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West Virginia > Babcock Gristmill Grinder Trail Half Marathon
Clifftop, WV
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Date

Saturday, April 17, 2010


 
Event Details

Nestled in the challenging mountainous terrain of Babcock State Park in the center of southern West Virginia, the Babcock Gristmill Grinder Half Marathon trail run more than lives up to its name, offering runners a rugged course along single- and double-track trails in the heart of the state's whitewater rafting country. The race also features spectacular overlook views as you run through the mountains, as well as plenty of lush green vegetation and waterfalls along the way.

Part of a state-wide race series known as the West Virginia Mountain Trail Series, the Gristmill Grinder is the series' first race of the year, and starts and finishes at the Sugar Camp Run Picnic Area on the southern edge of the park. From there, the course winds through Babcock's hills, valleys and mountain ridges, takes steep climbs up to the area known as the "Skyline" along the cliffs, and then evens out somewhat along the rolling terrain up along the cliffs.

The steepest climbs and descents occur in the early and late parts of the race, between miles 2 and 3 and then again around the 10-mile marker, race organizers say. There's also everything you might expect from a trail race along the way -- rocky and muddy terrain, with streams and water interspersed throughout the course. There are also three aid stations along the route, and a gradual uphill to the finish line.

Thanks in part to its remote location and rugged terrain, the race is a small one, and saw just over 90 runners cross the finish line at the event's 2009 running. For runners, the race begins at 10:00 AM, and for walkers at 10:10 AM.


Race Weather & Climate

In nearby Fayetteville, W.V., which lies about eight miles west of Babcock State Park, weather conditions in the early spring tend to be mild to moderately cool and occasionally cold, especially in the higher elevations. In April, temperatures average between 63°F and 39°F, while rainfall amounts average around 3.94 inches for the month.


Fees

$25 for the half marathon, if registered by April 8, 2010
$30 after April 8


Registration

To reserve your spot the spring 2010 running of Clifftop's Gristmill Grinder Half Marathon, register online at Active.com.


Website

www.gauleyrace.com


Course Map


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Share Your Race Story

Ever run in Babcock State Park's annual Gristmill Grinder Half Marathon? Share your impressions and read fellow runners' stories and tips for the event.

Post your comments in Runner Reviews for the Babcock Gristmill Grinder Trail Half Marathon


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