News & Stories

Pre-Race Greetings from the Race Director

Preparations continue for Saturday’s Surly Trail Loppet in Theodore Wirth Park. The course is in great shape as we’re wrapping up the final trail work, and the high-near-70 weather forecast is perfect for running.

All three race distances filled in early August this year so prepare yourself for a good time with great people and even better beer, brought to you by our sponsor, Surly Brewing Co. We’re excited to welcome runners from 22 states and Canada to the “Best Footrace of 2012,” according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune!

Now, for the top contenders…

On the women’s side, 2011 half-marathon champion and last year’s runner up Audrey Weber aims to continue to dominate the field. But she’ll be pushed by local all-stars Carie Alexander and Karen Bebchuk, not to mention former and aspiring Olympian Caitlin Compton.

On the men’s side, last year’s half-marathon champion Noah Delong is well positioned to defend his title. But he’ll have a race on his hands thanks to the likes of former champion Matt Liebsch, nordic-skiing great Brian Gregg and trail-running specialist Chris Lundstrom, as well as local standouts Craig Cardinal and Patrick Russell.

Everything is lining up to ensure a great event. Remember: the course will be well marked thanks to our volunteers, but it is up to each runner to follow the markings and stay on course. So keep your eyes peeled and your feet moving!

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday morning. Please note: we still have a few volunteer spots available so visit our website and ask your friends and family to help out. They’ll get a cool Columbia hat and some other goodies for their time.

And, runners, the hills haven’t gotten any smaller.

Mike Erickson
Race Director