Last year, I got bit by the ultra bug. My 1st was followed by my 2nd and 3rd and now here we are in 2019 and I’m surrounded by so many more options. The first one I’m planning for the new year is the 2019 Tillamook Burn. The 50 Miler will take place on Saturday, April 27th and the 50k will be on Sunday, April 28th. Both will be located in the stunning Tillamook State Forest at Reehers camp, halfway between Portland and the Coast.
Daybreak Racing puts on a great race and they make sure that their runners are taken care of. Not all ultras can say the same, but you will have everything you need for this one. Not only will this race be beautiful, but there’s a history behind it as well. “Tillamook Burn” refers to forest fires between 1933 and 1951 which consumed 355,000 acres of old growth forest and this race not only celebrates the second-growth forest but showcases what remains of some of the old growth that’s survived.
Forest conservation is clearly important to Daybreak Racing, as a portion of the race proceeds will go to the non-profit Trailkeepers of Oregon. Additionally, all 50 Mile participants are required to contribute 4 hours at a trail work party between August 1st and April 15th at a National Forest, Sate Forest, or other major public land and provide proof in order to run this race. 50k participants are encouraged to do so as well. There’s even a trail work party scheduled on March 30th from 9:30AM to 2:00PM at Gales Creek Campground, so if you’re planning to do the 50 Miler, RSVP here to get your prerequisite in.
Your registration includes the cost of parking, full service aid stations, food before and after the race, a finisher’s medal, and live music at the post-race party. There will also be a bonfire going all day, and some raffle prizes to stick around for. There will be some sponsor swag to age group winners. A race shirt is not included in the registration cost, but can be purchased as an add on. Hats made with light moisture-wicking materials will also be available for purchase. Both shirts and hats will be $25 and must be picked up at race check-in (no exceptions.)
The 50 Miler is a two-pronged out-and-back course mostly on singletrack trails with 8 aid stations and a 14 hour time limit. The 50k is also an out-and-back on mostly singletrack trails with 5 aid stations available and a 9 hour time limit. The aid stations will be fully stocked with the usual ultra spread of PB&J, fruit, and your typical electrolyte treats. There will not be drop-bag service. Both trail races are described as hilly but soft with great footing, although there are “some technical sections with rocks and roots, as well as some long climbs and descents.”. Expect lush woods, waterfalls, streams, and a journey you won’t forget anytime soon.
This is going to be a great way to ramp up Ultra season!
Details:
What: 2019 Tillamook Burn 50 Miler & 50k
When: Saturday, April 27th at 6:00AM for 50 Miler & Sunday, April 28th at 8:00AM for 50k.
Where: Reehers Camp, Tillamook State Forest
Cost: 50 Miler is $150 and 50k is $115. Shirts and hats are available for purchase for $25.
Register: Here
Packet Pick-Up: 50 Miler pickup & check-in is from 5:00AM-5:45AM on Sat April 27th. 50k pickup & check-in is available 7:00AM-7:45AM on Sun April 28th.
