Saturday, May 14, 2011

Don't Fence Me In Trail Run

Distances:5k, 5k dog walk, 12k, 30k
http://www.pricklypearlt.org/eventscalendar/detailedinformation.asp?ID=1628
I've done the 12k in 2007 & 2008 and the 30k in 2009, 2010 & 2011. The 12k race hits the most popular trails in the Mt. Ascension and Rodney Ridge areas of Helena's South Hills. It's a hilly course, but none of the hills are much longer than a 1/2 mile or so. Which makes it a challenging course, but by trail race standards, not overwhelmingly so. The course was well-marked and the single track trail well-maintained, which makes it a good trail race for those new to trail running. The 30k was added in 2008 and has become very popular. I would particularly recommend it as an intermediate step for anyone considering their first ultra. The 30k course became notably more challenging in 2010 when it was modified to include trips up and down both Mt. Ascension and Mt. Helena. It also runs for several miles on the Helena Ridge Trail- one of most scenic trails in town by my book. Generally, the atmosphere at the race is very relaxed, attracting the full array of serious racers, not-so-serious runners, and people mostly interested in supporting the land trust. However, the 30k became much more competitive in 2011 when the race was made part of the LaSportiva trail series. All-in-all a very fun day.

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