2007 Patch Sprint Divisions
Long gone are the half-sprint, relay and team event but the current setup caters to "100 pound sprinters and 280 pound Clydedsales.... Racers.... Trekkers... Volunteers.... Kids... Spectators....Partyers. Last year, our racers and trekkers ranged in age from four to 66," boasted race director Sandra Solomon. "For adults, kids, families and friends alike, the Patch Sprint is the place to be for Memorial Day weekend."
Interested in taking part? Here are your options for this year's event:
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-ten finisher Chris Durlacher: "It can get lonely because the pack tends to spread out; and don't even think about going out drinking the night before!"
Open to females of any age. Majority of racers begin at the 9:00am starting time, though this is not required. This is the division that has shown the biggest improvement over the past five years, both in number of racers, and finishing time. In 2006, 44-year old Deborah Nordyke came within seconds of becoming the first racer from outside of the Open Male division to capture the "Janny" for best overall time.. "It's a great athletic experience and also a lot of fun," said Nordyke! Added former course record co-holder and 2006 ruuner-up Elizabeth Disney: "I'll be back!"
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. The same three runners have captured 11 of the past 12 medals, but the field is expanding. "I'm due for a top-3 finish, maybe even a win. So those guys better watch out," exclaimed David Mason. Added Jim Kobak, "In two years, I'll be a master. Then it'll be smooth sailing!"
Open to women aged 40 or older. Racers begin at start time of their choosing. Was contested for the first time in 2006 with Virginian Eileen Sofiled Leone winning easily. Leone will be back and is "serving up a challenge to my sister (veteran runner Kathy Gigantiello) and all others to try and take me on!" To encourage continued growth for this division, Patch Sprint officials have announced that, for 2007, 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 2006, Ken Ryba finished fourth in total time, but earned a gold 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 40 trekkers entered in 2006. 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."