Race: Badger Mountain Challenge – 100 miler

Runner: David Greenwood

Race Date: 03/25/2022

Location: Richland, Washington

Results: 11th overall – 23:01

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/6885456007

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

1. Chill, but very well run event: This race is super laid back, very chill, but not at the expense of being well run. The race director was organized and good-humored, and it feels like there’s an awesome, tight-knit community rallying together to put the race on.
2. Chunky: the race is broken up into distinct sections which I found helpful mentally. You could easily just focus on getting through one section at a time. You start with two mild climbs and descents (Badger + Candy), then a long flat section (road and endless vineyards), then a short chunky, dusty section (jeep trails), before arriving at all the McBee stuff – which entails a short steep climb up onto the ridge, a rolling 5 mile out and back on the ridge, and then returning down to the McBee aid station a different way than you come up, via a flowy 2-3 mile single track descent. And then you repeat everything in reverse order on your way back (to complete 50 miles). Because you see everything 4 times, you get to know the course super well and learn what sections you like and don’t like/what to expect.
3. Flowy: The course offers a great mix of climbing, descending, and flats. Whenever you get tired of moving in one way, you get new terrain to run.

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

I have essentially no complaints about the race. During the race, I kind of hated the jeep trails because they were sufficiently choppy that it was hard to maintain any sort of rhythm. And they were also dusty and hot in the middle of the day, which was unpleasant. But I think every course needs a couple of sections that you hate.

If I had to come up with another complaint, I guess I’d say there wasn’t a ton of singletrack. Badger and Candy are great (smooth, manicured hiking trails) and the descent off McBee ridge is nice, but otherwise, it’s a lot of dirt roads and some pavement. Those roads put you next to the highway for a few miles and on pavement for a few miles as well. But it’s fine. Those sections go quick. And despite that, I was surprised by how pretty the course was overall.

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

The whole course is generally kind of weird. It’s desert + vineyards + dusty jeep trails + ridge running. But I think that makes it pretty unique.

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

I loved the whole experience (probably because I’m writing this a couple of weeks removed and have subconsciously blocked out all the pain and suffering). But two things in particular:

• I think picking up my pacer at mile 50 and running off into the setting sun in the desert was pretty cool. Having a close buddy to run with was a huge pick-me-up. We watched the sunset right as we crested Candy. Then moon and residual sunlight allowed us to run for almost an hour after sunset without headlamps.
• And secondly, on the home stretch, when my second pacer and I realized sub-24 was on the table, it was pretty cool to throw some headphones in and rally through the flat sections – the point where you start to smell the finish. This was my first 100 and so my family had recorded some touching motivational voice memos for me to use when things got tough. I thought it was cheesy at first but when I listened to them at about 90 miles in, I was choking up with emotion. They left me with a deep sense of gratitude for my support system and the ridiculously fun/bizarre/beautiful experience of running a race like this. Some combo of the voice memos, good fueling, and smelling the end helped us push pretty hard in the final 10 miles. And the trails down Candy and Badger are so flowy and gentle that you can really open it up if you have energy and finish strong. Finally, while bombing down Badger, a half-mile from the finish, it was pretty cool to pass by and give a quick hug to my sister, who was heading off on her first ultra (55k), which she finished later that afternoon.

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

I had a pretty straightforward experience with minimal issues – a large part of that was probably the awesome weather. I ran about 80 of 100 miles in a tee-shirt (and probably could have run the whole thing in a tee-shirt). From what I hear, that is very much not normal for Badger weather – where hypothermia at night is a semi-common occurrence.
One thing that I think was really helpful was lightweight gaiters. The race is pretty sandy and dusty, so I think gaiters are a really good way to mitigate the risk of blistering.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

For me, I felt like you just can’t start conservatively enough on a 100. For this race, Badger Mountain is super tempting to run up at the very beginning. I run-walked it, which felt very conservative at the time. But by 50 miles in, I was wishing I started even slower.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Gaiters for the dust, have super warm clothes ready for the night, and be conservative going up Badger at the beginning.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

Yes, it is. There are a few parts that aren’t – specifically the road section next to the highway. But Badger/Candy/vineyards/jeep trails/and McBee all offer pretty, expansive views of rolling desert hills, expansive farmland, and beautiful vineyards.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

It’s 100 miles, so yes. BUT, with that qualifier out of the way, I would say not really. There’s nothing particularly scary.

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

Very. Well-oiled machine but still casual and laid back.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

I don’t think it’s particularly strong, but as the results show, there were a couple of ridiculously fast times.

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.

Very straightforward. I don’t think it reached capacity but there were still over 100 runners that started the 100. The race is very inexpensive for the experience (and swag) you get.

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

Aid stations were wonderful and were progressively well-stocked as the night went on (at Chandler Butte at 74 miles, I basically wolfed down a full hot meal in like 5 minutes – half a grilled cheese, a cup of chicken noodle soup, half a quesadilla and a cookie).

Weather and typical race conditions

The weather was ridiculously nice for us. Probably 50-65 degrees throughout with very mild wind. This is not normal, I am told. Don’t rely on this.

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

Gaiters for the dust. And I normally really like using poles, but the only time they’re really relevant is the 1-mile climb up McBee Ridge (which you do twice). I was surprised at how little I used them.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

It’s great. I think our system worked well – I had my family/crew meet me at McBee at 19 and 31, then the start/finish at 50, and then back at McBee at 69 and 81. It was probably overkill to see them that many times, but I loved it and they were all happy to support. The timing can work great for crews who want to meet you at McBee for both 19 and 31 – in the 2-3 hours in between seeing you, they can hop over to Anelare winery and do a tasting and eat pizza.

How’s the Swag?

Solid, given the price of the race.

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

It was awesome. It’s not necessarily the most picturesque, but it’s just a fun, well-organized event with good vibes and a flowy course. Probably a perfect first 100 too. I give it 10/10.

Running your first 100 miler and looking for help? We got you covered.

Race: Badger Mountain Challenge 50 miler

Runner: Coach Annika Brubaker

Race Date: 03/25/2022

Location: Kennewick, WA

Results: https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=86938#id1472793

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

1. The race very affordable; definitely worth more than you pay.
2. Aid-stations are stocked with lots of goodies
3. The race is in the middle of town so easy to access for runners, crew & support (cell service the entire time).

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

There was not port-a-potties at every aid-station. Being 5mons pregnant this made many miles very comfortable! This race is in the desert so no good places to “hind behind”. take advantage of the ones you see!

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

Since the race is desert terrain, all the course marking are at ground level. Most are little flags stuck in the sand, on rocks and a few clipped to sage bushes. As runners we look a head and not down… so it’s easy to miss markings/turns if you don’t pay attention(and look down)! There are reflective flags at night so head lamps are a must. Many runners get lost and miss turns because they don’t pay attention.

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

Nutrition aka fuel – One of my big concerns doing this race pregnant was getting in enough calories & hydration. I started practicing this months ahead and planned out “race day fuel” the week before. I planned to take in 60g of carbohydrates + 5-10g of protein per hour. For food- Picky bars, Honey stinger waffles, chews, peanut butter pretzels, and “fuel for fire” fruit smoothie pouches. For hydration- Nuun Endurance and Nuun electrolyte(200mg sodium very 1/1.5hrs). I carried enough fuel for the amount of hours it took me to restock at my drop bag(McBee miles 19&31). I also got (real) food from the aid-stations. I did very minimal caffeine and spaced throughout the day. I never hit a wall, major fatigue or mental exhaustion!! I finished feeling really good and strong(14:34). I’m so glad I did this race with the goal to finish and not push; it gave me the opportunity to focus on nutrition and the importance of being well fueled! This was a HUGE win for me!!

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

Extra socks, more socks and socks!! You’ll will go through the “jeep trails” filled with sand or moon dust plus the single track part can be really dusty. It will eat your feet up! Pack baby wipes, salve (Happie Toes by squirrel’s nut butter) and lots of socks. MAKE the time to take care of your feet!

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

The climb of McBee about mile 20 and steep (just over 1,000ft in less than a mile) take your time. The ridge line out to ChandlerButte is really rocky and technical. It will take longer than you think; especially if you’re doing at night (100milers). Watch your step, use hiking poles(several fell on this part).

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

• Plan for wind, strong wind! (more on this later in the weather info)
• Watch for course markings about a foot off the ground!
• You’ll go through a culvert that gets really dark. Pull out your light; doesn’t last long but you don’t want to fall!

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

It’s a beauty within its own… lots of desert, sage brush, vineyards, apple orchards and farm land. The scenery changes as the course does so that keep things more interesting. Lots of spring beauty being the end of March.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

• Yes and No.. there are some easy sections that are very runnable & fun. A few miles on paved road and a nice gravel section through the “endless vineyards”. There are some technical, hard parts that you’ll hike/walk. This course is very unique in how it changes and varies along the route.
• The 50 mile is basically an out & back loop. For the 100 mile, you do it twice. In some ways it would be nice to know what’s coming but could be mentally challenging doing it twice.

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

YES! A lot of the volunteers return each year and know how to run the aid-stations. Start/Finish area(Badger Mt park) had lots of help/volunteers at check-in for drop bags and to answer questions. It seems each person knows there job and how to do it! I had some of the most lovely, encouraging volunteers at the aid- stations. RD does a great job planning this race! Keep in mind there’s 100, 50, 55k & 15k distances in two days.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

I wasn’t competing so I can’t speak for this. There’s usually some speedy people and plenty of people that hike/walk it. It is a smaller race and the only ultra race in Eastern Washington. The 100 mile is a UTMB qualifier!

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.

This race smaller and still somewhat unknown. There seems to be plenty of registration spaces available for the ultra distances. With this race being “in-town” there are lots of hotels close by. A few camping places are available at Badger Mt park start/finish area

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

Located every 3-7 miles You’re in for a treat with the aid stations! Lots of good snacks & drink options at each station plus good food to sit down and warmup.
McBee station has delicious Avocado, Turkey wraps and soup. I believe all the other ones offer soup & quesadillas. There’s no skipping on the food! You may also find beer if you know who to ask 😉

Weather and typical race conditions

Spring time in the Tri-Cities can have awful wind. You’re better off being prepared for wind and count your blessings if it’s not too bad. There is NO protection from the elements. It can be hot during the day(70s) with full sun; pack sunscreen & a hat. It can also be chilly at start/finish(high 30s)cold(low 30’s) during the night for the 100miles. Pack layers and plan for all weather; spring weather in the Tri can be crazy!

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

• Gators covering your shoes help to keep the sand/dirt out(it will still creep in tho).
• Hiking poles can be helpful in parts on the course but many places you’ll just carry them.
• Hydration pack for water as it can get really hot during the day. Given the terrain you maybe awhile in between stations for water.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Yes, lot of good places to come cheer on runners! Crew is not allowed at Jacobs Rd station anymore but there are plenty of other places. There are additional places to pull off the road and check on your runner plus the aid stations.

How’s the Swag?

• 50 miler – a nice medal and maybe a stuffed badger if you have an extra hard day 😉
• 100 miler- custom belt buckle, tech fabric shirt and 100 miler hoodie
• nothing over the top; also a swag bag at packet pickup

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

9/10 – It’s worth traveling to this race and experiencing the unique course in town but yet out in the desert!

Annika Brubaker is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about her or to work with Coach Annika, check out her coaching page.

Race: Badger Mountain Challenge 100 Miler

Runner: Michael Linscott

Race Date: 03/26/2021

Location: Tri-Cities, Washington (Richland)

Results: 23:25:00

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/5019298620/overview

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

1. It is kind of an under the radar, unknown race, and it has the vibe and charm of a small town. Everyone is welcoming and by the end of the weekend you feel like you are part of a new family.
2. The course is two ~25 mile out and backs so it is easy to break the 100 miles down into smaller, more manageable, sections. This also helps with logistics for food, gear, etc
3. Living in the PNW is great, all the greenery and beautiful, lush trails. But getting over to Eastern Washington and enjoying the wide open vistas and starry nights is pretty special.

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

1. There isn’t a lot of “real food” at the aid stations.
2. Eastern Washington weather. 36 degrees at the start, 75+ and sunny mid-day and then 40 mile an hour, cold winds in the evening. Bring your sunscreen as well as some warm layers.
3. A few weeks before the race the permit didn’t allow for crew or pacers because of Covid. Having run this race before I was planning on crew for most of my calories and to have a pacer in the middle of the night. Hopefully a one-time thing, but it threw a wrench into my planning and affected my race a bit.

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

At the top of the very first climb, Badger Mountain, you can see the rest of the course spread out in front of you. The next climb, the road over to the Jeep Trails and then the ridgeline and Butte where you will turn around, 24 miles away! I really liked this but I can imagine it could be intimidating. And the 100 yard culvert under highway! Needing a headlamp in the middle of the day. It was fun but weird!

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

The course is a perfect mix of climbs, descents, rolling trail and flat/road. It feels like just when you are tired of climbing, you are at the top! And after a couple of steep climbs, when all you want is a nice flat trail, you get one for a few miles. I race best when the course is broken up nicely. Where I get to use all my gears and don’t feel worn down with big long grinding climbs, or super long, quad-busting descents.

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

I don’t think spending hours training on big climbs is helpful for this race. Work on those transitions between climbing, descending and then running flat. The course throws it all at you. It is an exposed course and the aid stations aren’t necessarily oasis to sit and recover. Some of them were super hot during the day, and at night some were very cold, windy and exposed.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

Respect the Eastern Washington sunshine. The heat got me really quickly around 1pm, and it took quite a few hours to get my core temp back down, and be able to get some calories in. There isn’t a lot of ice or cold water on the course to use for cooling down. Next time I’d try and find a way to get access to a cooler at some point in the middle of the day. Also, I was super sunburned and never really noticed how sunny/hot it was till it was too late.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

The infamous “Jeep Trails”! There are numerous up/downs on some sandy trails that are more difficult than most people expect. Don’t let it get you down, it is only about 2 miles, but be ready for it. Respecting the Jeep Trails and the short steep climbs is important. Also, don’t be tempted to quit at 50 miles just because the turn-around is at the start/finish.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

It is gorgeous! Beautiful vistas, interesting trails on Badger and Candy Mountain and even a few miles next to a vineyard. On the way to the far aid station (Chandler Butte) you can see Mt. Rainier AND Mt. Adams. At night it is even more special with desert orange sunsets, starry, moon filled nights and the lights of Richland and many other towns in the distance.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

It is not a difficult course but it isn’t a PR course either. The fast runners are barely breaking 19 hours. Which, for a course with barely 15k of vert, isn’t very fast. I think because it is pretty runnable, many people go out too fast. And, with the potential for a sunny, warm day after a chilly start, the heat slows a lot of people down. Even with a 32 hour cut-off the DNF rate is pretty high.

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

It is a very well run race. You can tell they have done this before.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

I wouldn’t say it is a strong field. Perhaps because it is an early season race or maybe it is a bit under the radar for the higher level of competition.

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.

No special handshake to get in. I think it generally doesn’t fill up until pretty close to race day. There are a few towns nearby with lots of lodging within 20 minutes of the course.

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

Not a lot of real food at the aid stations. Kind of the standard fare, maybe a cold grilled-cheese, a small bag of chips or a cup of soup at night. If you prefer something more substantial, don’t be relying on the aid stations. Have something in your drop bag, which you can access 4 times at miles 18, 31, 68 and 80, if you need more than just the basics.

Weather and typical race conditions

Chilly start typically. Eastern Washington is the high desert and in the middle of the day, if there aren’t any clouds, be prepared for some brutal sunshine. And the wind can pick up quite a bit. It was so strong it blew over a port-a-potty!

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

A lot of runners used gaiters above their shoes to keep out the sand and dust.

The miles along the ridge out to Chandler Butte (and back) are VERY rocky. I’d recommend some cushioned shoes and strong ankles.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

In a non-Covid year this race is great for spectators, crew and a pacer if you want one. I signed up for it again (2020 version) because my wife enjoyed seeing me every couple of hours and being able to crew my first time there. AND she was still able to run into town for a nap at the hotel, a cold drink and some fast food, or, at night, there was even time for some warm real food at a restaurant.

How’s the Swag?

One other thing I didn’t mention is how inexpensive this race is. Signup is about $150, for 100 miles! And you get a comfy hoody, a long-sleeved shirt, a bag, and of course, a buckle. It isn’t anything special but considering some 100 milers are $400 or more, I was pleased with the SWAG.

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

5 out of 5 stars – A great early season race!