FINGER LAKES FIFTIES TRAIL RUNS - Saturday, June 30, 2012

The Latest Update ...

2012-02-02T07:51:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone! Thank you so much to those of you who have already registered for the race! I am excited about the race already! There are 244 registrants so far, leaving just 6 spaces!

With this bizarre winter that we have been having, the trails are likely in runnable condition (although I cannot say for 100% sure what they are like; probably muddy) so if you are in the area, feel free to take advantage of the conditions and get out there on the trails at The Finger Lakes National Forest for a run! Also, if you are in the Watkins Glen area, please consider supporting one of our race sponsors, Rooster Fish Brewing, and check out The Crooked Rooster for some great brews and eats!

Entry Update ...

2012-01-29T06:36:00.000-05:00

Hey all. Just wanted to get a quick update out there ... we are now at 183 registrants for this year's event. Only 67 spots available until we reach the 250 runner limit. Thank you to all who have registered so far!

Confirmed Entrants

2012-01-02T08:28:00.003-05:00

To find out who is entered for the 2012 event just click on the above link to the registration site and there is an icon to click on to reveal who is entered.

PLEASE NOTE

2012-01-01T15:05:00.002-05:00

Please note that when you register on the UltraSignup page there is a question asking you about EXTRA meal tickets ... that is to say, as a registered runner you get a free meal; this option is only for those who want to purchase EXTRA meals for family/friends/etc. YOU SHOULD NOT PUT A QUANTITY HERE UNLESS YOU WANT TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL MEALS. This should be clarified on the registration page soon, but if you have "purchased" a meal for yourself (the registered runner) here, please e-mail fl50s@yahoo.com and let me know and I will arrange to refund you.

REGISTRATION FOR 2012 OPENS ON JANUARY 1

2011-12-30T11:18:00.006-05:00

Registration for the 2012 Finger Lakes Fifties will open on Sunday, January 1, 2012. Just click on the link at the top of this page and it will take you to the UltraSignup registration page. THIS YEAR THERE WILL BE NO PAPER MAIL-IN REGISTRATIONS; THE ONLY WAY TO REGISTER IS ON ULTRASIGNUP.

Again, there will be a 250 runner limit for all three races (25K, 50K, 50Mile) combined but NEW this year is that there will be a waiting list, so if you register for the event and know that you will not be able to make it, please e-mail fl50s@yahoo.com and let me know so that runners who are on the waiting list can get it!

Also NEW this year is that if you register and need to withdraw your registration and do so by March 1, 2012, you will receive a full refund. Registration cancellations between March 2 and May 1, 2012 will be given a 50% refund. No refunds will be given after May 1.

DATE SET FOR 2012 RACE!

2011-10-04T09:54:00.001-04:00

DATE: Saturday, June 30, 2012

Registration will likely open in early January 2012, so keep your eye on this blog for details and the link registration. NEW for 2012 ... on-line registration only (just an FYI for those of you who have utilized the paper "snail mail" entry forms in the past).

POST-RACE THOUGHTS ...

2011-07-07T10:35:00.009-04:00

Anyone who has a race reportor pictures that they would like to share, please e-mail it to fl50s@yahoo.com and I will post it here for others to enjoy.

Here is a link to 50K finisher Andrew Siefert's report ...
http://andrewontrails.blogspot.com/2011/07/finger-lakes-50s-race-report.html

Link to 50 Mile winner Jeff Powers' report ...
http://jefficusrex.blogspot.com/2011/07/finger-lakes-50-mile-race-report.html

Link to 25K winner Mark Manz's report ...
http://runningmanz.wordpress.com/2011/07/06/finger-lakes-fifties-25k-report/

Link to 50 Mile finisher Jade Mills' report ...
http://milesfromeverywhere.blogspot.com/2011/07/finger-lakes-fifties-50-miler.html

Link to 50 Mile finisher John Fegyveresi's report ...
http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2011/07/finger-lakes-fifties-race-report.html

Link to 50 Mile finisher Jim Porter's report ...
http://grooveandflow.blogspot.com/2011/07/race-report-finger-lakes-50-miler-7211.html

Some more pictures ...
https://picasaweb.google.com/FingerLakes50s/2011FingerLakesFifties?authkey=Gv1sRgCKGNu_y-44_-rgE#

OVERALL & MASTERS WINNERS

2011-07-04T17:29:00.006-04:00

Congratulations to the 2011 Overall and Masters male and female winners. *** indicates new course record.

25K (16.5 miles)

OVERALL MALE: Mark Manz, 2:03:25

OVERALL FEMALE: Christina Sonsire, 2:29:23

MASTERS MALE: James Chely, 2:14:43*** (old course record 2:17:34 in 2010)

MASTERS FEMALE: Audrey Balander, 2:41:54

50K (32.9 miles)

OVERALL MALE: Paul Wallace, 4:31:08*** (old course record 4:56:28 in 2010)

OVERALL FEMALE: Sheryl Wheeler, 5:36:43

MASTERS MALE: Sean Andrish, 4:36:30*** (old course record 5:00:31 in 2010)

MASTERS FEMALE: Elizabeth Mainiero, 5:56:54

50 Mile

OVERALL MALE: Jeff Powers, 7:06:02

OVERALL FEMALE: Elena Makovskaya, 9:11:46*** (old course record 9:16:22 in 2010)

MASTERS MALE: John Ehntholt, 8:12:03

MASTERS FEMALE: Liz Bondar, 11:26:36

RESULTS AND PICTURES

2011-07-04T09:37:00.003-04:00

THANK YOU to all of the runners and volunteers for coming out on Saturday for another successful run of The Finger Lakes Fifties ... the 23rd edition! I am still trying to dig my way out of piles of race stuff and I hope to get some more reports and information up soon, but here are some starter links for you to check out. Please review the race results and e-mail me at fl50s@yahoo.com if you notice any discrepancies and I will address them as soon as I can. Also, please enjoy the pictures that Tom Perry, coordinator of the Western New York Ultra Series, took throughout the day. Thanks Tom ... I felt like I was actually out on the course as I was viewing the pics!

RESULTS:
http://www.coolrunning.com/results/11/ny/Jul2_Finger_set1.shtml

PICTURES:
http://classic.kodakgallery.com/wny-ultra/main/2011_finger_lakes_fifties

If you have any personal pictures and/or race reports that you would like posted to this site, please send them to fl50s@yahoo.com.

THANK YOU ALL!!!!

MORE HOUSEKEEPING DETAILS ...

2011-06-28T10:33:00.005-04:00

The list of runners and bib numbers has been finalized. Please remember that all of you who are registered for the 50K/50Miler are actually registered in both distances and you can make your decision to go on for the 50Miler (considering you make the cut-off for going on) or to finish at the 50K point.

Those who are registered in the 25K are only registered for that distance and may not change distances.

If you had already contacted me about switching from the 50s to the 25K distance and I have responded back to you, then you are all set. NO FURTHER CHANGES/DOWNGRADES FROM THE 50K/50Mile RACES TO THE 25K RACE WILL BE MADE; ANY REQUESTS FOR THIS WILL BE IGNORED. Please note that the confirmation list on this site may not reflect any distance changes that you may have already e-mailed me about. As long as I have responded back to your e-mail, then you are all set (I have the final assignments set-up on a separate spreadsheet).

REMINDER ... No Pre-Race Meal

2011-06-28T09:18:00.004-04:00

I have been receiving numerous e-mails asking about the pre-race meal on Friday. Just a reminder ... there is NO PRE-RACE MEAL on Friday. The meal that is provided to the runners (and to those who purchased extra meal tickets) is the post-race meal that is ongoing throughout the day on Saturday.

Please take note of this and be sure to make your own arrangements for dinner on Friday evening. If you click on "Eats" under the Table of Contents there is a list of some local restaurants that are not far from the Finger Lakes National Forest.

I am partial to the Wildflower Cafe/Crooked Rooster Brewpub ... they have excellent food and they are a supporter of The Finger Lakes Fifties again for a second year. Please support one of our sponsors!

ATTENTION: Runners Coming From Ithaca

2011-06-24T11:16:00.004-04:00

Any runners coming from the Ithaca area on race morning (Saturday, July 2) ...

There is a runner who needs a ride from Ithaca to the race on race morning. She is running the 50K so would need to be there prior to the 6:30am start. Please e-mail ae222@cornell.edu if you are able to help. She would greatly appreciate it!

Some Thoughts As Race Day Approaches ...

2011-06-24T10:31:00.009-04:00

Just thought I would drop a quick post to give you all some food for thought as you prepare for race day ...

1 - A leisurely run-thru of the 16.5 mile loop of the course is set for tomorrow, Saturday, June 25, beginning at 9am at the Potomac Group Campground parking lot. This is free to any and all (not just registered runners) although it is a self-supported run (a couple of stashes of Gatorade may be out on the course, but mostly you will need your own fuel to get you through this). Plan is to go to the Crooked Rooster brewpub in Watkins Glen after for eats and drinks.

2 - Race day parking (and parking for those who show up on Friday night to camp). Please refer to "RACE DAY PARKING" under the table of contents. This outlines all of the rules that we must follow for parking. Even if you will just be stopping by to pick-up your race packet on Friday, please DO NOT park in the Potomac Group Campground parking lot (you will need to park on Potomac Road).

3 - Friday night packet pick-up ... this will be happening from 4pm to 7pm only. Please do not come to pick-up your packet after 7pm; it will not happen. We have tried to accommodate the few that were stragglers in past years but we have found that this just has a "snowball effect" ... more show up, more packets to be given out, and before we know it it is 9pm. We have much to do the night before the race, so please be respectful of this timeframe. The race committee thanks you in advance for your cooperation.

4 - Those who are camping ... we will have a hand-pull wagon available to help you with bringing all of your goods into the campsite, if you wish to use it. It is ~1/4 mile (maybe less) walk from the parking lot entrance to the campground.

5 - All timing chips will be given out on race morning only. Even if you pick-up your race number/packet on Friday evening, please be aware that you will need to pick-up your timing chip prior to your race start on Saturday morning. Please arrive early enough to do this.

6 - Please review the "Rules Of The Game" as outlined in the table of contents. You are responsible for being aware and following these rules.

7 - COURSE MARKINGS ... all course markings are BLACK arrows on a RED background. Additional ORANGE flagging tape will be used to mark areas that may need to keep your attention. Please be aware that I have noticed that the forestry has some trees marked with pink flagging tape ... those are their markings for their own purposes and have nothing to do with the race. If you see pink flagging tape, ignore it. The only course markings that will be out there for the race are what I have stated above.

8 - Please e-mail any questions to fl50s@yahoo.com or call 607-564-1804. Any questions that come in on Thursday, June 30, will likely be answered quite late that night. We will be unable to respond to e-mails or phone calls after Thursday, June 30.

9 - This is all for now; if I come up with any further thoughts I will be posting them as they hit me. Thank you all for your support of this event; we wouldn't have a race without you. And thank you to all the wonderful folks who will be volunteering their time to take care of you runners. Our volunteers are wonderful people and will do their best to make sure you runners have a good time out there.

TRAIL UPDATE and RUN-THRU REMINDER

2011-06-19T10:33:00.006-04:00

Trail work has really gotten underway with mowing and clearing of brush. Lots of hours were spent yesterday doing this with more to do this week. The trails look amazing so far; little mud and very pleasant to run! The downside is that the deer flies were out in full-force around the ponds ... greatful that I had a scarf pinned to my hat to keep the buggers away from my face and ears!

(Joe mowing the South Slope trail)

REMINDER ... the run-thru of the course will be held this coming Saturday, June 25, starting at 9am at the Potomac Group Campground parking lot. Please e-mail fl5 mailto:fl50s@yahoo.com if you need directions. Remember that this is a self-supported run, so bring your own fuel and fluids to get you through the distance.

The course will be marked with these small black arrows on red background (usually only one per turn; 2 may be found in particularly potentially troublesome spots). No other flagging tape will be up at this time (other than a small amount on one of the dirt roads where there is no place for the arrows). The arrows are pretty inconspicuous so if you do not already know the course and you want to run faster than me (who knows the course) then you will have to keep your eyes open to make sure that you don't miss a turn. AS ALWAYS ... if you do not have an arrow telling you to make a turn THEN DON'T TURN! Only turns are marked; you will run straight on the trail unless indicated otherwise. The run-thru is not meant to be a race; it is meant to help you know the course, so take advantage of the leisurely run time to have fun with friends, enjoy the trail, and NOT GET LOST.

Trail Conditions

2011-06-11T09:38:00.004-04:00

Just a quick update on the trail conditions. With all of the April rain the trails had pretty much been under water. We were out on the southern section of the course yesterday and what a wonderful surprise! Those 90+ degree days and no recent rains have made a huge difference! The trails were in great shape and very runnable. We cut lots of cats claw, bow sawed some down trees and scoped out what needs mowing. Still lots of work to do over the next couple of weeks, but so far it looks like the trails are getting themselves ready for us!

Thanks to Joe Reynolds for his bow sawing yesterday. Joe and Jim McKee will be hitting the trails with the mowers soon!

(entrance to Gorge Trail from The Morgue aid station)

Local Beerfest Coming Soon!

2011-06-02T09:44:00.005-04:00

One of our race sponsors, Roosterfish Brewing, is participating in the Finger Lakes Craft Beer Festival, which is a benefit to increase awareness and facilitate monies to be donated to “Gas Free Seneca,” a local non-profit group dedicated to stopping LPG gas storage in the Watkins Glen area. The event is scheduled for Thursday, June 16 at 6pm.

Details can be found HERE. Sounds like a ton of fun with great music, food, and brews!

Run-Thru Of The Course

2011-06-02T09:36:00.005-04:00

A leisurely run-thru of the course is scheduled for Saturday, June 25, beginning at the Potomac Group Campground parking lot at 9am. All are welcome. This is a self-supported run (meaning you need to carry enough of your own fuel and fluids to get you through the 16.5 miles). I will try to have a stash or two of Gatorade out on the course, but please plan on having your own.

Join us at The Crooked Rooster Brewpub after the run and support our race sponsor, Roosterfish Brewing!

If you need directions to the campground, please e-mail fl50s@yahoo.com.

Hope to see you all there!

AID STATION UPDATE

2011-05-31T08:46:00.004-04:00

Please note that the list of aid stations has been updated with what will be served and the locations of the stations. Information found under Table Of Contents.

Volunteers Needed

2011-05-26T08:50:00.002-04:00

Volunteers are still needed for race day help. If you know of someone who would be willing to lend a hand, please check out what needs are still available by clicking on the "2011 Volunteer Assignments" under the table of contents and e-mail fl50s@yahoo.com if you can help. Thank you!

Leisurely Run-Thru Set

2011-05-21T14:15:00.002-04:00

A leisurely run-thru of the course will is scheduled for Saturday, June 25, beginning at the Potomac Group Campground parking lot. Time TBA ... keep checking back; time will be posted probably the week before the run. All are welcome. Details to come ...

Online Entry Problems

2011-05-08T08:56:00.004-04:00

I have received e-mails about three people who entered the race online via active.com on Wednesday, May 4, whose confirmations I did not receive. I have received other entries from that day and have been receiving entry confirmations since, so I am not sure if there was a temporary issue with active.com or what happened. The list of confirmed entrants is now updated (as of 9am, Sunday, May 8) and I will update the list of confirmed entrants daily, so if you enter online and do not seen your name on the list within 24 hours, please e-mail fl50s@yahoo.com and send me your confirmation e-mail from active.com. Thank you.

My Apologies ...

2011-05-03T08:46:00.003-04:00

My apologies; there was an error on the active.com registration late entry fee that affected three people. $5 refunds will be give to the following people when you pick-up your registration packet:

Bill Kellner
Kathy Pettet
Hermann Pohl

The correct late entry fee is $60 and has been corrected to reflect this on the active.com registration.

Late Entry Fee Now In Effect

2011-05-01T10:41:00.003-04:00

Just a quick reminder that the early-bird entry fee time-frame is over. Active.com registrations will automatically change to the late entry fee as of today and all snail-mail mail-in registration forms must have been post-marked by April 30 to get the early-bird entry fee. Thank you to all for your early entries ... this is a HUGE help in getting things planned and knowing who needs what and how much to start planning for!

Early-Bird Entry Deadline Approaching

2011-04-19T21:21:00.004-04:00

Just a reminder to all that the deadline for getting the early-bird entry fee is rapidly approaching. Mail-in entries must be received by April 30; entry fees on active.com will automatically go up after 11:59pm on April 30.

Bad-Ass Cow Shirt Alert

2011-04-19T21:16:00.008-04:00

Just a reminder to anyone who is interested in obtaining the 2012 Limited Edition Bad-Ass Trail Beast shirt ... they should be extremely cool short sleeve tech shirts and we will have a limited quantity. Sizes will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis and once the sizes are sold out, there will be no more available. So don't miss out!

"Cool" Headbands Once Again For Sale

2011-04-19T21:09:00.003-04:00

This is a picture of the headbands that will be available for sale at the race in 2011. A limited supply of these very "cool" moisture-wicking headbands will available for sale - $3 each or 2 for $5 - during race weekend again this year.

These headbands are made with a special material to help keep you cool during those hot runs . . . for more info on what they can do for you CLICK HERE.

Something new to try!

2011-04-13T10:40:00.002-04:00

Finger Lakes Runners Club member Tim Schlitzer will be providing samples of his snack food "Try Chips" at this year's event. They are an awesome snack, easy to chew and digest and they taste great! You can check them out at http://www.trychips.com.

WEEKEND UPDATE

2011-04-05T13:39:00.003-04:00

It has come to my attention that the Nascar racing that annually occurs in Watkins Glen on the same weekend as our race WILL NOT be happening this year. HOWEVER ... there WILL BE a weekend music festival held at the Watkins Glen International Raceway featuring the band Phish (http://www.bandsthatjam.com/tour-information/update-phish-watkins-glen-2011/). Presumably, most of the attendees will be camping right at the festival but there still may be some issues with hotels/motels, so ... if you are thinking of staying in one of these facilities, I would still suggest looking early on.

Hotel/Motel Information

2011-03-25T10:31:00.004-04:00

Just a quick note to anyone who is considering booking a hotel/motel room for race weekend ... there is a car race at the Watkins Glen International raceway on the same weekend as our race so you may want to try planning as early as possible in trying to book a place to stay.

Best First-Time 50s

2011-02-02T05:51:00.003-05:00

What an honor! The Finger Lakes Fifties has been listed as one of the best first-time 50-milers in the March 2011 issue of TrailRunner Magazine! Check it out on page 30. TrailRunner magazine has been a long-time supporter of The Finger Lakes Fifties giving us a free magazine subscription that the race committee chooses to give to someone based on some performance that we deem exceptional during the event. Great magazine and worth subscribing to, if you haven't already!

NEW RACE TIMING & RESULTS

2011-01-10T09:33:00.005-05:00

This year's races will again be chip-timed by FastFinishes.net. Runners will be charged a $50 fee for lost, stolen, or just plain not-returned timing chips.

Race results will be found at http://www.fingerlakesrunners.org/, http://www.wny-ultra.org/, http://www.fastfinishes.net/, and http://www.coolrunning.com/ within 24 hours of completion of the races.

Race report, results, and photos will be published in UltraRunning Magazine following the event - go to http://www.ultrarunning.com/ to subscribe! It is one great magazine ... one you will want to have sitting out on your coffee table to go through over and over again!

The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same

2010-07-15T10:17:00.004-04:00

Like it or not, the times are changing, and for some of it, all we can do is roll with it because in order to grow we must embrace change. But in the same respect, it is important to remember our roots; where we came from and what gave us the strength to get us where we are today.

This all became quite apparent to me during the months leading up to and then the whole craziness of the 22nd edition of the Finger Lakes Fifties trail races. When this event began 22 years ago I was barely out of high school and knew absolutely nothing about this thing called ultrarunning. Now I am five years into directing this event that I have embraced and totally love. Each year, when I think what I learned from the previous events has me prepared for the next race, I find out that there is still more to learn. It’s an ongoing process and I hope that with each new thing I learn and put back into the race, the event will become better for the runners.

Since its inception, this race has seen three different venues, starting out as one of our local club races. We still get our loyal local contingency but we now see runners from all over the country and I love introducing them to the beauty of our area. This year we saw our biggest starting field of 250 runners (combined number in the 25K, 50K, 50Mile races), with a big shift in that the number of 50 mile registrants almost overtook the number of 50K registrants.

The 50K race has always been the most popular distance; back in 1994 there was a mere 47 finishers in the 50K and this year there was 118 finishers! So once again, from pre-entries to number of finishers, the 50K race remains the most popular distance. This year we had to make some late-stage course changes due to work on a section of trail that has been the nemesis of many runners over the years. Funny, there were no tears shed when it was announced that this section would not be part of the race course this year. After much thought and measuring, a new route was added onto the old course. The trails here were very nicely shaded and great to run on; however, when it came to piecing together a race course on trails it became very difficult to get an exact distance. There was just no way to get the 50K distance exact; the closest we could come turned the race into 32.9 miles. And in true ultrarunner fashion, I did not hear one complaint about the additional distance, only some confusion from a few runners who missed the announcement about the distance change. “Am I really getting that much slower? Maybe it’s because I’m getting older” was the comment from one runner, who was quite relieved to hear that the distance was longer than she had thought.

This year there was some confusion of the first two runners that crossed the finish line in the 50K race, where it was later discovered that they had gone off-course and were therefore disqualified. Despite how things have changed, one thing that I have discovered over the years remains the same: ultrarunners are very tolerant people. The man who was thought to be the winner, when he heard about his mistake and disqualification, was very apologetic and offered to even return the beer that he had received as winner! The graciousness of this running community never ceases to amaze me. I would like to thank Chris Bynum of New York, NY, and Amy Lane of Westfield, MA, for their patience as I investigated this issue, thus making them have to wait for the announcement that they were the actual winners of the race. I apologize that they were unable to get their due respects as winners on race day.

The 50K Masters wins went to Matt Wilson, Downingtown, PA, and Nancy Kleinrock, Trumansburg, NY. And these two Masters finished third and fifth, respectively, overall!

In 1994 there were only five finishers in the 50 mile race – all of them male! This year we saw a record number of 50 mile registrants (more than 80!) and a record number of finishers, ages ranging from 17 to 62! And 17 year old Matt Tillotson, who ran the 50 mile race last year, ran the entire 50 miles this year in his Vibram Five Fingers, smiling every time I saw him.

I would love to be out on the course, everywhere, watching the runners popping in and out of the woods, hurdling downed trees, and jumping rocks and roots. However, duty calls at the finish line/lap area/aid station and it seems that I never get to see the runners on the course until they come through my area. Fortunately, that means that I get to see the 50 mile runners come through here three times and witness their smiles when they finish. This year with the larger “main course” loop, this meant a much smaller “baby loop” of only a half-mile (as opposed to the old baby loop of 3.4 miles!). It was so cool to watch the tired runners come through and realize that they only had to run this very short loop; it brought new speed and spring to their steps. Smokin’ fast in the 50 mile race was overall winner Brian Rusiecki of Westfield, MA, and Frances Davis of Danbury, CT. As for the Masters – Jack Pilla of Charlotte, VT, once again tore-up the course finishing first Masters and second overall! Jack now owns the course records for the old and new course! Patty Duffy of Springfield, MA, was first Masters female.

In the “old days” there were no “finisher awards” and age group awards were handcrafted, if there were any at all. The only sponsorship was The Finger Lakes Runners Club, who created the race. Today each finisher is rewarded with a bottle opener to hang around their necks so that they can always access their favorite recovery brews. Age group awards are still hand-made by volunteers (when the Dollar Store lets us down) and much heart and soul goes into these. We now have wonderful sponsors for our overall winners’ awards and for our aid station fuels – they give so much so that we can continue to try to keep our registration fees reasonable.

For numerous years we have been so very fortunate to have our Wilderness Search and Rescue crew out on the course, keeping track of runners and providing super assistance to the injured and sick. They are our family now.

Despite the growth of the event, I have to say that my favorite part isn’t even the actual race. It’s what goes on around the race. The runners who step up to help with registration, help me get groceries, go out and mark the woodchuck holes to prevent potential disaster for other runners, do last-minute trimming of the cat’s claw, work aid stations when their races are over; the list goes on and on. And then there is the family reunion. Runners bring their families and hang out around the campfire. There is the camping the night before the race with no one wanting to leave the campfire but knowing that they have to get some sleep for the long run ahead. The shoulders that are there for me to cry on when, at the end of the long day, it appears that I may have lost a runner and then continue to help me “find” the runner who was never even on the course. It’s the dirty and bleeding runners who smile when they are done and relive their battles on the trail to anyone who will listen. And it’s the first-timers who can’t wait to do it again.

Congratulations to all those that ran what you could on this hot sunny day, even if you weren’t able to finish. I hope that you will come back and try again next year. Congratulations to the finishers and winners who just rocked the course and set the new course record standards! Without you runners there would be no race. And it definitely couldn’t be done without all of the wonderful volunteers!

When I entered into the world of ultrarunning I found that there is competition, but there is also a community and family like no other. Thank goodness some things never change.

Race Report Link

2010-07-08T10:15:00.001-04:00

For a report of Sarah's run check out her blog:

http://seeplatorun.blogspot.com

50K Race Report

2010-07-08T10:13:00.001-04:00

Well lets see, new course and weather from 2009! I loved both! My first lap of the 50k distance was my longest run since Bear Mtn in May 8th. Chris and Joe can attest to getting the trails ready and how much time it takes, and mine is only a 5 miler. You plan,prepare and then hope and finally relax.
I was expecting the start to be a bit cooler knowing what the forecast was for race day thinking that I could knock this off just before the mercury jumped. I was talking to Scott and Joel when I heard "the bell" and we know whom the bell tolls for.
Down the road, take a right and so forth and so on. Joe had explained the new route to me over the previous weeks and I thought that having only about 3mi to go after the "outback" would be a great psychological lift for those who have run this as before. I was right,again. Don't change it back, keep the 2010 route for eternity or at least for 2011.
Anyway I had another first for me this 2010. Tummy trouble is the medical terminology. After being out amongst nature and enjoying all it has to offer, my second favorite reason for trail running is you are never at a loss when you need to make a pitstop. Well 4 times in the first loop was not a good sign. I was hangin with this guy (never got his name) who had also run the Oil Creek ultra last year with Jim Miner and myself. It was run,run,run then adios for me to run, then I had to try and catch him. After my 4th stop I finally caught him at the 2nd pond after the outback. From the outback to the finish it took me 24min finishing in 2:31. I was happy with that. BUT, having been my longest run I knew I would soon start feeling the distance. Caught Nancy at the Morgue and said goodbye as she took off. She was definitely on a mission. I havent had leg cramps in years to where I thought they would seize but that was happening today. Too much road and flat runs,when I could, in the weeks coming up to the 50's. I decided to try and enjoy the day as much as possible to take my mind off of the reality of quads and hamstrings fighting me. So here I am coming up to the double duty aid station on the return to the library and Scott Jacobs comes along side and encourages me to pick it up. Now where is the justice in a 50miler telling a 50ker to get moving. I never saw Scotty till the finish. I told him that the cadaver tendon he was a dead man running and pretty good at that. Onward and upward, finally getting to the outback at 4hrs57min where Jeffrey was sittin down reading a newspaper. My goal was 5hrs so I was damn near jumpin up and down, but couldn't even if I wanted to. The sign said 2.78 miles to the finish, hell I could do that on all fours. I dumped more water on and in me and bolted outta there, like a snail on hot dry pavement. 5:33 and change and it was over. Congratulations to Nancy who almost broke 5hrs.
Not knowing the results yet, congratulations to all who stuck it out including the volunteers. Can't have a race without them.
Big Thanks to Chris and Joe. You may have not been running but there is no doubt you were bustin your butts.
Jim Chely

LOST & FOUND

2010-07-06T08:26:00.002-04:00

FOUND:
1 digital camera, found at the Potomac Group Campground pavillion (must be able to identify)

1 ipod (must be able to identify)

If either of these items belong to you, please e-mail fl50s@yahoo.com.

Please Support Our Sponsor!

2010-06-12T10:21:00.003-04:00

If you're looking for a great pre-race meal on Friday night, please support one of our race sponsors, Roosterfish Brewing, sponsor of this year's race awards. I really encourage you to check out The Wildflower Cafe & The Crooked Rooster Brewpub - the food is awesome and you can sample some of their really excellent brews!

Coming From Ithaca?

2010-06-08T09:37:00.009-04:00

If you will be travelling from the Ithaca area to the race, one of the easiest ways to get to the Finger Lakes National Forest hassle-free is to take route 96 six miles north from Ithaca's west end to Perry City Road; take Perry City Road for five miles. Go straight through the stop sign and continue on Route 227 for 4.5 miles to Potomac Road; turn right and go up the hill 2.3 miles to the campground sign. Turn right and park before the gate. Or go into Trumansburg and take Searsburg Road to Potomac Road.

Course Map

2010-06-07T11:53:00.006-04:00

Here is a somewhat primitive map of the new Finger Lakes Fifties course (if you click on the picture it will enlarge the map to make it a bit more visible). Mileage markers to be publicized soon.

Here is somewhat of a key to the map:

S: This is where you will start on Potomac Road.
1: Aid Station #1 - THE MORGUE.
2: Aid Station #2 - THE SOUTH BEACH (you can hit this station twice - once on the way out and again on the way back).
3: Aid Station #3 - THE LIBRARY.
4: Aid Station #4 - THE OUTBACK.
F/5: Finish area for the 25K/Aid Station #5 - THE LIVING ROOM & where 50Kers & 50Milers will begin their subsequent loops.

There will also be two unmanned water only aid stations located on the course.

With the markings that I had to make on this picture it would have been too congested to show the 1/2 mile "baby loop" that the 50Milers will have to do in order to complete their full distance. To enter the "baby loop" 50Milers will again pass through THE LIVING ROOM aid station and then enter the "baby loop". A larger detailed map will be available at race headquarters.

Cut-Offs

2010-06-03T09:37:00.006-04:00

Time cut-offs for 50 mile runners only ... you must finish your second loop (complete the 50K course) AND START loop #3 within 8 hours from the start of the race. If you do not complete the 50K portion within 8 hours you will be counted as a 50K finisher when you cross the finish line and will not be allowed to go on for the 50 mile distance. There are no cut-offs for the 25K and 50K races.

Course Description

2010-05-31T10:36:00.009-04:00

The 50K, 50Miler, & 25K will use the same loop course, starting and finishing at the Potomac Group Campground located off of Potomac Road. You will be doing multiple loops in the Finger Lakes National Forest, utilizing forest trails, roads, and pastures. While racing across pastures (complete with grazing cows), watch for the cows and cow pies. All pasture gates must be secured behind you when you exit the pastures. There will be rope loops to place over the fence posts. We cannot let the cows out under any circumstances!

There will be short stints on shaded dirt roads (only about 1/4 mile on a paved road). Cooling ponds will be located sparingly along the trail. The 25K will be one 16.5-mile loop. The 50K will run 2 loops totaling 32.9 miles. The 50Miler will run 3 loops plus one "baby loop" to complete the 50 mile distance.

Keep The Trails Clean!

2010-05-20T09:20:00.002-04:00

Our sport of trailrunning seems so natural and in touch with the earth and even though we don't want to, a lot of trash comes about from running events. This year, we who are part of the Fifties want to do our part to try to cut-down on the garbage created by our event. There are so many things we as runners can do to help make a difference.

We like to be generous with the number of aid stations that are provided during the race but this does create a lot of cup garbage. The NUMBER ONE thing that we would like to ask runners to do is to carry your own refillable water bottle or hydration system. We will have pitchers of liquids at the manned aid stations so we can fill you up quickly. This can be done quickly and should not negatively affect your race time.

We also ask that if you do have garbage that you throw it into a proper garbage receptable. Brightly colored garbage cans and trash bags will be at each station. We will continue with the policy that anyone who is caught littering will be disqualified. We have no tolerance for littering.

We want to have the forests and trails available to us for many years to come, so please help us eliminate as much waste as possible. Please e-mail fl50s@yahoo.com if you have any "green" ideas that we might be able to utilize - we can use as much help with this project as you can give!

WHERE TO FIND A PLACE TO STAY

2010-05-20T09:08:00.009-04:00

MOTELS AND B&Bs ... contact the Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce, 100 North Franklin Street, State Route 14, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, 1-800-607-4552, http://www.watkinsglenchamber.com/ or e-mail info@watkinsglenchamber.com.

CAMPING ... There will be FREE camping available at the Potomac Group Campground (aka, Race Headquarters). We have reserved the campsite for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights (6/28-7/1/2012). Or you may camp elsewhere in the forest at your own cost. IF YOU HAVE A DOG, LIKELY HE WOULD BE HAPPIER AT HOME AWAY FROM THE CROWDS AND HEAT, BUT IF YOU DECIDE TO BRING FIDO WITH YOU, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR SUPERVISING YOUR DOG AT ALL TIMES AND KEEPING IT ON A LEASH AT ALL TIMES!

RESTROOMS & SHOWERS ... No showers available at the campground; restrooms are located at the start, at the Blueberry Patch Campsite, and on the race course at the Horse Campground. Ponds are located near the campground.

FOOD/DRINK AT THE START & FINISH

2010-05-19T16:12:00.011-04:00

Race entrants get free coffee, juice, and muffins for Saturday morning pre-race breakfast. Entrants also get a free post-race meal. You may purchase extra meal coupons for your family/friends. Non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.

"Cool" Headbands Available For Sale!

2010-05-19T07:32:00.009-04:00

This is a picture of the headbands which were available for sale at the race in 2010. A limited supply of these very "cool" moisture-wicking headbands (new color - designed to be released for viewing soon!) will available for sale - $3 each or 2 for $5 - during race weekend again this year.

These headbands are made with a special material to help keep you cool during those hot runs . . . for more info on what they can do for you CLICK HERE.

Thank You To Our 2011 Race Sponsors!

2010-05-01T10:24:00.007-04:00

A big thank you shout-out to our 2011 sponsors who have generously stepped-up to help give us another fun and successful race:

FINGER LAKES RUNNERS CLUB: the heart & sole of this event; the brain-child of our FLRC forefathers.
WESTERN NEW YORK ULTRA SERIES: increasing the competition every year.
HAMMER NUTRITION: providing solid hydration and fuelling year after year with their awesome products - bringing HEED to aid stations near you.
ROOSTERFISH BREWING: our newest award sponsor who will provide a great recovery brew to the Overall (as long as you are 21 years or older) and Masters winners.

HELP LIMIT UNNECESSARY TRASH

2009-12-07T14:24:00.001-05:00

Just a friendly reminder that we would like to cut down on some of the trash that the race creates. Please use refillable water bottles/hydration systems to help eliminate some of the cup trash. There will still be cups of liquids available at the aid stations, but it would be great if we could use as little as possible. We have to start somewhere.

WHERE'S THE FOOD?

2009-12-07T14:22:00.004-05:00

REMINDER: There is NO pre-race meal. Here are some options that are relatively close to the race site for pre-race fuelling.

To Watkins Glen from Potomac Campsite:
When you leave the Potomac Campsite driveway, turn LEFT (you will be on Potomac Road)
When you get to the STOP sign, turn RIGHT onto Picnic Area Road
Stay on this road until you reach RT 414
Turn LEFT onto RT 414
When you reach the STOP sign, bear RIGHT and go downhill into Watkins Glen

Some choices here:
Jerlando's
The Wildflower Cafe & The Crooked Rooster Brewpub
BV's Corner Bar and Grill

To Trumansburg from Potomac Campsite:
When you leave Potomac Campsite driveway, turn RIGHT (you will be on Potomac Road)
When you get to the STOP sign, turn RIGHT onto Searsburg Road
Follow Searsburg Road for 6.7 miles to the STOP sign
At the STOP sign, turn LEFT onto RT 227
At the next STOP sign (approx 3/10 mile), take a RIGHT . . . you are in Trumansburg

Some choices here:
New York Pizzeria
Ron Don's
Little Venice

If you need any additional supplies of food, drink, other miscellaneous items . . . continue on RT 96 going toward Ithaca and you will find the Shur Save grocery store.

2009-07-13T09:08:00.001-04:00

In the Finger Lakes Fifties, the 50-miles run was great. I felt great through the whole run but was really tired on the third loop. Then Maureen caught up to me and we paced off each other until the end. I just felt great to actually finish the full 50-mile race and I am happy with my time. I would like to thank everyone for the support and kind words and especially a big thanks to my mom. I am looking forward to next year’s race, as this year was a great experience for me. Take care and have fun! Matthew Tillotson, 50Mile Finisher

THE FINGER LAKES "FILTHIES" - race director's report

2009-07-08T12:52:00.005-04:00

I have come to find that trail runners are just big kids and our playground is the forest and the trails. But what do kids really love? Getting dirty, of course! The 2009 edition of the Finger Lakes Fifties provided the perfect playground for this group of kids. Two weeks of daily rain turned the beautiful, smooth single-track of the Finger Lakes National Forest into an absolute mud-pit! Although race day proved to be sunny, clear, cool, and rain-less, normally superb racing conditions, it was too late to counteract the effects of the rain on the trails. But despite the absolute quagmire conditions, the runners all seemed to have a great time. A record 145 people pre-registered for the event with only 18 no-shows on race day. Yet what I found to be simply amazing was that, despite the known pre-race weather and likely trail conditions, another 43 runners registered on race day. After only one loop of the course runners were coming in looking like creatures from the black lagoon. Trail beasts? Definitely. Yes, kids do love to get dirty.

Forty-four people had registered for the 50-miler but it was local favorite, Yassine Diboun, of Ithaca, NY, who took the early lead. His run was going great and he was looking strong for the win, but the muddy conditions took their toll on an old IT band injury causing him to have to drop at around 41 miles. Derrick Spafford of Yarker, Ontario, had been closing in on Diboun so when Diboun dropped, Spafford was there to take over and take the win with a strong 8:10:08, pretty darn good given the conditions. Maureen Dracup, running her first 50-miler, took the women’s race in 9:45:56. Masters wins went to Randy Yasenchak of Ashland, PA, and Kelly Wilson of Charlotte, VT. But one of the bigger stories of the day was that of 16-year old Matthew Tillotson of Horseheads, NY. This was Matt’s first 50-miler and some questioned my allowing this young runner into the 50-mile race. However, I had been watching Matt at some of our other local trail races and learned about his training and felt that if he was able to make the cut-off, then he must have done the work to tackle the distance. Matt looked strong as he completed each loop of the course and finished filthy and smiling in a very respectable time of 9:45:48 – again, amazing given his age and the trail conditions. I think this young man is definitely one to watch out for in the future of ultrarunning. Only six runners resigned their fates to the trail and grabbed a DNF while another 16 dropped to the 50K distance.

The 50K race saw 69 finishers. Jack Pilla of Charlotte, VT, went out strong from the start, running with Diboun. Jack already owns the 50-mile masters record for this course but was looking to add to his resume with the 50K masters record. Again, the mud proved to be the titan and squash any course record ideas, but Pilla still came through for the overall win in 4:16:22, a mere three minutes and 9 seconds off from the masters record! Joe Carrara also of Charlotte, VT, finished second overall and took the masters win. First female honors went to Carrie Lombardo of Middletown, CT and female masters title went to Stephanie Wilson of Oakhill, VA. This race was also one for the young with Sarah Danner, 15, who recently completed the Buffalo Marathon, and Ian Grosfelt, 18, arm-in-arm, skipping across the finish line! Again, amazing . . . only five people who had registered succumbed to the trail beast and took a DNF.

Having to deal with the mud for only one loop, the 25K runners were able to put all of their marbles into the pot right from the start. No need to save anything – and I think many were grateful of that when they finished! Eric Sambolec of Ithaca, NY, grabbed the overall win in 1:56:32 and local runner Tim Ingall of Lansing, NY, took the masters win. First female was Julie Staub of Brooklyn, NY, with the female masters winner Audrey Balander of Cortland, NY, less than two minutes behind her! I heard many of these runners say they had a “PW” on the course (personal worst), but if it was easy, what kind of stories would you all have to tell? This is much more interesting! Only two runners received DNFs, so what does that say?

Epic . . . that’s how one runner described the mud. That’s how I describe the entire day. The Fifties is really a great time to run and hang out with family and friends and this day proved to be just that. It really is a great thing to see and it is why I really love being able to be a part of this event. Family members registered, ran, and finished together. Friends, old and new, paired-up and supported each other through difficult times in fighting the mud. This year's race was dedicated to one of the race's biggest supporters and one of our very dear friends, Diane Sherrer, who lost a two-year battle to cancer in May. I think Diane was watching over us and had a large part in bringing us the great race day weather. And I think she would have been very happy with how the whole event turned out. This year the “Trail Beast” was the mud . . . who knows what it will be next year, but the “Trail Beast” will be out there waiting to challenge you, you can bet on it!

One last note of thanks must go out to Wilderness Search & Rescue for watching over the runners, and to The Finger Lakes Runners Club, Western NY Ultra Series, Hammer Nutrition, Butternuts Beer & Ale, Run WorldWide, and Dick's Sporting Goods for their continued sponsorship. Joe & Abbie Marnell – you provided the most wonderful post-race meal I have ever tasted. And HUGE thanks to all of the many volunteers who gave their time to work the aid stations and finish line, prepare prior to race day and clean-up after – it can’t happen without you. And thank you to all of you runners who came out to play in the mud - you all are the soul of this event.

More Race Reports

2009-07-07T14:44:00.005-04:00

Check out the following links for reports of the race:

Yassine Diboun: http://runforyourlife-yassine.blogspot.com/

John Fegyveresi: Lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com

Derrick Spafford: http://derrickspafford.blogspot.com/2009/07/finger-lakes-fifties.html

Sara Montgomery: http://saratraining.blogspot.com/2009/07/fun-in-mud-at-finger-lakes-fifties.html

2009-07-07T14:43:00.002-04:00

What a way to celebrate the 4th of July 2009! Mud,friends,Mud,beer,Mud,food, and all because we like Chris and Joe Reynolds. The positive of that day was the relatively cool temps and overcast skies, which kept the insects somewhere other than eating the maniacs on the fingerlakes trail. Nancy, Lorrie and Christina there is something to be said for being injured or pregnant. Laura I can't believe that was your first fall. You must be part Weeble. It doesnt quite meet the requirements of a Grover, but congratulations on losing your battle with gravity!I have been saying since my first snowshoe race that running in snowshoes is the hardest racing I have ever done. Well at 11:51 am on saturday I have changed my mind. Snowshoeing is now second to trying to run in mud. I finished my first lap in 2:20 and sat down at the picnic table talking to Sally. I finally decided 4 min later to get off my duff and do what I signed up for. I was pretty whipped from spinning my wheels and wasting a lot of energy. I wanted to do under 2:15 and was really busting my butt. I took off and fell into the ultra shuffle pace. It got me through to the Outback where I was finally running out of any reserves I had. May I make a suggestion that we take up a collection for Becky. It became obvious to me the poor girl needs lasik surgery. I staggered up to the table and she says I looked great! All smoke and mirrors I told her. When she mentioned her car was parked about 50 ft away I almost took the damn thing. But my head cleared and I figured only 5.5 miles more to the end. Moving ahead to the Tily aid station, nothing to talk about in between the Outback that the last aid station except Mud, Don yelled out, Cold Beer Here! Man did I want one. Next year, can you believe I am already thinking about 2010, I am going to chug one. Make it a stout Don, Beemish or Guiness please.Well anyway I crossed the finish in 5:21, three hours for the second which is pretty much what I anticipated. With that dissaster over with I guess it's another Reynold's adventure for the Mountain Madness. At least it won't be as muddy! Jim Chely (50K finisher)

B-TCH OR BEAST? Laura Voorhees

2009-07-07T08:17:00.005-04:00

25K Start - photo courtesy of James Vaughan

On Tuesday, Scott and I decided to get a sneak-peek preview of a few miles of the National Forest to prepare for the Finger Lakes 50’s. What we got a sneak-peek of were some very squishy conditions! We made some navigational errors, and ended up on paths we suspected we wouldn’t see on Saturday. Everything we ran was definitively saturated. We thought, “If we could just get a string of sunny days, it might dry out a bit.” It wasn’t to be—in fact, each day brought multiple drenchings. The ‘running joke’ (pardon the pun) became, “well, it may be raining here, but surely NOT in the National Forest!” (We live a mere 6 miles away.)
So, we went into the race knowing full well that it was going to be a tough one because of the mud. What made it even worse was the fact that about 150 pairs of feet had churned through the muck and the mire, making it unbelievably slippery.
I considered wearing a spare pair of sneakers to the packet pick-up, and changing into my trail shoes, but then I decided, “It’s going to be what it’s going to be” and I went ahead and wore my trail shoes to the race.. I wore my FLRC singlet; red, white and blue hair bands to celebrate our nation’s birthday, and purple ones to remember Diane.
The race started with a long downhill dirt road, so I managed to keep up with my husband for the first few tenths. Then we all ducked into the woods. I spent the first 5 miles or so trying to avoid submerging my feet into the prevailing stretches of glop. It became apparent that that technique was requiring a lot of energy, and I decided “what the heck—sooner or later I’m goin’ in, so it might as well be now.”
It seemed like a long time to get to the first and then second aid stations. It’s amazing how sections of banana and M&M’s can make a table feel like an oasis in the middle of nowhere.
As the miles went by, I did the usual mental games: 5 miles done—that’s one third of the race. 8 miles—over halfway done!
A long grassy field was a welcome change because it wasn’t quite as marshy, and gave a little more traction; but by that point, I was hiking along, waiting for the energy gel to kick in. Then, from behind—was that a mud-caked gazelle? No, it was Yassine Diboun, eating up the miles, prancing through the challenging turf. As he breezed by, his encouragement helped move me along—the next aid station was in sight.
When I got to the 9 mile aid station, I was warmly greeted by Dr. Getzin. He remarked that he hadn’t seen me in a while (which actually is GOOD news, because that means that my plantar fasciitis hasn’t reared its ugly head again). He encouraged me with “only 6 more miles!” I could wrap my head around that.
As I got out of earshot of the volunteers of the aid station, I started letting the F-bombs fly! Nothing but deep mud as far as I could see. I was SICK of mud! I could feel my left foot constantly slipping sideways. I was really frustrated, and I just wanted to be DONE.
Then I experienced a first: I FELL. I had never EVER fallen in a trail race before—not even when taking steep downhills at almost-out-of-control speed. My right foot submerged into what seemed like a bottomless sinkhole. I slid sideways and landed briefly on my backside. I was TICKED. More F-bombs.
I finally made it to the rest stop by the pond, manned by Lorrie and Don Tily. I was pretty grumpy by the time I made it there, but they were cheerful and helpful. They thought I wasn’t particularly filthy, considering I had taken a spill. I said, “This has got to be the WORST assignment—everyone is probably in a lousy mood when they reach you.” Lorrie responded, “Either that, or in a GREAT mood, because they are almost done! You’ve only got about two miles left to go!”
Those seemed like the longest two miles I’ve ever run. One uphill slope made me wonder, “What the heck am I going to do if I start sliding back down the hill? My husband’s going to wonder what happened to me!”
I came around a bend, and I saw a familiar clearing—HEY! There it was: the FINISH LINE! So, I dug deep and managed to pull off a finish line sprint. There was Scott waiting for me. We took “after” pictures with Gary McCheyne and Maria Costanzo, and we shared our victory over the mud.
We went home and hosed off—if we hadn’t been so tired and sore we could have bagged our “trail evidence” and sold it as topsoil! Our admiration goes out to those who completed the 50k and 50 miles today! While I felt like I was earning the title “Trail B-tch” you guys were earning the revered title “Trail Beast”.

DIRECTIONS TO THE RACE SITE

2009-06-30T10:25:00.010-04:00

Go to Google search and type in "Finger Lakes National Forest, Hector, NY". The first item on the list is a mini-map with the Forest address. Click on the "directions" link which will take you to a page where you can type in your starting point with the Forest's address as the destination point. When I typed in my home address as the test for this, it correctly brought me to Potomac Road, which if I was to then drive up Potomac Road that would take me to the Potomac Group Campground (there will be a large brown sign with white lettering signifying this), aka, Race Headquarters.

Course Markings

2009-06-28T11:46:00.007-04:00

The course will be marked with BLACK arrows on a RED background, such as the picture to the left. Some of the arrow signs may be smaller, some larger, but they are ALL BLACK ARROWS ON A RED BACKGROUND. These are the only race course arrows that you should follow. Areas that require some additional attention will be flaged with ORANGE flagging tape. Please be aware that the forestry does have some trees marked for their own purposes with pink flagging tape. Ignore these pink flaggings; they have nothing to do with the race. Samples of the race markings will be shown to you at the start of the race.

Breakdown of Race Awards

2009-06-08T11:00:00.004-04:00

Awards will be given in the 25K, 50K, and 50Mile races, broken-down in the following manner:

1st Place Overall Male & Female
1st Place Masters Male & Female
1st Place Age 19 & Under Male & Female
1st Place Age 20-29 Male & Female
1st Place Age 30-39 Male & Female
1st Place Age 40-49 Male & Female
1st Place Age 50-59 Male & Female
1st Place Age 60 & Over Male & Female

All finishers will be given a token of finishing when they complete their races.

DEDICATION

2009-05-24T15:30:00.002-04:00

The 21st Edition of the Finger Lakes Fifties will be run in honor of Diane Sherrer. Diane was one of our greatest supporters and very proud of our local ultra. Diane passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2009. The best way to honor and remember Diane is to run, remember, and have a great time with family and friends. Competition and camaraderie is what Diane loved to see!