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A Race Directing Perspective – Castle Peak 100k

August 29, 2018 by Sean Flanagan Leave a Comment

“The hardest race you didn’t know you wanted to do!”

-2018 Castle Peak tagline

2018 Castle Peak 100k by Bill Stevenson

I have often suggested that the Castle Peak 100k could possibly be the toughest 100k in the country. We’ve had several participants that have run both Canyons and Castle Peak in the same year, and you would find me eagerly asking after a finish here in Truckee, “Which race was harder?” Most, if not all of these terribly sadistic runners, would unanimously agree that Castle Peak takes the top spot of suffering. And the Canyons 100k is no trail fairytale either, a 5 UTMB point 100k, rare for the distance, that doubles up the most difficult section of Western States. It’s a hard earned reputation, but our tagline for this year is well suited.

Peter Fain, the man I share race directing responsibilities with, is also the course mastermind, who meticulously, methodically, and some may argue maliciously, envisioned each painstaking climb, every meditative flowing single-track, and all vistas that would leave you breathless. He is simultaneously the Picasso and the Jigsaw (The Saw movie villain who would meticulously, methodically, and maliciously plot out each participant’s slow death) of trail running. Each year, Peter has somehow found more elevation to add, more technical terrain, and views that postcards wouldn’t do justice to. Our 2018 version of the Castle Peak 100k was no exception, and it might even be his Mona Lisa. A new Finish Line at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, a Start Line you can camp at, newly groomed single tracks in Euer Valley, and a splash of elevation with some technical terrain here and there. This symbiotic relationship and harmonious blend of bliss and agony earned Castle Peak 100k the distinction of a Western States Qualifying Race for 2020, in addition to its 5 UTMB points! Our WSER blessing came shortly after a sleepless weekend, and a hectic race week after months of planning, meetings, and countless emails by our entire Race Management Team of Lesley Dellamonica, Tara Eckenrode, Diane Frederic, Helen Pelster, Peter Fain, and yours truly.

I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting since the conclusion of this year’s race as it’s had the biggest impact on me yet. So, I am going to bring you back to December 2014, when I was attending my first DPMR educational night after joining the club just a month prior. I faintly remember some blondie mo-hawked hair dude, welcoming the crowd and cursing like a sailor. Then some tall, gazelle looking guy, with long flowing, dark and beautiful hair in a ponytail started talking about snowshoe running and racing? WTF!?! After the nights’ events, I had met Helen, and expressed that I was interested in volunteering for any of the clubs functions……..Fast forward to present day Sean, and a Sean that is quite a bit more versed in the word “ultra” and with possibly less brain cells. In the span of four years, I was not only introduced to the world of ultra-running, I was also invited to join the DPMR Board, am now the sitting Vice-President, involved with, and manage 6 races, and have ran over 20 ultras, including the historic Western States 100 this past June. Now, if it sounds like I am patting myself on the back, I am. I never expected or could have predicted what this club and the Castle Peak 100k has done for me. Granted, this Race Directing business is like smoking a pack of cigarettes, and should come with a surgeon general’s warning, because it feels like it’s taking years off my life. But despite this, come race day, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else in my life. Between the volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time, and foolishly hike 630 lbs of water to remote locations each year, to the race reports, and runners sharing stories of their journey, and how WE gave them a memory of a lifetime, or even changed their lives. I am not quite sure I could put a price on this.

The 2018 version of Castle Peak 100k saw 143 eager souls toe the line, our biggest field yet. 108 of these 143 were able to overcome the day’s trials and tribulations and make it to the Finish at Sugar Bowl. This was the first time the race had broken 100 official finishers! I am not sure where the significance of this came or if there is one, but maybe it’s synonymous with the fabled distance we all aspire to achieve in this sport.

Out of the 108 Finishers, 22 were women, with Megan Arauzo of Novato taking the crown at 13:46:59, followed by friend, and local runner, Molly Zurn of Reno in 14:58:45, and Angela Meyer of Atlanta Georgia finishing off the women’s podium with a time of 15:23:18.

On the men’s side, 86 finished, with Tahoe local, Pat Parsel of South Shore winning in a time of 11:26:41. Last year’s men’s champion, friend and local, Erik Schulte of Reno, came in second with a time of 11:41:20, after battling neck and neck with Pat the entire race, with only a minute separating the two at most spots. Another friend, and local, David Melkonian of Reno rounded out the men’s podium in third with a time of 12:36:29. All results can be found here.

We had four, four-time Castle Peak 100k finishers this year. Each of them running every year Castle Peak has been in existence. Brent Konvalin, Ismael Macias, everyone’s favorite ultra-runner Steve Martelli, and our very own, the ultra-running legend, and 16-time Hardrock finisher, Betsy Nye all completed 400 kilometers of Castle Peak goodness.

Helen has provided us with a picture gallery that you can find here, and we will continue to update our website and the Castle Peak 100k Facebook page with links to race reports. But these are just some of the stories from this year’s Castle Peak 100k, because the best ones are left out on the trails.

See you in 2019!

Editors Note: I would like to thank my entire Race Management Team, Diane, Lesley, Tara, Helen, and Peter. Not everyone gets to see the amount of work that is put in behind the scenes of this event. We are an all-volunteer group, that also have full time careers, families, and other responsibilities pulling us in every different direction. Each and every one of you go above and beyond to make this race happen, even taking on more when others are unable to, and I am honored to be part of this mostly female Team.

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2023 Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon

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Join us on Aug 5, 2023!
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Dec
12
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Dec 12 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Dec
19
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Dec 19 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Dec
26
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Dec 26 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Jan
2
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Jan 2 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Jan
9
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Jan 9 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
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dpmrunners

Did you know that volunteering at a DPMR aid stati Did you know that volunteering at a DPMR aid station = chance to win a free race entry! 🎉. We are very pleased to announce that Conor Drewes has been selected as the recipient of the 2024 100M TRTER entrant representing the Diamond Peak Aid Station.  
 
Congratulations Conor! Very excited to see you take on one of our favorite 100M courses. We will be cheering you on! #dpmr #unafraid #trter100 #volunthero
🌟✨ Exciting News: Our Volunt(hero) Program Wi 🌟✨ Exciting News: Our Volunt(hero) Program Winner is Casey Strong! 🌟✨
Hey DPMR! We are thrilled to announce Casey Strong as the winner of our volunt(hero) program.  Casey's unwavering commitment to our cause has been nothing short of inspiring. Her tireless efforts and enthusiasm have made a tremendous difference, and we are truly grateful for everything she’s done. 🙏❤️ As our winner, Casey will receive a year of free racing (valued up to $1000)!!! Congrats Casey!
We'd like to take this opportunity to thank every single volunteer who has been part of our journey. Your support and passion have been the driving force behind our success, and we just can't do it without you. 🤗
Thank you, everyone, for your hard work, commitment, and for making our club and our community a better place. 🌍💪 #dpmr #volunthero #CongratulationsCasey #unafraid
Instagram post 17907662195775865 Instagram post 17907662195775865
Donner Party Mountain Runners exists to inform, in Donner Party Mountain Runners exists to inform, inspire and connect mountain runners in Truckee-Tahoe. This would not be possible without the incredible dedication of our volunt(hero)s.  This past year, we had 104 volunt(hero)s join us to help with race aid stations, trail stewardship, and various club events.  We extend our heartfelt appreciation to each and every volunt(hero) – you are all truly amazing! 🙏🏻 We are thrilled to announce  the top 10 volunt(hero)s who logged the most hours in 2023 and will have the chance to win our grand prize. The lucky recipient of this drawing will enjoy a fantastic reward: free race entries for an entire year, with a value of up to $1000. Stay tuned for the announcement of the winner, which will take place during the festivities at Alibi Truckee starting at 4 pm today. Thank you for your incredible support and dedication!
 
Top 10 Volunt(hero)s (🥁 roll please!): 
Bill Hunter
Casey Strong
Krissi Polentz
Owen Macy
Bruna Bradford
Lesley Dellamonica
Leslie Lane
Pam Goodley
Stephanie Jacobs
Jenelle Potvin
Join us this weekend for a fantastic time you won' Join us this weekend for a fantastic time you won't want to miss! Our much-anticipated annual pub run is taking place this Sunday, October 22nd. What makes this year's event truly special is that we're celebrating the launch of our exciting new beer collaboration with Alibi called "Winter Picnic," a scrumptious red ale that's sure to be a great post run brew. The run kicks off at 8 am. Our fantastic release party begins at 4 pm at Alibi Truckee, where every member will be treated to a complimentary beer – so head on over to our website and sign up or renew your membership today!  Bonus - running the pub run is NOT a requirement for coming out to the release party! Checkout our links in our bio for more info on the run, membership, and more! #dpmr #unafraid #winterpicnic #redale #alibialeworks
Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plen Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plenty of fun)!

📍 : @donnerskiranch 
⏰ : Saturday September 16th, 8am
🏃‍♀️ 🏃‍♂️ : Judah Loop and continue on the PCT.
Run the Judah loop for ~6 miles, continue to Anderson peak for ~13miles (or further on the PCT if you want to go longer)
🗺️ : https://www.strava.com/routes/3135724872218937730
🎉 : Rejoin at the Donner Ski Ranch Old 40 Bar & Grill after the run (and there may be some sweeeeet giveaways...).
🙋‍♀️ : The Judah Loop is a trail adopted and actively maintained by DPMR as part of @truckeetrails' Adopt a Trail program

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #lakesonoma #lakesonoma100k
Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOM Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOMORROW?!! DPMR is so excited to bring you this second edition of the race that promises to be bigger and better than last year! RD Chris Cloyd and team have been working so hard all week with final prep. The course is in great shape with some beautiful fun flowy singletrack. He said he'd love a few more volunteers so checkout the signup genius on our volunteer page, but otherwise wants everyone to please come hang out, cheer, and join the party! 
Unique to this race is the 5 segment course that utilizes a central aid station and can be done as a 2 person or 5 person relay, in addition to challenging yourself to run the whole thing solo!
Registration is still OPEN in person until 6pm tonight with bib pick-up at @tahoemountainsports with reg remaining open online til 1159pm. Race day bib pickup available in the morning 6-730am. No Race Day Reg. 

Thanks to our amazing sponsors this year, every participant will be eligible for a prize giveaway and get a pair of @darntoughvermont socks and @drinklmnt hydration.

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #trailmarathon #trailrace #pointmariah #pointmariahtrailmarathon
Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in th Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in the works.  We’ve been collaborating with Alibi Ale Works to release a co-branded beer (YES!).   Join us for a social run next Tuesday, where we'll have the pleasure of running alongside Alibi's head brewer, Matt Garcia! We'll hit the trails together, and afterward, we'll gather at Alibi to brainstorm the perfect brew that represents our club.  And since the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, we're adding some extra fun to the mix. We'll also be assembling course markings during the event. It's going to be an unforgettable night! Hope to see you there!
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Ent 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Enthusiasts! Join Us in Supporting the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️
The Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, and we need YOUR help to make it a roaring success! 🌟 This incredible event brings together the running community and showcases the determination and passion of athletes from all walks of life. Now, we are seeking volunteers to be an essential part of this memorable experience!
📅 Event Date: August 5th
⏰ Volunteer Dates: Several different shifts available from August 2nd - August 6th
🤝 We firmly believe that it takes a village to organize events like these, and YOU can be a crucial part of this vibrant community effort! No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiastic spirit, and we'll guide you every step of the way.
📍 Positions Available:
1️⃣ Course Marking: Help ensure that the runners stay on track and have a smooth route to follow.
2️⃣ Finish Line Support: Cheer on our amazing athletes as they cross the finish line and celebrate their achievements.
3️⃣ Course Marshals: Guide and assist participants at key points along the trail, offering encouragement and direction.
4️⃣ Timing Assistance: Play a vital role in accurately recording race times and ensuring accurate results.
... and more! There are plenty of opportunities to contribute to the success of the marathon.
🌟 Not only will you have a fantastic time being part of this incredible event, but you'll also have the chance to bond with fellow running enthusiasts, make new friends, and create lasting memories.
💪 Together, let's show the world the power of community and support in making this marathon an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR!
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! Link in bio.
Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at the Diamond Peak aid station this weekend at the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs.  Everyone out on the course really appreciated all of the support!!! Stay tuned, we will be posting the Volunt(hero) leaderboard soon!  In the meantime, we're seeking more incredible volunteers to join our team at the upcoming Pt. Mariah trail marathon, and we promise it'll be an experience you won't forget! 😄
Sign up today! No experience needed. Link in bio.
The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going strong with more than 60 volunteers out helping runners get through our various aid stations this year. What is the Volunt(hero) program? The top 10 DPMR volunteers with the most hours logged in 2023 will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win free race entries for a year, up to $1000. We will be posting our leaderboard soon but only a few hours separate those at the top.  Adding a shift can catapult you in to one of the coveted top 10 spots to be included in the raffle.  So come and join us THIS WEEKEND out at TRT! There are still openings overnight, morning clean up Sunday, and sweeps for TRT (Double points for morning clean up).
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻 Link in bio for more info!
Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane h Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane has been a DPMR member since the inaugural year (2014).  She has been a board member for 5 years with the last 3 at the helm. Diane loves a good joke and believes life is a whole lot better if you don’t take things too seriously.  She also believes that trail time is best shared with dogs and friends. And friends with dogs.  Diane is a recovering graphic designer but will come out of retirement for a good race logo opportunity (thank the cosmic forces for that!). Diane will be out on the course for the TRT100 next weekend - so if you see her out there, give her a big hello and high-five! Good luck Diane! #unafraid #dpmr #girlboss #100miler #paincave #yougotthis
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