Race: Greenland Trail Race – 4 Mile
Runner: Stacy Holtz
Race Date: 05/07/2022
Location: Larkspur, CO
Results: Time: 41:50, Overall Rank 35, Women 14, Age Group 5
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- The location – close to home and had Pikes Peak as a backdrop
- It was well organized with lots of volunteers
- The trail was well marked
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
The trail is completely exposed. It was a hot day and there was no cover. Not much shade around the race start/finish either. The trail was a little congested with a lot of two-way traffic.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
It was a good race. I was recovering from an injury and it was a good confidence boost for me.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
It took quite a while to park. It’s a huge race so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get parked, go potty, and warm up.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The course is mostly double track in a prairie. There is no shade.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
It is pretty because you have a nice view of Pikes Peak. However, since it has been so dry this year the grass is very brown and kind of depressing. There are also cow patties around as they use this area for grazing cattle as well.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
It did the 4 mile and there is one steady hill at the start. It’s not really a technical course. You’re just our running in the prairie.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Yes. They did a fantastic job. They had a large amount of volunteers and it was obviously not their first time.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Yes there is large group and runners of all skill level.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Lots of parking and easy to get to.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
There are no aid stations for the 4 mile course.
Weather and typical race conditions
Hot, dry and windy.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Sunscreen, Hat, the usual.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
If you bring a chair and umbrella and don’t mind sitting in the prairie along the course.
How’s the Swag?
Finisher medal is nice.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 start. I think they did an awesome job and will most likely do it again.