If you haven’t heard of Go Beyond Racing, click on that link immediately, find a race distance that appeals, sign up, and enjoy one of the best trail running experiences to-date. If you already have some of their races under your belt, you know I’m not kidding. Known for their scenic ultras around Oregon, they introduced a smaller race to the calendar last summer and it’s back again for 2019: Gnar Gnar. An uncomplicated, straight-forward 6-miler, it’s short and sweet, right? Riiiiiight.
This race is at Mt. Hood Skibowl, taking runners up Gnar Gnar trail for about a mile, trends down on the Low Road for about 1.5 miles, hits the Horse Trail and Skyline Road up to the top (you’ll find an aid station and a gorgeous view here), then starts the descent on Sunrise Trail and catching the Gnar Gnar trail to the finish line. Just a quick 10K with ~1,900 ft of gain!
The aid station at the top will have water, GU, and electrolytes and as always, Go Beyond Racing is cupless, so plan accordingly.
The course closes at 10:15 am and all runners must leave the top of Gnar Gnar by 10:00 am. Anyone who doesn’t make this cutoff will ride back down with the volunteers… or take the Alpine Slide down!
Skibowl in the summer has so much to do, so bring your friends and family (to race with you, watch you fly down the trail, or meet for a beer after…it won’t take you long. It’s only 6 miles, remember!?). Stick around for mini golf, ziplines, bungee trampoline, and more! Runners can show their race bib to get 10% off the adventure park admission on race day.
The beneficiary of the race is the Trailkeepers of Oregon (TKO); a non-profit organization whose mission is to protect and enhance the Oregon hiking experience through advocacy, stewardship, outreach and education. TKO also hosts the Oregon Hikers Forum and the Oregon Hikers Field Guide, two great resources for adventure-planning in Oregon!
For more event info, visit the race website or their Facebook page!
Details:
Date: Sunday, August 18, 2019
Time: 8:00 AM (packet pickup on race day begins at 7:00 AM – photo ID is required)
Where: Mt. Hood Skibowl | Government Camp, OR
Price: $70 (add $5 for day of registration, if space is still available)
Registration: Online at Ultra Signup
