Race: Whitefish Trail Legacy Run 50K
Runner: Ron Kelly
Race Date: 10/01/2022
Location: Whitefish, Montana
Results: 18/125; 1st in 50+ age group
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/7896289513
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Location/accessibility, runnable trails, beautiful scenery
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Probably human (me!) error but I did get off course a couple of times. Though fairly well marked there are a couple confusing spots and I think they could have done a better job or had race volunteers in certain areas of the course.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Nothing weird. Prepare for any type of weather. This year was sunny and fairly warm. Ran the same race in 2019 as my first ever ultra and the top of the mountain was blizzard like conditions.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Took it really easy the first 4-5 miles of flat section before the long climb started. Felt like I ran a smart race throughout from a pacing perspective. Enjoyed the beauty of the course and the clear, sunny day. Perfect conditions for an October mountain trail run.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Save something for the downhill back to town.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
I clearly didn’t hydrate well. I feel I’m usually pretty good at this knowing I’m a heavy sweater, but I started muscle twitching/cramping in my legs around mile 20 and progressively got worse. Disappointed I didn’t hydrate better. I was well trained and maybe a bit too excited and didn’t focus in an area I know I’m susceptible.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
I think one of those races you can do well without seeing the course in advance (as long as you stay on course!). It’s a long steady climb to the top. Mostly runnable with just a few small technical and steep sections where power hiking probably advised. The first 2.5 and the last 2.5 miles on roads as you run to/from the trail system. The top of the mountain is roughly the half way point and mile 16 is a moderate downhill, but mile 17 is a fairly longish, gradual climb before you then begin the steady downhill back to the finish. Mentally you are prepared for all downhill after reaching the summit and this hits you.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Beautiful run especially on a clear day. You can look back into Flathead Valley and see Whitefish Lake and the downtown area. Spectacular scenery.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Moderately difficult. One long, moderate climb to the top of Whitefish mountain and then back down. ~5,300 feet of total climbing
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Great organization (outside getting off course) and aid station support.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Strong contingent of primarily Montana and PNW runners. Primarily local field.
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.
Whitefish is a super fun mountain town, though like many these days is fairly crowded. Lots of lodging and restaurant options. Kalispell, 15 minutes away has more plentiful options to stay/eat. Race doesn’t appear to sell out. Great early Fall race to end the season and celebrate post run.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
All the usual stuff. Well organized and supported.
Weather and typical race conditions
7am start Mountain time. Sun comes up about 7:45. Beautiful sunny day but with a mountain race, conditions at the top of the mountain could vary.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Headlamp to start. Be prepared for much colder conditions and the top of the mountain.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Outside of the very top of the mountain (spectators would have to climb up there), aid stations easily accessible for spectators.
How’s the Swag?
Minimal swag but a free ticket to the Great Northwest Oktoberfest and a drink ticket is pretty cool. A super fun community tradition right at the finish line.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
Would definitely recommend the race if you enjoy smaller (125 racers), community trail events. On Sunday there is a half marathon, 10K, and 5K option to make it a full weekend of races.
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