I think this race attracted very hard core runners, which I guess I am, but it was a little disconcerting to be around all the folks prancing up the hills. … MORE
I think this race attracted very hard core runners, which I guess I am, but it was a little disconcerting to be around all the folks prancing up the hills.
The “long loop” was my preferred one—nice stretch of very runnable trail, a little less busy, the cool straight part by some power lines with good footing.
Each loop was a “lollipop “ so you got to see other runners on the “stick” ( slightly less than a mile) and the last .33 or so was paved with a kinda steep incline (downhill going in).
The aid station was stocked with grilled cheese, candy, chips, etc. it was a cup less race which is fine BUT I didn’t get to have any coke because all I had was a 20 oz handheld and I didn’t plan that aspect well.
The mental math of counting the loops and mileage was pretty interesting. Nice nice runners (even the prancers). Good weather. The mini loop at the end was scenic but very rooty). If I did it again I’d try for 3 long and one short (28.7). This year I did two long two short and a mini (27.1).
Race was easy drive from nova (except the return trip was trafficky of course).
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All day Runner math!!
I think this race attracted very hard core runners, which I guess I am, but it was a little disconcerting to be around all the folks prancing up the hills. … MORE
I think this race attracted very hard core runners, which I guess I am, but it was a little disconcerting to be around all the folks prancing up the hills.
The “long loop” was my preferred one—nice stretch of very runnable trail, a little less busy, the cool straight part by some power lines with good footing.
Each loop was a “lollipop “ so you got to see other runners on the “stick” ( slightly less than a mile) and the last .33 or so was paved with a kinda steep incline (downhill going in).
The aid station was stocked with grilled cheese, candy, chips, etc. it was a cup less race which is fine BUT I didn’t get to have any coke because all I had was a 20 oz handheld and I didn’t plan that aspect well.
The mental math of counting the loops and mileage was pretty interesting. Nice nice runners (even the prancers). Good weather. The mini loop at the end was scenic but very rooty). If I did it again I’d try for 3 long and one short (28.7). This year I did two long two short and a mini (27.1).
Race was easy drive from nova (except the return trip was trafficky of course).
First ultra - great event!
The ICY-8 Hour event is put on by Athletic Equation. It stayed true to its name and was indeed about 14 degrees for the majority of the run, with snow … MORE
The ICY-8 Hour event is put on by Athletic Equation. It stayed true to its name and was indeed about 14 degrees for the majority of the run, with snow falling by the end. The run is a timed 8 hour event but you can run as much as you want. I ended up running not quite 33 miles and chose to stop with a little time left so that my digits could thaw out.
You run the trails at Lake Anna State Park in Spotsylvania, VA. It is about 90% trail, actual trail as opposed to fire roads. There are two loops that you can run, a little less than 5 miles or about 8 miles with a big hill. The cool thing is that after the first lap, you can run whatever combination you want – short or long, forward or backward. After each loop you tell the timer if you ran the short loop or the long loop, stop at the tent for some chow, and get back out there. Note to self – count on your camelbak freezing if it’s as cold as it was in 2013!
This race is small and very personal. I ran with two friends and we all found the people to be super friendly and supportive. The shirt was fun and if it’s your first 50k/ultra, they give you a cool little plaque to commemorate it. Experienced finishers also got a pint glass (they accidentally gave me one too and when I tried to return it, they let me keep it). All in all, it’s a great race that’s well supported and gives you a lot of flexibility. I’d recommend it, especially if considering your first ultra.