On Saturday, Des Plaines River Trail Races hosted their annual multi- distance event in Lake County. A 50 mile ultra, full marathon and half marathon race option were available to entrants. Each year all three distances sell out well before the race date and this year was no different.
This race is not only appealing to trail enthusiasts, but to road racers alike. The fast and flat Des Plaines River Trail is a wide, crushed gravel track, free of roots and rocks. The race is fairly flat and all major road crossings are managed by way of bridges or viaducts.
With little elevation and very flat terrain, racers could pick up speed while still enjoying the beauty of a traditional trail race. The entire path was tree-lined and smells of the fast approaching fall season were abundant.
The various distances had different starting times and within each distance, racers enjoyed a staggered start based on anticipated finish time. With the numerous start times scattered throughout the morning, racers enjoyed a great deal of space throughout the entire course.
Although Saturday morning began with light to heavy rainfall, by mile three of the half marathon, all rain had nearly come to an end. Half marathon distance runners, at least, were treated to a break in the rain fall to enjoy this scenic trail race.
Pre-race communication was excellent, as race directors gave detailed information about parking, race day weather and overall expectations. Runners enjoyed free parking and a short shuttle bus ride dropping off right near the start/finish line.
At the finish line, crossers received a colorful metal, plentiful food and drinks and a long-sleeved technical T-shirt. In its eighth year, it is easy to see why this race is a success. Race directors were extremely well organized and put on a fantastic event, cheerful volunteers and aid stations were plentiful throughout the course and the scenic beauty of the trail allowed even road racers, like me, to enjoy a trail run.
Winners
First through third female 50 Mile winners were: Jessica Bird, Katie Koester and Paula O’Connor. Male 50 Mile winners were: Jean-Bernard Flanagan, Bart Worwa and Seung Kim.
First through third female marathon winners were: Becky Patch, Anna Klocek and Hilary Hansen. Male marathon winners were: Yusheng Ni, Jim Levesque and Mark Walsh.
First through third female half marathon winners were: Margaret Ludick, Jacqueline Graham and Sammy Wong. Male half marathon winners were: Garett Childs, Curt Dalgleish and Justin Johnson.
