The Coastal Challenge
Ticos Take Charge … Nauyaca Falls Thrill All
Van Holmes / 25.01.2006
It is the third day of The Coastal Challenge Expedition Run, and the Ticos are pushing ahead, while England’s favorite daughter continues to prove powerful. Juan Carlos, the local favorite who met hard times the first day, has battled back and is gaining time. He finished first today in approximately 3 hours and 57 minutes. The combined leader, Ronald Tores, also of Costa Rica, followed by half an hour, and Claire Johnson, from London, maintained her top spot among the women racers by finishing third over-all in just over 5 hours.
Mark Matyazic, from Southern California, pushed strongly again today finishing fourth over-all, while Adam Chase, who has been in the top two the last two days came in fifth place.
There was no rest for the weary on the 36-km stage today that continued to test the climbing capabilities of all comers. A small number of runners, having fallen back while battling the especially trying, hot day yesterday chose to sit one out, but all others who continued the third consecutive 30-plus km stage met more mean climbs and rapid descents. Although the terrain was tough, all of the day’s competitors thrived on the coastal views to the west and one of the highlights of the course, the Nauyaca Falls.
After an initial climb back deep into the jungles of the Filacostera Mountain Range, runners came down tricky trails to the base of the double falls. The leaders boldered quickly across the river, but the majority of the runners took the opportunity to dive into the cool swimming pools and soak sore feet. The spectacular views, impressive falls and resulting pools were a jewel in the rough course for all.
“It’s a very challenging course, but beautiful country,� said Pat Singh, from Ontario, Canada. A testament to the surrounding landscape, he said the falls were definitely worth the climb.See All Event Posts
