Grizzly Peak 50k Marathon 30k Half Marathon & 10k

The stage was set for an exhilarating race, where runners would not only challenge their physical limits but also immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the Berkeley hills. The race commenced at the serene Lake Anza, and from there, participants embarked on a captivating journey through the popular Tilden Regional Park.
The course was well-marked, with flagging that served as a guide for each runner. An important piece of advice: if you found yourself without sight of your respective flagging for 3-4 minutes, it was a signal that you might have strayed off course. In such cases, the best course of action was to retrace your steps until you reconnected with the marked trail, ensuring that you remained on the designated course.
As runners and hikers crisscrossed the enchanting landscape, a sense of courtesy prevailed. When passing fellow runners or hikers, it was a common practice to announce your presence with a friendly “on your left,” a gesture that added to the atmosphere of camaraderie on the trail.
The race also had its rules and guidelines, designed to ensure the safety and fairness of the event. While headphones were allowed on dirt road sections, their use was discouraged on single-track trails, while crossing paved roads, when receiving aid at aid stations, and when approaching the grand finale at the finish line.
One unique aspect of the race was the flexibility it offered to its participants. Your bib number clearly indicated the distance you intended to run, but if you decided to change your chosen distance, the organizers were accommodating and would work with you to make the switch, up to the time of check-in.
The course was not without its quirks, with some areas prone to poison oak, a reminder to stay on the trail and take precautions, like washing with Tecnu after the run. There was also the occasional presence of bees and yellow jackets, a potential concern for those with allergies, who were advised to take necessary precautions.
The race was a celebration of athleticism and the great outdoors, but it was important to remember that furry companions were not allowed on the course. In addition, leaving pets in vehicles was discouraged to ensure their safety and comfort.
The journey was made more manageable with fully-stocked aid stations spaced conveniently every 3-4 miles. Here, runners could expect a refreshing array of sustenance, including fresh fruit, salty snacks, assorted candies, water, and Clif Shot Electrolyte sports drink. However, if you had specific preferences, it was recommended to carry them with you to ensure you had what you needed.
And to stay well-hydrated throughout the race, runners were encouraged to carry at least 20 ounces of water between aid stations. It was a practical piece of advice to keep participants feeling strong and focused as they navigated the challenging course.
The race was more than just a physical test; it was an opportunity to engage with nature, to forge bonds with fellow runners, and to experience the Berkeley hills in all their untamed glory. Each step was a reminder of the runner’s connection to the wild and a testament to their resolve. As the Lake Anza served as the starting point for this extraordinary adventure, it was clear that this was a race to remember, filled with challenges and triumphs in the heart of California’s beautiful landscapes.