Another Chuckanut 50k is added to the history books. 22 years running, there are many stories to be told. This year we were once again honored to have a solid group of volunteers pull together all of the race day specifics and make for an awesome day. The field was stacked with returning champs, 156 first timers and many multi-year finishers. Each person brings their special piece to the day and everyone walks away with stories. Coming together for an event in spite of wind, rain and any other life challenges that may otherwise stand in the way is what creates awesome history. Thank you to everyone that was a part of this day.
VOLUNTEERS
Months leading up to the Chuckanut 50k Heather Anderson and I are putting our heads together and figuring out details from permits to port-potties and I greatly appreciate all of the time and effort she has put into the event in both in 2013 and 2014. Through her communications and recruiting the Chuckanut 50k race has an awesome crew of volunteers manning aid stations, street crossing guards, marking the course, setting up, tearing down, medical aid at the finish, cleaning coolers, serving soup… There are many hands needed to make everything happen on race day and we are super appreciative for the community that rallies to make an awesome day for us and the runners.
SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS
Our 2014 Sponsors and Supporters had a bit of excitement just before the runners returned to our finish line. While runners cruised through the trees, tents were literally flying around the parking lot finish area due to crazy wind gusts. The crew rallied and pulled together what felt like a welcoming finish line in spite of having to put away most of awesome set up that was planned. We have a consistent group of sponsors year after year and I'm ever thankful that each one connects with the race and adds to the event from prize purse contributions, to products, prizes and presence. They support the running community in many ways and draw inspiration for their products from these events and the participants.
PHOTOS
We are always thankful for Glenn Tachiyama's presence. He's got his key spots along the course and I think people are starting to know where to look for him. His keen eye for runners' emotions and the beauty in landscape set his images apart. Have a look on his SITE to find your moment.
Another photographer took the time to capture different points along the course. Grant Mattice shared this LINK with me and was happy to have it shared with the racers.
PARKS & TRAIL CREWS
The Pacific Northwest has beautiful tree lined trails and plenty of rain and wind to challenge their strength. One week prior to the race start I counted at least 10 trees down on the course. By race day they were all removed thanks to the efforts of local trail crews and the parks department. There are so many aspects to pulling off a successful race, and having a clear course is primary.
RUNNERS
All of us would look rather silly if the runners didn't join us at the start line. The commitment to train for and show up on race day is huge and nothing makes me happier than seeing the registration fill in a few hours, the look of excited runners at packet pickup and the huge smile that fills each face as you cross the finish line. The constant support of the running community year after year for the Chuckanut 50k is encouraging and much appreciated by this RD.
NEXT YEAR
Mark your calendars! March 21, 2015 - the third weekend in March. The 23rd running of the Chuckanut 50k. Registration will open January 9 on UltraSignUp.
