Races to do again

I very rarely do any event more than once. I find that the "adventure" of a new event is more enjoyable than trying to "beat my time" on the same course from one year to the next.

That said - there are a handful of events that I have done or would consider doing more than once because they are so unique or memorable or just outright cool - here are a few for your consideration:

Silverman Triathlon (http://www.silvermannv.com/) - in Henderson Nevada (just outside of las Vegas) - hands down the hardest Iron-distance event out there. The swim is magnificent in crystal-clear Lake Mead, the bike is hilly and brutal and hot (even in November) and the run is also hilly but there are lots of enthusiastic volunteers. Frank Lowery runs a stellar event and the swag-bag puts the "official" Ironman-series events to shame.

Squaw Peak 50 (http://www.squawpeak50.com/sqw_mstr.htm) - in Provo Utah. One of the hardest and hilliest and rockiest 50-mile trail runs around - but also one of the most beautiful, which is what keeps me coming back (this years will be #3) to John Bozung's masterpiece event.

Vermont 100 (http://www.vermont100.com/) - truth be told, the only reason I'm giving this one another try is because I DNFed in 2009. I am hoping for a "smarter" run in 2010 - now that I have a proper respect for the distance...

Mid-Mountain Marathon (http://www.mountaintrails.org/) in Park City, UT. I have done this one 3 times and have loved every one of them. The course follows the Mid-Mountain Trail at about 8,000 feet from Deer Valley Resort to Park City Mountain Resort and finishing at The Canyons Resort. You find yourself running past ski slopes, pine forest, aspen groves - and stunning scenery at every turn. Not a lot of oxygen though.

Desert RATS Trail Run (http://geminiadventures.com/DesertRATSfestival.html) in Fruita, CO. Held by the good folks at Gemini Adventures, this 25 (or 50) mile run thru the red rocks of Fruita has some of the most stunning desert vistas.

Nantucket Rock Run (http://www.therockrun.com/) - is 50 miles of running in the sand/surf around Nantucket Island off the coast of Massachusetts. Not a lot in the way of support - but most of the runners are doing a 10-mile leg as part of a relay team - so we solo runners have to fend for ourselves - which is part of the fun. Ocean on your left, mansions on your right, and miles of beautiful sand and oceanscape ahead - a great day to spend a day and Hector will make sure you find a cold beer at the finish line!

Let me know if you decide to do any of these events - you will not regret any of them!

Until next time...

Shawn