In an unforeseen twist, the annual Horsethief Canyon Half Marathon was met with a unique challenge this year. Due to forestry permitting issues, organizers made the bold decision to merge it with the Horsethief Canyon Trail Triathlon, creating a spectacular and one-of-a-kind event that had the local running and triathlon communities buzzing with anticipation.
The heart of this event, the racecourse, took center stage in the excitement. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pine Creek Wilderness, this year’s race promised a truly remarkable experience. Thanks to special permissions granted by the U.S. Forest Service, participants had the privilege of exploring these pristine landscapes while tackling the demanding course.
The Horsethief Canyon Half Marathon course was set to be an out-and-back journey, with the trail primarily following a dirt Fire Road. But this route was no ordinary jog in the woods. The initial leg of the race was an uphill challenge that pushed athletes to their limits, testing their endurance and grit. However, the hard work would pay off, as the second half of the course offered a tantalizing reward—a mostly downhill descent leading runners back to the finish line. This unique course design offered runners an opportunity to aim for the coveted “negative split” and complete the second half of the race faster than the first.
One standout feature of the course was the fire road itself. It was exceptionally wide and devoid of technical obstacles, ensuring that footing remained steady, even in unpredictable weather conditions. This meant that competitors could focus on their race strategy and performance without constantly worrying about treacherous terrain.
