(6-26-08) For the first time in the 35-year history of the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run, Mother Nature has force event organizers to cancel this year's event due to an unprecedented number of wildfires that have struck Northern California in recent days.
A release was posted on the Western States Web site announcing the heartbreaking news, citing numerous factors that contributed to the decision. Western States Board President Tim Twietmeyer and Race Director Greg Soderlund, who made the announcement, expressed their deepest apologies to the athletes that had planned on participating in the event this weekend (June 28-29, 2008).
From Press Release - "For all of you, today's news is disappointing. Since the lottery was held in December, you have trained with remarkable diligence and focus to get to this day. You have dreamed big and made countless personal sacrifices to prepare for one of the greatest days any trail runner can ever have. As a group, the Western States Board would like to commend you for your dedication and devotion not only to the preparation that is required for our race, but to the community of trail runners of which we are all a part. You are members of a special group, one that relishes challenge, constantly strives to improve the limits of what is believed possible, and seeks the special kindred spirits of others who revel in the beauty of our sport. We have been honored to have your name as part of our race's start list this year."
More: www.ws100.com
