My hands-free tweet friendly shelter from the morning rain at Park Road Aid Station.

Here are a few of my strongest observations from throughout the day.

• Rain? OK, let’s run! – While an easy out to call it a weekend, so many took that first stride as sheets of rain fell from the skies. The fast-footed could have decided to save themselves for the next race. Nope, they were all there ready to lead the splash fest.
• The Giant Face – Out at the Park Road, a family had a giant, full color cutout of the runner they were supporting. The mug shot had to be four feet high by four feet wide…and they had two of them. As their runner made this way across the road, they were screaming and the giant heads were bobbin’.
• A Family Affair – I was talking to an older gentleman that was from Wisconsin and was crewing for his son. You could tell the father was into it and was ready to do whatever he could to help his son get to the finish. What a unique and bonding experience. You could tell the father felt as if he was running with his son.
• Crowd Crazies – The Park Road Aid Station road crossing had a large group of family, friends, and supporters that made a channel for runners to cross that road…and they yelled, squealed, and supported every runner that came out of the woods. It was a blast of energy that I felt 20 yards behind them. As the afternoon progressed, the louder they got.
• Let Me Tape that For You. – A guy inspecting and taping another runner’s foot after 60 miles of running.
• Scream and Dance – A 50 mile female crossed the finish line and once she saw her friends, they all started screaming and hugging. Another gentleman started dancing off a special number as the groovin’ tunes supported his dance across the 50 mile finish.
• Hal “Fly-Guy” Koerner – As the race progresses, Hal’s hat/visor begins to increasingly lean and tilt in such a way that it appears he is only able to see the trail with one eye…and somehow he makes it look cool…and not take a digger!
• Karl “the Professional” – You couldn’t help but see it as Karl Meltzer flew through the course that he radiates personal excellence. The dude toes the line ready to give his very best.
• High Energy Aid Stations – From sun-up to sun-down to sun-up again, the aid station folk brought their A-game! People helping people. What a concept…and it works, just ask the 700+ runners!
• Remove the Chip – One 100 mile runner came walking straight legged across the Dog Wood timing map and immediately started working to rip off the timing chip (to drop) as friends tried to stop him. He dropped.
• Pain at mile 20 – Watching runners leaving the Dog Wood Aid Station at mile 20 with discomfort already in their eyes.
• Joe P. Sits – During the nighttime hours on Saturday night as I was waiting for Sabrina Moran (100 mile female winner) to finish her last loop, I observed RD Joe Prusaitis sitting in a chair at the finish area eating some kettle chips out of the bulk-size bag. This was likely the first time he sat since early in the week.
• The 3:00 Pacer – Yep, I am going to help him/her finish. I  will be pacing at 3:00. PM? Nope, AM!
• Our Elites - Pretty cool to see Ian hanging out at the finish waiting for the top runners to come in after dropping out of the event in the middle of the afternoon. He definitely could have disappeared - he didn’t!
• Oswaldo the Photographer – Oswaldo Lopez finished third in the 100. This guy won the Badwater Ultramarathon in 2011 so this dude’s a badass. Hal Koerner (100 mile winner) and Ian Sharman (last year’s 100 mile winner) are sitting in chairs post-race under the tents and I see Oswaldo taking a picture of one of his crew with his arms around Hal and Ian. I couldn’t help but smile and think, what a cool sport we have.

What a sport!

What a tribe!

What are some of your strongest memories from the Rocky Raccoon weekend?

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• Rocky Raccoon Trail Run – 2012 Results
• DamNation – Reflections from the Busiest Aid-Station at the Rocky Raccoon 100 Trail Run
• Rocky Raccoon 50 km Trail Run – 2010 Results
• Rocky Raccoon 100 Trail Run 2010 Results
• Rocky Raccoon 100 – Names and Faces of the Race

RD, Joe Prusaitus at the pre-race briefing. Photo: David Hanenburg

One hour before race start my tent was shaking, the skies opened up, lightning cracked, and 60 minutes later the 100 mile runners began their five loop adventure with 30 hours to get it done as every runner was wet from head-to-toe before taking their first stride. Fortunately temps were extremely mild, ~60F at start time. One hour later the 50 milers got muddy on the three loop course.

With each passing hour the rain spigot was tightened and by mid-morning it stopped and conditions remained quite pleasant. Runners were even treated with the sun in the closing hours of the day before the moon took over the watch.

Results

Aliens? UFOs? Nope, a bunch of trail runners on a 50 or 100 mile scamper. Photo: David Hanenburg

100 mile

Defending champion and course record holder, Ian Sharman was back in Texas looking to dash off a spicy one. Ready to make Ian earn it included the likes of Hal Koerner (3rd place last year), Karl Meltzer (4th place last year), and Oswaldo Lopez (2011 Badwater Ultramarathon winner).

I hung out at Park Road Aid Station most of the day and got to see the action in person while tweeting coverage – what a treat!

At Park Road AS loop 1 (mile 15.61), it was Ian, Oswaldo, and Hal flying through in 1:56. Karl was 10 seconds back with a second chase group a further three minutes behind.

Park Road AS loop 2 (mile 35.61), Ian was holding onto the pole position with Hal now in second position one minute back. Karl drifted slightly, running three minutes behind Ian. Oswaldo fell off the current pace and was now firmly holding fourth position, seven minutes behind the lead.

Hal cruising through Park Road aid station. Photo: David Hanenburg

Ian began to struggle early in loop 3 and both Hal and Karl moved by as Ian tried to re-group. At Park Road AS loop 3 (mile 55.61), Hal created a nine minute gap from Karl and 15 minutes from Ian.

By Nature Center Aid Station on loop 4 (mile 63.10), Ian dropped out of the race due to tweakage (hip flexor). Bummer!

Hal continued to slowly extend his lead from Karl and Oswaldo and went on to win the 100 mile scamper in 13:24:52, knocking off over a minute from last year’s finish under tougher conditions.

Karl came into this race wanting to go sub-14. Karl came flying into Park Road AS loop 5 (mile 95.61) in 13:30 with nearly 4.5 miles to go. Could he get to the finish in time?

Karl digging deep! Grabbing goodies from his crew. Photo: David Hanenburg

Unfortunately not this time. Karl put in a courageous effort and finished second in 14:17:42. Gotta come back next year Karl!

Oswaldo maintained his third place position.

Top 5 male

1. Hal Koerner (OR) – 13:24:52
2. Karl Meltzer (UT) – 14:17:42
3. Oswaldo Lopez (CA) – 14:30:58
4. Brooks Williams (CO) – 14:58:37
5. Josh Katzman (MA) – 15:35:57

The top TALON male was Scott Rabb (TX) who finished 10th male (11th OA) in 17:56:43!

Scott Rabb knockin' down aid station calories. Photo: David Hanenburg

The female race saw significant carnage at the front with 3 out of the top 4 dropping from the event. Always tough to see.

Defending champing Liza Howard went fast out of the gate in her usual fashion and moved to the front of the female race early on.

At mile 15.61, Liza cruised through the aid station in two hours and created a 13 minute gap from second place, Sabrina Moran.

Liza Howard flying through the early miles. Photo: David Hanenburg

By mile 35.61, Liza now had a 10 minute gap with two women charging from behind, Sabrina and now Heather Mastrianni. Liza had a bit more tension in her face and you could tell the effort was becoming a challenge.

It was fun to watch a little strategy play out between Sabrina and Heather – Heather arrived at the AS first and stopped to grab some food and drink with her back turned away from the trail. 20 seconds later Sabrina arrived at the aid station noticing Heather inside, Sabrina sprinted around the little corner away from the aid station and in front of a male runner to try and get out of line of sight. Whether there is much value to this at mile 35, it was fun to watch it happen!

In fourth position at this time was Jill Perry, 20 minutes back and working through some stomach issues.

At mile 55.61, Liza’s gap was shrinking and was now down to four minutes in front of Sabrina. Heather had fallen back 16 minutes. Sabrina had the eye-of-the-tiger, Liza did not.

Early in loop four Sabrina took the lead and nobody was able to keep her in sight. Jill had dropped. Heather dropped at mile 60. Liza was forced to a walk as various physical tweaks from the earlier miles would no longer allow her to run. Liza walked the remainder of the loop and still wanted the 100 mile finish. Her body said, “No” and forced her to drop at mile 80, walking the final mile with her husband.

Sabrina eventually all alone at the front. Photo: David Hanenburg

Sabrina was all alone on loop 5 and went on to win the women’s race in 17:06:10!

Vikki Baylis was second in 20:01:51.

Top 5 female

1. Sabrina Moran (NJ) – 17:06:10
2. Vikki Baylis (CAN) – 20:01:51
3. Liza Canowitz (OH) – 20:09:18
4. Sherrie Klover (KS) – 22:24:19
5. Rachel Ballard (TX) – 22:33:57

50 mile

Lorena Devlyn created a 12 minute gap from the chase-pair after 50 miles to win the female race in 8:41:38.

Anabel Pearson and Rachel Blair had an excited little run as five seconds separated the two at the finish. Anabel was able to create the tinniest of gaps to claim second in 8:53:38.

Top 5 female

1. Lorena Devlyn (TX) – 8:41:38
2. Anabel Pearson (TX) – 8:53:38
3. Rachel Blair (TX) – 8:53:43
4. Anna Siliciano (FL) – 9:04:15
5. Danieli Rodrigues (IN) – 9:33:00

The podium finishes were earned by Texas athletes with Gerardo Moreno crossing the finish first in 6:15:12.

Over 15 minutes back, David Brown was uncontested in second with a time of 6:31:51.

Top 5 male

1. Gerardo Moreno (TX) – 6:15:12
2. David Brown (TX) – 6:31:51
3. Olli Haavikko (TX) – 7:34:51
4. Juan Morales (TX) – 7:45:12
5. John Hill (TX) – 7:46:37

Complete results for all races.

Inspiration Point

Check out some of the wisest finishers. I hope this stuff fires you up as much as it does me.

• Nofal Musfy (age 66) and Bill Heldenbrand (age 65) got it done across the 100 mile journey!
• John Connor (age 65), Stephen Bulter (age 66), Robert Melendez (age 65), Nova Demoney (age 78), Thelma Richardson (age 68), and Marvin Skagerberg (age 73) celebrated 50 mile adventures!

Life is play. Play is life.

The Tough-as-Nails Award

The final finishers of an ultra distance event are some of the toughest athletes that are willing to stick with it to the best of their current ability and cross that darn finish line.

The Tough-as-Nails award recipients:

• Texan, David Painter crossed the 100 mile finish line six minutes before the 30 hour cut-off. David earned his buckle in 29:53:40.
• Virginia trail runner, Luanne Turrentine enjoyed the most trail time in the 50 mile scamper and shut the light off at 21:32:20.

Race Reports

• “I pushed as hard as I could and I still came up short.  I wanted to take my ball and go home.  But running ultras is not about how fast you can run.  They’re about how hard you can work.” – Liza Howard
• “By around 30 miles I caught glimpses of Hal behind and the legs were starting to feel some fatigue. Even with the surface water, the course had been fairly easy to run on in lap one, but by lap two, 680 people had churned it and it was slippery.” – Ian Sharman
• “The course is quite different from what I am used to up here in the Ozarks. It’s wide single and double track stuff, mostly a sandy dirt mix, a few roots here and there, little elevation and only a handful of rocks. For us NWA GOATS this course is paradise.” – running farmer
• “All those ups I ran up so effortlessly and honestly didn’t even know they were there, became MOUNTAINS on loop two. My legs are heavy. I feel like I am running in a lake.” - Suann on the Run
• “I was running very comfortably and things felt good. I decided it was a good time to turn on the music, so I did.  And my iPod was possessed by Satan. The volume constantly went up and down, up and down.  When I would walk, it would level off, so I gave it a shot for a few minutes.  As soon as I started to run again, it started oscillating again.  Off goes the Ipod.  No music for the rest of the day.” – I AM TIMBEAUX

If you have an experience or thought to share from the event, please feel free to include in the comment link below.

Shoes - overrated! Photo: David Hanenburg

Btw, if you ever plan on running this event, don’t park illegally (on grass, etc). You should have seen the tow truck brigades driving in and out of the park. The tow vehicles looked pretty new and were probably paid for from last year’s event. You have been warned! Race winner, Hal Koerner made a contribution to the local economy. Sorry dude!

Check out the TALON Race Guide

There are 150+ regional trail/ultra races in the TALON Race Guide. Be sure to check it out if you are looking for the most complete list of events in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. New events are always being added.

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• Rocky Raccoon 100 – 10 Trail Running Tips To Help You Finish
• Cactus Rose Trail Run – 2011 Results
• the Shoe Trail Run – Capt’n Karl Series – 2011 Results
• Rocky Raccoon 100 / 50 Trail Run – 2011 Results
• Rocky Raccoon 100 Trail Run – 2011 Results Preview

It seemed like it was just yesterday when everyone was talking about Ian Sharman’s (CA) record breaking performance (12:44:33) at the Rocky Raccoon 100 back in 2011. TALON speedster, Liza Howard (TX) earned her second win in two years and finished 5th overall. Todd Braje (CA) also knocked out a course record in the 50 mile scamper. Snow had fallen in many sections of the region earlier in the week with a few hints of the white stuff in Huntsville State Park. North Texas covered in multiple inches of snow.

Fast forward one year later, Ian is back to defend last year’s win. Speedy temps are not likely this year with the weather forecast showing temps in the 60s along with a chance of rain. This doesn’t mean the fast feet won’t be flying along the course. The question is, how long can they hold on.

Neal Lucas looks to be one of the top TALON athletes going after a high placing. Neal dominated the local Texas scene in 2011 winning a handful of races up through the 50 mile distance.

Liza is ready to go after her third Rocky win in three years. To add addition motivation to get to the finish as quickly as possible, Liza will be celebrating a special birthday milestone once she crosses the 100 mile mark.

Check out trail running legend, Karl Meltzer’s fast feet predictions. Karl will also be lacing them up for his second year in a row!

A couple other notables for this weekend’s race:

• There are 13 runners going after there 500th official Rocky Raccoon mile.
• Another 14 runners going after the Tejas 300. No small challenge. Officially finish Cactus Rose 100 (Oct 2011), Bandera 100 km (Jan 2012), and Rocky Raccoon 100 (Feb 2012).

With a sell-out 750 runners ready to play, it is guaranteed to be a trail running party throughout the weekend!

Rocky veterans.

Rocky newbies.

20 mile loops. Support all around.

All ready to do the best they can within 30 hours!

It is going to be a good one!

I will be making the trip down and plan to take some photos, tweet a bit, and who knows what else.

Any predictions on the top placings? Will a course record be broken this year?

Safe travels everyone.

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• Rocky Raccoon Trail Run – 2012 Results
• 2011 UltraRunning Runners of the Year – TALON Athlete and Race Mentions
• DamNation – Reflections from the Busiest Aid-Station at the Rocky Raccoon 100 Trail Run
• Rocky Raccoon 100 / 50 Trail Run – 2011 Results
• Rocky Raccoon 100 Trail Run – 2011 Results Preview

• zero drop (same sole height between the heel and midfoot)
• extra roomy forefoot
• cushioning and protection
• bringing un-sexy back

Altra is small Utah based company (their story) that delivered its initial zero drop road shoes early in 2011 and the Lone Peak late last Fall. I purchased a pair of their trail tread in early December and have scampered over 100 miles on…

technical terrain

groomed terrain

walked on water…didn’t work…still fun

enjoyed some of this during the middle of my trail adventure

Before we get to my thoughts on the ride, let’s learn a bit more about this unique pair of trail running tread.

Specs of Interest

The Basics

• Weight: 11.3 oz (size 9 per Running Warehouse)
• Ride height: 0 mm heel-to-forefoot difference
• No significant arch/medial support
• Special underfoot protection (plates in midsole, etc): StoneGuard

Big Boned

The Lone Peak is not your slipper, minimalist trail shoe. I would consider it in the moderate weight category. Coming from INOV-8 X-Talon 212 (~7.5 ounce) as my recent go-to shoe, I would compare the Lone Peak as a steady and strong diesel locomotive versus a spunky and responsive Ferrari (212′s). Get that baby in motion and she is going to stay in motion.

Bring the Zero Drop

The big bang feature of the Lone Peak’s is no difference in heel and midfoot sole thickness/height. Nada. Zero. 0 mm. Zilch. Forget about it!

Most traditional shoes have a heel-to-forefoot difference in the 12 mm range. What does this mean? More traditional shoes will have a wedge shape where the sole of the heel is 12 mm thinker than the sole of the midfoot/forefoot. The Lone Peak has thrown a giant boulder at that difference and made it a nice and simple zero millimeters which in Altra’s view allows for a more natural foot/ground contact (landing under center of mass (mid foot/forefoot), no/less heel striking).

INOV-8 Roclite 315 (9 mm drop) and Altra Lone Peak

I will have to say regardless of shoe / no-shoe, foot/ground contact is still 100% up to you. I have seen runners wearing VFF’s initiate ground contact with the heel on every stride.

Keep it Simple – Minimal Support

No big plastic or beefed up midsole on the inside/medial area of the shoe. The design is to let the foot function how it is naturally meant to function.

Protect thy Feet

Tucked within the moderately thick midsole is the StoneGuard. StoneGuard is designed keep the feet smilin’ when you step on a sharp rock or root.

Another aspect of the shoe is the tired feet piggy protection at the front of the shoe where the outsole wraps up the nose of the shoe. Stiff and firm protection for the late-in-the-race rock and root monsters.

Freeeedom….Freeeedom – Fit

The Lone Peak easily has the largest amount of toe freedom in the forefoot of any shoe I have worn. Most all shoes will taper throughout the forefoot, the Lone Peak has minimal taper and comes close to simply rounding off the shoe at the nose of the shoe. This can seem a bit clown-ish but that is quickly forgotten once laced up and scampering along a great trail.

INOV-8 Roclite 315, Altra Lone Peak, INOV-8 X-Talon 212

While roomy in the front, the heel and midfoot can be firmly snugged into place.

The Subtle Bite – Outsole

The moderate to low-profile teeth/lugs on the outsole are designed to provide flat/uphill traction as well as gnarly, steep downhill support for when you need to sit back on your heels a bit.  This multi-terrain support is due to the unique and opposite lug shape in the midfoot/forefoot and heel area.

The tail of the outsole also has a rudder hanging off the back of the shoe and is designed to provide support for really steep descents. I don’t sense much benefit of this extra material and it simply adds more weight. My trusty pocket knife it will likely see. Sorry Mr. Rudder.

Mr. Rudder

The tread is also made from a sticky rubber that has more biting power when navigating technical terrain which can be nice. Often sticky rubber will wear down quicker but after 100+ miles, my tread still looks nearly new. Good sign!

The Trail Experience

After running over a variety of terrain over the last 100 miles with adventures up to around 15 miles (so far) on these shoes I can easily say I am a fan. Initially they look and feel a bit goofy with that big piece of shoe in the forefoot.

And this too, shall pass.

They may also claim honors as the top un-sexy shoe in the market…which somehow makes it kind of sexy and cool…kind of…well. Let’s just say the shoe is more function than fashion. It’s what’s inside that counts…or something like that.

As far as sizing, I stuck with my usual size 12. Good fit.

For me, the transition to this zero drop style was quick and without fanfare. Coming from a 6 mm drop INOV-8 shoe, I had no calf or Achilles sensations. Of course everyone has to travel their own path but this was a pleasant surprise for me.

The wiggle room in the toe box was nice, and Big through Little Piggy all gave a positive grunt.

Across technical (rooty and rocky) terrain, the midsole and StoneGuard buffering seemed near ideal for me. I still received some sensory feedback (pressure) in the foot but no O’shucks (or similar) moments.

I really dig the firmness of the midsole. I do not like a squishy, sloppy, where-am-I shoe/midsole. The Lone Peak really nails this feature and with the included A-bound layer (the thinner dark blue layer above the grey midsole layer) that is supposed to compress 2-3 times less than traditional foam, I should also see less trenching (midsole breakdown) within the shoe over time. When running my fingers through the inside of the shoe I can feel a little compression in the forefoot area but nothing significant.

The firm toe protection at the front of the shoe also came in handy a couple times. Dig it.

How does the Lone Peak handle the wet stuff?

Splashing through multiple water crossing, the shoe drained very well but seemed to stay moist for quite a while. This didn’t affect the performance/ride of the shoe but was noticeable.

For some, the weight of the shoe is no biggie but the weight change was definitely noticeable coming from the INOV-8 X-Talon 212. Although within a couple miles on the trail I no longer noticed it. To be fair I probably wouldn’t place the Lone Peak and 212 in the same trail shoe category but I think everyone would benefit from a light trail shoe that provides the appropriate or desired amount of protection for the individual. I would love to see the same firm and moderate midsole but somehow reduce the weight by a couple ounces.

And if I am making a wish list, I would include a more flexible sole.

As far as being multi-purpose (road and trail), I would consider it a straight-up trail shoe. I would think the sticky(softer) rubber lugs may wear down pretty quick on the concrete/pavement.

As someone that likes a less wedgy / more flat shoe but also appreciates some firm cushioning, the Altra Lone Peak provides that go-all-day…and night ride. And what a sweet ride it is.

Running Form Support

One thing I really like about Altra is they offer multiple formats of tips and support to gradually transition to a none heel strike gait if that is new to you.

Under the cover of the shoe box – BAM!

Education pamphlet inside the box – BAM!

And if you need to hear more of the same, the Altra website contains this info as well.

And the info is brief and simple to understand!

Summary

The Altra Lone Peak is a moderate weight zero drop trail shoe that can smile and grit its teeth through a wide range of dirt lovin’ terrain while providing an extremely roomy toe box and a moderate amount of firm cushioning and object protection. This shoe seeks adventure!

The trail runner that would most dig the Altra Lone Peak:

• interested in zero drop tread
• wants forefoot/toe box roominess
• accepts a moderate weight shoe
• would like firm cushioning and object protection
• desires minimal support
• will keep it off-road

Btw, Altra also makes a female version of the shoe that is also called the Lone Peak (with light blue trim and stitching).

Share your thoughts!

Who else has worn the Altra Lone Peak trail shoe? What are your thoughts on the shoe?

Simply…

• Click Running Warehouse
• Submit the displayed Endurance Buzz discount code. You will see the discount noted in your shopping cart.
• Then check out the Altra Lone Peak!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• INOV-8 X-talon 212 Trail Running Shoe Review
• Nathan Endurance Race Vest – Trail Running Gear Review
• CamelBak Octane LR Hydration Pack – Trail Running Gear Review
• Nathan Sprint Water Bottle – Trail Running Gear Review
• Merrell Trail Glove – Initial Impressions

While a new name, the trail scamper still took place on the locally popular Wee-Chi-Tah Trail.

Results

Trail On! (Photo: Copyright Richard Carter)

half marathon

Local resident, Stephen Dryden, ran a 7:20 pace that created over a 75 second gap at the finish line to win the male race in 1:36:13 (*gun time*).

Oklahoma athlete, Justin Howe, made the trip south and found a way to separate himself from the small chase group to earn second in 1:37:33.

Top 5 male

1. Stephen Dryden – 1:36:13 (*gun time*)
2. Justin Howe – 1:37:33 (*chip time*)
3. Billy Rousseau – 1:42:30
4. Zachary Smith – 1:42:45
5. Tyler Johnson – 1:43:57

Photo: Copyright Dave Diamond

Patricia Cassidy also earned a win for the local community and a second overall finish! Patricia’s 1:37:32 winning time left no doubt would brought the spice this morning.

Marcia Fairchild ran a steady 8:44 pace that had enough kick in the final miles to create a small gap from Kristin Girard and finish second in 1:54:29.

Top 5 female

1. Patricia Cassidy – 1:37:32 (*second overall, gun time*)
2. Marcia Fairchild – 1:54:29 (*chip time*)
3. Kristin Girard – 1:54:54
4. Laurie Underwood – 1:58:47
5. Meagan Childers – 2:04:52

Photo: Copyright Richard Carter

marathon

The front of the female race was spread out with Dianna Sulser taking the pole position. Dianna finished sub-5 and earning the female win in 4:47:45.

Judy Hayes cruised in for second in 5:11:43.

An interesting note, the top three woman were age 49-55. Inspiring stuff!

Top 5 female

1. Dianna Sulser – 4:47:45 (*gun time*)
2. Judy Hayes – 5:11:52
3. Patricia Fick – 5:52:41
4. Amy Michelle Lucio – 6:08:51
5. Angela Tortorice – 6:24:39

Photo: Copyright Dave Diamond

Joshua Witte (8:59:37 – Palo Duro 50m 2011) ran nine seconds per mile faster than the next chaser Ruben Gonzalez across the marathon distance to win the male race in 3:40:29.

Ruben Gonzalez was alone in the chase and finished a solid second in 3:44:32.

Top 5 male

1. Joshua Witte – 3:40:29 (*gun time*)
2. Ruben Gonzalez – 3:44:32
3. Chad Schroeder – 4:00:52
4. Clive Miskin – 4:06:44
5. Greg Fuhrman – 4:15:55

50 km

Travis Seekins scampered a 9:22 pace that brought him the male win in 4:50:22.

The race for second had a bit of excitement as Michael Jusko and Justin Vawter inspired each other for the second place finish. Michael was able to add some jalapeno in his stride to finish second in 5:09:38.

Top 5 male

1. Travis Seekins – 4:50:22 (*gun time*)
2. Michael Jusko – 5:09:38
3. Justin Vawter – 5:10:44
4. Jason Reynolds – 5:13:28
5. Marc Petersen – 5:16:09

Copyright: Copyright Richard Carter

Suann Lundsberg gradually moved herself to the front of the female race in the early miles and led the female inspiration train until stomach issues forced her to slow and was eventually passed around mile 28 by Tammi Starnes. Tammi held onto the lead averaging a 10:25 pace to win in 5:23:00 (*gun time*).

Suann dug deep to hold onto second position and earned runner-up in 5:30:04.

Top 5 female

1. Tammi Starnes – 5:23:00 (*gun time*)
2. Suann Lundsberg – 5:30:04
3. Natalie Floyd – 5:33:50
4. Rebecca Gartrell – 5:38:40
5. Lundsay Hagerman – 5:47:28

Photo: Copyright Dave Diamond

Complete Trail Results (Saturday)

Inspiration Point

Check out some of the wisest finishers. I hope this stuff fires you up as much as it does me.

• Rhodora Bray (age 60) and Frank Ingalls (ag e67) go ultra on the Wichita Falls trails.
• James Norris (age 62) enjoyed the marathon.
• Robert Grantham (age 61) smiled along the half marathon scamper.

Life is play. Play is life.

The Tough-as-Nails Award

The final finishers of an ultra distance event are some of the toughest athletes that are willing to stick with it to the best of their current ability and cross that darn finish line.

The Tough-as-Nails award recipients:

• Tara Woodard enjoyed the most trail time and finished the 50 km in 8:39:42.

Race Reports and other Groovy Media

• “Feeling really strong, I took the lead and pulled away from the other gals. In the back of my head I thought, shoot this is really early in the race to do this. Are you messing up?” by Suann on the Run

If you have an experience or thought to share from the event, please feel free to include in the comment link below.

Special thanks to Richard Carter and Dave Diamond for the race photos you see above!

Check out the TALON Race Guide

There are 150+ regional trail/ultra races in the TALON Race Guide. Be sure to check it out if you are looking for the most complete list of events in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. New events are always being added.

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• Rocky Raccoon Trail Run – 2012 Results
• Big Bend Trail Run – 2012 Results
• Cactus Rose Trail Run – 2011 Results
• Palo Duro Trail Run – 2011 Results
• XTERRA Bluff Creek Ranch Trail Run – 2011 Results

Sunrise at Big Bend National Park (Photo: Courtesy Big Bend Ultra Run / bigbend50.com)

Run a 50 km, 25 km, or 10 km point-to-point dash within the beautiful grounds of Big Bend National Park located in southwest Texas. A net downhill course that doesn’t require any big climbing gears or a significant amount of technical concentration which allowed runners to soak up the surrounding natural environment.

Results

The fun begins! (Photos: Courtesy Big Bend Ultra Run / bigbend50.com)

50 km

Neil Smith ripped a sub-4 hour finish and created 20+ minute gap at the finish to win the male race in 3:58:34.

Gergo Perlaky cruised in for second in 4:20:56.

Top 5 male

1. Neil Smith – 3:58:34
2. Gergo Perlaky – 4:20:56
3. Stephen Brooks – 4:24:30
4. Patrick Frasier – 4:26:44
5. Wouter Bossuyt – 4:33:56

Photo: Courtesy Big Bend Ultra Run / bigbend50.com

Monica Duffell finished fifth overall without another female in sight with a time of 4:27:15.

Launi Evans crossed second female and rounded out the top 10 of the overall in 4:46:51.

Top 5 female

1. Monica Duffell – 4:27:15 (*5th overall*)
2. Launi Evans – 4:46:51 (*10th overall*)
3. Jeannie Hightower – 4:53:12
4. Becky Wells – 5:01:15
5. Brandi Shipman – 5:20:49

Complete 50 km results

25 km

Beryl Gibson averaged a 7:31 pace to run a sub two hour 25 km and win the female race in 1:57:01 and finish 3rd overall.

Carrie Barrett finished ninth overall and second female in 2:07:32.

Top 5 female

1. Beryl Gibson – 1:57:01 (*3rd overall*)
2. Carrie Barrett – 2:07:32 (*9th overall*)
3. Meredith Bush – 2:12:43
4. Merry Wolf – 2:15:45
5. Gretchen Sanders – 2:16:45

Photo: Courtesy Big Bend Ultra Run / bigbend50.com

Dust was the only thing seen as runners chased male winner Brant Speed who averaged a 6:30 pace as he crossed the finish in 1:41:10.

Twelve minutes later Lee Simmons earned a second place finish in 1:53:21.

Top 5 male

1. Brant Speed – 1:41:10
2. Lee Simmons – 1:53:21
3. John Bryan – 2:00:18
4. Collin Wallis – 2:00:31
5. Nicholas Doyle – 2:04:01

Complete 25 km results

10 km

Did brother and sister Patrick and Maggie Hillery just dominate the 10 km race? I think so!

Sixteen year old Patrick Hillery inspired at the front and won the male race in 42:13.

Brian Comeaux snuck in for second, ahead of other youthful speedsters with a time of 44:00.

Top 5 male

1. Patrick Hillery – 42:13 (*age 16)
2. Brian Comeaux – 44:00
3. Thai Eckley – 45:50
4. Chris Thompson – 46:54
5. Andrew Stone – 47:41

Photo: Courtesy Big Bend Ultra Run / bigbend50.com

The most exciting race of the event was between 14 year old Maggie Hillery and 17 year old Rashae Skillern as they pushed the pace for the female win. Maggie was able to create a 16 second gap at the 10 km finish, winning the female race in 47:23 and earning fifth overall.

Rashae was sixth overall and second female in 47:39.

Top 5 female

1. Maggie Hillery – 47:23 (*age 14)
2. Rashae Skillern – 47:39
3. Heidi Knippa – 52:57
4. Kristin Fason – 54:03
5. Jessica Fenley – 54;44

Complete 10 km results

The Tough-as-Nails Award

The final finishers of an ultra distance event are some of the toughest athletes that are willing to stick with it to the best of their current ability and cross that darn finish line.

The Tough-as-Nails award recipients:

• Gerard Kaylor and Heather Hamilton worked through the finish line together in 8:17:51 and 8:17:52 respectively.

Race Reports and other Groovy Media

• “Sure, I’m in fairly descent shape, but I’m anything but an endurance athlete.  The farthest I have ever run in competition was a 400 meter sprint.” by Team ActiveATX
• Race start photos by the Big Bend Ultra team

If you have an experience or thought to share from the event, please feel free to include in the comment link below.

Here is a video that shares some nice imagery of the area.

(If you can’t see the video, click here.)

Special thanks again to Big Bend Ultra for the photos above!

Check out the TALON Race Guide

There are 150+ regional trail/ultra races in the TALON Race Guide. Be sure to check it out if you are looking for the most complete list of events in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. New events are always being added.

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• Big Bend Ultramarathon – 2011 Results
• Rocky Raccoon Trail Run – 2012 Results
• The Duel Trail Run – 2012 Results
• Cactus Rose Trail Run – 2011 Results
• Palo Duro Trail Run – 2011 Results

The main loop is a 13 mile figure-eight that leads you along the park lakes and through scenic hardwood forests. All distances use the same main loop but the ultra folks add an additional 2.85 miles to each loop on some rollin’ terrain.

Special thanks to Carl Bergman @ PR Photo for the provided photos you see below.

Results

Suman Vasireddy enjoying the morning in the half marathon. (Photo: Copyright Carl Bergman / www.backprint.com/prphoto)

50 km

Michael Adams (sub 21 hour 2011 Western States 100 finisher) led the male race from the early miles as he averaged a 7:44 min/mile pace to create nearly a 20 minute gap at the finish. Michael was first to cross the finish in just over four hours in 4:00:31.

Michael Aikman was alone in second and finished in 4:19:42.

Top 5 male

• Michael Adams – 4:00:31
• Michael Aikman – 4:19:42
• Steve Maliszewski – 4:59:48
• Cornelis de Regt – 5:07:06
• Devin Brown – 5:07:46

Sue Wheeler ran within the top 10 of the overall through the midway point of the run and appeared to run the often-fantasized-but-rarely-done negative split. This moved Sue up from ninth overall to sixth and a female win in 5:12:10.

Kelly Woodmansee was able to make up a nearly 12 minute deficit during the second lap from Virginia Grijalba to earn second place honors in 6:29:20.

Top 5 female

1. Sue Wheeler – 5:12:10 (*6th overall*)
2. Kelly Woodmansee – 6:29:20
3. Virginia Grijalba – 6:41:24
4. Beatiz Gomez – 6:52:15
5. Jennifer Frahm – 7:05:58

marathon

Tracy Pinney created separation early on and was positioned in forth overall at the midway point. Tracy held onto the overall placing while  averaging an 8:30 min/mile pace for the marathon distance and winning the female race in 3:42:58.

Tatyana Strickland crossed the finish second female and ninth overall in 4:25:35.

All 4 female

1. Tracy Pinney – 3:42:58 (*4th overall*)
2. Tatyana Strickland – 4:25:35 (*9th overall*)
3. Jean Beagle – 4:29:47 (*10th overall*)
4. Hilda Gonzales – 4:29:48

Kjell Lavoll ran a 1:29:15 for 13 miles of running and created over a 90 second gap. Kjell grew the gap across the next 13 miles to win the male race in 3:03:46.

Jason Burke held onto his second place position from throughout the race to earn second in 3:15:55.

Top 5 male

1. Kjell Lavoll – 3:03:46
2. Jason Burke – 3:15:55
3. Pedro Faria – 3:20:22
4. Doug Beagle – 3:49:00
5. Will Kehres – 3:54:39

Pedro Faria on his way to third place in the marathon race. (Photo: Copyright Carl Bergman / www.backprint.com/prphoto)

Complete 50 km and marathon results

half marathon

David Nemoto and Jeronimo Abelino sped off the only sub-7 minute pace across the half mary scamper with David able to create nearly a 90 second gap at the finish and win the male race in 1:28:33 (gun time).

Jeronimo earned second in 1:28:58 (chip time, gun time – 1:29:59).

Top 5 male

1. David Nemoto – 1:28:33 (*gun time*)
2. Jeronimo Abelino – 1:28:58 (*chip time*)
3. Buddy Brown – 1:32:34
4. Jeffrey Geslin – 1:32:56
5. Hugh Daigle – 1:34:05

Hermes Hinojosa and others enjoying the journey. (Photo: Copyright Carl Bergman / www.backprint.com/prphoto)

Lorna Campbell and and Mary Austin ran within the top 10 of the overall averaging a sub eight minute pace. Lorna ran her way to seventh overall and won the female race in 1:36:17 (gun time).

Mary was second female and ninth overall in 1:43:48 (chip time).

Top 5 female

1. Lorna Campbell – 1:36:17 (*7th overall* – gun time)
2. Mary Austin – 1:43:48 (*9th overall* – chip time)
3. Heather Welsch – 1:46:54
4. Tatyana Strickland – 1:48:03
5. Dianne Garban – 1:47:45

Complete half mary results

Inspiration Point

Check out some of the wisest finishers. I hope this stuff fires you up as much as it does me.

• Stephen Butler (age 66), Cliff Burgess (age 73), and Mirek Malinosu (age 71) played on the marathon scamper.

Life is play. Play is life.

The Tough-as-Nails Award

The final finishers of an ultra distance event are some of the toughest athletes that are willing to stick with it to the best of their current ability and cross that darn finish line.

The Tough-as-Nails award recipients:

• Hermes Hinojosa completed the marathon in 8:00:00.

Race Reports and other Groovy Media

• Couldn’t find any race report.
• “Before the start of the race we were given instructions about the course and what to expect and told/warned about 300+ alligators living along the course.  I got really excited at this last announcement.  The thought of sprinting past ravenous reptiles is enough to get anyone’s blood boiling.” by Steve
• Race Photo by PR Photo

If you have an experience or thought to share from the event, please feel free to include in the comment link below.

Special thanks again to Carl Bergman @ PR Photo for the race photos you see above.

Check out the TALON Race Guide

There are 150+ regional trail/ultra races in the TALON Race Guide. Be sure to check it out if you are looking for the most complete list of events in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. New events are always being added.

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• Rocky Raccoon Trail Run – 2012 Results
• The Duel Trail Run – 2012 Results
• Big Bend Trail Run – 2012 Results
• Cactus Rose Trail Run – 2011 Results
• Palo Duro Trail Run – 2011 Results

Runner on his way down the back-side of a "Sister" at Bandera. (Photo: David Hanenburg)

Who are these people that just can’t get enough of this course?

Check it out!

500 km Milestone

Here are those that have accumulated 500 km of Bandera finishes that include straight 100 km, combo 100 km and 50 km, and a straight 50 km. Yep, 10 straight years of 50 km finishes! Love it!

Susan Bell (TX)

Susan has ran five 100 km adventures with the first dating back to 2007. Susan dashed off an 18:52:11 100 km run this year and was her second fastest time on this course.

Elise Harrington (CO)

Elise makes the trip to Texas Hill Country from the state of Colorado and crossed the Bandera finish line for the first time back in 2007. Elise enjoyed an 18:30:44 100 km finish this year.

Carrie Knapp (TX)

Carrie reached 500 km through two 50 km and four 100 km adventures through the park with her first finish taking back in 2006. This Texan finished the 100 km this year in 17:37:42.

Deborah Sexton (TX)

Deborah celebrated her sixth finish in 22:45:57 and her second fastest time 100 km time since her first finish on this course back in 2003.

Deborah in the early mile of Bandera. She is moving so fast I could only get a photo after she had already passed. (Photo: David Hanenburg)

Jean Cummings-Perez (TX)

Jean finished her first Bandera back in 2006 with a 50 km adventure. Since then, Jean has accumulated five 100 km finishes and crossed the line this year in 14:28:28 putting her at 550 km of Bandera goodness.

Dmitry Rozinsky (TX)

Dmitry has accumulated six finishes that include two 50 km and four 100 km. This year Dmitry enjoyed a 17:45:59 100 km finish.

(Photo: Courtesy Dmitry Rozinsky)

Dmitry’s description of the Bandera course is short and to the point – “deceptively difficult”. He also had this to say about the race organization, “one of the best of all the races I’ve ever run.” Nice!

Kurt Coonrod (NM)

Kurt has experienced the most Bandera finishes out of this group…with 10! Kurt has finished the 50 km scamper in all 10 years of the event. Kurt finished his 10th straight 50km this year in 7:01:30.

Brad Quinn (TX)

Brad has six Bandera finishes with the first back in 2007. Brad has a mix of 100 km and 50 km finishes with a 100 km buckle this year in 12:49:12.

(Photo: Courtesy Brad Quinn)

Brad had these thoughts to share about his Bandera adventures.

“I don’t have any specific moments or crazy stories from my Bandera 500km experiences. Just great memories/feelings about running with friends in the beautiful Texas hill country and spending time with my wonderful family.  Pushing myself to overcome the elements and difficult terrain. Setting a good example for my kids and persevering when times get tough.  Not giving up when all I can think about is stopping and showing my four little ones it’s all about self-belief, will and determination.  ”Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all” (Helen Keller).”

1000 km Milestone

Ten years. Ten 100 km finishes. Cool!

Scott Gordon (NM)

Through the years, Scott has finished Bandera anywhere between 12 and 16 hours. This year Scott celebrated a 15:50:37 finish.

Scott Wood (TX)

Scott has finished 10 years of Bandera 100 km between 13 and 16 hours with a 14:27:50 to mark his 1000 km finish.

(Photo: Courtesy Scott Wood and Andrew Wolfe / photowolfe.com)

Scott also had a few thoughts from his 10 years of sotol, rocks, challenges, and fun.

About the Bandera event team…

“Each year holds particular memories but the thing that stands out the most is the support of the volunteers and race director.  Running a distance of this magnitude would not be possible without the support of those volunteers and their willingness to brave the elements with the rest of us.  Whether it was hot or cold they were there to make sure our needs were met and did it with grace and uncompromising service.”

About his wife…

“I also had great support from my wife who stood with me several of those years and helped crew. Two years ago when the weather was so bitterly cold, I was at mile 52 coming in to the second cross-roads aid station with only one more station and the finish to go.  I was tired, hungry, cold, wet and miserable and ready to just drop out. I had made the decision that if she was waiting for me at the aid station I would just tell her to get the car and my bag and we would go home.  I couldn’t imagine going the last 10 miles.  When I arrived at the aid station she was there and lovingly gave me what I needed, told me to rest a second and then gently pushed me on the trail.  I really wanted to quit but she wouldn’t let me.”

Mark Raymond (NY)

Mark earns the farthest-from-home honors with the New York residence. Mark’s 10 years of Bandera have included finishes between 14 and 22 hours. This year 1000 km finish was in 21:49:35.

Thanks for the inspiration!

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• Bandera Trail Run – 2012 Results
• Bandera 100 km: TALON Athletes Ready for USATF National Championship – Plus Periodic Race Updates
• Twins – Endurance Buzz Adventures and our little Walnut
• Athlete Completes First Marathon/Ultra at Bandera 50 km – Video Highlights
• Bandera 50 km Trail Run 2011 Course Flyover

(Photo: Courtesy Perky Garcia)

The full course was an counter-clockwise loopy out-and-back combination. The course traveled within a 100o feet…up, down, and around. (course profile)

Results

50 km

Brian Pilgrim led the way with Roger Squires a short seven minutes back after 50 km of running.

the 50 km crew

1. Brian Pilgrim – 6:29:40
2. Roger Squires – 6:36:43
3. Nicholas Juskiewicz – 6:41:41
4. Steve Grossman – 7:30:48
5. Clifford Matthews – 8:56:10

Photo: Courtesy Perky Garcia

marathon please

Dick Harris was the sole marathon finish and untied the shoes after a 7:35:25 adventure.

Photo: Courtesy Perky Garcia

20 mile, just right

Daniel Hadlich and Stephen Jett arrived at the BBQ waiting finish line, together in 3:36:00.

20 mile crew

1. Daniel Hadlich – 3:36:00
2. Stephen Jett – 3:36:00
3. Jason Hoy – 4:28:00
4. Misty Pilgrim – 5:10:00
5. Brenda Jensen – mystery time

Photo: Courtesy Perky Garcia

half marathon, so nice

Just had a 3 Amigos flashback…anyway…Meisha Smith, Ron Banning and Ayesha Sundram all completed the half marathon scamper together, in 2:46:00.

Race Reports

• Couldn’t find any…

Photo: Courtesy Perky Garcia

Share Your Experience

If you played out on the New Mexico trails we would love to hear about it. Simply comment below.

A special thanks to Perky Garcia for the photos you see above!

Check out the TALON Race Guide

There are 150+ regional trail/ultra races in the TALON Race Guide. Be sure to check it out if you are looking for the most complete list of events in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. New events are always being added.

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• White Mesa FA Trail Run – 2011 Results
• Deadman Peaks Trail Run – 2011 Results
• Pajarito Trail Fest – 2011 Results
• Big Tesuque Trail Run – 2011 Results
• Dirty Half Marathon and 10k Trail Run – 2011 Results

The TALON highlights…

Texan, Liza Howard, received the third highest number of votes for Female Runner of the Year. In 2011 Liza won and set course records for both USATF 100 km and 50 mile trail championships. Liza also won the Rocky Raccoon 100 and Javelina Jundred (101.4 miles) where she also set course records.

Liza Howard at Rocky Racoon 100. (Photo: Courtesy of Lynn Ballard.)

A few amazing performances at TALON events were also mentioned.

Who can forget Ian Sharman (OR) running Rocky Raccoon 100 in 12:44:33. Who is this guy?!? The trail world was abuzz after that performance. Ian had the second highest votes for male performance of the year.

Ian Sharman gliding through the Rocky Raccoon 100 course. (Photo: Courtesy Lynn Ballard)

Other male performance notables included Dave Mackey’s 8:16:48 at Bandera 100km, Anton Krupicka’s 13:18:52 at Rocky Raccoon 100.

Female performance notables included most of Liza Howard’s 2011 calendar; 15:47 at the Javelina Jundred, 15:33 Rocky Raccoon 100, and 9:35 USATF 100km trail national champtionship (Bandera 100km).

Age group performance notables included 79 year old, Grand Holdaway’s(UT) 14:55 at Rocky Raccoon 50 mile.

You can check out the full article here.

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Related Articles:

• Top 100 Mile Times in 2009: Liza Howard at Cactus Rose 100
• Rocky Raccoon 100 Winner Liza Howard – Endurance Planet Interview
• Rocky Raccoon Trail Run – 2012 Results
• Rocky Raccoon 100 Weekend
• Bandera Trail Run – 2012 Results