What is with the name?
I thought it would be a cool name for a race in the heat and humidity of late July. It’s also because Killens Pond, where the race is held, is part of the Murderkill River. Murderkill comes from the Dutch words of “Moeder” which means “Mother”, and “Kille” which is “River”.
Course
A 3.10-ish mile almost all dirt loop, totally within Killen’s Pond State Park. Some roots, rocks (a seashell or so), rubble – but way gentler than most trails, no rainwater and low rise (maybe 80 feet of climb per loop total). Probably a 1/10 on the technical scale.
The good news is it will be mostly shaded. Also, if you get too hot, plenty of opportunities to jump in the pond, esp near the boat ramp.
Most wear light trail shoes, few wear road running shoes. No need for super technical trail shoes on this course. The only parts that are not trail are the loop around the parking lot that is .28 of a mile and the aluminum footbridge that is probably .2 miles.
North portion of Pondside Trail is broad and mostly dirt (sand+organics). Southside portion is single track with some roots. A footbridge is used to cross pond at dam end. All races will start at 8am (ish) at the picnic tables. Loop around the parking lot and proceed on the Connector Trail (.2 miles) by the picnic tables towards the Pondside Nature Trail then turn right onto the Pondside Nature Trail returning on the connector trail to the turnaround at the parking lot.
All races will use the “picnic area” There are bathrooms literally 50 yards from the picnic tables in the parking area. Porta-john MAYBE off south portion of trail near the boat ramp area (Sometimes there is one. Sometimes not).
Races are self-supported with a community table for sharing any food/drink/aid. Water will be provided. It won’t be cold. But it will be wet.
Timing will be manually. I’ll check off your loops and record your finish time.
This race is held in “Fat Ass style”. No aid guaranteed (except for water). No shirts (except if you paid for one). No medals. No chip timing. You show up, run the distance, and hang out. If you need to be coddled with fully stocked aid stations, plentiful volunteers to help you, etc, this is NOT the run for you. We are decidedly old school in our approach.
All races have 12 hour time limits (8pm-ish)
Park Information
Killen’s Pond is about 15 miles south of Dover, DE on U.S. highway 13. It is a beautiful, well maintained park. Every year, we have first timers comment about what a great and beautiful park and trail it is.
Turn left (east) on Killen’s Pond Road, indicated by brown park sign, to north entrance of park. Continue past water park to first parking lot and picnic tables at far end. Park should open at 0700 (7 am) for us and will close at sunset, around 2015 (8:15PM).
The park has no garbage cans; you bring it in, you pack it out.
Parking is ample. Unlike Angela Ivory races in January, the “summer season” at Delaware State Parks charges a fee. This fee is included in your entry fee. I will provide you with a ticket/pass when you arrive.
We can’t thank the park and their staff enough for their continued support of the race and the excellent job they do on the trails.
LESS
