The Race |
Grinder 2024 - We do not require masks so use your own internal guidance. Be kind and be safe. We will have a mass start though - We use Chip timing so your time doesn't start until you cross the mat at the start. This loose start will allow you to start with friends you run with, stay spread out, etc. Our Aid Stations are at Mile 3, Mile 6 and Mile 11. Water and Electrolite Fuel will be on tables for you to grab. If you have a bottle or other container to fill let the aid station volunteer know and THEY will pour it. Again, Be kind and Have Fun. Details are below for directions and packet pickup. Directions to the Park and LodgingBabcock State Park, WV is located on Route 41, 15 minutes east of the U.S. 19 and Route 60 intersection. Again this year the Park is OPEN on race day! That means that camping and cabins are available at the Park. There are cabins along the course and Glade Creek as well as near the Mann's Gorge overlook. For reservations at the park or more info contact the park at 800-CALL-WVA or go to http://www.babcocksp.com/ Accommodations in the area are plentiful! There are many cabins and campgrounds around the area, just 15-20 minutes away. For more detailed info, use our "Lodging and Area Info" link on the sidebar or contact us by email- we will be happy to help you. Some special deals and discounts for participants are available, use the contact form to request more information. Packet PickupWe will plan to have two packet pickup options again this year, same as last year. Option 1: Friday, April 19th, 2024 5:30-6:30pm - The Take Out at their new location on Court St, 139 South Court St to be exact!! Good Fuel to Go. We are excited to see them opening at the new location with more room! Option 2: Race day morning packet pick up will be from 8:00-9:30 at the Start/Finish area. This will be pretty hectic so shoot for friday if you can.....See directions to Start/Finish area below!! Directions to the Start/Finish Area-Enter Babcock State Park at the Main Entrance. Go past the Gristmill, left and up the paved road. Continue past the lake & pool parking lot to the Sugar Camp Run Picnic Area. This will be the Start & Finish for the race. Remember- Packet pick up will begin at 8:00 am in the morning and go to 9:30. There will be NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION! Please note - we will NOT be able to transfer bibs to another runner..... The Race will start at 10:00 am, the Walk begins at 10:10. Spectator Access-There are several great places to hang out and watch the race- and they all have a great view! One is at the Gristmill itself, runners come by early- about 10:15 and then again about an hour later at mile 11. Two other great spots- when you come into the main entrance you can take the first right to Mann's Creek Gorge Overlook. About a mile up the road you will see a beautiful overlook on your left. The course goes right thru this overlook- it is a great place for photos. The first runners get there about 10:20. If you continue on out the road you will come to another picnic area and overlook. Plenty of parking there and it is the 6 mile mark for runners. Be sure and take your camera everywhere you go in the park!! Post Race EatsThere are several excellent eateries in Fayetteville - Pies & Pints, Bridge Brew Works, The Take Out and Secret Sandwich to name a few. Fruit, water and more sports drinks will be at the finish. You may also contact Donnie Hudspeth, Race Director by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it We will see you soon! Happy trails.... |