Rain Forest Greets Runner in Trail Race #2
by Joe Du Vall, Run Ottawa
Event two in the Run Ottawa Trail Race Series, presented by “Sports 4” was a wet affair for the twenty-one runners who showed up to run on Thursday evening, August 21st.
An incessant all day rain subsided mere minutes before the 7:00 p.m. start behind the Bell Arena, where a network of trails connects Hunt Club Road and the parkland that surrounds the sports fields and high school nearby. The trail was dotted with numerous puddles, the clay based soil provided some tricky footing in places but everyone just greeted what came their way and plodded on.
While conditions were not conducive to quick times, there was a duel for first place overall that came down to the final step as 9 year old (you read correctly!) Kyle Fitzmorris grabbed top spot half way through and led a group of four runners, including Owen Caves (40+ years his senior), well into the last kilometre. Owen outpointed the youngster right at the finish line to take top prize. First woman was Elaine Saunders, followed by Daphne Ballard. (Click here for all results)
It was one of those occasions where we were unsure if we would get anybody out to run but true to form, if there is a race someone on this planet, someone will show up and run. While more participation would have been preferred, the event came off just fine and we look forward to the finale, Thursday, September 25th, 6:30 p.m. from Carine Wilson Secondary School.