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Big Bend Ultra may make a comeback
Can’t think of anything dreamier than running miles and miles and miles across West Texas desert? I’ve got good news for you!
A movement is afoot to bring back the Big Bend Ultra Trail Run.
If you’re interested in seeing 50K and 25K races once again staged at Big Bend National Park, let organizers know.
The proposed date for the race is Sunday, Jan. 16, 2011. (That’s a little more than a year away, not next month.)
Organizers are also considering adding a 10K run and 45-mile mountain bike race.
The run was held in 2005, 2006 and 2007, but discontinued due to lack of interest. Race director Carroll Voss says he’s been hounded by people since then who want to reinstate the run, one of only two races held at a national park.
A portion of proceeds will benefit the Friends of Big Bend National Park’s efforts to preserve and enhance Big Bend National Park.
Participants will enjoy the scenery, excellent footing, post race cookout and traditional trip to the hot springs, Voss says.
The point-to-point, all off-road race will start about 5 miles from the park’s headquarters at Panther Junction. It’s a fast, slightly downhill course. Registration will be capped at 200 runners.
“It’s so beautiful in the Chihuahuan Desert and so quiet — there’s no noise, only your footsteps,” Voss says. “It’s only 6 more miles than a marathon, so if you’ve done that you can do this with another hour. It’s a great entry-level ultra.”
To have your voice heard, go to the Big Bend Ultra Facebook Page (you don’t have to be a Facebook member) and take a short poll in “My Stuff.” If you are a Facebook member, become a Big Bend Ultra page fan. Also check the race website. For more information, email here.
Who out there has run an ultra? Who’s done the Big Bend Ultra? What’s it like to run that far?
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Comments
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By Karen
December 9, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this
I’m running my first ultra this weekend! 50K- woo hoo! I’d love to run through Big Bend. Thanks for the info…off to let the organizers know my thoughts.
By Brent D.
December 10, 2009 1:04 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the info, Pam!
By lois
December 10, 2009 9:29 PM | Link to this
I’ve worked the race; people love it! No wimps, tho; not just for the mileage but this is rugged, stark, beautiful but isolated area. To support this race people have worked all night in freezing temps, braved roving javelina, and encountered naked bodies in the hot springs…if that sounds like fun to you (and it is) come join us, runner or volunteer! Small race;big memory. If you whine or must throw your gel pack on the ground while running …this may not be your race. If you can enjoy the view while we slowly negotiate 4-wheel drive roads back to camp, you are going to love it!