Raitter and Hitztaler Summit The Fastest - Colorado Runner

Race Reports...Raitter and Hitztaler Summit The FastestTypical spectators found at theMount Evans Ascent.Mt. Evans AscentIdaho Springs, COJune 17, 2006by Darrin EismannBill Raitter is one of Colorado’s topmountain runners. Stephanie Hitztalerjust missed cracking the top-100 at theBoston Marathon last spring. Both runnerscome from different backgrounds, but they bothproved they had what it took to claim victory inAmerica’s highest road race.The auto road up Mt. Evans, just southof Idaho Springs, is the highest paved road inNew Course Record At Estes Park MarathonKaren Fuchs of Louisville, CO winsthe Estes Park Marathon in 3:53:25.North America, topping out just a stone’s throwfrom the 14,264 foot summit of Mt. Evans.The Mt. Evans Ascent takes runners up all 14.5miles of the road, from it’s start at an elevationof 10,600 feet near Echo Lake to the summitparking lot at well over 14,000.Most of the race takes place abovetreeline, offering awe-inspiring views of theRocky Mountains - but also exposing runners tothe whim of Mother Nature. A pesky breeze atthe starting line was a warning to many participantsthat the wind would be whipping after thetwo mile mark.And they weren’t wrong.Despite unusually warm temperaturesand strong morning sun on the mountain, thestrong winds made the early miles challengingfor everyone. By the time the runners reachedSummit Lake midway through the race, thingshad changed and the final five miles of switchbackswere smooth sailing.For Bill Raitter, the race was a lonelyone. After an opening mile run stride-for-stridewith Butch Wilson of Lyons, Raitter easedaway, opening up a sizeable gap in the nextmile. By the time he reached the summit, he hadexpanded his lead to over five minutes to finishin 1:56:38.Wilson, however, was pushed hard.Antonio Holguin challenged Wilson not onlyfor the second place spot, but also for the Master’svictory throughout the race. Holguin’s finalcharge came as the runners rounded the race’sEstes Park Marathon RacesEstes Park, COJune 18, 2006by Gary HallThe third running of the Estes Park Marathonwas a great success. This year theweather cooperated by failing to reachthe baking heights of 2005, allowing for a newmen’s course record to be set! All of the entrantsin the four events (marathon, half marathon, andOptimists 10K and 5K) were treated to a fabulouspost-race feast, and the marathon and halfmarathon winners received beautiful uniqueglassworks from the famous White Elk Visionsin Glass studio in Glen Haven.The tough but beautiful Estes ParkMarathon course was blistered by Anton Krupickaof Colorado Springs in a time of 2:45:02,breaking Jason Saitta’s 2004 record by morethan two minutes. Krupicka looked fresh andready for more at the finish line! Karen Fuchsof Louisville was all smiles as she repeated asfemale champion in a time of 3:53:25.Local talent prevailed in the women’shalf marathon, as Laura Wheatley (the 2004Marathon and 2005 Half Marathon champion)tore through the course in 1:34:57. Michael Trahanof Evans took the honors in the men’s halfmarathon in a time of 1:25:19, holding off localEstes Park wonder boy John McMillan.In the Optimist 10K, Tanya Poel ofBoulder continued her dominance from pastyears by winning in a time of 40:19, while MattWhalen of Louisville topped the field in 40:02.In the Optimist 5K, Aaron Oakley of Boulderfinal switchback, but Wilson gamely respondedto maintain a ten second cushion to the finish.Wilson’s time was 2:01:51.For Hitztaler, the win was not so easy.After missing the start, Hitztaler was forced toweave through the entire field before finallytaking the race lead. 14.5 miles and over twohours later, she crossed the finish line in firstwith a time of 2:16:03. Boulder’s Susan Nuzumfinished less than two minutes back in 2:17:54,with Gunnison’s Keri Nelson in third at 2:21:53.Course record holder J’ne Day-Lucore wasthe women’s masters champion, finishing in2:25:54.138 Finishers - Timing by: Boulder Road Runners - Elevation: Start = 10,600’,Finish = 14,150’Male (Overall): 1. Bill Raitter, Estes Park, CO, 36, 1:56:38; 2.Butch Wilson, Lyons, CO, 40, 2:01:51; 3. Antonio Holguin, RedCliff, CO, 40, 2:02:01; 4. Andrew Adamowski, Evergreen, CO, 32,2:03:22; 5. Adam Feerst, Denver, CO, 46, 2:06:36; 6. Russel Bollig,Westminster, CO, 42, 2:11:21; 7. Eric Hallman, Longmont, CO,35, 2:13:08; 8. Chris Alderman, Golden, CO, 32, 2:14:51; 9. TobyNitschke, Littleton, CO, 37, 2:15:33; 10. Lonnie Pilkington, EstesPark, CO, 35, 2:18:51. Masters (40+): 1. Butch Wilson, Lyons,CO, 40, 2:01:51. Grand Masters (50+): 1. Bob Cooper, Thornton,CO, 58, 2:38:00. Seniors (60+): 1. Jim Romero, Denver, CO, 66,2:59:16. Female (Overall): 1. Stephanie Hitztaler, Syracuse,NY, 32, 2:16:03; 2. Susan Nuzum, Boulder, CO, 39, 2:17:54; 3.Keri Nelson, Gunnison, CO, 25, 2:21:53; 4. Bronwyn Morrissey,Superior, CO, 39, 2:22:01; 5. J’ne Day-Lucore, Denver, CO, 45,2:25:54; 6. Kristine Gewin, Heber City, UT, 33, 2:32:35; 7. HeidiVosbeck, Glenwood Springs, CO, 44, 2:38:21; 8. Stella Heffron,Parker, CO, 39, 2:41:05; 9. Deb Cunningham, Denver, CO, 44,2:48:33; 10. Emma Catmur, Crested Butte, CO, 2:50:25. Masters(40+): 1. J’ne Day-Lucore, Denver, CO, 45, 2:25:54. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Marnie Klein, Golden, CO, 53, 3:06:49.won in 20:03, which was the same time as thefemale winner, Vanessa Martell of Bloomfield,NY. Vanessa barely held off Tanya Poel frompulling another double-win (10 km and 5 km),with Tanya finishing just 20 seconds back.469 Finishers (147 - Marathon, 170 - Half Marathon, 83 - 10K, 69 - 5K) - Timingby: RunLimited - Weather: Sunny and 70 degrees - Elevation: Start/Finish= 7,550’Marathon Male (Overall): 1. Anton Krupicka, 2:45:02; 2. ErikPackard, 3:02:33; 3. Ryan Donovan, 3:07:01; 4. Terry Haran,3:13:23; 5. Adam Chase, 3:15:55. Masters (40+): 1. Erik Packard,3:02:33. Grand Masters (50+): 1. Terry Haran, 3:13:23. Seniors(60+): 1. Glen Neumann, 5:06:09. Female (Overall): 1. KarenFuchs, 3:53:25; 2. Tassa Saldi, 3:58:42; 3 . Kirsten Mccay-Smith,4:00:26; 4. Sara Close, 4:06:58; 5. Jenny Kapp, 4:08:29. Masters(40+): 1. Rosemarie Ornellas, 4:44:37. Grand Masters (50+): 1.Carol Landeros, 5:20:41. Seniors (60+): 1. Christianne Sacco,7:31:26. Half Marathon Male (Overall): 1. Michael Trahan,1:25:19; 2. John McMillan, 1:29:30; 3. Shawn Ness, 1:30:00; 4.Lonnie Pilkington, 1:31:25; 5. Todd Reynolds, 1:32:26. Masters(40+): 1. John Mcmillan, 1:29:30. Grand Masters (50+): 1. RichJohnson, 1:47:10. Seniors (60+): 1. Rich Johnson, 1:47:10.Female (Overall): 1. Laura Wheatley, 1:34:57; 2. Ashlee Nelson,1:37:59; 3. Chris Donohue, 1:41:23; 4. Sarah Hamlin, 1:41:45; 5.Meghan Riley, 1:49:03. Masters (40+): 1. Jane Sanders, 1:52:01.Grand Masters (50+): 1. Robin Seymour, 1:56:56. Seniors(60+): 1. Sharon Lafoe, 2:15:11. 10K Male (Overall): 1. MattWhalen, 40:02; 2. Tim Smith, 41:14; 3 . Benjamin Williams, 41:33;4. Morgan Addis, 42:01; 5. Brendan Kalish, 43:14. Masters (40+):1. Tim Smith, 41:14. Grand Masters (50+): 1. Jon Sonstroem,55:29. Seniors (60+): 1. Jon Sonstroem, 55:29. Female(Overall): 1. Tanya Poel, 40:19; 2. Haley Beann, 47:04; 3. KaitlynHager, 50:09; 4. Sara Friedly, 50:19; 5. Sarah Dejong, 53:54.Masters (40+): 1. Tanya Poel, 40:19. Grand Masters (50+):1. Donna Brown, 1:11:28. Seniors (60+): 1. Janice Newman,1:13:26. 5K Male (Overall): 1. Aaron Oakley, 20:03; 2. ToddSabo, 20:12; 3. Joseph Williams, 22:29; 4. Andy Collins, 24:07; 5.John Clark, 24:19. Masters (40+): 1. Don Benson, 25:07. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Randy Collins, 25:38. Seniors (60+): 1. DonBishop, 30:04. Female (Overall): 1. Vanessa Martell, 20:03; 2.Tanya Poel, 20:23; 3. Abigail Williams, 26:35; 4. Naomi Williams,28:04; 5. Zoe Pulford, 28:24. Masters (40+): 1. Tanya Poel,20:23. Grand Masters (50+): 1. Mary Hannigan, 30:25. Seniors(60+): 1. Kay Bishop, 36:09.This Page - Derek Griffiths / Colorado RunnerOpposite - Top: Derek Griffiths / Colorado Runner, Bottom: Jackie Friesth

Freedom Run Raises Money for HospiceFreedom Run 5KEvergreen, COJuly 4, 2006The relentless July sun didn’t take a vacationfor runners and walkers at the start ofone of Colorado’s largest 4th of July races.But the intense heat didn’t stop more than 1,000people from finishing the 5 km event.The course led participants over gentlyrolling terrainthroughthe Hiwanr e s i d e n t i a larea. Therewere plenty ofbreathtakingviews alongthe way. Somehomeownerson the routed e c o r a t e dtheir yardsand houses inpatriotic colors.Mastersrunner BobSteve Fossel shows offhis patriotic spirit.Weiner wona close racein 16:16. TheE v e r g r e e nresident beatr u n n e r - u pAndrew Hoffmanof Baileyby 11 secondsand Derek Leidigh of Greenwood Village by 20seconds.Brandy Erholtz easily won the women’srace in 18:22, which was close to the courserecord of 18 minutes set by Noreen Shea in 1999.Erholtz had just moved to Bailey and was hopingto find training partners in the area.Money raised at the Freedom Runhelped the Mt. Evans Hospice and Home Carein Evergreen. The organization cares for underinsuredpatients and supports numerous services,such as grief counseling, transportation forpatients to medical appointments, respite carefor family caregivers, and Camp Comfort, a bereavementcamp for children.The finish line festivities included refreshments,music, prizes, and a pool party.1,109 Finishers - WinningTime Chip Timing by: BKB Ltd. - Weather: Sunny, 80degrees - Elevation: Start = 7,700’, Finish = 7,500’Male (Overall): 1. Bob Weiner, 41, Evergreen, CO, 16:16; 2.Andrew Hoffman, 22, Bailey, CO, 16:27; 3. Derek Leidigh, 22,Greenwood Village, CO, 16:36; 4. Cortino Garcia, 32, Evergreen,CO, 16:59; 5. Sean McNeil, 16, Littleton, CO, 17:39, 6. BrianKearns, 19, 18:02; 7. Brian Glotzbach, 31, Centennial, CO, 18:06;8. Guadulupe Romo, 17, 18:20; 9. Patrick Shanks, 20, Evergreen,CO, 18:36; 10. Steve Fossel, 38, Evergreen, CO, 18:47. Masters(40+): 1. Bob Weiner, 41, Evergreen, CO, 16:16. Grand Masters(50+): 1. Gary Romansky, 52, Morrison, CO, 19:09. Seniors (60+):1. Joe Quinones, 60, Arada, CO, 21:31. Female (Overall): 1.Brandy Erholtz, 28, Bailey, CO, 18:22; 2. Jen Webers, 17, Conifer,CO, 19:47; 3. Deborah Davies, 32, 20:03; 4. Jacquie Garrelts,44, Littleton, CO, 20:50; 5. Kim Grant, 46, 21:00; 6. Erin Brunko,16, Evergreen, CO, 21:10; 7. Kyla Berendzen, 16, Morrison, CO,21:25; 8. Karen Opp, 37, Bailey, CO, 21:45; 9. Amy McLean, 34,22:14; 10. Chelsey Oeffler, 15, Evergreen, CO, 22:19. Masters(40+): 1. Jacquie Garrelts, 44, Littleton, CO, 20:50. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Pam Russell, 55, Golden ,CO, 23:46. Seniors(60+): 1. Sara Sieker, 67, Centennial, CO, 31:24.Brandy Erholtz, a Minnesotatransplant living in Bailey, wins theFreedom Run in 18:22.First recorded Sub-Four Minute Mile in Colorado - Times 4!barrier on the fast downhill course.The race was the brain child of four Superior runningpartners comprised of world class marathoner Don Janicki, nationalclass runner Brent Friesth, avid runner and accountant Don Tubbs,and 2006 transplant games medallist Pat Butler. The fast course wasa part of their typical running route and they new it could give eliterunners in the area a chance to break 4:00 at mile high altitude.Tubbs volunteered as first time race director. Businessowners Butler and Friesth offered up the prize money, and Janickirecruited the volunteers. Prize money of $1,000 was offered up forthe first three men and women finishers with a Bonus of $500 eachto the first male runner to break 4:00 in Colorado and the first femalerunner to break 4:30 in the state. Amy Manson of Superiorwon the women’s race in 4:43 coming up just short of the bonusmoney. Four men went under 4:00. 2003 National Champion 1,500meter runner Jason Lunn led the field with a 3:51. Lunn was followedby Peter Remien (3.53), Clint Wells (3:57), and Justin Young(3:58).Superior Downhill MileSuperior, COJuly 4, 2006by Brent FriesthThe first ever Sub-4 minute mile in Colorado was recorded in the inauguralSuperior Downhill Mile. Three others also broke the elusive four minute138 Finishers - Timing by: Boulder Road RunnersMale (Overall): 1. Jason Lunn, Longmont, CO, 31, 3:51; 2. Peter Remien, Superior, CO,26, 3:53; 3. Clint Wells, Superior, CO, 31, 3:57; 4. Justin Young, Superior, CO, 26, 3:58; 5.Paul Michel, Superior, CO, 23, 4:01; 6. Robert Caracciolo, Boulder, CO, 24, 4:02; 7. EricLee Griffiths, Boulder, CO, 24, 4:03; 8. Peter Vail, Boulder, CO, 31, 4:05; 9. Josh Glaab,Superior, CO, 23, 4:11; 10. Terence Doherty, Boulder, CO, 26, 4:12. Masters (40+): 1. DeanMaruna, Erie, CO, 46, 4:26. Grand Masters (50+): 1. Wayne Cousinea, Superior, CO, 56,5:41. Seniors (60+): 1. Charles Westley, Arvada, CO, 69, 6:37. Female (Overall): 1. AmyManson, Superior, CO, 37, 4:43; 2. Tanya Poel, Boulder, CO, 40, 4:44; 3. Lauren Young,Superior, CO, 26, 4:46; 4. Kelly Waters, Louisville, CO, 17, 4:48; 5. Faith Byrum, Erie, CO,32, 4:48; 6. Nan Kennard, Superior, CO, 24, 4:55; 7. Erin Dunham, Superior, CO, 22, 5:02;8. Bronwyn Morrissey, Superior, CO, 39, 5:06; 9. Noelle Green, Erie, CO, 41, 5:12; 10. EvaLauf, Longmont, CO, 34, 5:35. Masters (40+): 1. Tanya Poel, Boulder, CO, 40, 4:44. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Patti Gilmour, Westminster, CO, 50, 6:13.September/October 2006 coloradorunnermag.com 55

Race Reports...Gutierrez and Cospolich Victorious at Hill ClimbSimon Gutierrez runs alone on hisway to a two minute victory.Vail Hill ClimbVail, COJuly 2, 2006by Nancy HobbsMore than 300 runners challenged themselvesto an unrelenting 7.5-mile climbto the summit of Vail Mountain at theVail Hill Climb. Sea-level competitors as wellas altitude-adjusted locals gathered at Vail’sMountain Haus on a cloudless morning, whileMatt Carpenter of Manitou Springssprints up the final hill to the finish.Carpenter Dominates BTMR - AgainBarr Trail Mountain RaceManitou Springs, COJuly 16, 2006by Matt Carpenter56 coloradorunnermag.com September/October 2006race director Mike Ortiz gave the runners preraceannouncements. The course meanderedthrough Vail Village on paved streets for nearlyone and one half miles where the surface turnedto gravel and dirt for the remaining six miles tothe summit.Four-time Teva U.S. Mountain RunningTeam member Simon Gutierrez was firstto cross the finish line. The 40-year-old physicaltherapist from Alamosa took the lead fromthe start and never looked back. Gutierrez’swinning time of 51:58 was nearly one minuteslower than last year’s winning time.Finishing second was Bill Fanselow,timed in 54:11, followed by 24-year-old JohnTribbia.Helen Cospolich, from the nearbyski-town of Breckenridge, won the women’sdivision in 1:03:04. Local runner Lynda Androsplaced second in 1:04:25. Susan Nuzum ofBoulder finished in third just 13 seconds behindAndros.Bernie Boettcher won the mastersdivision in 55:23 and was fifth overall. EricHermann, who trains mostly on his road bike,logging more than 100 miles per week whilerunning only 15 miles per week, was second inthe masters division in 58:11. Rounding out thetop three masters was Hans Funke, just 11 secondsbehind Hermann in 58:22.Second-place finisher at last year’sPikes Peak Ascent and member of the 2000 nationalmountain running team, Cindy O’NeillThe 2006 Barr Trail Mountain Race washot, really hot! But it was not just thetemperatures that were hot, as the competitionwas heated as well. Silvio Guerra wasadded to the field the day before the race. He is a2:09 marathoner, two-time runner up at the BostonMarathon and three-time Olympian. Wordquickly spread that he was coming to win. Lastyear’s Pikes Peak Ascent winner, Ryan Haferand course record holder Matt Carpenter hadother ideas.That race had to wait because whenthe gun went off there was a mad dash for a$100 prime 200 meters into the course. ThomSanta Maria held off the field, but the effort costhim and it took until No Name Creek at 3 milesbefore he felt recovered. He ended up in 32ndoverall. Twenty-one year old Ian Burrell tookthe second prime about one half mile into therace. Carpenter then took control and went onto a comfortable win, although he can’t claimhe never looked back. His 1:30:53 was the secondfastest time ever recorded on the course andearned him his fifth title. The race for secondwas decided on the trip down with Hafer makingup the two minute gap on Guerra and thenadding another two minutes before hitting thetape in 1:32:31. Guerra held on for third.On the women’s side leading up to therace, things looked to be a lock for Lisa Goldsmith.But again, the BTMR’s policy of holdingspots for competitive runners shuffled the fieldwith two-time BTMR winner and defendingchampion Katie Blackett getting a late entry.Blackett took it out hard and picked up $150in primes before Goldsmith took over the race.She built nearly a four minute cushion at theturnaround and then, running scared, managedto add another two minutes to that on the tripdown. Goldsmith’s six minute and 31 secondmargin of victory was the largest in race historyof Manitou Springs, won the women’s masterscategory in 1:05:57.In the 60+ age group, perennial winnerJim Romero settled for second place to JimOberheide. Romero could have been a bit tiredfrom the Leadville Half Marathon he ran the daybefore.The top three male and female finishersoverall were awarded gift certificatesfor Teva footwear while the top three finishersin each age group 19 and under, 20-29, 30-39,40-49, 50-59, and 60+ also received gift certificates.In addition to these great awards, eachparticipant received a commemorative t-shirtand goody bag at the finish line. The t-shirts,designed by Bernie Boettcher, depicted a colorfulmountain running vista to celebrate the 28thanniversary of the race.347 Finishers - Timing by: Vail Recreation District - Weather: Sunny and 65degrees - Elevation: Start = 8,163’, Finish = 10,335’Male (Overall): 1. Simon Gutierrez, 40, 51:58; 2. Bill Fanselow,39, 54:11; 3. John Tribbia, 24, 54:28; 4. Peter Vail, 31, 54:28;5. Bernie Beottcher, 43, 55:23; 6. Jason Loutitt, 32, 56:07; 7.Erling Christiansen, 24, 57:04; 8. Dan Weiland, 31, 57:18; 9.Paul Thomas, 37, 57:51; 10. Eric Hermann, 44, 58:11. Masters(40+): 1. Simon Gutierrez, 40, 51:58. Grand Masters (50+): 1.Kevin Tuck, 50, 1:00:43. Seniors (60+): 1. James Oberheide,61, 1:16:04. Female (Overall): 1. Helen Cospolich, 29, 1:03:04;2. Lynda Andros, 30, 1:04:25; 3. Susan Nuzum, 39, 1:04:38; 4.Kelly Ryan, 37, 1:04:52; 5. Cindy O’Neil, 44, 1:05:57; 6. BarbekkaHurtt, 36, 1:07:06; 7. Danielle Rawlings, 20, 1:07:55; 8. MeganBoord, 29, 1:08:28; 9. Anita Ortiz, 42, 1:08:36; 10. Heidi Vosbeck,44, 1:10:31. Masters (40+): 1. Cindy O’Neil, 44, 1:05:57. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Nancy Stevenson, 52, 1:18:41. Seniors (60+):1. Diane Tope, 61, 1:35:30.(male of female). Like Carpenter, she also ranthe second fastest time ever on the course.In the fundraising department, for theseventh year in a row, the BTMR donated 100%of the race entry fees to local nonprofit organizationsand community projects. In all, $8,645was distributed to Barr Camp, El Paso CountySearch and Rescue, Friends of the Peak andManitou Springs Mansions Park. Also, $6,000was donated to local high school cross countryprograms through the high school aid stationchallenge. This is only possible thanks to greatsponsors, with presenting sponsor Pikes PeakNational Bank and the Colorado Running Companyleading the way.333 Finishers - Timing by: The Colorado Running Company - Weather: Sunny,80 degrees - Elevation: Start = 6,570’, Finish = 6,650’, Max of 10,200’Male (Overall): 1. Matt Carpenter, 41, Manitou Springs, CO,1:30:53; 2. Ryan Hafer, 20, Colorado Springs, CO, 1:32:31; 3.Silvio Roman Guerra, 37, Golden, CO, 1:35:06; 4. Daryn Parker,25, Manitou Springs, CO, 1:35:56; 5. Michael Selig, 28, Golden,CO, 1:35:59; 6. Galen Burrell, 27, Boulder, CO, 1:36:49; 7. PeterVail, 31, Boulder, CO, 1:37:09; 8. Julian Boggs, 20, ColoradoSprings, CO, 1:41:08; 9. Stephen Sisson, 36, Austin, TX, 1:41:11;10. Bernie Boettcher, 43, Silt, CO, 1:41:14. Masters (40+): 1. MattCarpenter, 41, Manitou Springs, CO, 1:30:53. Grand Masters(50+): 1. John Victoria, 52, Loveland, CO, 1:51:50. Seniors(60+): 1. Darrell Weaver, 60, Colorado Springs, CO, 2:15:10.Female (Overall): 1. Lisa Goldsmith, 41, Nederland, CO, 1:52:16;2. Katie Blackett, 29, Boulder, CO, 1:58:47; 3. Bronwyn Morrissey,39, Superior, CO, 2:02:38; 4. Rachel Foss, 25, Denver, CO,2:04:36; 5. Elizabeth Watkins, 23, Colorado Springs, CO, 2:05:54;6. Amy Regnier, 44, Colorado Springs, CO, 2:07:38; 7. Jenni LeeLeppert, 32, Colorado Springs, CO, 2:09:21; 8. Heather Briggs,28, Colorado Springs, CO, 2:13:34; 9. Gina Garcia-Shaw, 39,Colorado Springs, CO, 2:17:45; 10. Karen Jo Smidt, 39, Brighton,CO, 2:19:35. Masters (40+): 1. Lisa Goldsmith, 41, Nederland,CO, 1:52:16. Grand Masters (50+): 1. Jeanne McCurnin, 50,Mason City, IA, 2:33:18.This Page - Top: Nancy Hobbs, Bottom: Yvonne CarpenterOpposite - Derek Griffiths / Colorado Runner

Classic 10K Comes DownTo The WireBrian Kearns leads Amanda Occhi (left)and Rob Gilliam at the halfway point.Grand Prix Classic 10KColorado Springs, COJuly 29, 2006Arguably the fastest 10K in Colorado, the2006 version of the Grand Prix Classic10K did not disappoint. Starting at TiffanySquare in northern Colorado Springs, therunners traveled on Corporate Center Drive forabout one half mile before hitting the Pikes PeakGreenway Trail. They would then follow this tothe finish at Monument Valley Park.Kenyan Abraham Kosgei and localyoungster Ian Burrell quickly took the lead onthe bike path. Running side by side for most ofthe race, they both set a blistering pace for the6,000’ elevation. Jason Delany, Chuck McKenzieand Art Siemers tried to keep in contact forthe first couple of miles, but the two front runnersslowly pulled away.At about five and a half miles, Abrahamsurged ahead. He won by nine seconds in30:44, taking home the $250 first place prizemoney sponsored by Runner’s Roost. Burrellfinished second in 30:53. Not wanting to affecthis college eligibility, Ian donated his $150second place prize to charity. Jason Delany heldonto third (and $100), crossing the line in 31:22.Taking home the $100 first place masters prizemoney was 46-year-old Sam Ngatia, who wastimed in 32:30.The women’s race was just as competitiveas Kara Roy of Fort Collins grabbed anearly lead on the bike path. Paula Morrison wasable to stay in contact and then pull away for the13 second win in 36:33. Amanda Occhi roundedout the prize money awards with a 37:33 thirdplace showing. Taking home the masters prizemoney was 42-year-old Joni Fehrenbacher, whowas timed in 42:35.This years race saw a dramatic increasein the number of entrants, topping 600for the first time.550 Finishers - Timing by: BKB Ltd. - Weather: Partly Cloudy, 65 degrees withincreased humidity - Elevation: Start = 6,250’, Finish = 6,050’Male (Overall): 1. Abraham Kosgei, 30, 30:44; 2. Ian Burrell,21, 30:53; 3. Jason Delaney, 25, 31:32; 4. Chuck McKenzie,22, 31:37; 5. Art Siemers, 33, 31:45; 6. Sam Ngatia, 46, 32:30;7. Ewen North, 28, 32:35; 8. Oscar Ponce, 28, 32:51; 9. GregAugspurger, 28, 32:56; 10. Cody Hill, 33, 33:07. Masters (40+):1. Sam Ngatia, 46, 32:30. Grand Masters (50+): 1. Sam Torres,53, 38:16. Seniors (60+): 1. Larry Ingram, 61, 40:00. Female(Overall): 1. Paula Morrison, 33, 36:33; 2. Kara Roy, 26, 36:46;3. Amanda Occhi, 26, 37:33; 4. Michey Kelly, 28, 38:44; 5. EileenMarie Herbst, 39, 40:04; 6. Amanda Ewing, 25, 40:36; 7. MarisaKeefe, 27, 40:57; 8. Elizabeth Watkins, 23, 40:58; 9. ShannonMeredith, 35, 40:59; 10. Meghann Loseke, 23, 41:36. Masters(40+): 1. Joni Fehrenbacher, 42, 42:35. Grand Masters (50+):1. Georgann Richardson, 50, 48:52. Seniors (60+): 1. SallyKennett, 64, 54:56.Mike Tarantino (right) out kicksNathan McCrary at the finish.Paula Morrison is the first female,crossing the line in 36:33.September/October 2006 coloradorunnermag.com 57

Race Reports...Record Numbers Start San Juan Solstice 50 MileSan Juan Solstice 50 MileJune 17, 2006Lake City, COArecord 142 runners were treated to a brisk35 degree temperature at the start of the12th annual San Juan Solstice 50 Mile.Stream crossings were more manageable thisyear due to high June temperatures, and only afew runners plunged into the icy waters.Last year’s winner, Dan Vega of ColoradoSprings, looked strong as he led into theWilliams Creek aid station at mile 15.7 miles,but Nate McDowell from Los Alamos, NM, appearedthrough the trees only two minutes later,followed closely by Brian Fisher of Littleton.Within 10 minutes, a number of strong runnerswould come through the aid station, hot onthe heels of the three leaders. The first womaninto the aid station was Helen Cospolich fromBreckenridge, who tended to her 8-montholddaughter long enough for Tressa Breindelof Boulder and Diana Finkel of South Fork tomake up some ground.By mile 22, Dan Vega had been passedby four runners, and Nate McDowell took a leadthat he would never relinquish.Conditions on the divide were nearlyperfect, with a light, cool wind and not a cloudto be found. There were no problems with theheat, as in years past, but the long stretch above12,000 feet was taxing to even the fittest of racers.McDowell increased his lead on Fisher tonine minutes coming into the Divide aid stationat mile 31, with Dale Peterson and Eric Blacknot far behind.At the Slumgullion aid station at mile40, leaders McDowell and Fisher maintainedtheir positions, but Harry Harcrow of WoodlandPark was making up ground, and he moved intothird place by the Vicker’s aid station at mile46.5. Unfortunately, Fisher took a good faceplant on the steep Waterdog trail into town, butrecovered quickly.Nate McDowell was the victor, winningthe race on his third time on the course.He said the views were the highlight of the day.“This is the most beautiful race course in America.”The women’s race was close, withTressa Breindel sneaking up on Cospolich inthe last 10 miles, and finishing only one minute,46 seconds behind. Martina Alvarez, a 23-yearoldLake City local, finished in 49th place in hervery first ultra event, in a time of 12:52:25. Shejoined five other local ladies in this town of lessthan 600 who have finished this course.115 Finishers - Timing by: San Juan Solstice 50M - Weather: Sunny, 60-75 degrees- Elevation: Start/Finish = 8,700’ with a total gain and loss of 12,900’Male (Overall): 1. Nate Mcdowell, 34, 9:26:11; 2. Brian Fisher,40, 9:46:23; 3. Harry Harcrow, 38, 10:19:48; 4. Paul Adams,47, 10:22:34; 5. Paul Sullivan, 39, 10:25:14; 6. Dan Vega, 38,10:38:01; 7. Quent Bearden, 31, 10:38:31; 8. Dale Peterson, 49,10:40:01; 9. Zach Crandall, 26, 10:41:12; 10. Allen Hadley, 48,10:43:14. Masters (40+): 1. Brian Fisher, 40, 9:46:23. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Chuck Cofer, 55, 11:54:42. Seniors (60+):1. Tom Masterson, 61, 14:01:18. Female (Overall): 1. HelenCospolich, 29, 11:19:54; 2. Tressa Breindel, 27, 11:21:40; 3.Diana Finkel, 34, 11:34:41; 4. Jean Coulter, 34, 12:05:46; 5. MaryMahoney, 29, 12:28:26; 6. Kate Lapides, 42, 12:30:38; 7. CarolGerber, 43, 12:43:24; 8. Martina Anne Alvarez, 23, 12:52:25;9. Jamie Donaldson, 31, 12:56:04; 10. Marcy Hacisavas, 31,13:06:16. Masters (40+): 1. Kate Lapides, 42, 12:30:38. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Wendy Crandall, 54, 16:01:00.Helen Cospolich on her way to victoryat the San Juan Solstice 50 Mile.Colorado Hosts More Than 600 Iron GirlsAthletes head out from the start of the IronGirl 5M and 5K in Denver.RYKA Iron Girl 5M & 5KAugust 6, 2006Denver, COby Jessica WeidensallAmong the 600 who participated,there were many athletes who stood outfrom the crowd with their inspirationalstories.Lori Hampton, 36, from Denver,finished her first race ever, participatingas a Mother/Daughter Team with her 7-year-old daughter. Hampton and daughtercompeted alongside more than 90 Mother/Daughter teams, making this Iron Girl’slargest Mother/Daughter turn-out to date.Jemma Weideman of Silverthorne, 23,has liver and endometrial cancer and racedto support Iron Girl’s charity, the UlmanCancer Fund, which benefits young adultswith cancer.Jennifer Fey from Wheat Ridge wasrecently diagnosed with Type I Diabetesand used the event to become and stayactive.Lisa Ruskaup from Highlands Ranchwas diagnosed with chiari malformation andfibromyalgia. She fought through her daily painand migraines to train for and compete in theevent.Athletes from more than 20 states andCanada participated, ranging in fitness levelfrom elite to first-timer. In an effort to provide aunique experience for all participants, the eventfeatured added amenities such as a post-racecatered Breakfast Café, RYKA performancetechnical shirts, personalized race bibs featuringMore than 600 participants, ranging inage from 7-years-old to 66-years-old,became Iron Girls at the RYKA IronGirl 5-Mile and 5K. The event, at Veteran’sPark in Denver, provided athletes with abeautiful backdrop of downtown Denver andthe mountains as they started and finished at thesteps of the famed Colorado State Capitol. each participant’s first name, age group awards,58 coloradorunnermag.com September/October 2006custom finishers medals, and much more.Iron Girl, in its third year as an eventbasedbrand, offers a competitive platform forwomen of all ages and fitness levels. The missionof Iron Girl is for women to embrace a healthylifestyle and aim to achieve their personal bests.The 2006 RYKA Iron Girl National Women’sEvent Series consists of eight events, includingfive running/walking events, two triathlons andone duathlon.628 Finishers (257 - 5M, 231 - 5K, 140 - Teams) - WinningTime Chip Timing by:BKB Ltd. - Weather: Overcast, 60 degrees - Elevation: Start/Finish = 5,250’5M (Overall): 1. Jill Horst, 27, Albuquerque, NM, 31:40; 2.Barbarann Mallory, 47, Littleton, CO, 32:03; 3. Sheila Geere,43, Colorado Springs, CO, 32:19; 4. Jena Pohle, 26, Aurora,CO, 32:44; 5. Kristin Donald, 24, Brighton, CO, 33:36; 6. SarahLewandowski, 22, Centenial, CO, 34:30; 7. Denice Murphy,37, Morrison, CO, 34:52; 8. Peggy Muhn, 54, Wheat Ridge,CO, 35:00; 9. Karen Voss, 41, Denver, CO, 35:06; 10. JacquieGarrelts, 44, Littleton, CO, 35:32. Masters (40+): 1. BarbarannMallory, 47, Littleton, CO, 32:03. Grand Masters (50+): 1. PeggyMuhn, 54, Wheat Ridge, CO, 35:00. Seniors (60+): 1. MarySmith, 65, Colorado Springs, CO, 50:34. Mother/DaughterTeam: 1. Team Bishop, Julia Bishop (38:32) & Andrea Bishop(41:53), 1:20:26. 5K (Overall): 1. Jocelyn Petrella, 26, Denver,CO, 18:44; 2. Deirdre Matthews, 36, 18:46; 3. Michelle Sloan, 34,20:03; 4. Angie Anderson, 25, Denver, CO, 20:23; 5. Sara Brady,21, Englewood, CO, 20:27; 6. Rachel Luginbill, 36, Denver, CO,20:30; 7. Barbara Blakley, 28, Denver, CO, 20:55; 8. Kelly Burke,35, Highlands Ranch, CO, 21:05; 9. Sophie Galleher, 18, 21:46;10. Kelly Evans, 22, Colorado Springs, CO, 22:17. Masters(40+): 1. Trisha Davis, 55, Lakewood, CO, 25:55. Grand Masters(50+): 1. Trisha Davis, 55, Lakewood, CO, 25:55. Seniors (60+):1. Dorothy Reid, 63, Arvada, CO, 32:02. Mother/Daughter Team:1. Lightnin’ Ladies, Rhonda Bershok (21:33) & Jeanette BershokAmes (21:57), 43:30.This Page - Top: Steve Glass / Glass Phootgraphy, Bottom: ASIPhotoOpposite - Patty Griffiths / Colorado Runner

Stiff Competition at 28th Georgetownto Idaho Springs Half MarathonRunners sprint towards the finishin Idaho Springs.Georgetown to Idaho SpringsHalf MarathonAugust 12, 2006Georgetown, COMore than 2,000 runners gathered in thesmall mountain town of Georgetownfor an annual tradition. The Georgetownto Idaho Springs Half Marathonhas been held for 28 years andhas earned a loyal following for severalreasons: it is well organized, thetown is very welcoming, the courseis mainly downhill, and the price isjust $25!On an unusually warmmorning with temperatures in thehigh 50’s, runners started their trekdown the Clear Creek Canyon. Runningat 8,500 feet, many runnerstook the first two miles at a leisurelypace as they toured Georgetown.But with the initial drop out of town,the race heated up.The men’s contest was thefastest the race had seen in the pastdecade. A pack of three runners separatedthemselves from the field at thestart. Jason Delaney of Golden wasable to outlast Peter Vail of Boulder(1:08:11) and James McGown ofSidney, NE (1:08:25) to win in 1:07:24.In the women’s race, the first threewomen ran in a large pack of 15 runners for thefirst half before Amy Manson pulled away forthe win in 1:21:27. She was followed closelyby Brandy Erholtz of Bailey (1:22:07) and KaraRoy of Ft. Collins, who made a strong push overthe final half (1:22:49).The race, Colorado’s largest halfmarathon, was a benefit for Clear Creek CountyAthletic Boosters. The race is the Boosters largestfundraiser, and the group’s members linedthe course as volunteers. Last year, the Boostersused the profits to purchase new high school athleticuniforms for sports like cross country andfootball. At the finish line, runners were treatedto food and beer at the Gold Digger’s footballstadium. The unique awards were silver platesthat could be used to pan for gold, representingthe area’s rich mining history.2,159 Finishers - WinningTime Chip Timing by: BKB Ltd. - Weather: Cloudy,58-70 degrees - Elevation: Start = 8,515’, Finish = 7,515’Male (Overall): 1. Jason Delaney, 26, Golden, CO, 1:07:24; 2.Peter Vail, 32, Boulder, CO, 1:08:11; 3. James McGown, 32,Sidney, NE, 1:08:25; 4. Paul Digrappa, 25, Highlands Ranch,CO, 1:09:56; 5. Jason Saitta, 28, Parker, CO, 1:10:23; 6. CharlieKelly, 29, Boulder, CO, 1:10:34; 7. Ken Pliska, 40, Broomfield,CO, 1:12:21; 8. Bryan Dayton, 33, Boulder, CO, 1:16:07; 9. JustinMock, 24, 1:16:12; 10. Scott Johnson, 22, Auora, CO, 1:18:14.Masters (40+): 1. Ken Pliska, 40, Broomfield, CO, 1:12:21. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Robert Hintermeister, 50, 1:23:54. Seniors(60+): 1. William McIntyre, 60, Cheyenne, WY, 1:39:43. Female(Overall): 1. Amy Manson, 37, Superior, CO, 1:21:27; 2. BrandyErholtz, 28, Bailey, CO, 1:22:07; 3. Kara Roy, 26, Ft Collins, CO,1:22:49; 4. Lynda Andros, 30, Edwards, CO, 1:23:51; 5. BridgetMacKinnon, 29, Centennial, CO, 1:24:12; 6. Michele Suszek, 24,Aurora, CO, 1:26:11; 7. Sarah Krakoff, 41, Boulder, CO, 1:26:25;8. Kimberly Vecchio, 31, 1:28:05; 9. Deborah Davies, 32, IdahoSprings, CO, 1:29:08; 10. Rachel Foss, 26, Denver, CO, 1:30:29.Masters (40+): 1. Sarah Krakoff, 41, Boulder, CO, 1:26:25. GrandMasters (50+): 1. Alynn Park, 55, Denver, CO, 1:37:18. Seniors(60+): 1. Lola Ackerman, 61, Longmont, CO, 1:47:01.Check OutOur 2006RaceScheduleThe Eclectic Trail Seriespresented by Montrail5th AnnualNovember 12, 20069:30 AMBoulder ReservoirBoulder, COSeptember 6Class Challenge XCLittleton, COOctober 11Octobercross XCLittleton, COSeptember 23Cub Creek CrossoverEvergreen, COSeptember 19Georgetown XC ClassicGeorgetown, CONovember 11Crossfest XCLittleton, CODecember 2Run For The AgesLittleton, COSeptember 28Cross Criterium XCLittleton, CODecember 21Winter Solstice 5MLittleton, COwww.EclecticEdgeRacing.comHighlights:- Team Challenge- Kid’s Fun Run- Holiday Food Drive- Silent Auction- Unique T-Shirts and Awards- Plenty of Great Raffle Prizes- Post-Race Meal (Carrabba’s Italian Grill)- Official Qualifier For The 2007 Bolder BoulderREGISTER ONLINE AT ACTIVE.COMOR IN PERSON AT THE BOULDER RUNNING COMPANYfor more info: 720-352-8934 or lance@foothillseventmanagement.comSeptember/October 2006 coloradorunnermag.com 59

Race Reports...First Annual (and ProbablyOnly) WANKER Half MarathonWANKER Half MarathonColorado Springs, COApril 9, 2006by Alice FraneyIf you want to win your age divisionin a half marathon, you can train really hard, eatnutritious meals, buy the latest, newest runningshoes OR you can have your own race and createyour own age divisions! Thus began the planningfor the First Annual W.A.N.K.E.R.s ThreeStooges Half Marathon in Colorado Springs.W.A.N.K.E.R. stands for We Are Not Knownfor Extreme Running.The idea to stage our own race startedon a very cold Saturday morning run. It wasthree degrees at 7:00 am when we started outon the Santa Fe Trail in Colorado Springs.Any little visible hairs quickly became frosted– eyelashes, eyebrows, and facial hairs we olderwomen in the group previously never knew existed.Four members of our group had registeredto run the Big Sur International Marathonin Monterey, California on April 30th, so wewere contemplating our training schedule as weran. We discussed the importance of doing a 13mile run about two weeks out and that is whenwe decided to stage our own race. Of course,we calculated incorrectly (frozen brain cells)and actually ended up scheduling the race threeweeks out when we should have been doing along run. The date was set – April 9th, 2006!Everyone in the planning grouppromptly forgot about it, except me. Thus, Itook the lead and mentioned the idea to Jeff Tarbert,owner of The Colorado Running Company,as I was buying a new pair of shoes. Jeff startedlisting all of the things I needed to do and whathe would do to help. He would bring a timingclock, a start banner, water jugs, Gatorade, and astarting gun. I was pumped! Then I mentionedour idea to Bob Leivers, an Air Force Chaplainin our running group and he had the perfectcharity in mind for our race donations, InterfaithHospitality Network. He contacted theorganization and they were excited and offeredto help. Bob also called a photographer friendto take professional pictures at our event. Next,Kristy Callihan jumped in to offer her family’s60 coloradorunnermag.com September/October 2006help. Her dad would ride his bike along theroute and follow the last person. Her mom andchildren would provide an aid station at the halfway point and she would join us for the run. JeffTong offered to buy medals for each finisher.My husband, Bob, offered to come up with theage divisions after everyone was registered, assuringeach of us a first place medal.The morning of the race came and wehad thirteen brave runners show up. It was aperfect, sunny, cool Colorado day and the racecame off without a hitch. I won the “49-51 and 4months” age division! We had three 51 year oldswith birthdays very close together, so my husbandhad to be very creative. When neighborsand friends ask about my prominently displayedmedal, I tell them I won my age division in ahalf-marathon. They know me and they haveseen me run, so they follow up with needing toknow the “rest of the story.” We raised $600for IHN, a local charity dedicated to providingshelter and meals for homeless individuals andfamilies.I keep telling everyone it will be acold day in Colorado Springs before we ever trythis again! However, the 13 runners who ran therace keep encouraging me to try it again nextyear calling it the “Second Annual (and neveragain!) W.A.N.K.E.R. Half Marathon.” Theywill have to do a lot of convincing, but I have toadmit, it was a lot of fun and we did raise moneyfor a good cause, so…..Race Results:0-31 Sarah Teufert-Autry32-34 Kristy Callihan35-36 Kevin Duffy37-42 Robert Ward43-45 Jeff Tong46 Sharon Johnson47-48 Nancy Spalding49-51 and 4 mos. Alice Franey51 and 5 months Steve Jennings51 and 6 months Phyllis Meyer51 and 7 months to 54 and 3 months 2 daysBob Leivers54 and 3 months 3 days to 54 3 months 6 daysBev Stevens55 and over Georgia Briscoe