Run Oregon’s preview on the 2019 Tillamook Burn 50 Miler & 50k posted in February (read about it here) but we wanted to give the race an additional shout out so people don’t forget about it as Spring race season and all the ultras that come with it arrive.
Ultras have become a “thing” and in the Pacific Northwest, there are plenty of memory-making options out in the deep dark woods. Too many options, really, when you’re trying to plan your race season. Why pick Tillamook Burn?
Well, for one, have you ever been to Tillamook State Forest? Whether you’re doing the 50k or the 50 Miler, you’ll be starting and finishing at Reehers Camp in a Pacific NW rainforest, and it’s simply stunning. This race will be my first ultra of 2019 and a big part of the reason I picked it was the location. I got to run another race in this area last year and the lush green trees and breathtaking forests were a treat. The waterfalls and stream crossings will surely help keep your mind where it needs to be, and the beauty of the trails makes screaming quads and tired legs seem a little more tolerable. Even better, for those of us from Portland, it’s not really such a long drive. Not enough to need to plan an entire weekend around it, at least.
Daybreak Racing makes sure that a portion of the Tillamook Burn proceeds go to a local beneficiary, the Trailkeepers of Oregon. Since this is an important cause that allows all of us trail runners to continue to enjoy these gorgeous forests to run thru, Daybreak wants to see to it that all 50 Mile participants complete 4 hours of trail work between August 1st and April 15th in order to get the opportunity to race. It’s really sort of refreshing to see such a requirement that will impact the trails in such a positive and physical way. You truly get what you give back.
Another good reason to register for this race is that, as previously mentioned, it’s a Daybreak Racing event. If you’re an ultra trail runner, you’ve probably heard of them because they put on some very scenic races in incredible locations and they are also well organized, top-notch events. The courses are well marked, the aid stations are well stocked, and the swag is high quality. Not only are they hosting the Tillamook Burn, but they will also be putting on the Wy’East Howl on Mt. Hood in July and the Backcountry Rise in the backcounty of Mt. St. Helens in September. The Backcountry Rise has been on my bucket list for a couple of years now, but as mentioned already, you have to pick and choose sometimes. Maybe next year will be the year.
Several of my friends have either done Tillamook Burn or know it by reputation, and all have great things to say. Maybe it’s time to see it for yourself.
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.
