The 18th annual Perseverance Trail Run takes place Sunday, Oct. 24 in the Village of Cumberland.
Each year, this community driven, grassroots trail running event attracts 500 racers of all abilities and 70 volunteers, all coming together to raise funds for the Cumberland Community Forest Society.
The race sold out five weeks in advance and has left people scrambling. If you aren’t registered yet and want to race, your only option is to find someone willing to transfer their race bib to you. The organizers have created a Facebook group for participants to connect with each other.
Spectators are encouraged, but please check in beforehand at Race Central located at No. 7 Mine Park for the race route and information. You may also drop into Lupine Art Studio from 2 – 6 pm the day before the race to gather information, see course maps and lists of participants.
This year’s race will once again feature two classic trail run courses: A 3k Cross Country Romp and an 11k Mountain Run. The 3k showcases the protected Cumberland Community Forest trails including a few ups and downs, twists and turns, and maybe even a little water. This course is perfect for those looking to sample cross country running, including walkers and the little ones.
The 11k is for those looking for a running challenge complete with steep climbs, flowing descents, technical single-track and breathtaking vistas. If you are ready to challenge your trail running stamina, this course will surely take you to new ‘heights’.
The race has been organized by volunteers and supported by sponsoring businesses since 2004. The goal is to raise funds to purchase and protect the Cumberland Forest through the CCFS. Over the past 13 years, the race has raised over $570,000 through racer donations, community sponsors and the CCFS Perseverance Party for the Forest events.
FMI: contact race director Derek Kaufman at info@perseverancetrailrun.com.
The organizers are looking for a few more volunteers to help out on race day. Go to www.perseverancetrailrun.com for more information and to sign up to race or volunteer.