Northwest Trail Runs: 2014 Fort Ebey Kettles Trail Races
To put it nicely, Megan Hall crushed the marathon field last year at Northwest Trail Runs Fort Ebey Kettles Marathon. Hall cruised to a trail marathon victory in 3:50:50. Her closest competition, 4:24:10.
The trail running event features four races distances: 10k, Half-Marathon, 20 Miler, and Marathon. It will be the third year for the event, and the second year on the current course routes. Routes were slightly lengthened after the inaugural running.
As described by Northwest Trail Runs, "The mostly rolling route winds through and among forested kettle depressions, with many gently-flowing trails, as well as sections with more twists and turns. There are many short-to-moderate ups and downs but very few large hills, but still the overall climb is moderate-to-high. The trail surfaces are mostly a bit smoother than normal for the Northwest, probably due to the geology of this area. All courses include a finishing stretch with a waterfront view along the scenic bluff-top trail."
This year's event looks to capitalize on mostly dry weather, as it has in the past two years. With only a 30% chance of rain on Sunday runners shouldn't need to dress in full wet weather gear. If you're worried about it, just look up the weather in the Southeast and your worries will evaporate.
A huge plus, you can take a ferry. Winter 2014 Sailing Schedule for Mukilteo / Clinton.With departures every thirty minutes you won't have long to wait. Seriously, one of the best aspects of a destination trail race is getting to the event. On race day. leave early, stay late. FYI, If there is a ferry involved you can be assured Uphill Running will be on it. One quick note, you'll need a DISCOVER PASS while visiting the State Park for the race.
Quick history lesson, Fort Ebey was built in 1942 to protect Puget Sound from naval invasion. The post was named after the pioneer commander of the 1855 militia stationed on Ebey Slough. The park stands on the site of a World War II gun battery; although the guns have been removed and scrapped, concrete platforms mark their previous locations.
Online pre-registration closes, Feb. 14th, at 11:59 PM. Register here. There will be race day registration, so you really have no excuse to not race this weekend. Good luck, runners!
For more information on other Northwest Trail Run events visit their website: www.nwtrailruns.com
- Trey Bailey
