k@rockcreek.com.

Related Links

See Performance Wicking Tees >>
Go to Trail Running Shoes >>
Shop for Running Shorts >>
Check out our Trail Running Gear Guide >>

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:24 AM | Comments (0)

February 10, 2009

Greenhill Finishes Second in Coastal Challenge

The final race update from Costa Rica's Coastal Challenge came out this weekend, and Rock/Creek Race Team member Jaclyn Greenhill, who had been fighting it out for six days with Costa Rican Ligia Madrigal, took second place. Madrigal put about thirty minutes on Jaclyn, finishing at 34 hours, 59 minutes. It sounds like she was suffering a bit toward the end. According to the official race report, "American Jaclyn Greenhill traded pole position with Madrigal throughout the six-day race, but pulled back on Friday due to blisters and a sprained ankle. She finished second overall with a time of 35 hours, 31 minutes."

Congrats Jaclyn! What a great race and an awesome performance. Can't wait to hear your thoughts.

About The Coastal Challenge

The Coastal Challenge is the "World's Expedition Run™," releasing runners over approximately 230 kilometers of exotic and wild Costa Rican mountainous regions and rugged coastline. For six days, runners embrace the spirit of adventure, discovery and camaraderie within a long distance running competition while navigating wide river crossings, rainforests, jungles, windswept highlands, beaches, and rock outcroppings. It is an expedition run of epic proportions introducing competitors to the hospitality of the local Tico culture while pushing the limits of their will and endurance. For more information visit www.thecoastalchallenge.com.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 5:53 PM | Comments (0)

February 6, 2009

Update: Greenhill Fighting for First in Costa Rica

Stage Four's reports have been published, and Rock/Creek Race Team member Jaclyn Greenhill continues to vie for the top spot in the Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica. With less than an hour separating the top women (Greenhill at 25:53, Costa Rican Ligia Madrigal at 25:22), the next few stages should be very interesting as they duke it out. Stage Four marks the midway point, so the next stages will be critical.

Jaclyn and Madrigal tied for first in Stage Three with a time of 8:50, which gave Greenhill the overall top spot for a day. According to race reports, that was the longest stage, challenging "competitors with blistering sand, cool rivers, and dusty roads before ending at the pristine coastline of Playa Ventanas."

In the full report from Stage Three, posted on the event Web site, the race designer describes the course:

"We threw competitors a curveball with a waterfall traverse at the beginning of the course," said Rodrigo Carazo, race designer, who set up day three so that competitors were forced to cross several rivers. "Today was another difficult trek into remote areas of Costa Rica that visitors would never see or experience on any type of tour."

Stage Four, named "The Revenge of the Borucas," after the original inhabitants of the area, the Borucas Indians, gave the racers up and down hill climbs that one competitor described as a "roller coaster." You can read the full Stage Four report here.

Good luck Jaclyn!

Posted by Mark McKnight at 6:56 PM | Comments (0)

February 4, 2009

Update: Greenhill Second in Day Two of Coastal Challenge

The Coastal Challenge continues in Costa Rica this week, and we're following Rock/Creek Race Team member Jaclyn Greenhill's progress. She started the race strong ending in first place on Stage One. Monday's Stage Two results have been posted, and Jaclyn finished another challenging day in the jungle in second place. Here's a teaser from the race report:

What a difference a day makes. Following a relatively short, 33-kilometer first day, competitors at the 2009 Coastal Challenge (TCC) encountered a mountainous day-two route that featured more than 2,200 meters of elevation gain over 39 kilometers. With temperatures hovering in the mid-90s, the field of 70+ competitors battled sun and sand in a course that moved from the misty, muddy rain forests of Savegre Valley to the sundrenched sand of Playa Dominical. The competition is also heating up as the top three male competitors continue to jockey for the lead in the expedition category.

"We designed stage two to give competitors their first taste of wild Costa Rican terrain," said Rodrigo Carazo, race designer, who forewarned competitors at the pre-race briefing that day two would test their determination. "We started them (competitors) on a climb through dense rain forest to give them a taste of the hills, and then challenged them with a lot of technical trail running through mud, grasslands, and streams." [...]

Ligia Madrigal of Costa Rica finished first in the women's expedition category with a time of five hours and 59 minutes. Madrigal, who gave birth just eight months before the event, created her own brand of cross training for this year's TCC; she often woke around 4 a.m. to get in a few hours of running before spending the rest of the day working and taking care of her baby.

"I got seven hours of sleep last night and it made all the difference," said Madrigal, who, because of her role as a new mom, hasn't had more than a few hours of sleep since giving birth. "The course was amazing and the views were incredible. You could see the mountains, the water, everything."

Americans Jaclyn Greenhill (6:09) and Kelly Ridgway (6:18) placed second and third, respectively, in the women's expedition category. Ridgway, a first-time TCC competitor, said at one point she thought she lost her shoe and sock in the mud, but could only find her shoe. "I couldn't find the sock anywhere, and then realized it was still on my foot but covered in mud!" She also had rave reviews about the course: "If I die after this race I will have truly lived." [Full report online]

I can't wait to hear first hand about this race from Jaclyn! It sounds like fun and definitely something to put on the "life list." I'm also anticipating the updates from yesterday and today. I'll post as soon as I hear anything about those.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:44 AM | Comments (0)

January 13, 2009

New Race Team Member: Nick Whited

We're pleased to announce a new race team member, Nick Whited, from Virginia. We're happy to have him on the team and look forward to seeing what the 2009 season brings for him! Welcome Nick.

Nick Whited

Age: 30
Occupation: Substance Abuse Counselor for the Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services.

Favorite Run or Race: One of my favorite runs is in Damascus, VA where I run a big loop on a few trails, the Appalachian Trail (5 miles uphill); then 2 screaming miles downhill on the Backbone Rock Trail; then uphill for 3 miles on the Iron Mountain Trail in TN; then follow it back to the VA Creeper Trail and head back into Damascus; this is a staple 18 mile route; Another route is in the rural area of Burkes Garden, VA where I can run to the AT via a dirt road then go any direction with a large amount of options.

My favorite race(s) would have to be The Mount Mitchell Challenge (40 Miler). It has the makings of a championship event and is not a far drive; another would have to be the Frosty 50k in Winston Salem, NC because it is low key and organized great.

What I like most about running: The challenge of getting out everyday and enjoying the scenery. The feeling of nerves and fatigue on race day and when they are both gone after the starting gun.

Tips for other runners: Don't overtrain; enjoy the journey; and hire a coach - it will make a difference in your running at any level.

Races or Other Significant Accomplishments:
4:17 mile PR
Currently working on my PhD in Pastoral Care Counseling.
2008 Season:
Frosty 50k 4th
Bull Run 50 Miler 8th
Rattlesnake 50k - 2nd
New River Trail 50k 4th

2009 Season Plans:
Frosty 50k
Mount Mitchell 40 Miler
Umstead 50 Mile
Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race
Charleston 15 mile
Stump Jump 50k
JFK 50 Mile

Read more about the Rock/Creek Race Team online >

Find out more about the Rock/Creek Trail Series >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 2:38 PM | Comments (0)

January 8, 2009

Rock/Creek Donates $2,000 to Signal Mountain Cross Country Team

Today Rock/Creek announces a $2,000 donation to Signal Mountain High School's Cross Country team. The donation came from money raised at the 7th Annual Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k Trail Race, which took place the first weekend of October. The money will be used to purchase timing equipment for the team, which will in turn allow the school to host events on the trails adjacent to their property. "The beautiful surroundings on Signal Mountain will truly be showcased by opportunities provided by Rock/Creek, and we look forward to hosting races and having more student participation as excitement about our program continues to grow," explains school principal Eddie Gravitte.

The StumpJump race raised a total of $9,000, with $3,500 going to the Cumberland Trail Conference (CTC), $3,500 to the Wilderness Trail Running Association (The Boonies), and the remainder for this gift. The CTC administers and has constructed the Cumberland Trial, which runs right behind the High School. The Boonies helps facilitate the Rock/Creek Trail Series races through volunteer work as well as trail building and maintenance. The StumpJump takes place on the trail, starting and finishing at the new High School. In addition, the Cross Country team uses the trails for training. These three groups have formed a healthy partnership that ensures the vitality of trails on Signal Mountain and elsewhere.

Rock/Creek also has provided sponsorship throughout this inaugural season. As Les Hegwood, the team's coach, explains, "Rock/Creek and our team have formed a tight partnership in which the kids on my team have been outfitted from head to toe with some of the greatest technical trail running apparel around. They have assisted in hosting the StumpJump 50K, a race included in the Rock/Creek Trail Series, and will have the finest racing clock and timing equipment around all because of the generous monetary gifts from Rock/Creek." Rock/Creek provided wicking technical t-shirts from Mountain Hardwear, along with running hats and visors for the team.

The cross country program has seen a strong start in its inaugural year. Hegwood elaborates: "As I reflect on our inaugral cross country season in which the boys earned a trip to the state meet- having finished as runners up in the region- one phrase comes to mind: 'taking off.' I saw the kids surpass personal best after personal best and really come into their own as runners this season. Without the support of Rock/Creek and the great people associated with the team, our season would not have been half the success it was."

Dawson Wheeler, co-owner of Rock/Creek and a Baylor graduate, presented the $2,000 check to Hegwood, and shared his enthusiasm for the High School: "Although I went to Baylor and this is a brand new school, I'm thrilled to support these guys because they're my neighbors and they're doing so much to raise the profile of Signal Mountain's wild spaces. Tennessee ranks #44 in spending on education, and as obesity and poor health are on the rise, it's becoming increasingly important to include outdoor recreation as a part of public education. Public-private partnerships are a proven way to help increase the quality of education for our youth."

Whorton echoed the enthusiasm of Wheeler and Hegwood, pointing to the difficulty of the trails on Signal Mountain as a factor in the team's success: "By training on these challenging and beautiful trails, these runners are building a strong base that will allow them to compete with the best runners in the state. I think Signal Mountain High School will quickly earn a reputation for being a very tough team to beat, and once we complete their course, only the bravest high schools will show up for meets here."

For more information on Signal Mountain High School:
http://www.signalmountainhighschool.com/

For more information on the Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k:
http://www.rockcreek.com/stumpjump/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to enacting positive change in the community and for our environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

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Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:48 PM | Comments (0)

January 7, 2009

Jamie Dial Third in Tsali Foot Fest

Rock/Creek Race Team member Jamie Dial placed third in the Tsali Foot Fest in Almond, NC, this past weekend. He came in after our friend Mark Lundblad and Jeff Edmonds. Lundblad came in at 3:46:33, Edmonds 3:51:33, and Dial came in close behind at 3:53:58. Congrats to all!

The race benefits the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and has a 50k, 25k, or 8 k option.

Here are the other top 3 positions from the race:

Women's 50k top three:
1.Rebecca Phalen - 4:54:56
2.Sarah Woerner - 5:25:23
3.Dominique Benson - 5:40:31

Men's 25k top three:
1.Kevin Lisska - 1:49:36
2.Mark Ledyard - 1:50:57
3.Matt Roane - 1:51:46

Women's 25k top three:
1.Anne Lunblad - 1:57:06
2.Elizabeth Patrick - 1:59:32
3.Kelsey Hanger - 2:08:58

Men's 8k top three:
1.Curtis Rowe - 37:16:00
2.Jason Aytes - 38:00:00
3.John Hillman - 38:04:00

Women's 8k top three:
1.Julie Richards - 38:20:00
2.Michelle Scifers - 40:19:00
3.Rebecca Graham - 43:05

(Thanks to Asheville's Citizen-Times for the tip)

Read more about the Rock/Creek Race Team >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:10 AM | Comments (0)

January 6, 2009

Save Stringer's Ridge

The Times-Free Press had a good article posted up on Christmas day about the work being done here in Chattanooga, Tennessee to help secure Stringer's Ridge as an urban forest and recreational area for public use. The land, a prime 92-acre tract located downtown right behind the new Two North Shore Rock/Creek location, has been up for sale for some time. Developers once proposed a dense residential development that would have chopped the top of the ridge off and destroyed much of the canopy. Public outrage led the developer to abandon that plan, and now the Trust for Public Land (TPL) has been working with the owner, Jimmy Hudson, to acquire the land for public use. TPL has secured $1.9 million for the project, but they need $2.5 million to make the purchase happen. Some plots of land could still be sold to cover the shortfall if necessary.

The T-FP article talked about how the Wilderness Trail Running Association (The Boonies) and the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association (SORBA) have already talked to TPL's Rick Wood about what to do with the property. Here's an excerpt from the article:

Ultimately, [SORBA] envisions about seven miles of bike trails on the ridge, [Jeffrey Schaarschmidt] said. As for sharing the trails with runners, he said he did not see any difficulties.

Randy Whorton, president of the Wilderness Trail Runners Association, said the groups have started a "single-track alliance" based on the fact that many trails in the area are shared between hikers, bikers and trail runners. He said he could envision a system of trails along the ridge where both bikers and runners could share walkways, while other trails could be individualized for the two groups' needs.

"I think it's going to come out well," he said. "It has to. This is an opportunity to have wilderness right in our downtown."

Larry Zehnder, the city's Parks and Recreation administrator, said Stringer's Ridge offers a prime opportunity because it could offer hiking opportunities to visitors staying in downtown Chattanooga.

"In this case, they could easily take an afternoon walking along the ridge," he said. [See full article online]

If you'd like to make a pledge to the project today, visit the TPL page for Stringer's Ridge >

Photo courtesy Trust for Public Land.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:28 AM | Comments (0)

December 21, 2008

Lookout Mountain 100k & 10k Results

It was a harrowing day full of rain, challenging creek crossings, and brutal climbs on Lookout Mountain for yesterday's 100k & 10k race. We'll have more for you soon, including full race results and photography, but I wanted to go ahead and update everyone on the results.

Click here for 100k results >
Click here for 10k results >

Keep an eye on the Lookout Mountain 100k web page for more information, and I'll post more here on the blog as well as it becomes available. Happy Holidays!

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:56 PM | Comments (0)

December 16, 2008

Rock/Creek Hosts Longest Trail Race in Chattanooga History on Saturday

Rock/Creek and The Wilderness Trail Running Association (The Boonies) have planned the longest trail running race in Chattanooga history. The Lookout Mountain 100k will take place for the first time on December 20th, 2008. The foot race will cross several different properties in Tennessee and Georgia, and much of the race takes place on newly constructed trails. There will also be a 10k option.

Randy Whorton, president of The Boonies, describes the historic significance of the Lookout 100k: "This race represents a milestone in Chattanooga's history, not only because it's the longest race to ever take place here, but also due to the nature of the trails. We've built many of these trails this year with the help of countless volunteers and money from Rock/Creek and other sponsors, and those trails traverse several different properties in two states."

"Some of the properties are public land held through various park services, others are private lands held in trusts and by single landowners. It's a testament to the cooperative spirit of Chattanoogans that we were able to negotiate the use of all these different lands. That was definitely the biggest challenge we faced in organizing this race." Whorton thanked all of the parties involved, including land owners, property managers, and the volunteers who have helped construct the various trails over the last year.

The Lookout race will be the last of the 9 races in the inaugural Rock/Creek Trail Series. Previous races in the series include established races such as the Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k as well as new races like the Greenway 5 Miler. "I'm excited about this race," says Mark McKnight, Rock/Creek's Marketing Director. "The StumpJump has risen to national prominence as one of the best 50k trail races, and we plan to make the Lookout 100k just as successful in its category. It took eight years from the small grassroots race that Matt Sims started, but we've grown it to the point where we had a cap of 500 runners and raised $9,000 for trail work and access in Chattanooga. I don't see any reason why the 100k won't be to that level in a similar time frame."

Rock/Creek co-owner Dawson Wheeler, a Signal Mountain native, has been involved with the project for about a year. "I see this race as an opportunity to introduce trail runners from across the country to the beautiful topography we have here in Chattanooga," Wheeler explains. "Within a few minutes of downtown, you have beautiful vistas and challenging trail conditions. Stream crossings, unique rock formations, what else could you want?" Wheeler also expressed his appreciation for the volunteers and sponsors who make races such as the 100k possible. The race will have an 18 hour cutoff, so multiple shifts of volunteers will be needed and the key volunteers will put in a very long day of service to these runners.

Over the last few weekends, Dawson Wheeler, the Whortons, and a handful of other volunteers began construction of a staircase that will help stop erosion and provide access to part of the trail near the historic Cravens House property. The trail building crews have included members of The Boonies, The American Hiking Society and the Rock/Creek Race Team. Upon completion of this last key improvement, the trail will be ready for runners.

The race was first conceived by Randy and Kris Whorton, avid distance runners who wanted to provide more opportunity for ultrarunners to experience the beautiful and varied terrain around Chattanooga. They brought the idea to the board of The Boonies, and Rock/Creek agreed to commit to funding the necessary trail work with proceeds from other races in the Trail Series. The Whortons are serving as the race directors.

Day-of registration will be available for the 10k only. 100k registration is closed. The race is part of Vasque's North American Trail Tour and is also sponsored by Rock/Creek, Mountain Hardwear, SmartWool, and Hammer Nutrition.

The race starts and finishes at Lula Lake Land Trust on Lookout Mountain. Runners will leave the Land Trust and run a lollipop of 38.3 miles to Covenant College, the Lookout Mountain National Battlefield Park and Reflection Riding Center and then return to Lula Lake Land Trust the same way they went out. This section includes Lookout Mountain Conservancy land on the Guild and Hardy trails. Once back in the Land Trust, runners will traverse land trust trails, and private property to Long Branch, High Point and Lula Lake Road. Runners will turn around at the aid station at Lula Lake Road and head back on the connector trail, staying on the connector and bypassing High Point. Runners will enter Long Branch Preserve and run back to Lula Lake Land Trust the way they went out. The second portion of the course is 23.44 miles.

For registration information, results and photography, visit http://www.rockcreek.com/lookout/
Full series information available at http://www.rockcreek.com/trailseries/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to enacting positive change in the community and for our environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

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Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:08 PM | Comments (0)

December 10, 2008

New Sustainable Shoe Company Pushes the END-velope

Rock/Creek announces that it is one of the first retailers in the country to carry END outdoor, a new line of performance footwear dedicated to minimizing the environmental footprint of shoe manufacturing. Unlike many other footwear companies, END has chosen to rework the design process by focusing on ways to reduce material use while continuing to get the high performance that athletes need. The designs go back to the basics, questioning all unnecessary complexity, which leads to less weight, less complicated seams that can eventually fail, and less glue that has to be used.

END's leading model is the Stumptown, with light hiking and trail running versions. Amazingly light at 8.5, 10, or 12 ounces, these running shoes are some of the lightest on the market. They also have some great sandals.

END just put out a new video on facebook where they go through the factory in China and spell out exactly what they've done to help reduce impact.

Shop for END running shoes, hiking shoes, and sandals at Rock/Creek >

Posted by bradmcallister at 2:39 PM | Comments (0)

December 9, 2008

Race Team Report: Pinhoti 100 Mile Trail Run

Rock/Creek's sponsored athletes Randy & Kris Whorton went down to Alabama a few weeks ago to run the inaugural Pinhoti Trail 100. Here's what the race Web site has to say about the course:

The 1st Inaugural Pinhoti 100 is a Point to Point Trail run starting in Heflin AL on the unmolested Pinhoti single track trail. Runners will make their way over the highest point in Alabama while navigating over rocks, through creeks and across beautiful ridge lines of the Talladega National Forest. The course will consist of 80.62 miles of single track trail, 16.98 miles of jeep road and 4.52 miles of pavement and will finish on the rubberized track in the Sylacauga High School Football Stadium.

Randy gives us this report:

The race provided both both ends of the "fun" scale. It really sucked because I had to drop out at 27. My ankle just had not healed enough. I sure wish I could have run this one, I think I am in good shape and the race was on a magnificent north to south point to point single track trail on a range between Atlanta and Birmingham.

This is a true wilderness trail and the leaves were in perfect fall colors. Shit! I just get sick thinking about haw great it would have been. Now for the other end of the "fun" scale. I convinced Kris to continue without me at mile 20, at that point we were in 13th place and Kris was the 3rd woman. She was not happy about parting and for the next 10 miles or so she was planning on dropping at 50K.

She made the right decision to run it. Kris continued to pass other runners all through the night and finished strong and happy in 23:23, winning the woman's division and smashing the old course record; she placed 6th or 7th overall. The trail was quite overgrown and Kris shredded her legs but no other injuries reported, other than the normal blister or two. She is walking around today like she sat on the beach all weekend, but I believe that she will be taking it easy for the next few weeks and she certainly will be keeping her legs covered for a while.

Check out the Rock/Creek Trail Series for more great trail running races >

Check out our Trail Running Gear Guide at Rock/Creek >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:58 AM | Comments (1)

November 24, 2008

Upchuck 50k Report from the Race Director

Race directors: Matt Sims and Chad Wamack
Written by: Chad Wamack

This year was the first official Upchuck 50k on the Cumberland Trail in Chattanooga, TN. The previous two years the event was more of a group run with a very light turn out, namely Matt Sims and I. The word has spread about the Cumberland Trail and this year we had 25 people toe the line. The entry field included racers from seven different states and a good mix of locals. The point to point race as advertised was basically unsupported and marked with the existing blazes.

There were two check-in stations at mile 8 and 18 and a convenience store where racers could fuel up and discuss the disappointing Tennessee football season with the locals. (A couple of years ago Matt and I stopped in and I ate way too much and hence the name Upchuck.) The previous runs on the Upchuck course have been run South to North but due to logistical difficulties we changed the direction. The 2008 Upchuck course started to the North on the Rock Creek segment and traveled south for 31.6 miles through the Possum Creek and Soddy segments of the Cumberland Trail.

The morning of the race everyone met at the finish area at the base of the mountain and boarded the "Magic Bus" to the start. The bus ride was filled with nervous energy like the first day of school. The previous two days had dropped two inches of rain which brought down the brightly colored leaves and had caused the creeks to swell, making the course even more technical. When the race started and everyone headed up the mountain, it started to rain again. The weather proved to fluctuate as much as the elevation going from rain to sun to sleet. The high for the day was 50 degrees at 7 am and by the finish it was in the 30's.

The Cumberland Trail Conference recently finished construction on two new bridges at Rock Creek and Big Possum Creek. The runners were spared these creek crossings but the remaining 6 creek crossing added a lot of character to the course. The last 5 miles of the course goes right through the Deep Creek Gorge, a course that highlights the effects of the controversial surface rock mining that has devastated the Cumberland Plateau.

The winner was our own John Wiygul of Chattanooga, with a time of 5:25:29. John Brower of Jackson, MS gave him all he could handle and was just 2 seconds back. Natalie Sims, also of Chattanooga, brought in the Women's best time at 6:52:38.

Many thanks to the volunteers and rangers who braved the weather and helped to make the event possible. Rock/Creek once again came up big. This locally-owned retailer's support really made this race a reality. Other important sponsors were: SmartWool, Mountain Hardwear, and Hammer Nutrition. The Cumberland Trail is an incredible trail network that we are all very fortunate to have. The race is the second to last race in the Rock/Creek Trail Series. The Lookout Mountain 100k & 10k will close out the season on Lookout Mountain in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information on these races, visit http://www.rockcreek.com/trailseries/

For more information on the Upchuck 50k Trail Race, including links to race results and photography, visit http://www.rockcreek.com/upchuck/

Also be sure to check out our friend Dreama Campbell's race report on her blog, "Dreama Campbell ... Life after Ironman #2"

Here she talks about those notorious creek crossings:

Then came a series of creek crossings that I knew would leave my shoes and socks soaking wet! Argh.... I had to toughen up and take the plunge. The first one was ankle deep. The second one was calf deep. The third one was knee deep and in order not to fall further in I had to put my arms in up to my elbows! After that nasty crossing.... I had to regroup on the other side as I seriously thought to myself "Oh my god.... I'm going to get hypothermia!". I was shaking and downright COLD. Fortunately... I had stashed a vest and Smartwool gloves in my pack and I took a minute to put these items on. Thankfully the extra clothing helped warm me up and I was able to slowly press forward. The last creek crossing had a rope to help guide you across.... I did not get wet anywhere above the ankle there. [Continued]

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:15 AM | Comments (0)

November 21, 2008

Upchuck 50k Trail Race Report & Photos

John Wiygul and John Brower fought hard for the win at this past weekend's Upchuck 50k. Wiygul, from Chattanooga, came in seconds before Brower, a former Chattanoogan living in Jackson, MS. Wiygul captured first after almost five and a half hours of tough trail running. Stephen Smith of Chattanooga took third. Wiygul has raced many of our trail races and will be joining the Rock/Creek race team for 2009.

This first annual (official) Upchuck 50k took place on the Cumberland Trail and was presented by Rock/Creek and The Boonies. We had 23 finishers on this rather difficult course; the cold temperatures and off-and-on rain certainly contributed to the difficulty of the course. Several stream crossings ensured that the runners were going to be wet even before the rain.

Mark took a few photos from the finish line >
Robert took photos on the trail >

See full race results online >

We'll have a full race report from Chad Wamack in the next couple days, but in the mean time I thought I'd share Matt Sims' recollections of the first (much less official) Upchuck:

History of the Upchuck 50k (as told by Matt Sims)
Chad and I run together all the time. I am well aware of his dietary habits, running pace, what he likes to talk about when he runs, etc. This particular day we headed out to run 36 miles of the continuous Cumberland Trail segment that has recently been completed outside the Chattanooga area.

We did the normal car drop off at the "take out", and then shuttled the car a LONG way to the beginning of what would be a very memorable trail for us both. Chad likes to plan the route and is very methodical in what he might need. Lucky for me really, because I am not a good planner and I typically rely on Chad to figure it all out. We decided to run South to North, which now the official Upchuck 50k course runs North to South.

I won't bore you with the detail of the actual trail description and what we saw and how we felt and how many times I stopped to pee, etc. I will simply say, the Cumberland Trail is ridiculously well done. We are really fortunate to have the trail system and to have such a thoughtful group of planners and volunteers to make it happen.

I have gone through times of being very disciplined with what I eat and what I drink. I don't typically get caught up in all the fancy powders that are available today, although certainly I should because I bet I would be a real superstar runner. We do have a couple of really incredible runners in town and they are fanatic about Heed, an electrolyte replacement drink. They put the "hard sell" on Chad and I think Chad bought a couple of gallons of this stuff and probably stock in the company at the same time. So there we are running along with hydration packs. Mine was filled with water and Chad's was filled with Heed. Keep in mind this was the first time he had really used it, which typically isn't the best idea when you are pretty much committing to an all day run. But, oh well. Chad knows what he's doing.

We get about 18 miles into the run when we cross the Hwy 111, Jones Gap Road Crossing. This is unfortunate in some ways because you actually have to run on a bit of pavement to join the next trail segment, but in doing so you run right by a convenient store. Chad and I stopped in there to re-fuel and talk about Nascar with some of the locals.

Chad comes out of the store with a Mountain Dew, Gatorade, Water, Snickers, Cheese Crackers and a Fig Newton. I remember observing his carefully planned out purchase, and I have to admit I was a little jealous. Chad has a "go big or go home" approach to things, so I just figured he would carry what he didn't eat in his pack and eat it as we go. I was wrong. Chad dug in to what I comically refer to as "the last supper".

Off we go and off go the wheels. It took about 3 minutes of running before I heard Chad say, "I don't feel so good". I proceeded to turn around and see this bloated bellied figure start puking all over the place. I ran ahead so I didn't start puking myself. For the next 10+ miles Chad would puke occasionally and then start running again, all the while that Heed was keeping him company.

All in all I had a great run and Chad had a terrible one. It's funny now and I think he thinks so too. Just remember not to get carried away this year at the Jones Gap Road Convenience store.

Learn more about the Upchuck 50k >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:21 AM | Comments (0)

October 20, 2008

Race Team Report from Two Lakes Trail Run

Rock/Creek Race Team member Jamie Dial gives us a quick report from the Two Lakes Trail Run in Nashville, TN. Jamie took fourth place and his wife Wendi Parker-Dial won the women's division.

On Saturday, Wendi and I went to Montgomery Bell State Park for the 1st race in the Tennessee State Parks Running Tour. In its second year, the Trail race had another good turnout with 129 runners in the mix. Race Director Dr. John Spencer in Dickson TN did an excellent job and the staff at MBSP really do a great job maintaining the trails.

On to the race....

I knew it was to be a tough day as Wendi and I ran our warm up, my heart rate was abnormally high. I thought it would settle down, but a few miles into the event my worries were a reality. I never could get into a rhythm and my HR was sky high throughout the entire race. After 2 miles or so the leaders were out of sight and I settled into a semi comfortable place, doing my best to pick off those who were shelled from the front. The 7.6 mile course is not flat (it was actually pretty challenging!) and on the 7th and final climb of the day, I was relegated to a slow walk. I thought my heart was going to explode. This is how the entire day was... Crawl up the hills and blast the downs. My La Sportiva Crosslite trail running shoes allowed me to really cut loose on the down hills with total confidence. On the off cambered terrain and tight turns, I never once felt like I was slipping. The tread on these shoes are amazing. Anyhow, back to the finish- Nearing the end I was caught by a fella who was a little hungrier than me that day and I let him by for the final podium spot. In the end, I was 4th place.

In the womens race, it was a different story. 17 year old High School Senior Brooke Earhart took the race out fast and soon Wendi and local favorite Tonya Lumphreys were fighting for 2nd. Around mile 2 Wendi caught up with local trail runner Johhny Pryor who bridged Wendi up to Brooke. Once contact was made, the race was on. Brooke and Wendi would continue swapping leads all the way to the end. With about 1 mile to go, Wendi knew she had to make a move, so she hammered the final descent only to have Brooke hang on like a warrior. Once back to the campground Wendi found an extra gear and beat her back to the finish to get 11th overall and take the Women's win.

It was nice to actually run a local trail race instead of having to travel so far. Lots of folks asked about Rock Creek and we were able to pass on a little history about the shop and their events. Thanks for the continued support.

Full results are posted on the Nashville Striders site >
The Tennessee State Parks' Running Tour information is posted at state.tn.us >
Photography from the race on Picasa >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:29 PM | Comments (0)

September 17, 2007

Ultramarathon Gear List

Rock/Creek Race Team member Matt Karzen recently completed the Leadville Trail 100, so we asked him to reflect on his experience there and share some gear recommendations with us. Please leave comments if you have experience with running ultras and have any other gear suggestions.

If you are thinking about doing a trail 100, especially one in remote mountain terrain at altitude, you need to think hard about gear. Having the right, or wrong, gear can make or break your event. Obviously, there is nothing like experience to tell you what works, and everyone has different needs, but in the end you need to be prepared. Based on 100 miles at Leadville, here is a list of items you might want to consider:

Light: You need a quality LED headlamp, minimum 4 bulbs, regulated, and an extra set of batteries. I used a Petzl headlamp with a single head strap and had no bounce, plenty of light and good comfort. You should also have a backup handheld light. I had the headlamp with me from the beginning, and the handheld and extra batteries I picked up at the last aid station before dark or had waiting for me in drop bags. I never used the handheld, but it was good to have.

Top Layers: The Patagonia Airus short sleeve shirt is the best running shirt I�ve ever worn. It was my base layer for all 100 miles and never soaked. Zero chafing problems. I also used an old Patagonia long-sleeve (cold weather zip neck) � this was in a drop bag at mile 40 and then on or around my waist as the elevation and dark came in earnest. If you are at altitude at night, it could get into the 30�s or 20�s like it did at Leadville. For that I recommend a nice cozy lightweight Patagonia fleece pullover as a third layer, and perhaps your rain jacket.

Gloves/Hats: Something in between knit and full winter gear. I used a mid-weight poly glove that worked in all conditions. Visor � keep the sun and hail out of your eyes, and besides, your hair is gonna look really bad. I had a winter hat with me from mile 60 on, and I might have put it on once for a few minutes. Its worth having in case you really get chilly.

Rain/Weather: A good rain jacket is crucial. It needs to be hooded � a hat is fine for cold, but if it rains/hails/snows hard, you are gonna have a wet melon and that is a problem. I used a full zip jacket with hood � it worked for both moisture protection and to take the edge off the cold night air. If there is one thing besides hand-held water bottles that I would tie around my waist and carry the whole way, it�s a good rain jacket. Don�t worry too much about breathable fabric vs. full seal gore-tex � you are gonna sweat anyway, and you can unzip to de-fog.

Bottom Layers: You could probably do the entire thing in shorts, but I am a cold guy, so I had a pair of high-quality, loose fitting running pants waiting for me when it got dark at 60 miles. Shorts were fine throughout, including at altitude and in the hail, but the night cold is prolonged, and these pants kept me cozy. No tights�. I recommend a good pair of lightweight shorts with pockets and no liner � use compression shorts underneath to prevent chafing and maintain �organization�.

Continue reading "Ultramarathon Gear List"

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:49 PM