In Through the Looking Glass, Lewis Carroll wrote, “No use! No use!’ said the King. ‘She runs so fearfully quick. you might as well try to catch a Bandersnatch!” Now, I don’t know if Carroll’s “frumious Bandersnatch” has been seen in the Ashland area, but the inaugural Bandersnatch 5K will be run on the Bandersnatch Trail. This new trail race is a fundraiser for the Ashland Woodland and Trails Association (AWTA.)
This course is described as not being flat, fast, or easy. However, it is said to be a good trail race for both beginning and experienced trail runners. The single track trail has multiple switchbacks and over 800 feet of elevation gain. “The course is approximately 1.7 miles of plush, recently constructed single track, 1.2 miles of fire road and 0.7 miles of paved road.” Racers will start near the parking area of the reservoir in Lithia Park.
Participants must be able to complete the course in 1 hour and 15 minutes. This seems easy enough, but apparently the uphill portion is slow going. The good news is that you should be able to make up some time on the second half which is downhill. All finishers will receive a “trucker hat.”
Parking near the starting area is limited, so racers are encouraged to carpool and/or park in Lithia Park and walk a mile or two to the start.
Badnersnatch 5K Details
Date: Saturday, November 14
Time: 8:00 A.M.
Location: Ashland, OR
Race Price: $20
Race Website: Click Here