Please help us to improve the race vibe and experience at the Chuckanut 50k. We would love to hear your stories and input on what went well and what could be better. There 11 questions on the Volunteer Survey and 22 on the Runner Survey. This could take 2 minutes or as long as you want to write. Thank you!!
These numbers and requiring this contribution from runners is important. The trails were roughed up by the mass of runners that ran through those gnarly, wet conditions. There will be trail work needed to help aid their repair (also working on organizing a trail work party!). We get so much from our time moving through beautiful places on trails maintained by fabulous organizations - we need to also give back to ensure they are valued and supported for all that is done to maintain those trails for all users. Thank you for recognizing the importance and collectively giving back in a big way.
When I was out on the course last weekend making my way along the ridge I was thinking of how quickly our speedy category winners have to move along those trails to get back to Fairhaven Park as fast as they do. I thought it would be fun to hear some encouragement, tips from what they learned, and well wishes for your race this weekend. I got some lovely responses to share with you all. The uniting thing about these individuals is that they are kind human beings that truly love this community, and they love to run. They love the trails and encouraging others. And they’ve all won the Chuckanut 50k, but more importantly had a blast running it. Thank you to Hayden, Ellie, Francesco, Adam and Joey!
Hayden Hawks, two time finisher, returned to claim an overall win.
Ellie Greenwood 5 time female winner, 7 time finisher.
Francesco Puppi won overall and set a new course record just last year.
Joey Sielen, 9 time finisher 2 time non-binary winner.
Your 2023 overall winner - Adam Merry.
Save some energy to join us at Wander Brewing Saturday evening! Invite your crews so you can buy them a Chinscraper IPA and enjoy your second dinner from the awesome food trucks. The Race Directing crew aims to be there by 7:30pm so we can all raise a pint to the day.
This question has been asked multiple times. We have porta-potties being delivered to the start finish area for Saturday morning. There is also a porta-potty being delivered to the Shuttle Pick Up area at WWU. There are two pit toilets at aid station #1 and there is a pit toilet at the top of Cleator Rd at Cypress overlook. Please do your best to plan your bathroom needs.
If you find yourself between stops you must follow Leave No Trace Principles. Linking to Principle #3 here. Plan ahead to carry what you might need, including a baggie to carry out any products you use.
Move yourself 10’ off the trail and not near a water source.
Dig a hole 6-8” deep. Luckily we have soft dirt!
Carry out your paper/wipes if you use.
Cover your waste.
Prime Sports Institute is leading our race day medical. Our RD team with Prime continue to level up the measure of care and attention to detail each year. Please review the Health & Safety page on our website to understand the preparations and what is available. Our medical team has scouted the course and is working with Emergency Services to anticipate possible scenarios. Because of the remoteness of some key places on our course it could take 2-4 hours to get medical support to an injured runner.
We ask and remind our runners that ultimately you are going into the mountains and you need to be prepared for whatever may happen. We need everyone on course to be prepared to keep warm, fueled and hydrated. Trail races are an opportunity to learn your best systems to take care of yourself, while challenging yourself. It is key to remember the first part, taking care of yourself, as our access to you is not immediate.
Meeting with EMS Chiefs to discuss race event and protocols for emergencies.
Getting eyes on equipment and understanding EMS response time.
This is a last minute add-on is provided by Active Track. Active Track is providing the Chuckanut 50k live streaming & runner tracking service at the race this year, and also has a small print shop. Owner Arash was insistent on printing hoodies after hearing the comment on the Runner Briefing from a runner wanting a hoodie similar to the one I was wearing. Product details provided below and a link to purchase online. Active Track will have some sizes and colors available for sale at the race. He was already working on the rad hats that will also be for sale on the website, details below.
Adventure-Ready Comfort
Wrap yourself in soft, super-cozy warmth with this pullover hoodie—designed for everyday adventures. Whether you're hitting the trails, lounging at home, or exploring the city, this graphic hoodie has everything you want in a go-to sweatshirt.
Tech Specs:
✔ Soft Poly/Cotton Blend – 7oz midweight fabric for all-day comfort
✔ Unisex Sizing – A perfect fit for everyone
✔ Retail Fit – Modern and stylish, never boxy
✔ White Drawcord – Classic contrast detail
✔ Pouch Pocket – Keep your hands warm or stash your essentials
✔ Ribbed Cuffs & Waistband – For a snug, cozy feel
The perfect hoodie to take on every adventure! Cost: $62. Shipping(USPS): $7.37
Hat:
Experience unparalleled comfort with our lightweight hat, meticulously crafted from moisture-wicking woven polyester to keep you cool and dry. The adjustable back ensures a snug fit for all head sizes, making it your perfect companion for any adventure. Adding a unique touch, the hat features a sublimated image of the breathtaking view from near Chuckanut 50K highest point, allowing you to carry a piece of the journey with you.
Unisex and Unisize. Cost: $33. Shipping(USPS): $6
Prime Sports Institute and Precision Physical Therapy will be providing Runner Tune-Up appointments from 4-7pm at Race Packet pick up. A Runner Tune-Up is a 15 minute appointment with a Physical Therapist or Athletic Trainer. These are created for one area that is need treatment, example a stiff neck could be treated with cupping, scraping and stretching). Modalities may include: active release, stretching, IASTM, cupping, an injury evaluation, soft tissue treatment, taping and/or trigger point release. You can schedule using this link or scanning the QR Code. These appointments are usually priced at $35. Chuckanut 50k runners receive this Runner Tune-Up for $15!
Prime Sports Institute is the Chuckanut 50k lead Medical. Founded by LMT & AT Kerry Gustafson, Prime is an Multi-Disciplinary Sports Medicine Clinic for the public. This 2 minute YouTube video brings you into the mind of the owner and through the doors of Prime to understand all that is available to all athletes.
Precision Physical Therapy is founded on the philosophy, "How we do little things is how to do everything." You can expect a hands-on and attentive approach to rehab and injury prevention. Our mission is to empower you to take control of your health care, and remain proactive in your healing, health, and fitness.
Their Doctors of Physical Therapy are Orthopedic Rehab Specialists with advanced certifications and education in rehab of the injured runner, Knee rehab including, patellofemoral pain, ACL and meniscus rehab, Shoulder post-op and overuse injuries, and spine/ hip conditions.
They treat recreational and competitive athletes of all levels. Runners, climbers, gymnasts, soccer players, swimmers, paddlers, and more!
Check them out: PrecisionBellingham.com
On race day Epic Celebrations is going all out on a finish line photo booth for our runners. This is a fun add to the finish line and open for everyone to enjoy. Please hop in and take all sorts of post race photos with your crew and people you shared the day with.
Epic Celebrations is a boutique event and party planning business based in Bellingham, WA. We create beautiful, meaningful events of all kinds while specializing in the development of one-of-a-kind celebrations of life.
Anna Estes, owner of Cascade Nutrition, is a registered dietitian in Bellingham, WA. She specializes in sports nutrition for athletes and active individuals of all levels and also provides general nutrition counseling and medical nutrition therapy for a range of health conditions. Race Director Krissy shares an office with Anna at Prime Sports Institute and is excited to share the skilled practionors at Prime.
Cascade Nutrition is offering a discounted 30-minute nutrition coaching session for $50 (normally $80) to Chuckanut 50k runners and volunteers. Book a session before or after race day with Anna to fine-tune your fueling strategy, troubleshoot nutrition challenges, plan recovery nutrition, or get answers to your general nutrition questions. To schedule, visit www.cascade-nutrition.com, click Schedule Appointment, and select Chuckanut 50k Nutrition Coaching Call on the booking page.
Shakeout those legs alongside 50K participants, organizers, supporters, family and Chuckanut 50K fans – i.e. everyone is invited and encouraged to join in on the fun!
We'll include the final finishing section through the 100 Acre Woods during this social 3 mile run. Run starts and finishes at the store.
We will have samples of Skratch Nutrition post run and raffle off a few prizes to participants.
