TNT Revisited-Views of the day

Here are some views captured by film at this year's inaugural Tar N' Trail 6 Mile Race. Thanks to all who participated. A special, heart-felt thanks goes to all the special volunteers that came out and made this event possible. Without them many of the runners may have found themselves....lost. Look for more events in the future from Rogue Valley Runners! Results can be found here. Great professional photos of the race can be found in the photo gallery section (these photos were taken by Andy Atkinson of Rogue Photography) in the Mail Tribune's Outdoors.com web site.

"Off they go!"

Glen Tucker came all the way from Hurricane, Utah to experience the Bird Song Trail switchbacks.

Aaron Reed found them to his liking.

Amois Williams is satisfied with a job well done.

Alison Kling brings it home with smiles.

Kouba Sayre and Brooke Bauer covered the course together.

Jill Parsons wins the women's race.

Zachariah Christensen (#21) and Todd Ward (#90) chase each other to the finish chute.

Bob Julian crosses the line in third...proving that he can indeed run fast on the trails.

Brian McQuire crosses the finish tape.

The Rogue Valley Runners' Boys: (l to r) Joe Griffin, Todd Ragsdale, Neil Olsen, John Leuthold, Erik Skaggs

Tar N' Trail Results

Here are the results for this morning's race. Congratulations to all runners. You all did great! I know I may have butchered some of your names or ages. Please post corrections on the Comment link below. Let me know and I will correct.

A story and photos will be posted soon. Please return to this site for further updates in a day or two.

Results are written like this:
Place, Bib #, Name, Sex, Age, Time

Tar N’ Trail 6 Mile Race
Ashland, OR
March 15, 2008

Place Bib Name Sex Age Time
1 2 Erik Skaggs M 25 35:35
2 84 Glen Tucker M 28 36:26
3 6 Bob Julian M 39 37:35
4 3 John Leuthold M 40 38:53
5 5 Todd Ragsdale M 38 39:11
6 63 Aaron Reed M 25 39:46
7 123 Ryland Karlovich M 17 40:48
8 124 Wilder Schaaf M 15 41:59
9 7 Joe Griffin M 47 42:23
10 40 Neil Olsen M 40 42:24
11 103 Brian McGuire M 49 42:55
12 8 Aaron Brian M 36 43:40
13 32 Guy Hakanson M 20 44:11
14 33 Bryan Hakanson M 21 44:44
15 132 Rob Cain M 54 45:11
16 59 Jeff Olson M 38 45:34
17 82 John Theiring M 33 46:07
18 108 Craig Sewell M 35 46:21
19 28 David Engstrom M 43 47:09
20 130 Bryon Devore M 38 47:33
21 128 Scott Hajieck M 53 47:48
22 113 Jill Parsons F 38 47:48
23 97 Mike Davis M 48 48:15
24 52 River Menanno M 21 48:47
25 89 Brandy Walton F 34 48:51
26 31 Charnna Gilmore F 40 48:54
27 25 Chad Elbert M 36 48:55
28 49 Dave Marshall M 43 49:09
29 98 Jason Snee M 39 49:19
30 71 Molly Schreiner F 23 49:23
31 118 Eddie Towsend M 23 49:47
32 115 Laura Raber F 29 50:23
33 106 Jason Slaughter M 30 50:24
34 16 Max Bennett M 44 50:31
35 44 Luke Frechette M 29 51:20
36 9 Maria Clementi F 26 51:23
37 121 Pier Rasmussen M 13 51:45
38 36 Douglas Hecox M 36 51:47
39 29 Hannah Ewing F 15 51:49
40 18 Mindy Blair F 28 52:09
41 38 Charles Hodge M 57 52:09
42 19 John Bott M 49 52:09
43 122 Pat Martinez M 40 52:23
44 22 Chris Combs M 29 53:11
45 86 Terry Tucker M 63 53:46
46 12 Tom Ahle M 58 53:52
47 53 Scott Moore M 50 54:05
48 95 Cynthia Wright F 47 54:26
49 76 Aysha Staha F 30 54:27
50 14 Desiree Barnes F 25 54:39
51 10 Lisa Bach F 41 55:09
52 39 Jim Holdermann M 38 55:17
53 41 Liz Holt F 26 55:25
54 40 Adam Holt M 28 55:46
55 56 Tony Nichols M 43 56:06
56 54 Joseph Nelson M 26 56:09
57 104 Rob Shull M 54 56:34
58 105 Beth Lori F 27 56:38
59 70 Kara Schnoes F 23 57:13
60 91 Ben Wewerka M 31 57:14
61 11 Arnie Abrams M 54 57:32
62 27 Ken Ellgen M 51 57:56
63 120 David Rasmussen M 52 58:01
64 35 Jenine Hoisington F 45 58:06
65 129 Marshall Moses M 14 58:17
66 21 Zechariah Christensen M 13 58:25
67 90 Todd Ward M 40 58:25
68 61 Steven Petrovic M 43 58:39
69 117 Sarah Strickler F 29 58:48
70 47 Alison Kling F 52 59:24
71 93 Amois Williams F 27 1:00:04
72 80 Renee Swenson F 36 1:00:53
73 55 Leonard Nelson M 14 1:01:33
74 60 Scott Pedersen M 47 1:01:36
75 77 Camden Stemple M 12 1:01:37
76 23 Dana Duvivier F 35 1:02:00
77 51 Tim McFadden M 33 1:02:04
78 72 Katie Schubert F 24 1:02:05
79 66 Ginny Ritchey F 39 1:02:12
80 116 Leah Ball F 13 1:02:25
81 78 Lela Stemple F 10 1:02:32
82 79 Scott Stemple M 42 1:02:35
83 46 Tracy Justice F 40 1:02:57
84 102 Sarah Spector F 21 1:03:25
85 67 Tom Roberts M 45 1:04:03
86 45 Steve Gasper M 55 1:04:15
87 42 Cara Hornbeck F 35 1:04:30
88 69 Kouba Sayre F 36 1:04:46
89 15 Brooke Bauer F 34 1:04:46
90 126 Hal Koerner Jr. M 57 1:05:28
91 58 Doug Olson M 59 1:06:43
92 85 Jan Tucker F 30 1:06:46
93 110 Julie Peterson F 52 1:07:20
94 88 Joaquin Valdez M 36 1:07:58
95 68 Robert Sacks M 37 1:09:23
96 65 Georgene Richardson F 50 1:10:24
97 75 Tita Soriano F 30 1:11:32
98 131 Chantel Suehring F 36 1:11:50
99 62 Courtney Pickett F 39 1:11:50
100 100 Liz Sweet F 43 1:14:20
101 101 Eric McCormick M 50 1:14:20
102 99 Pam McCormik F 48 1:14:28
103 50 Wayne Marthaller M 50 1:15:09
104 73 Norman Shaskey M 60 1:16:21
105 119 Danica Crumley F 32 1:17:43
106 114 Kim Handloser F 44 1:17:43
107 43 Fawn Jones F 31 1:18:31
108 37 Stephanie Hirche F 28 1:18:31
109 26 Nikki Elbert F 34 1:22:28
110 13 Elizabeth Ascencio F 47 1:29:13
111 48 Rita Kurz F 54 1:29:33
112 64 Sharon Regan F 60 1:31:32
113 96 Michelle Zundel F 41 1:33:33
114 20 Jana Carole F 50 1:33:40
115 94 Shannon Wolff F 50 1:34:35
116 83 Tiffiny Thomas F 38 1:42:16
117 127 Marilyn Hajieck F 52 1:55:52
118 125 Diane Koerner F 58 1:55:55
119 Sweep Mara F 1:55:55

Way Too Cool 50 Kilometer Trail Race

So, yeah, the name of the race is Way Too Cool. But if you were to ask any of the 442 runners who finished this year's event they'd each tell you something different. For example, the race was: Way Too Warm, Way Too Competitive, Way Too Long, Way Too Hilly. One thing is for sure, however, some of the locals may have felt there were Way Too Many Oregonians.

This fact proven by the headline, "Oregonians Dominate in Cool", in Sunday's sports section of the local Auburn Journal.

The Largest 50 Kilometer Race in the country gets underway.


The Oregon Trifecta, Oregon runners from Bend, Eugene and Ashland, swept down upon Cool, CA, a small town in the foothills along the American River east of Sacramento and literally ran away with the race. Oregon came away with ten of the top 25 spots on a day made for racing. Temperatures in the mid-60's, clear skies and a dry, mud-less tread awaited the runners. Due to the weather and the fact that top finishers at this race would become automatic qualifiers to the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, many fast runners came from all over the country to partake. The competitive nature of this year's race is reflected in the final results. When, on an average year, eight to ten runners break four hours on this course, this weekend 28 runners would break the four hour barrier, more than any other year in this race's history.

The Top Men's Four Finishers (l to r) Scott Jurek, Dan Olmstead, Erik Skaggs, Todd Braje

Let's start from the top. Susannah Beck (Eugene, OR) not only won the women's race, she shredded a fifteen year standing women's course record. Beck bested Ann Trason's (of Western States 100 Mile fame) 1993 course record by four minutes by crossing the finish line in 3:55:22, 25th overall. In the men's race, Todd Braje (Eugene, OR) crossed the tape first in 3:32:12. He was quickly followed by Erik Skaggs (Ashland, OR) in 3:34:17 and Dan Olmstead (Eugene, OR) in 3:35:05.

Last year's winner Lewis Taylor (Eugene, OR) finished sixth in 3:39:24, two minutes faster than his 2007 time. Matt Lonergan (Eugene, OR), Jeff Browning (Bend, OR), Ian Torrence (Ashland, OR), Hal Koerner (Ashland, OR) and Susannah Beck rounded out the top 25.

Other local Rogue Valley Runners frequenters showed their strength this day as well. Eric Poole averaged an eight minute pace over the course to finish 35th in 4:07:55. 54 years young, Rob Cain finished in 4:40:57. Carly Varner finished in 5:14:24, a personal record for her at this distance. A special congratulations goes to, local race director, Krista Peterson who showed strong dedication by finishing her first ultramarathon here in 6:53:58.


Ashlanders at the Finish (l to r) Erik Skaggs, Eric Poole, Ian Torrence, Hal Koerner

Erik Skaggs brings it home.

Bend's Jeff Browning leads Ashland's Ian Torrence in the final straightaway.

Rogue Valley Runners' Owner, Hal Koerner finishes the 31 mile race.

Eric Poole strides up the final rise.

Carly Varner celebrates her new personal record.

Full Results can be found at the Way Too Cool website. Photos courtesy of Tim Turk and Maria Clementi.

Track!

Rogue Valley Runners' tent and shoes on display.

This past weekend, Rogue Valley Runners set up camp at the Artie Sullivan Invitational, the first outdoor track meet of the season for Southern Oregon University. Winter's grip was still firmly wrapped around southern Oregon, as weather conditions were cold with showers and sleet. College of the Siskiyous, Lane Community College, Oregon Tech, Shasta Community College, Southern Oregon, Southwest Oregon, Team XO, and some unattached runners participated in the meet.

RVR Employee Ixel Sanchez extends her lead in the women's 3000 meters.

Rogue Valley Runners store employee Ixel Sanchez opened the meet with a victory in the 3000 meter run. Her 10:56 posting put her 16 seconds ahead of her closest competition.

RVR employee Jeremiah Lewman leads off in the 4X100 relay.

Jeremiah Lewman, also a RVR employee, led off in SOU's winning 4X100 meter relay, as well as their winning 4X400 relay. Jeremiah also took home the gold in the 400 meter hurdles, finishing in a time of 0:56:08.

The lead pack in the men's 3000 meters.

Men's 110 Hurdles or, more aptly, the bloody knees race.

Results and a small story about the meet can be found at Ashland's Mail Tribune website. Full meet results can be found here. Congratulations to all runners!

Hagg Lake 50 Kilometer Trail Race

Neil Olsen follows Bend's Rod Bien at the Hagg Lake 50K, photo by Jasmine Nahorniak

The Hagg Lake 50 Kilometer Trail Race kicked off the Oregon Trail Ultramarathon Series this past weekend. We were lucky to catch-up with this year's winner and new course record holder, Neil Olsen. Here's what Central Point's trail master had to say about his day:

"February in the Willamette Valley predictably means rain, so I was mentally preparing myself for a long cold soggy windy mud-fest like last year. The weather report even the day before predicted rain at least into the morning. But weather forecasters, like national security advisers, somehow keep their jobs even when their predictions are wrong. It was crisp at first, but clear skies, no wind to speak of, and beautiful.

Unlike last year, I was determined to be at the starting line before the race started. I set three 3 alarms- one mistakenly for 6:30 PM, one I didn't hear, and thankfully one that got me up. I didn't linger over breakfast at mother-in-law's in McMinnville, but instead ate a big cup of cheerios in the car on the way.

Don't ask me where this came from, but they have a skirt competition at the start. Sean Meissner (Peterson Ridge RD from Sisters) looked as cute as ever, but I thought the stocky guy in the jumper took it up a notch. I didn't see Ken Ward (Mac Forest RD, whom my bother works for in Corvallis). Unless he did a better job of shaving his legs this year that may have been just as well ;-)

Sean may not be smart enough to stay out of the cold while he's got laryngitis, but he's great company. We watched some guys go out fast on the dirt road out-and-back. By the dam they had about a 1 minute lead. I did some mental math and figured it would take 7:20 miles to hit the course record. On a muddy day that wouldn't be plausible, but there were long stretches with good footing and little mud. We were on pace and I felt good, so I started shooting for that. From the 1st to 2nd aid stations I drafted off of Rod Bien (from Bend). He shared advice from longer runs, and I tried to learn from him how not to have a near-dialysis CK level of 9500 and how not to spend 2 days in the hospital after 100 miles. We caught up to the leaders about half way through, and other than some hamstring tightness I was still feeling good, so I put in a little surge to stay ahead of that 7:20 average. Shortly after this I got a boost from catching my friend from Central Point, John Lotts, who had taken an early start for his first trail 50k.

True to it's advertising, there was still mud. It was only shortly after the "Abandon All Hope" trail sign that I gave up keeping my shoes clean and dry, and this is where I took my first fall. My next was on a bridge after the start of the second loop. There were 164 registered for the 50k, 123 of which finished, and almost all the 249 25k runners finished. So each of them had crossed that bridge at least once, and they transferred just enough mud to make it slippery. I reached my hand out in time to squash open the Gu packet I had been carrying in the palm of my glove and got Gu all over my glove and GPS watch. I got road rash and a bruise on my shoulder. My other battle scar came later from a blackberry bush as I swung wide to pass a 25k runner. The blood dripped from mid thigh to my knee. I feared for another skin problem as well, but it has now been two days and no poison oak has shown up yet. A huge amount of trail work must have gone into getting the trails ready.

The second lap I was able to hold fairly steady, ticking off each mile on my GPS watch, which only lost satellite connection a couple brief times. The flats I was able to go well below pace, and the hills and winding sections generally are fairly short at a time. I ran somewhat negative splits, so I was confident I had the race, and with a couple of miles left I knew I wouldn't die hard enough to keep from going under the record. I saw 2 other friends from Central Point, Brett Mitchell and Ken Ellgen doing the 25k. Some of the many 25k runners I passed probably didn't realize I was doing the 50k, and I'm afraid I surprised some of them from behind. One of them called out to me "strong finish!" with 1/2 mile to go. I definitely surprised the guy working the finishing chute, because at first he tried to send me on for another lap.

I was happy to see Southern Oregon well represented with Marily Bailey (SOB RD), Ben Benjamin, and Phil Finch. I went on a very long cool-down, and ran awhile with Ralph Hirt (Redwood Wild River Run RD) who was fresh off his first 100 miler since turning 70. Half the fun of these runs are the quality people. The aid station folks were wonderful. Cheapskate that I am, I just used a Walmart water bottle, but they were able to fill it through it's narrow neck before I even had my 2nd handful of M&M's. And I hadn't tried pumpkin bread on a run before, but it was quite good."

Congratulations Neil!

Sequoia 50 Kilometer Trail Race

Last weekend several southern Oregonians traveled south to run in warmer climates at the Sequoia 50 Kilometer Trail Race. The course starts in Joaquin Miller Park in Oakland, CA and continues to roll through Redwood Regional Park where runners pass under huge redwoods and catch views of the Bay Area and the Oakland Hills.

Views along the course. Photo by Scott Dunlap

Here's what Eric Poole, of Ashland, had to say about his race and the course.

"What a treat to be able to head down to the Bay Area for a great trail run in the hills above Oakland. The weather could not have been better. It actually felt a bit too warm towards the end of the run. Nice problem to have this time of the year. The race started in Joaquin Miller Park and then jumped into the Redwood Regional Park as well. I started out running with Chris Rennaker and Aaron Brian who are both Rogue Valley boys that were running the race also. Chris was running the 50 km and Aaron was running the 30 km. We had a few laughs as we climbed up the first steep climb of the day that was crowded with runners. Once we topped out on that climb it was some nice fire road running to the first aid station. After the aid station we descended down into and then started climbing again as we got onto the French Trail. The French Trail is what trail running is all about. The trail is soft, the trees are large and the climbing and descending were constant. I felt like I ran the first 30 km too fast and was feeling good but that feeling would not last long. As I entered the French Trail again (we ran the 30 km course and then went to the start finish line and then headed out on the 20 km course) and started to catch the guy in front of me my legs decided to rebel and let me know that the pace that I had set up to that point would not be maintained. So, I tried to regroup and get some food and drink in me but that last 20 km was not too pretty. There was plenty of time to walk and take in the views! Chris caught me with about 5km to go and we ran together to the last aid station where we sucked down some Coke, ate some food and found some energy to finish the run. Luckily most of the 5000+ feet of climbing in the race was over and we just had a steep descent on the Cinderella trail to finish the run. All in all it was a great day. There were over 450 runners that competed in the 10 km, 20km, 30km and 50km and I will look forward to coming back next year to give this race another go."

Chris Rennaker, of Talent, posted these thoughts.

"This being my first official 50K race I had a lot of pre-race excitement and was feeling good about my training. However, I didn't work on my race pace very much. I started out too fast and felt the blow the last 20K loop. The temperature was another factor that I had not incorporated into my training, which reached the 70's. I didn't finish as strong as I wanted but running the last 5K with fellow Ashlander, Eric Poole helped keep my spirits up. The Redwood Regional Park is a very nice and well maintained park and while running in it you do not feel like you are only a few miles from downtown Oakland, CA. I'm looking forward to making it back to this trail run and having a better race."

Poole finished fifth in 4:42:20. Rennaker finished sixth, 35 seconds back. Aaron Brian ran in the 30 Kilometer version and finished fourth in 2:43:21. Congratulations boys! Further race results and info can be found here.

The racers at the finish line. (l to r) Eric Poole, Chris Rennaker, Aaron Brian

Moab's Red Hot 50 Kilometer Trail Race

Southeastern Utah is home to some of the most awe inspiring vistas, unique rock formations, and brilliant winter weather. It was also the setting for the second annual Moab Red Hot 50K+ and 33K.

The La Sal Mountains from Poison Spider Mesa...the setting of the last six miles of the race.

Roughly 300 runners lined up for these two races on what would turn out to be a gorgeous February day. It was the perfect escape for many runners from the cold and snowy environs they had been inhabiting since last November. The race would, in turn, attract the most competitive ultra field thus far for 2008. The 50K has 4,500 feet of gain and takes runners over some classic Moab trails like Gemini Bridges, Metal Masher, Gold Bar Rim, and Poison Spider Mesa.

A View of what's to come. A glimpse of the course from the starting area. Runners would navigate up the Gemini Bridges Trail across the snowy cliff face to the right. Ultimately runners would end up on top of Gold Bar Rim (the cliffs in the far distance).

Race Director, Chris Martinez, shouts out last minute instructions.

Torrid paces were set from the beginning. Young ultraspeedsters, Tony Krupricka (CO) and Kyle Skaggs (NM), set a fast early pace in order to distance themselves from the competition. They were challenged late in the race by Justin Ricks (CO), but were able to out pace him and tie for a win and set a new course record in 4:03 (taking 22 minutes off of Karl Meltzer's 2007 course record). Ricks finished third in 4:04. Johannas Rudolph finished fifth overall and won the men's master's title in 4:22.

A pre-race photo with (l to r) Karl Meltzer, Ian Torrence, Tony Krupicka and Kyle Skaggs.

Perhaps the most exciting race of the day was battled out between Susannah Beck (of Eugene, OR) and Anita Ortiz (of Eagle, CO). Beck, a relatively new face to ultrarunning, see-sawed back and forth most of the race with Ortiz. In the last five miles Beck was able to build one last final lead to win and set a course record in 4:28. Ortiz finish second and won the master's race in 4:34. Darcy Africa, last year's Red Hot winner and course record holder finished third in 5:02.

...And they're off!

In the 33 kilometer race, Romiero Paris won the men's race in 2:32, while Anna Pichrtova won the women's race and finished second overall in 2:37. Anne Pence won the women's masters race in 3:34. Brandon Haddick won the men's masters race in 2:53. 155 runners completed the 50K course, while 84 runners covered the 33K course.

Full results can be found at Red Hot 50K's web site. Another good race report can be found on La Sportiva's Mountain Running Web Site.

TAR 'N TRAIL 6 MILE RACE

TAR 'N TRAIL 6 MILE RACE

Here it is folks!  Finally, Rogue Valley Runners is proud to present our first organized foot race.  The Tar 'N Trail is a USA Track and Field sanctioned event.  The course will pit runners against some of the best trails and roads Ashland has to offer.  Run through Ashland's park jewel, Lithia Park, ascend the steep Granite Street Trail steps and hill to the narrow and windy Ditch Trail.  After grabbing some water at the half-way mark ascend further up Hald-Strawberry Park hill and Hitt Road.  Then start your downhill run to the finish while taking in the expansive views of the Rogue Valley below.

Course Description

The race will start at the Winburn Way Bridge west of The Plaza in downtown Ashland and head into the park over the bridge, then onto the wood chipped trail on the east side of Ashland Creek.  Continue all the way to where the trail becomes a dirt single track and switchbacks up to and past the water tower and Swim Reservoir Park to Granite Street. The race course will take a right on Granite Street descend to and then up the stairs on the Granite Street Trail to the TID Ditch Trail. Once on the TID Ditch Trail the course will continue to Ditch Road and to Hald-Strawberry Park’s trails. The course will proceed up the switchbacks in the park and stay to the left (cross Strawberry Lane a second time) to Hitt Rd. Up the paved Hitt Rd to the dirt single track Bird Song Trail.  Down Bird Song Trail to Bird Song Lane.  Take a left on Strawberry Lane and down Westwood Street to the dirt connector trail and footbridge with Sunnyview Street. Down Sunnyview Street to Grandview Drive. From Grandview take a right onto Scenic Drive, then a left on Church Street. Descend steeply on Church Street and take a right on High Street, cross Granite Street to the stairs into Lithia Park. At the finish, runners will re-enter the park at that stairway at the end of High Street, pass the bathrooms on the wood chipped trail on the west side of Ashland Creek and finish near the start on Winburn Way.

Here is a course visual (click on the image to enlarge):

Here is a Entry Form and more information(click on the image to enlarge):

We hope to see you out there!

Trinidad to Clam Beach Race

Through driving rain, high water, and heavy headwinds they did press onward.

Conditions were far from ideal at this year's 43rd annual Trinidad to Clam Beach Race. Over 700 runners braved a blistering cold front to run the 8 3/4 mile, 5 3/4 mile and 3 mile races on the northern California coast. The courses runs along rural windy and hilly coastal roads, through the small town of Trinidad, CA, to the ocean where they must ford the Little River and run the final two miles along Clam Beach to the finish line.

Erik Skaggs, from Ashland, OR, was unaffected by the weather conditions and the waist deep rushing waters of the river. He took the lead early in the race and ran full throttle across the final sandy miles to win the 8 3/4 mile race in a time of 47:35. He out paced San Diego's Pete Chenard by more than a minute.
Erik Skaggs races across the final beach miles to the finish.

The top ten was rounded out healthily by several other Rogue Valley runners including Bob Julian, Neil Olsen and John Leuthold who finished in 6th, 7th and 8th places respectively.

In the 5 3/4 mile race, Todd Ragsdale, from Talent, OR, handily took top honors with a time of 33:52. Joe Griffin finished a close third in 36:29, by being out paced slightly by Jim Howard of Applegate, CA, the winner of the 1981 and 1983 Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run. Emily Olsen, from Central Point, OR, took second place in the women's race by crossing the line in 40:17.Todd Ragsdale crosses the Little River in the lead.

A hardy congratulations goes out to all those who finished the races in such tough conditions. Full results can be found on the Trinidad to Clam Beach Run web site.

On a more personal note: Several local Rogue Valley Runners car pooled over to the race and made a weekend out of the event. The guest of honor was John Leuthold, who's 40th birthday occurs this month. After the race we returned to his parent's house near Crescent City, CA for a crab and beer feast. On Sunday morning we awoke to brighter skies and ran 14 miles beneath the coastal redwoods before returning home. A good time was had by all.
Some of the crew (left to right; Joe Griffin, Ian Torrence, Erik Skaggs, John Leuthold) dwarfed by one of the great redwoods of northern California.

Birthday boy, John Leuthold, being helped across the Little River in this year's Clam Beach Race. He's little, but he's fast!

Fifth Annual SOFA 50 Kilometer

The Rogue River and trail head parking from the Graves Creek Bridge.

When you are confronted with the word "sofa" one often conjures up images of a soft piece of furniture that one can recline upon. But here in the Rogue Valley of Southern Oregon, runners have brought a new meaning to the word "SOFA". Southern Oregon Fat Ass...a full 50 kilometers of it...roughly 31 miles for those that don't know their conversions.

So, what exactly is a Fat Ass? Truth be told, there's nothing really exact about it. Fat Asses or FA's is the name given to a series of low key runs that are frequented by runners. The phrase "No Fees, No Awards, No Aid, No Wimps" describes the run to a tee. FA's are free to enter and are put on by other runners who usually run the unorganized event as well. Since it's really not an organized race, there is no guarantee of anything other than a course to run (maps may or may not be included), and don't expect course markings or aid out on the course. It's a good way to shed unwanted holiday pounds and prep your body for the upcoming spring racing season. FA's occur all over the world during the winter months. Heck, there are four to choose from here in Oregon alone.

The SOFA 50K begins at the Graves Creek Boat Launch along the lower end of the Wild and Scenic Rogue River. The trail the SOFA course follows can eventually be taken along the river for 40 miles to the village of Agness, OR. SOFA runners, however, ran an out and back course, distances travelled by runners ranged from 54 kilometers to 10 miles. In total, 31 runners (and many doggies) showed up for this year's non-event, breaking the attendance record of 27 set two years ago.
The Lower Rogue River Trail Head at Graves Creek.

A group shot of some hardy souls...

Here's a list of those who showed, how far they ran and how fast they did it. As you can see, even the results follow suit with the Fat Ass theme...lots of inclusive evidence.

Distance Name City Time
54k Mark Humphreys Eugene 6:02
54k John Price Ashland 6:09
54k Rob Cain Ashland 6:09
50k Eric Poole Ashland 4:39
50k Ian Torrence Ashland 4:41
50k Erik Skaggs Ashland 4:41
50k Jenn Shelton Bend 4:41
50k Chris Rennaker Talent 4:56
50k Sean Meissner Sisters 5:21
50k Chris Askew Bend 5:34
50k Darla Brader Bend 5:35
50k Ken Ward Corvallis 6:09
50k Kelly Woodke Eugene 6:34
50k Ben Benjamin Ashland 7:15
50k Colleen O'Malley Medford NA
50k Carin Humphreys Grants Pass NA
24 miles Julie Peterson Ashland 6:00
24 miles Maura Schwartz Madras NA
24 miles Stan Nowakowski Madras NA
20 miles Ric Sayre Ashland 3:28
20 miles Clayton Gillette Medford 3:50
18.2 miles Teresa Hogan Medford NA
18 miles Mel Bailey Ashland 4:20
16 miles Dana Bandy Ashland 3:15
16 miles Tom Ahle Ashland 3:25
15 miles Tom Pelsor Yreka 4:11
10 miles Tim Turk Ashland 2:01
10 miles Annie Crispino-Taylor Ashland 2:01
??? Doug Naverson Jacksonville 3:00
??? Brad Putnam Coburg 6:07
??? Clem LaCava Corvallis 6:29

Kudos to Race Director Tim Turk for organizing such a great non-event and supplying the where with all to be silly runners and the feast after such silliness.

A sample of the treats that awaited runners upon their return.

Speaking of Marathons: Win a Ticket to the One Time Showing of "Spirit Of The Marathon" at Rogue Valley Runners

On Thursday January 24th at 7:30pm there will be a one time showing of the documentary Spirit Of The Marathon at Tinseltown in Medford, OR.

"As six unique stories unfold, each runner prepares for and ultimately faces the challenge of the Chicago Marathon. More than a sports movie, Spirit of the Marathon is an inspirational journey of perseverance and personal triumph; a spectacle that will be embraced by runners and non-runners alike. Filmed on four continents and in five countries, the film stars legends such as Dick Beardsley, Paula Radcliffe, Bill Rodgers, Toshihiko Seko and Grete Waitz." - taken from the Spirit of the Marathon website

Rogue Valley Runners will have a drawing for a free ticket to this movie at their next Wednesday evening group run. All you have to do is be present to win at the store on January 23rd at 5:30pm. Along with the ticket to the movie, the lucky winner will also win a NeatSeat, NeatSeat is an on the go automotive seat cover perfect for runners, swimmers, cyclist, or anyone who drives to and from their workout.

If you can't make the drawing, tickets can also be purchased HERE for Spirit of the Marathon.

And, since marathons are the topic of late, let us not forget what it feels like after we finish one of those buggers. This You Tube video does an excellent job of reminding us.

Hope to see YOU next Wednesday!

Gonna Make You S.W.E.A.T. (Redding Marathon Redux)

In keeping with our theme, it was a glorious morning to go running with nary a cloud in the sky. The sixth annual Redding Marathon and 5k entertained some 200 folks along the banks of the Sacramento River Sunday morning and proved again to be one of the ultimate tests of endurance.


The race, which starts at the Lake Shasta Dam 7 miles north of Redding in the foothills of the Shasta Wonderland, begins its journey to town via the Sacramento River. From the heights of the Dam, runners drop 500 feet in the first 2 miles to a scenic and fast path (rails-to-trails) and continue on for 8 miles. From miles 10 -13 the route follows paved country roads that lead back onto double track to the Sacramento River Bike Path. From here, there is a section of out and back on the asphalt bike path, a residential loop, a tour through the arboretum and a picturesque finish over the Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay.

I took the lead as we made our way across the dam and headed down the huge descent. After 2 miles in 10:20 I was feeling pretty strong but was a little worried that my facetious prediction of starting out running 5:20's that would turn into 7:40's in order to run 6 minute pace might just come true. Never-the-less I continued on with my feverish pace as one glance over my shoulder noted that 5 time Redding Marathon women's champion and Western States women's runner-up Bev Anderson-Abbs was 15 seconds back. Where was my boy Ian? Where were my relay folks I needed to help pace me along the long stretches of monotonous linear ground? I thought to myself, I had better go it alone, and in a hurry. I had set a few goals along the way, 10 miles in 57 minutes, 13 miles just to get to, then 17, 20 in less than 2 hours and 23 miles just to break up the last 6. I was intent on looking ahead to those markers in my mind to help keep up the pace. I hit 10 miles in 57:20, 13.1 just under 1:15 and mile 20 in 1:57 and change. I was pretty psyched with all the splits, but I knew from the year before that I still could fade terribly in the last 6 miles. I eased off a little to find the confidence to push the last 3 if needed and luckily it held out as I hit the bridge in 2:35, just enough time to break 2:36 and 6 minute per mile pace.


At mile 19 I was able to high 5 fellow Rogue Valley Runner, Ian Torrence, whom had taken over second place and who appeared to be some 12 minutes behind. I was psyched to see how well he was looking and that made me kick it up a notch, or at least a quarter notch. I also ran into Bev, as well as Marty Fagan (RD of the Cle Elum Ridge 50k) on the quick out and back. It was so good to see some familiar faces and to hear their words of encouragement.

In the end, a new CR was thrown down as Ian and I took 1st and 2nd handily. Ian's 2:49:27 was one of his faster marathon times and I could tell he was very happy with it, and 2:35:51 will probably be my PR for a long time. I think we were both happy that our legs let us finish a few minutes before Bev's. With 250 ultra's between us, Ian side much more weighted, we don't have too much time for all this hard pavement.
Fellow Rogue Valley residents Tom Bell and Adam Elson also made the trip for the marathon finishing as close together as one from Medford and Ashland might.

The 5k that ran in conjunction with the marathon also had a Rogue runner in the mix. Maria Clementi, of Ashland, ran a PR in 21:41 taking 2 overall in the women's race.

In the end it was quite apparent that we are no longer welcome in Northern California. It seems as though we have taken it to the locals lately and a little too often. Seriously, it has been great to have so many races to choose from that are nicely organized and well run, and that are within an easy drive.

Thanks S.W.E.A.T!

Full results can be found at www.sweatrc.com

Return of the Frostbite Run

...And They're Off!!!

On a wet and drizzly morning more than 90 runners headed out for the two mile and seven mile options at the Frostbite Run in Talent, Oregon. Big names toed the line. Erik Skaggs, a new employee at Rogue Valley Runners, was entering his first road race in history. He was coming off an impressive trail race victory at the Quad Dipsea (28 miles) Trail Race in northern California. Elliot Jantzer, 2007's 4A Boy's High School State Cross-Country Champion, was in the mix. Perennial race favorites Neil Olsen and John Leuthold were also there to add to the race day excitement.

"After coming through at a pedestrian 5:30 first mile split, I decided to start picking up the pace," said eventual winner Erik Skaggs. And with that, he made his move on the first uphill on Foss Street.

Lead Pack at Mile One (l to r, Olsen, Skaggs, Jordan, Leuthold, Jantzer)

The pack worked together and chased Skaggs.

Lead Chase Pack at the Turnaround (l to r, Olsen (in the far distance), Moses (in yellow), Jantzer, Leuthold, Jordan)


With his final mile in 5:10, Skaggs went on to cement his win in 38:00. He was chased by JJ Moses, John Leuthold (who both tied for second in 40:04), Neil Olsen (40:24) and Drew Jordan (41:05).

Erik Skaggs for the Win


Other Rogue Valley Runners participated:

Hal Koerner and Carly Varner finished in 56:22.


Chris Rennaker finished in 45:28 with a thumb's up.


Marci Klimer put in an impressive race to win the women's seven mile race in 45:50. Full results can be found soon at the Southern Oregon Runners website. Congratulations to all!

We've Added Some of Our Favorite Links

We've finally added some of our "Favorite Links" to our blog. Check them out on the sidebar to the right.

Koerner and Skaggs Featured in February 2008 TrailRunner

Pick up the latest TrailRunner Magazine (Feb 2008, Issue 50)!!! Why, you ask? A few of the Rogue Valley's top ultrarunners are featured.

Erik Skaggs, a new employee to Ashland's Rogue Valley Runners, is mentioned in two stories. On page TS-30, in an article about the La Luz 9 Mile Trail Race and Simon Gutierrez, Erik is briefly mentioned in having pushed Gutierrez to the finish. Erik's recent accomplishments are further described in the story beginning on pages 54-55 about the San Juan Solstice 50 Mile Trail Run. Photos of Erik and his brother, Kyle, can be found there too.

On page 10, an article can be found that discusses American runner's experience at France's Ultra-Trail Tour du Mont Blanc, a 100-mile trail race that circumnavigates the Alps. In this story, Hal Koerner, the owner of Rogue Valley Runners, is cited several times as to his own experience with the race on foreign soil.

This issue is available at Rogue Valley Runners now. Stop in and take a gander, I'm sure Erik or Hal would be available to sign a copy for you.