New York > Hairy Gorilla Half Marathon &
Squirrelly Six Miler Voorheesville,
NY addthis
Date
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Event
Details
A Halloween-themed trail race that takes runners through the foothills
of the Catskill Mountains in eastern New York State, the Hairy Gorilla
Half Marathon and Squirrelly Six-Mile Run have something for everyone
when it comes to trail running races -- plenty of challenging hills,
deep woods forest lands to run through, wet and inclement weather
conditions at times, and plenty of natural beauty surrounding you as
you run. Organizers caution that this isn't a race you should be
looking to set any personal records at -- the course will take much
longer to complete than a road race.
The event's three races -- it also includes a half-marathon relay --
follow an out-and-back loop course through John Boyd Thatcher State
Park, whose Helderburg escarpment is known as one of the richest
fossil-bearing rock formations on earth, and whose trails offer
runners, hikers and backpackers panoramic views of the nearby Hudson
and Mohawk River valleys. The first mile or so of the race takes
runners through a grassy field, followed by a fairly easy trail section
with some rocks and roots.
From there, the remainder of the course follows the park's Long Path,
which contains some technical sections as well as a mile-long incline
between miles 1.5 and 2.5. Along the second half of the course, runners
should expect to encounter some wet, muddy terrain, so race organizers
encourage participants to wear sturdy trail shoes. The race attracts a
field of just over 100 runners each year, so it's a smaller, more
intimate race that will definitely allow you space to fully take in the
route's gorgeous natural wonder.
Race
Weather & Climate
October weather conditions can vary widely in this lower New York state
town, located just under 20 miles west of Albany, with temperatures
during the month that average between 60°F and 39°F.
Rainfall amounts during the month average about 3.23 inches.
Fees
$21 if registered by October 20
$25 after Oct. 20 through the day of the race
Registration
Registration for the 2008 Hairy Gorilla Half Marathon &
Squirrelly Six-Miler are not yet open. Check this space later for
updates.
