The race started at the head of the Klara Sauer Trail where there is a gravel path that extends for about 1 mile. Then the more technical trail begins, which curves and winds on some pretty rocky terrain. The curves combined with the bricks/ rocks, means that you really have to be careful with your footing. But, it's not very hilly, and the it's wide enough for runners to pass each other.

The 1st 4 finishers were completed the course in 16+ minutes - and all came from Beacon - way to represent; and the 1st female finished in 19+ minutes ... and if you run the races in the Mid-Hudson Valley, you'll know who that is :-) She has such grace (hint hint), is such an awesome runner and an inspiration. This is a fantastic race, always well organized, great food (sponsored by Panera Bread), with GREAT prizes to the 1st place finishers provided by Mountain Tops Outfitters.

I hope they promote the race more next year because it's for a great cause (to raise funds for Forget U Cancer), and it could be the start of a nice day trip for people coming from NYC. It's literally at the NY Metro North Train Station - in a cool small town (emphasis on small town), with DIA within walking distance, along with a few other cool galleries and restaurants along the Beacon downtown area (and by downtown, I mean 1 street ... and it's a "developing" downtown, i.e. Manhattan it ain't); plus there's some good hiking to be had (including up Mt. Beacon) and kayaking along the Hudson River (Mountain Tops Outfitters has that covered for you).

I think running this race (among other things - including a duathlon the next day), helped me get my mojo back! This was race #15 for 2011, and I'm aiming for 10-15 more by the end of the year.