MAJOR CHANGE to the Patch Sprint Schedule

Pok-O Summit Party Eliminated

​From- Tim Singer & Greg Henderson, Patch Sprint co-founders and directors:
 
It is with great regret - yet full understanding - that we are discontinuing one of the event’s most popular features:  the party on top of Pok-O-Moonshine.
 
Tim was contacted by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), whose representative informed us that they were very concerned with the large number of people congregating on top of Pok-O, for the race finish.  Their concerns were for both environmental, and social reasons.
 
At first, the DEC wanted us to move the finish line elsewhere but, after some discussion, it allowed us to preserve the finish under the following conditions (READ MORE):

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1. Racers, trekkers, Kindersprinters, chaperones and friends will spend a minimum time on top of Poko.  While not quantified, let us assume this means a chance to recover, have a snack, check out the view and head down; up to ten minutes should be acceptable.
2. Climbers are highly encouraged, though not mandated, to descend Pok-O via the alternate south trail.  This will minimize our use of a single route.  To accommodate this, shuttle service will begin earlier than usual – likely around 1:00 –from the southern parking lot.
3. We ask that alcohol not be brought to the summit of Pok-O.

 
 The post-race festivities will be shifted to Pok-O-MacCready Camps, where camp directors and cooking staff have generously agreed to move the post-race party to an earlier time.  A late afternoon awards dinner will start at around 4:30.  Weather permitting, this will be a picnic dinner.  (See full event schedule HERE)
 
We are very thankful to the DEC for working with us on a solution. This was bound to happen eventually and, in speaking with several of our participants over the past week, no one is surprised, nor appears to be too upset.  In fact, most people like the idea of having an earlier gathering back at camp, so they can get home earlier in the evening! 
 
The Patch Sprint is largely made up of responsible outdoor enthusiasts who have a love for the Adirondacks.  We thank you for your understanding and hope you will abide by the new regulations, so that we may continue to stage our event on its popular, challenging and enjoyable course for many years to come.

​Skip & Greg

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