On Saturday, April 16, Ornery Mule Racing held their annual Earth Day trail races featuring a 50K, 15 mile, and 5 mile option, there is a distance for everyone. This race is held at the Veteran Acres park in Crystal Lake, Illinois and is truly a suburban hidden gem.
Ornery Mule Racing is owned by Michele Hartwig, who is a valued member of the running community on all levels. Her events are friendly and welcoming to runners of all abilities. Every detail is thought out and designed with runners in mind. From the hand painted medals to the hugs at the start line, the staff and volunteers always make these races unforgettable to runners.
This year‘s Earth Day event was fairly chilly in comparison to years past. The races began at 8 AM with the temperature just over 30°, but the sun was shining. The 5.2 mile loop had runners beginning at the pavilion located right near parking. Runners then ran across the bridge and up a flight of stairs before beginning their journey through the trail system. This trail is difficult, but not unmanageable. There are several hills that require walking and roots and trees that require jumping. Runners are challenged on all levels but have each other and volunteers to lean on. There are several flat portions of the course as well for runners to get their heart rate back down and gain a little speed.
There was an aid station at the start/finish line that runners crossed every loop. Runners were also able to leave drop bags if they wanted to bring their personalized fuel and hydration supplies.
I began the morning with gloves, a jacket, and a hat. I ended with just my jacket as I warmed up and my feet thawed out from the 30 degree start.
In the past, runners have received a uniquely hand painted wood medal. This year, Michele decided to do it a bit different. She worked with an artist who created an image that exemplified the course’s trail system. This beautiful image was put onto a medal for everyone as they crossed the finish line. As always, a huge thank you to the staff and volunteers who work so hard to make sure we runners are taken care of. And congrats to everyone who went out there and “ran their ass off” as the OMR team would say!
