Capitol Peak 50M/55KM
by Jim Updegrove
The gods of Olympia rained down their power
Washed out the trails with many a shower.
Volunteer workers, many hours they toiled
They refused to let this race be spoiled.
The rain, yes it stopped, for the start of the race
Ninety anxious runners set a fast pace.
The trail quickly rose, a thousand feet or more
And in just 4 miles, it seemed like a chore.
Three big climbs in all, the last being the worst
Quads felt like they were going to burst.
5o Mile:
Gutierrez won the 50
Ohlrich pushed him all day.
While Hewey succeeded
In keepingVarner at bay.
Jenny Capel ran with an easy stride
Veronica McIlvenna followed, she upheld her pride.
In third came Kris Ryding, a local volunteer
She helped clear the trails to get ready this year.
55KM
Michael Havrda set the pace for the day
And just like the wind, blew everyone away.
Jesse Stevick ran hard for second place
John Berta finished third which is no disgrace.
Alison Hanks led the gals right down to the line
Then came Shawna Wilskey thinking second was fine.
Becky Braun came in third, she left many behind
I know she can tell you, this trail’s one of a kind.
The gods of Olympia, awakened by feet
Sent out great clouds and torrents of sleet.
Snow hung on the treetops, it covered the trail
The hardy shivered on while volunteers turned pale.
John Bandur, still running, drinking beer for leaven
He’s Grand Slammer #2, of 1987.
John led the old geezers around on this run
He won the senior division and he’s just 71.
The Arkansas Travelers came the most miles
When Laura Earley finished, she dazzled in smiles.
Jamie Gifford received his fifth year award
A Capitol Peak print that he really adored.
Eighty six runners finished from this group
And on this cold day enjoyed Mom’s and Dad’s soup.
