Mt. Hood 50k Race Report – Ron Kelly

Race: Mt Hood 50K

Runner: Ron Kelly

Race Date: 07/16/2023

Location: Mt. Hood, Oregon

Results: 15th overall, 2nd age group

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/9464620804/export_gpx

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

Great trail culture vibes, stunning views, and runnable single track trails

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

No weird factor! But you could run the 50M on Saturday and the 50K on Sunday. One person tackled the challenge.

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

I was able to run the entire course with fairly even pacing throughout. 50K PR given runnable trails without a ton of vert

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

Get there early! Parking is limited. No crewing allowed so be prepared with hydration/nutrition though aid stations well stock with your basic needs.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

It’s a fast course with some climbing but the entire race is on runnable single track. Even pacing is ideal for this course.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

I ran it sight unseen. The kind of race you can do well at without seeing it first. Great trails!

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

Absolutely beautiful race course on clear day. Mt. Hood is stunning. Lots of mountain, forest and lake view along the entire route.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

All single track but very runnable throughout. Less than 3K of total vert and runnable trails makes for the opportunity for a fast race and PR.

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

GoBeyond Racing does a tremendous job. Super well organized and post race party vibes. Definitely experience the trail culture of an iconic PNW trail race in a beautiful area.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

Strong local runners from Oregon/Washington.

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.

Tons of camping nearby and hotels/Airbnb’s in the Mt. Hood vicinity. I was on the waitlist and eventually got it. 50M race on Saturday is lottery and the 50K is sign up with waitlist.

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

Aid stations and the volunteers were tremendous!

Weather and typical race conditions

The trail is primarily shaded throughout so makes for ideal conditions though it can be extremely hot in this part of Oregon in mid July.

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

No crew allowed so carry what you need.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

No crew support allowed or needed but able to spectate and see runners at several of the aid stations.

How’s the Swag?

T-shirts, stickers, beer mugs. Full age group awards

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

4 and half stars. Highly recommend for a local trail race in a beautiful area