Dolly Copp Campground is one of the largest campgrounds in the national forest system and conveniently located about 4 miles north of the race starting location at the base of the Mt. Washington Auto Road. It was surprisingly uncrowded by other runners and general summer campers alike. It also offers some fantastic trail heads right out of camp for after the race, including hikes up Mt. Madison and even Mt. Washington if you are inclined to summit the peak from both road and trail.
The Mt. Washington Road Race winds it's way up over 4,660 ft to an elevation of over 6,200ft (the finish line is below the summit of 6,288ft).The race is highly competitive drawing athletes from Italy and Colorado as well as all of the 'local' competitors from the northeast corridor. For me as well as many others this was a special chance to brush shoulders, and then get thoroughly spanked, by some of the best mountain runners in the country. A prize purse five places deep ensures fast times.
Although the 2016 race had perfect conditions, often athletes are fighting the weather as much as the climb. Barely more than week prior to the race, racers found this image awaiting them as the race began to focus more prominently in their thoughts. Does that look like an image to inspire confidence in running a road race? Not to me.
The Mt. Washington Road Race winds it's way up over 4,660 ft to an elevation of over 6,200ft (the finish line is below the summit of 6,288ft).The race is highly competitive drawing athletes from Italy and Colorado as well as all of the 'local' competitors from the northeast corridor. For me as well as many others this was a special chance to brush shoulders, and then get thoroughly spanked, by some of the best mountain runners in the country. A prize purse five places deep ensures fast times.
Although the 2016 race had perfect conditions, often athletes are fighting the weather as much as the climb. Barely more than week prior to the race, racers found this image awaiting them as the race began to focus more prominently in their thoughts. Does that look like an image to inspire confidence in running a road race? Not to me.
After the race you have completed an incredible cardiovascular workout while barely taxing your muscles at all. The gentle footfalls of an all uphill race made it perfect for someone like myself who wanted to train and race in a manner which would provide a successful experience without the pounding and miles which contributed to a stress fracture.
This is was a hugely enjoyable event. Unfortunately I finished 6th in my age group as opposed to 3rd (which would have ensured me an entrance into next years event). I was lucky to get into this race in their lottery on my first try, I would certainly enjoy repeating this event and attempting to chip away at my time.
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