Jay Boncodin's Staging Area

The Goonies Never Say Die!

The Goonies is a movie that I have enjoyed since my younger years. Let me say that The Goonies event hosted by Brazen Racing is just as enjoyable. This event is a part of Brazen’s Ultra Half Series (UHS). For those that aren’t familiar, the UHS is comprised of Brazen’s toughest “half marathon” events. The majority of these events go longer than your traditional half marathon distance. Furthermore, events that are a part of the UHS series will have you climbing up some serious elevation (packed into a > half marathon distance)! You can acquire more details about the UHS by going to Brazen Racing’s website. Even though this course has you climbing approximately 2374 feet, for the fast trail runners, you will still be able to rock an impressive half marathon time. All the climbing doesn’t happen all at once and you will be able to regain energy and catch your breath on the more level sections scattered throughout the course. The first two miles are flat as you traverse around the lake. This is a bonus because you have some time to warm-up and get your rhythm going. After the initial two miles, the various climbs begin. Because Lagoon Valley is a fairly small space, the half marathon course will have you run two loops. The difference is, on the second loop, you will not go around the lake. Instead, you will begin climbing right off the bat. The positive aspect out of this two loop endeavour is that you will know what to expect when you begin the second loop and you can strategize accordingly. If you still have the energy, mile 12 offers a nice downhill which will allow you to gain some speed as you make your way to the famous Brazen arch for the finish! Lagoon Valley doesn’t have names for the trails. Instead, the masterminds at Brazen have named the trails for the participants. You will find trails named, Kraken, Bermuda Triangle, Megaldon, etc. Good times for sure! After you cross the finish arch, make sure you take a few photos in front of the various backdrops while wearing and/or holding the various Goonies related props. While you’re at it, take a jump shot as well! As most of you know, Brazen puts on a fantastic show and they go well above and beyond to ensure that ALL participants have a great time and are well taken care of!