Three runners for the MT. Mitchell Challenge took off this morning for the run up to Mt. Mitchell.
We got up and made a hearty breakfast for them at 6 am and then took them to the start line in down town Black Mountain for the 7 am start. It is a very steep trail run starting at 2,400 going up to 6,654 and then back down. The marathon runners turn three fourths of the way up and do a regular 26 mile run but the ones who run up to Mitchell will do the 48 mile plus run. Starting off with a temp at 27 degrees and going up it will be about 6 degrees when they reach the top. The mountain tops are beautiful this morning , stark white with a morning sunrise shining on them and clear skys. Last year it rained for 5 hours so the race was lucky today with just a slight breeze.
Looks like about 300 runners today with the average age in the 40's. The last lap of the race ends here at Lake Tomahawk so we get to watch all the runners come in for the victory lap to the finish line. My hat is off to them. I can hike with you all day but no thanks to running.
We had a full house last night so the other guests are still tucked away in their cozy beds and will sit by the wood burning fire to enjoy their breakfast.
Come join the fun next year , contact the Black Mountain Chamber of Commerce to find out about the entry for the race. It is limited so first come get to race.
