Middlefork 22 Miler Race Report – Roey P

Race: Northwest Trail Runs Middlefork 22 Miler

Runner: Roey P

Race Date: 09/08/2018

Location: Middle Fork, Snoqualmie Trail (WA)

Results: 3:36:12, 8th Overall

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/1828262245

3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?

  1. The trails! This race was 3 out and backs on the CCC, Snoqualmie River, and Middlefork trails. Each one is a little different, but they are all gorgeous.
  2. NW Trail Runs! They put on a good race with a fun atmosphere.
  3. The Other Runners! You pass a lot of other runners because of the varying distances, and the out and backs. Everyone was cheerful, smiling, and encouraging.

Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

Nothing comes to mind.

Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?

The trailhead is a complete deadzone for cell phones. Not really weird, but could be a little unnerving to some people.

Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?

I fueled and hydrated exceptionally well. I held back until about mile 16, then pushed the last 1/3rd of the race. I never got passed, and managed to overtake 1 person in the last mile and a half.

Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner

There aren’t any really big climbs, more gentle uphills. Also, you cross a lot of dried out rivers, that if its wetter out, could be splashable. Splashable is a word, I don’t care what spell check tells me.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

This is a great run for first timers at these distances. They offer a 10k, Half, and 50k Option as well, so if you want to try any of these distances this is a great race to do it at.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

Gorgeous. PNW Mountain Forest at its best.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

Very Easy

Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?

NWTrail Runs puts on a whole lot of races. They pretty much have it down pat at this point.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

This is an obscure race, in an obscure location. The field was small.

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.

Just sign up and go. Be warned, if you live in Seattle, it could take over an hour to get out there.

Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?

Lots! Standard items, but 7 of them for the 22 miler!

Weather and typical race conditions

Cool and sunny. Perfect!

Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?

There are some larger stones, so trail shoes. I carried water, and Nuun, but only because it was a training run. You could probably get away with a lot less.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Absolutely. You pass the start/finish 4 times.

How’s the Swag?

None.

The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?

5 Stars!