2006 Patch Sprint Divisions
After experimenting with various race weekends, start times and divisions, the Patch Sprint Committee settled on a format in 2005 that was so successful that the divisions will remain the same for 2006.
Open to males of any age. Majority of racers begin at the 10:00am starting time, though this is not required. Racers should be in shape and familiar with the course. "This is the least social of all of the divisions," says two-time winner Greg Henderson. "Basically, everyone is concerned with their split times and heart rates." Added perennial Top-three finisher Jason Metakis: "It can get lonely because the pack tends to spread out, and the guys at the back are literally on their own."
Open to females of any age. Majority of racers begin at the 9:00am starting time, though this is not required. This division is nicknamed "Disney World" due to the recent domination of entrants from the Disney family. It is the division that has shown the biggest improvement over the past five years, with the record being lowered by nearly one-half hour. "I can't believe how fast the girls are getting," stated 2004 winner Sami Daley. "I train and I train and I still can't keep up with those damn twins!"
Open to men aged 40 or older. Racers begin at either the 9:00am or 10:00am start. Historically, this has been the most competitive division, with the title being decided by less than 30 seconds in 2005, and less than a minute in 2003. Confesses veteran endurance racer Peter Levine, "I've never entered because I don't think I can keep up with these guys or stand the tough competition!" By contrast, John Rayburn exclaims, "Let those guys sprint. I'm just happy to jog a bit, walk a bit, and enjoy the view."
Open to women aged 40 or older. Racers begin at start time of their choosing. Is expected to be contested for the first time in 2006. "Don't tell anyone. I'm trying to be the lone entrant," whispered Marianne Perreault. Countered Augusta Wilson: "Too bad I'll be a week shy of my 40th birthday. Otherwise, I'd leave Perreault in the dust." To encourage entry into this division, Patch Sprint officials have announced that, for 2006, a registrant may sign up for women's masters, yet walk with the other trekkers, starting at 8:00am.
Net Time: 2:28:53 - Ben Stanley (2005)
Open to any racer 200 pounds or more. A weigh-in will occur prior to the race. A handicap system allows for each racer to receive one minute off of his or her final time for each pound exceeding 200. Division winners are decided by best "net" time. In 2005, Ken Ryba finished fifth in total time, but earned a silver medal. A Clydesdales only dilemma: "I don't know whether it's worth it to train, and risk losing weight!", says Josh Bornt.
Open to anyone aged 10 or younger. A race up the trail of Mt. Pok-O-Moonshine (1.2 mile well-marked course) Volunteers, acting as chaperones will accompany the competitors. There is a reduced entry fee, plus awards for all finishers. "It really allows me to blow off some steam," says long-time kinder sprinter Chad Canning. "I just don't get the same aerobic benefits doing something like wrestling."
Open to anyone. Trekkers may walk, race-walk or run the course. Final times will be recorded, but no placings will be recognized in this "non-competitive" division. To qualify, trekkers must begin at the 8:00am start. This by far the most popular division, with close to 30 trekkers entered in 2005. Additionally, it is the most social, and least stressful. "Trekkers tend to hang together," exclaims Jillian Debusk." "As a result, we talk, laugh and most importantly, don't get lost!"
Open to anyone. "The most important division in the event," says race director Sandy Solomon. "Without them, the trekkers and especially the racers would be left high and dry. Or high and wet if it's raining." Volunteers have no entry fee, unless they would like an event shirt. Among their responsibilities: Summit timing; photography, aid stations; carrying supplies, arranging for the parties; shuttling racers and trekkers; moral support. "It's a great way to be involved without all the training, sweat and pain," says Shai Walker.
Open to anyone. A Patch Sprint "friend" is, in short, anyone who cares about the event and it's charity. By registering, a friend is welcome at the pre-race expo and carbo loading supper; the summit party and the post race banquet. "It's a lot of fun being a spectator", remarks long-time friend Gregson. "I pay a few bucks, eat a bunch of burgers and drink a ton of beer."