Off And Running!

Runners are a breed all of their own. Most people seem to either love the sport or hate it. Max (of the Durango Team) and his wife Katie love it. They love it so much that they take turns running the various races offered in the Durango area. She runs the Telegraph Mother’s Day race, he runs the Steamworks Half Marathon. They both run Mt. Sneffels.

We often say that Durango has something for everybody, and most of the time the skiing, hiking, and other outdoor enthusiast sports are highlighted. Yet, running has a very distinct presence in Durango. This is the time of the year that “race season” begins, and runners may experience various routes in the area. In addition to awesome scenery, many of these races have after-run celebrations. Most importantly, many of these races support noble causes through their earnings.

On Mother’s Day, the Telegraph 10K, 5K and 1 Mile begins at Horse Gulch. The proceeds from this race directly support Step Up Uganda, an organization dedicating to helping women and children in Uganda. (See their website for further info: http://www.stepupuganda.org/Home_Page.html).

The end of May (May 25) features the Narrow Gauge 10 Mile run, which covers the Fort Lewis Rim and the Animas River trail. This race supports the Durango Running Club, Fort Lewis College, and Mark Witkes Memorial Scholarship. A four mile route is also an option.

The Steamworks Half Marathon takes place on June 7, and runners enjoy taking in CR 250 to Baker’s Bridge with a post-race party hosted by Steamworks.

On August 3, Kennebec Challenge Mountain run takes place in La Plata Canyon, with both an 8.5 mile option and a 15 mile option. This one benefits the Shanta Foundation  (building a school in Myanmar), La Plata County Search and Rescue, and the Durango Running Club.

These are just a few of the summer runs offered in Durango. In the fall, the Durango Double Road and Trail half marathon spans two weekend days, with a half marathon race each day.

Other races in the area include: the Mancos Cowboy Half Marathon (May 17), the Thirsty 13, a new race on August 23, the Mt. Sneffels Marathon/Half Marathon in Ouray (August 9), and several mountain runs in the area. We love these local races—the excitement of the challenge is a thrill! We hope you enjoy participating, volunteering, or spectating at some of these upcoming races. Keep an eye out for Max when you’re on the road!

Check out this website for additional Durango running info: http://durangorunningclub.org/