Bander-who? Bander-what? I’m still not sure what a Bandersnatch is, but the Bandersnatch 5k and Lewis Loops 10 miler, new for this year, is a small local race held in Ashland the past 2 years and is billed as an introduction to trail running for new runners and something different for seasoned trail runners to try out!
Both races start in lovely Lithia Park in downtown Ashland – this park is a 100-acre vista of emerald lawns, trees, streams and colorful landscaping. While the race is noted to be a good introduction to trail running, don’t be going into it thinking that it will be an easy. The 5k race has some substantial climbs (800+ feet in total gain), and much of the single track Bandersnatch Trail consists of multiple switchbacks. It is a loop course, the first half of which is essentially all uphill (stop briefly to enjoy the views at the top!) with the second half coming back down. Most of the race route is on the trail, but there is some on dirt fire roads and paved roads. All runners must complete the course in one hour and fifteen minutes.
The Lewis Loops 10 miler is a new event for this year that will allow racers to run along many of the newer trails recently put in by the 100% beneficiary of this race, Ashland Woodland and Trails Association (AWTA). You will run up Lower Red Queen, down Jub Jub, up Loop Road, down Caterpillar, around both Lewis Loops (and even a quick out and back on the lookout trail), down Red Queen, climbing Gryphon and finish it off by running down Bandersnatch Trail. The course will be well marked, and there will be 2 aid stations you will cross through a total of 3 times.
The first 100 people to sign up for either distance will be guaranteed a fancy new swag bag for this year!
Don’t miss out on this race and try out some trail running!
What: Bandersnatch 5k and Lewis Loops 10 miler
When: Saturday November 18, 2017
Where: Lithia Park, 59 Winburn Way, Ashland, OR 97520
Details: 7:30am start 10 mile; 8am start 5k
Cost: $30 – 10 miler; $20 – 5k. $5 price increase to each after October 31st.
