Big Bend 50 – Possible Ultramarathon in Big Bend National Park
Posted by David Hanenburg on 14 Dec 2009 at 3:00 pm | Tagged as: race news
Interested in running a 50 km or 25 km trail run in Big Bend National Park located in southwest Texas? Currently a race does not exist but potential race organizer, Carroll Voss, is asking the market (us!), if there is any interest in running in this rugged and scenic landscape.
Why Big Bend?
“Sometimes considered “three parks in one,” Big Bend includes mountain, desert, and river environments. An hour’s drive can take you from the banks of the Rio Grande to a mountain basin nearly a mile high. Here, you can explore one of the last remaining wild corners of the United States, and experience unmatched sights, sounds, and solitude.”
Sounds pretty cool.
A couple other neat Big Bend National Park pages to check out are the photos and panoramas. Quite stunning views.
Plus, the main park page has a section titled, How NOT to Die in the Desert. Well duh, of course we should have a trail race at this park!
Here is a cool video capturing some nice images throughout Big Bend.
(If you can’t see the video, click here.)
Proposed Race Date and Options
Currently Voss is proposing a race date of January 16, 2011. (note the year) This could change based on feedback.
The event would include a 50 and 25 km run. Additional possibilities include a 10 km and 45 mile mountain bike course.
Also, any money raised by the ultra would go to the Friends of Big Bend National Park which raises funds for park improvements.
Are you interested?
Voss is trying to determine if there is actual interest for a trail run in this location.
If this event would possibly interest you, check out the very basic race website, bigbend50.com and sign up for their mailing list. You will also see a picture slide-show from the event in days gone by.
There is additional info on the the Big Bend 50 Ultra Marathon Facebook page where you can provide feedback and take a four question survey in the My Stuff tab.
The Facebook page already has 177 fans. So, is there interest in a trail running race at Big Bend National Park? It would appear the short answer is yes.
Be active – Feel the buzz!
David – EnduranceBuzz.com
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So on board with this race. It is in January which may conflict a bit with Bandera…but oh this race looks good.
Hey Dave – I agree with the potential Bandera conflict but I think they are open to other dates as well. It will be interesting to see how it transforms in the coming year. Yes, the sport is a growin.
I would so be in for this race. Being a West Texas boy I have been to Big Bend many times and love it down there.
Hey Derek – Cool! Make sure you add yourself to their mailing list.
Big Bend 50; race date is set for Jan 16 2011; MLK weekend. (Park influence based on congestion, I think) I worked this race for three years (05-07) and it is an astounding experience. Not for sissies; this race requires patience and perseverance (just to get there!) but rewards you with amazing views, challenges and comraderie. Plan ahead; race has been capped at 200 in the past and close-in lodging gets booked! Run it or work it; you won’t forget it! Remember; this race supports Friends of Big Bend, and funds go to improve/support the Park.
Lois – Awesome! Thanks for the insight.
PLEASE BRING IT BACK!!! This is the best Ultra west of the Pecos.
Hey Bob – Thanks for the feedback on the event.
Hearing many positive comments about the race makes me wonder…why did the event go away in the first place?
Anyone know?