Defining our sport - mountain running

Trail and mountain running have been categorized using several elements to include terrain/surface, elevation (gain or loss), and distance.

Trail running the Grand Canyon - Photo by Jared Scott

In the United States, mountain running and trail running are often used interchangeably and in most cases, refer to the same type of running in terms of terrain, elevation changes, and running surface. Since mountain runs are often contested on trails – either single track or double track – the trail running term fits quite well.

2012 World Mountain Running Championships - Photo by Richard Bolt

Some mountain runs are staged on paved, or semi-paved surfaces, but must still have significant (uphill) elevation gains to be considered mountain runs – this is one element of mountain running that distinguishes the sport from trail running. The Mt. Washington Road Race is a perfect example.

Joe Gray at Mt. Washington - Photo by Richard Bolt

From an historical perspective, trail running dates back to the 11th century when the first recorded hill races were contested in Scotland. Conducted on unpaved paths, trail running – like hill running – challenges participants with elevation changes, variable terrain, natural obstacles, and environmental conditions such as weather and erosion. Other types of off-road running include fell running which is the British equivalent of trail running; Skyrunning, which encompasses races held at or above 6,000 feet with significant climbs over rocks, grass, dirt, and sometimes snow and ice; and cross-country running. Each share common traits with the niche sport of mountain running.

2003 World Mountain Running Championships - Photo by Richard Bolt

For those interested in competing in trail or mountain races, the American Trail Running Association posts a comprehensive calendar of events on their website, both national and international in scope.

USA Track&Field will host six trail championships in 2013 and one mountain running championship.

Article originally published July 2010 by Nancy Hobbs - Executive Director - American Trail Running Association

Inaugural trail running conference announced

For the first time, trail runners will have a conference dedicated to their “sport.” The Inaugural Estes Trail Ascent will be held June 20-22, 2013, in Estes Park, Colorado, at the world-renowned Stanley Hotel.

The conference will include break-out sessions and seminars led by experts in their respective fields. Topics to be covered range from trail shoe and gear development, training advice, nutrition and hydration to the future of the sport. Developing trail running in communities as well as stewardship of the trails will be discussed.

Running camp fun in Estes Park - Photo credit: Terry Chiplin

According to Conference Director Terry Chiplin, “Trail runners have been attracted to the Estes Park area for many years by the incredible natural beauty, temperate climate, and clean air of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Many come to challenge or establish new records on the mountain trails. One of the most respected is the Longs Peak Trail, rising to 14,255 feet from the trail head below. Longs Peak dominates the Front Range skyline, and has been a test trail for local and visiting athletes for decades with many incredible records being set. Colorado-based trail runners like Scott Jurek, Anton Krupicka, Nick Clark and current FKT holder Andy Anderson, often come and run the mountain trails in the area.

“The Estes Park trail running community is especially excited to host the conference in June, as this is an opportunity to showcase our beautiful environment and to share it with many others who have yet to experience the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains. We know that everyone who comes will leave a part of their soul behind when they depart. Of course a return trip to Estes Park will recharge the spirit and visitors will again be inspired by the beauty of trail running and nature at its very best.”

The conference culminates in a trail race on Pole Hill, Estes Park, on Saturday, June 22 2013, starting at 9:00 a.m. The 2nd annual Estes Trail Ascent Trail Race is a 5.8-mile course over challenging mountain terrain with more than 1,800 feet of elevation gain. Participants will enjoy majestic mountain views, and clean, crisp air. The race is followed by a cookout at Ravencrest Chalet. Registration is limited so enter early to secure your spot in the race. Registration is open at this link.

For details on the conference and to register visit this link.

Story by Nancy Hobbs - Executive Director - American Trail Running Association

Book Review: Dandelion Growing Wild, by Kim Jones

Sometimes a connection is felt when reading another’s personal life story and this is one of those times. Over the past few days, I have enjoyed pouring through the 21 chapters in Kim Jones’ recently self-published autobiography, Dandelion Growing Wild: A triumphant journey over astounding odds by American marathon champion.

Although not known as a trail runner, Kim’s childhood was filled with barefoot running all over Fort Worden's trails in Port Townsend, Washington. She ran everywhere, all over that town and all over those trails in what is now Fort Worden State Park.

That running, as well as countless miles on the roads over the years, developed Kim’s running style and led her to become one of the top marathoners in the world possessing a PR of 2:26:40 set in 1991.

But Kim’s story is not just about putting one foot in front of the other. Her story is one of growth, resilience, tragedy, and adventures told in a remarkably honest and down-to-earth manner. The writing is very raw at times showing Kim’s tenacity and courage over seemingly insurmountable odds. She takes the reader on a journey from the earliest stages of her youth through her emergence into adulthood, as she redefines herself through life’s many learned lessons.

The book is an emotional read. There are the tears when learning about her father’s suicidal tendencies related to mental illness, the death of her siblings, and teen pregnancy. At the same time, joyous occasions are recounted that create laughter and happiness.

Running is a thread which is expertly woven throughout the book. We learn about the ups and downs from Kim’s days of high school track, as well as the successes and failures she faced as a world-class athlete. Even if one is not an athlete, a connection is made with the author because with each running moment, day-to-day activities – which are often anything but mundane – are paired with the training, the racing, the recovery. It is never just about the running when you include the daily life pursuits of a mother, a wife, a sister, a daughter, and a friend.

Once you pick up this book and start reading the first of its 453 pages, you will find yourself at times wanting to jump ahead to see what happens later in Kim’s story. However, be sure to read this book from cover to cover so you don’t miss a single moment of this very personal story from an amazing and inspiring author.

Order your copy, which is available in paperback on Amazon and on Kindle, at this link.

Story by Nancy Hobbs - Executive Director - American Trail Running Association