Fuse Burns at TNT Despite Rain

The 2011 running of the Tar 'n Trail 6 miler is in the books.  Just like previous editions, the race proved to be challenging for the 138 runners that braved the elements (and climbs) to help make this 4th annual event another huge success.

The race features a wild ride through some of Ashland's best parks and trails.  It begins on the well manicured trails of Lithia Park to the adjacent applause of Ashland Creek before doubling back on the fast and flat tar of Granite Street.  Erik Skaggs made his move here and would be hard to catch as the race begins it's ascension over the next couple miles.

Runners as young as 8 and as young as 69 made their way up the infamous quarry stairs to the ditch trail and from there the ditch road and Strawberry-Hald Park.  The course undulates once again and tops out at the entrance to the Bird Song Trail where switchbacks abound to dizzy the most experienced trail runner or Jenn Shelton .  Legs that have accumulated some 800 feet of climb now brace themselves for the massive descent back to town.  It's over a mile of shoe slapping street-work to the finish where the most technical aspects of the race, those sneaky stairs usher in the finishers. Not much thwarted these racers though as it seemed everyone was game for one of the most unique races in the valley.

In the end it all added up for the AWTA  as proceeds help to pad trails all over the watershed and town.  Thanks again to all of our many volunteers, Great Harvest Bakery, Basement Ink, and AWTA.

 

All smiles at the registration table.

Leland, did you drop the baton?

The final climb up Hitt road, really. 

Soggy scene at the finish.

1st to 4th; Erik, Andy, Bob, and Jayce

Lot's of fun pics can be found here thanks to Shahid.