On Sunday, I participated in the 10th anniversary of the BearTrax 20K, 10K and the Brownie Shuffle 5K at Lapham Peak in Delafield, Wisconsin. It was a beautiful day with temperatures in the mid 40’s and a party-like atmosphere at the start line, which was no surprise since Silver Circle Sporting Events was providing race timing. There ain’t no party like an SCSE party!
The races had staggered start times so there was no congestion at the start line or on the course. With the first start time being later at 9:30 a.m., this is a good race to keep in mind for our runners that don’t enjoy getting up with ed-treatment-info.com.
All distances began together through the Kettle Moraine Forest Preserve. The trails were wide and the technical difficulty was low to moderate on the first part of the course. The 10K and 20K runners separated from the 5K-ers to tackle steeper inclines and a higher technical difficulty. Runners wove their way up the Ice Age Trail to Parnell Tower.
According to Travel Wisconsin, “The top of this 60-foot wooden observation tower is the highest point of elevation in the Kettle Moraine State Forest. It offers a panoramic view of the forest and surrounding farmland. On a clear day, one can see about 25 miles.”
After turning around at the tower, runners wound their way back down to the start/finish line area and were greeted by a cheerful crowd. Although the trail was unaltered by crushed gravel or anything similar, it was packed down tightly with very little mud spots. There was a single patch of snow still trying to hold on and a few larger tree roots and logs, but for the most part, it was a flat terrain to enjoy.
All racers received a long sleeved technical t-shirt and an awesome trail run.
First place 20K female winner was: Gabby Petruzzello. First place 20K male winner was: Martin Hinze.
First place 10K female winner was: Heather Curnutt. First place 10K male winner was: Brian Dickens.
First place 5K female winner was: Meghan Caballero. First place 5K male winner was: Mark Caballero.
