Beautiful But Tough

Saturday’s White River 50 Mile, the 2008 USATF 50 Mile Trail National Championship lined up as a “Who’s Who?” of American Ultra Trail Running.  With numerous national champions, U.S. National Team members, and course record holders from trail and road ultras across the country, Josh Brimhall (Henderson, NV) was ready to mix it up.  As a lead pack of about 10 men topped out the first climb at the 13.7 mile mark, Josh was comfortable and looked strong.   Contested in the mountains around Crystal Mountain Ski Resort with a backdrop of the majestic Mt. Ranier, the course would make as good a week long hike and camping excursion.  However, these athletes were here not for the views, but for the competition.

As the race progressed, Josh maintained his position and remained strong as several competitors fell by the wayside; products of the grueling terrain (featuring 17,400 feet of elevation change) and tough pace set by the leaders.

Josh’s 7:14:53 finish time was his best on the course and also good for 7^th place overall and 5^th in the USATF 50 Mile National Championship competition.