The Coastal Challenge
Who’s Who
Van Holmes / 22.01.2006
It’s down to hours, not days, now before we’re at the starting line and off and running. Race chatter is all around as competitors gather for registration … who’s here … who’s back … who’s new … who’s going to win … and who’s just looking to have fun. The veterans are feeling out the competition while the newcomers are just feeling their way around.Some of the local Ticos, like last year’s men’s division winner, Juan Carlos, are considered favorites racing on their home turf, while other international athletes will hope to take the prize.
Just finishing a race of this magnitude is the goal for most. The oldest competitor, Jay Norman, a 67-year-old from Texas, is back for his second go.
A family of seven from New Jersey is out for its first Challenge. Lead by experienced runner and mom Isabella Delahoussaye, their troupe includes mom and dad, both competing, and their four kids aged 13, 11, 9, 7 and 4 – plus two nannies to watch after them – as guests.
Wayne Simpson, far away from his home in Leeds England, has run more than 50 ultra marathons over the past 10 years in more countries than he can remember – from Africa to the Arctic – “just to experience the different places.� “Happy Birthday to Allie,� he says to his 10-year-old daughter back home.See All Event Posts
