(8-19-08) From Press Release - Since October of last year thousands have taken part in the XTERRA U.S. Trail Run Series and through the trials of these 50 races, spanning 15 states from coast-to-coast, some of the country's top trail runners have emerged and are headed to Bend to race for the XTERRA Trail Running National Championship. Having been called "America's Best Trail Running Town" by the editors of Outside Magazine, Bend is certainly worthy of hosting the nation's top harriers.
The main event is an off-road half-marathon (13.1 mile/21km) that starts in the historic Old Mill District. While the Series best runners have already proven their worth in rollicking races around the nation, one and all are welcome to take them on and race for the championship as no qualification is necessary.
The Course
Under a special use permit from the Deschutes National Forest, the national championship runs from Downtown to pristine forest trails in a matter of miles then weaves along the scenic Deschutes River trail that serves up some of Bend's finest scenery. Runners can expect a fast and fun course with lots of switchbacks on sandy, rocky, and dirt-strewn single and double track trails. There is a little more than 1,000 feet of elevation gain, and the first 1/2-mile or so is on a paved urban trail on the east side of the river before crossing over the footbridge adjacent to Farewell Bend Park and onto west side dirt trails.
Prize Money and Awards
The fastest runners will be racing for $5,000 in prize money - awarded to the top five men and women as follows: $1,000, $600, $400, $300, $200. XTERRA will also be crowning national champs in age groups starting at 9 & under, then every five years (ex. 10-14, 15-19, etc...) up to 80+. Champs win a commemorative long-sleeve winners T and all racers get a short sleeve shirt and goody bag.
5k/10k and Kids Sprint
Although not considered national championship races, XTERRA will also host a pair of fun and beautiful 5km and 10km trail runs (and the 5km is stroller friendly). There's also a free kids sprint and "XTERRA Kids Zone" filled with obstacle courses, a climbing net, balance beam and mor
For more information, check out www.xterraplanet.com.
