Transrockies Run
The Trans Rockies Run is Underway
News Release / 10.08.2016
Congrats to all runners finishing stage one! Your excitement filled the streets and trails of Buena Vista. Today was no easy battle--high temps, blazing sun, and 20.8 miles! So, hats off to all of the runners.
At 8:30 a.m. 400+ runners charged through the TransRockies arch and streets of Buena Vista to embark on the first of many miles to come. The morning pleased everyone with a clear blue sunny day and refreshing mid-50 temperatures, making it a perfect start to the six-day adventure. But it wasn't long until temperatures started rising to 80. With music blaring and supporters cheering, runners left town in high spirits as they headed into the mountains.
After running down Main Street, runners crossed over the Arkansas River and then into beautiful single-track which started with a seven-mile, 1,500-foot climb. After that quad killer, checkpoint one was in sight and ready to serve runners race day fuel by GU. After fueling up, runners got to ease their muscle thanks to a 1,000-foot descent, surrounded by Buena Vista's beautiful 14ers. With the first (and major) climb done, runners cruised the rest of the way on rolling, open terrain.
Stage one is known to be the hottest of the days and by mid-morning it showed. Although runners were prepared for the heat, the last four miles were the toughest as runners felt the heat directly above them on the exposed dirt road. Yet knowing the finish arch was in sight, the heat was less of their concern as they could feel their accomplishment of day one approaching.
The TransRockies crew and spectators were now anxiously awaiting the first runners to cheer in. Around 11 a.m., Max King (Salomon) came rounding the corner in lead with a finishing time of 2:22:28.
Finishers continued to stroll in the rest of the morning and afternoon and the cheering only got louder. Finishers were greeted not only by GU recovery fuel and fresh fruits, but also by the ice-cold Arkansas River where runners took a dip to cool down the body. Runners hung out by the water chatting over the race and making new friends, all while taking a deserving leg soak.
Tonight, all runners will rest at Eureka! Basecamp where massages, showers and naps await them before heading to dinner and the awards ceremony. Thank you to Eureka! for providing over 300 tents this year! This is where the "summer camp for adults" nickname comes to life -- It's a time to relax and chat over a few beers, listen to live music, and get to know all 400+ runners sharing the same experience.
Tomorrow's stage is from Vicksburg to Twin Lakes, a beautiful 13.3-mile route passing over the 12,540-foot Hope Pass. Although tomorrow brings less distance, runners get to experience Colorado's high mountain air on Hope Pass.
Today captured what the TransRockies is about -- celebrating the outdoors and trail running. Thank you for all your smiling faces and high levels of excitement. Best wishes to all the runners tomorrow and have a great time out there! Thanks to all volunteers and crew members for a successful and fun Stage 1!
You can find out all about the race and see the results at http://transrockies-run.com/
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