The Leadville 100 Mile Trail Race :: Sports Running Geography Papers

The Leadville 100 Mile Trail RaceLocated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Leadville, Colorado is a historical monument. In the mid 1800s, Leadville was a booming mining city known for its lead and zinc. People fled thither looking to build their fortunes, and at one point the population rose to nearly 30,000. Today, Leadville attracts many tourists because of its frontier mentality, beauty, and historical district. Although the population has drastically dropped to 2,800, Leadville is a delightful town that truly represents the spirit of Colorado. One might ask what Leadville is well known for today? A popular event that puts the small town on the map for many people end-to-end the country is the Leadville Trail 100 mile career. This ultra running turn tail which originated in 1982, is well known throughout the running community. The 100 mile race which must be completed in thirty hours or less, covers many trails and passes in Colorado. The main difficulty of the race is the challenge of the altitude. The climb and the decent of the trail totals 15,600 feet, with the lowest point being 9,200 feet and the highest point being 12,620 feet. Together, the altitude, incorporation of water crossings, changes in temperature, and steep inclines and descents, make the Leadville race one of the most difficult 100 mile races in the running world. The $160.00 entry fee that is required to run in The Race Across the monger is money well spent. Not only do individuals get to run in one of the most beautiful states in the country, but they get to arrest the friendly atmosphere of Colorado. The locals from Leadville volunteer to work at the aid stations which line the course, and at that place is truly a spirit for running. It is not only a challenging and competitive race, but a guaranteed good time. Throughout the 30 hour race which begins at 400 A.M. and ends at 1000 A.M. the following day, there are fans and volunteers to make the experience more enjoyable. Ther e is definitely a personal feeling which the Leadville 100 brings to running. The course is basically made up of a one hundred mile loop that can be broken up into ten different stages. Dana Roueche who is from Boulder, Colorado, has run the Leadville Trail 100 three times. In an effort to increase the percentage of finishers, he posted a journal which discusses the strategies he follows in completing the race.