Hello and welcome to the 3rd Annual Hairy Gorilla Half Marathon and Squirrelly Six Mile Trail Races! If you are receiving this email, then you have the made the brave decision to join us this Sunday for what will be the time of your life!
The event will be held at Hailes Cave Pavilion @ Thacher State Park in Voorheesville, NY. The 6m and 13.1m begin at 9:30am. We also have the "Gorilla Chase Kids Race", an approximately 600 meter trek for your beloved progeny that will have them run through the patented ARE graveyard, followed by taking on the spooky woods (fully decorated in Halloween gear), and then - the most difficult challenge of all - getting past a very agitated Gorilla.
If you have any kids, know of any, or happen to see some playing outside on your way to the race, grab 'em and bring 'em along!
THE COURSE - Maps
This is the most beautiful time of year in the area - and you're going to enjoy it all! The park has done a lot of work the last few months upgrading the park and we can't wait for you to see it. :)
The "Best Gorilla Impersonation" Award is back, so be sure to act like a gorilla when you finish!
"Finisher with Most Bananas" truly was a hoot in 2005, as a runner from Rome, NY crossed the line with 42 bananas! In 2006, James Danoff-Burg, took the gold with 56 bananas toted along! For those who are unfamiliar with the category, over the last mile of the half, bananas will cover the trail. We challenge you to grab as many as you can, without the aid of ropes, string, or a sack. As the gorillas are very hungry, in the event a gorilla approaches you near the finish, you can simply throw a banana at it and you will appease the animal.
"Best Costume" - Show up in one and take on the race! Then line up and we'll let everyone decide who was the most creative with their attire.
"Best Pumpkin Carving" --> This is a new one and we're hoping to see some great pumpkins this year! Feel free to carve whatever you want!
POST-RACE FEAST
You will NOT leave our race hungry. We're having a cook-out following the event with a full assortment of tasty treats for all, from the healthiest vegetarian to the most primitive competitor. We also encourage you to bring a dish to share; last year we had everything imaginable from eggplant parm to tuna casserole and more!
GIVEAWAYS/AWARDS
While we all run races for the inherent joy it brings to us, it's also pretty nice when you walk away something; at HGH/SS, you will! All of you, as pre-registered runners, will be receiving running socks with the gorilla/squirrel logo, as well as a matching pint glass. We also have DRI-FIT shirts available for purchase (some of you pre-ordered these).
The overall awards are the cutest things you'll ever see - gorillas and squirrels in running gear on hand-carved wooden platforms. Also for the overall winners, Merrell Shoes has provided the event with several three-digit gift certificates!
In addition, all finishers in the Hairy Gorilla Half will walk-away with the official badge of success - the mini Hairy Gorilla!
Winners in 10 year age groups in both events (14-u, 15-19, up to 70+) will also get tasty treats for their efforts. Overall winners are truly in for a treat with perhaps the most unique awards they will ever come across...
REGISTRATION
You can find
applications here to print out
and bring with you.
There is day-of race registration at the park from 7:30am until 9am.
WHAT TO BRING
If you are in the 6m, please bring a bag of nuts for the squirrels. If you are in the half, bring those bananas! You should also bring AN EXTRA PAIR OF SHOES. A COMPLETE change of clothes. Bring a towel, a warm jacket, and all of your friends!
THE RELAY AND TEAM RACE
Some of you have entered the relay race. It is your choice who runs which leg - you don't need to tell us. Those in the relay will do the 'hand-off' in the main field by the 6m finish.
Have 4 friends running in the half with you? Create a team! We will have forms at the event - there is no charge, simply fill out a sheet and cross your fingers for success.
WHY DO WE HOLD THIS EVENT ANYWAY?
In 2003, the ARE produced its first event, the Dodge the Deer 5k. We wanted to create unique events that showcased what a great sport we all enjoy - both for the health benefits and just how much fun it can be. Our volunteers will be costumed, there will be animals and other characters lurking in the woods, and we hope more than anything that you enjoy the day. Whether it is your goal to win the race or simply finish, we hope that everyone comes across the line with a smile. This is OUR sport and you should always feel free to contact us with suggestions to improve our events.
Happy Trails!
Sincerely,
the Albany Running Exchange HGH/SS Team