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Missing Lucas

January 30, 2021 by Jenelle Potvin 5 Comments

The DPMR family lost one of our own on Christmas Eve. Lucas Horan (39) was taken from this life far too soon and has left a deep void in our hearts and on the trails. We send our deepest condolences to Lucas’s family and loved ones in the wake of this devastating loss.

Lucas Horan

Lucas embodied the #unafraid spirit in many ways, having jumped into the trail running world in the spring of 2016, quickly increasing his mileage from 1/2 marathon to 50 miler to 100 miler in about 7 months time. He went on to finish more than 30 ultramarathon distance events in the following years, (while being coached by Peter Fain of Run on Dirt) including two 330k Tor Des Geants and two Castle Peak 100k’s. During his first 100k (Castle Peak), Lucas notoriously tripped and crashed five miles from the finish line – he still got up and ran it in, meeting his dad (a doctor) at the finish to pop his dislocated shoulder back into place. His mom recalls him saying, “Just give me a beer and I’ll be ok!”

Lucas with his Mom, Jan, and Dad, Chris, at the start of the 2016 Castle Peak 100k

Lucas was passionate about trail access and volunteered with the Donner Party Mountain Runners and the Truckee Donner Land Trust doing trail work, and he also financially supported both non-profit organizations. Immediately following an all-day trail work day on the Elizabethtown Trail, Lucas organized a small group run from Sugar Bowl to Squaw for dinner and then back again, finishing around 2:30 am: this was classic Lucas style.

Naomi and Lucas on the Sawtooth trail, running before volunteering at the Canyons

Lucas spent time volunteering at races (Broken Arrow, The Canyons, and races in the Bay Area, where he lived), but he will mostly be remembered for his lively presence running the races, as he joyously ran down the trails (or stopped to take naps), while meeting and interacting with as many people as possible. Lucas was enthusiastic about getting friends out on the trails. He truly believed that anyone could do whatever they put their mind to – and he relished in encouraging and supporting others. He had friends around the world to show for it. Lucas was always coming up with new and crazy adventure ideas and reaching out to friends to try to rope them in. A friend of his, Maureen, recently wrote “I think so many of us are wishing that we said YES to Lucas’s wild ideas more! It speaks so much to who Lucas was that we will continue to learn from him and strive to be better & kinder people in his absence.”

Lucas and John Trent at his DFL finish at the 2016 Silver State 50

Lucas will be missed for his downright crazy and untamable spirit. Just over a year after he began trail running he decided to circumnavigate the Bay Area Ridge, completing 350 miles over 8 days, mostly solo, with a lot of route-finding along the not-complete trail. Lucas went on to do this entire circumnavigation again in 2019 with a friend (who he met while running Tor Des Geants, and roped her into the idea from across the world).

Lucas during his 1st of 2 circumnavigations of the Bay Area Ridge

Professionally, Lucas was a brilliant scientist at Eureka Therapeutics, passionately working on cures for cancer and most recently, a 10-hour nasal spray (still in preclinical trials) that protects against COVID. The world is a better place thanks to his years of dedication and research. A colleague, Tim Acker, reminisced: “His impact to the field will undoubtedly carry on through his ideas and his impressions on his colleagues. He brought all of himself to the effort, challenged everyone around him to be their best in their work and rarely let the fact that he might have often been the smartest person in the room get in the way of seeking truth toward our shared goals.” 

Lucas at Eureka

A couple of his friends have written beautiful remembrances:

Garrett: Follow Some of the Rules: A Tribute to Lucas Horan

Mat: Remembering Lucas

Lucas at a Castle Peak aid station, proudly wearing his SS50 hat

Lucas’s sister, Lisa, created a Facebook page for friends and family to share photos, memories, and music to help keep our memories alive. Please share any memories or photos you might have on the page, to help his loved ones through this difficult time.

In the coming months, our club will find a way (working with Lucas’s family) to honor his legacy through a group run, race, or another event.

In the meanwhile, I suggest celebrating Lucas’s life by making the most of every run you are given. Take naps out there when you feel like it. Always say Yes to adventure. Adore Life.

from a sign I found on a run with Lucas

“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their freshness into you while cares drop off like autumn leaves” – John Muir

Filed Under: General, Homepage Feature, Member News

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Carrie Hyatt says

    January 31, 2021 at 7:31 am

    Such a beautiful tribute to a tremendous human, Jenelle. Thank you ❤️

    Reply
  2. Betsy Nye says

    January 31, 2021 at 9:54 pm

    Thank you Jenelle for this beautiful tribute. I have been thinking of Lucas a lot and I believe he wants us to live each moment to it’s fullest! I have felt his energy out on the trails. He was so humble and funny too. RIP Lucas

    Reply
  3. Chaz says

    February 1, 2021 at 10:23 am

    Now I am all leaky-eyed again, we lost a good friend and a great soul. Thanks for the great tribute.

    Reply
  4. Helen says

    February 1, 2021 at 11:39 am

    Thank you for the beautiful reminders: “I suggest celebrating Lucas’s life by making the most of every run you are given. Take naps out there when you feel like it. Always say Yes to adventure. Adore Life.” They are a fitting tribute to Lucas! Much love,
    Helen

    Reply
  5. Jeff Reifers says

    February 1, 2021 at 1:30 pm

    Thank you Jenelle for this memory of Lucas, While I did not get a chance to know him personally, for some reason I feel like we would have been good friend and running mates. God bless him and his family. We will run and play on the trails in his honor.
    Jeff

    Reply

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2023 Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon

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Join us on Aug 5, 2023!
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Sep
26
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Sep 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[...]
Sep
28
Thu
6:00 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Sep 28 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Location TBD. Keep an eye on[...]
Oct
3
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 3 @ 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[...]
Oct
5
Thu
6:00 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Oct 5 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Location TBD. Keep an eye on[...]
Oct
10
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 10 @ 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

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
Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-runni Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-running-obsessed artist extraordinaire to transform our boring old 3D foam sign for Pt. Mariah into a mind-blowing piece of art. Picture this: foam sculpture meets artistic genius equals immortalizing Pt. Mariah in your artistry.  The project consists of 30” letters, which are 4” thick, and spell Pt. Mariah.  The letters can be picked up in Truckee after Jul 3rd and need to be complete by August 3rd. This is a commissioned project with a budget of $500. 

Are you ready to unleash your creative beast? Then don't hesitate! Slide into our DMs faster than a trail runner chasing a PR. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly legendary.
The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here!!  Please consider volunteering with us.  We have many shifts available from Friday, July 14th through Sunday, July 16th! 
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 information. 

P.S. If you are racing, let us know so we can cheer you on!!
What are you waiting for? Register today to take p What are you waiting for? Register today to take part in a unique, fun, multi-loop style course with five segments that tour different parts of the Royal Gorge land. Race solo, with a partner, or as a 5-person team!  There is something for everyone! Register today! Link in bio.
Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutel Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutely shattering the women’s course record at Western States 100 today! Such an inspiration to all. We know you are the GOAT but tell us the truth Courtney… is your secret weapon the DPMR pancakes?!?
Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western States 100 just now. Incredible performance landing him the 4th fastest time in the history of the event!  Well done Tom!
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