Endurance Challenges Abound in PA Grand Canyon Country
Wellsboro, PA (PRWEB) July 14, 2013 -- Runners, athletes and bicyclists—avid and adventurous—will find a number of opportunities to mix beautiful scenery and friendly competition in the numerous endurance events held through the rest of 2013 in Tioga County, PA. Whatever your experience level, Tioga County has a challenge waiting for you.
PA Grand Canyon Marathon
An inaugural event for the area, the PA Grand Canyon Marathon will begin with a shotgun start at 7 a.m. on Sunday, July 28. Even though the rural course runs along the West Rim of the PA Grand Canyon, there will be big-city features such as chip timing, tech shirts, and on-course support. Pair these specs with a USATF Course number (PA13024WB) and you’ve got a race that counts as a Boston Qualifier. This race is limited to 500 runners and there are a limited number of spots still available. For more information, including online registration, please go to http://pagrandcanyonmarathon.com/.
Laurel Classic Mountain Bike Challenge
Held on Saturday, September 7 at 10:00 a.m., the Laurel Classic Mountain Bike Challenge takes place in Asaph, a small town located 8 miles west of Wellsboro. “This course has it all,” cyclist group and Laurel Classic event creators Twisted Spokes states. “Lung-popping climbs, hair-raising descents (including the famous Stinger Trail downhill), creek crossings, log crossings, and loads of absolutely delicious singletrack.” The Stinger Trail that they refer to is only available on the 22-mile portion of the course, reserved for Sport and Expert Classes, because of the nearly 300 feet drop that it takes in only 150-200 yards. Beginner Classes are also invited to join in the fun with an 11-mile course, and both courses are comprised of one large loop. Registration and course information can be found at http://www.twistedspokes.org.
Pine Creek Challenge
Test your skills in the two-day Pine Creek Challenge, held on Saturday, September 7 and Sunday, September 8 along the Pine Creek Rail Trail. Participants can choose from a 100-kilometer course or a-100 mile course, both of which run along 50 miles of the Upper Canyon section (the entire length of the Pine Creek Rail Trail is roughly 65 miles long) and the overall grade of the course is no more than 2%. See how far or how fast you can run! For registration and information, please visit http://www.pinecreekchallenge.com.
Step Outdoors Tryathlon
Run, paddle and bike your way to the finish at the Tryathlon, held at Hills Creek State Park on Saturday, September 21 at 10 a.m. This is a great introductory event for novice competitors, but it can also hold the interest of a seasoned athlete. The course can be completed with three individuals (one running 3.1 miles, one paddling about 1.75 miles, and another biking about 8.0 miles.) or individuals can take on the whole course by themselves. The landscape of the park makes it easy to view the different stages of the Tryathlon and spectators are more than welcome to come and show their support! New features for 2013 include male and female categories for ages 40 and over. Go to http://www.stepoutdoors.org for a course map and registration.
Ives Run Trail Challenge
With four miles of varying terrain, the Ives Run Trail Challenge will take place on Sunday, October 13 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ives Run Recreation area of Hammond Lake. Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to attend. This footrace trail features portions of the Lynn Keller, the Stephenhouse, and the Archery Trails. As an added bonus, participants will be shuttled by trolley to the start of the course. For more information, please visit http://www.stepoutdoors.org.
Green Monster 25K/50K Trail Challenge
This challenge, which takes place on Sunday, October 13 with a 7:30 a.m. (50K) and 9 a.m. (25K) start, begins at Straight Run Road west of Wellsboro. Described as “one ugly mountain race,” participants can choose a 25K trail, featuring a 4,000 feet total ascent, or a 50K trail with 7,000 feet total ascent. More than 130 runners took part in the 2012 challenge; please visit http://www.greenmonster-trailchallenge.com/ for more information or to register for the event.
For more information on the area, please contact the Tioga County Visitors Bureau at 1-888-TIOGA28 or online at http://www.visittiogapa.com.
Allison Senchur, Tioga County Visitors Bureau, http://www.visittiogapa.com, (570) 724-0635, [email protected]
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