Running: Race Report: Yukon River Trail Half Marathon

Saturday, October 02, 2004 - 04:25 AM

If you’re looking for something different and don’t mind a little bit of traveling, you might consider the Yukon River Trail Marathon. This year’s race included a full marathon, 4-person marathon relay, and a half marathon. There were 260 runners in total hailing from all over Canada, eight states, Germany and Slovenia!

The route for the half marathon followed Legs 1 and 4 of the marathon. Starting in Rotary Peace Park in the heart of the City of Whitehorse, the route goes past the historic S.S. Klondike sternwheeler to the Yukon River walkway along Robert Service Way. From here runners go to the Miles Canyon Road and trail, a hilly route that leads to the Robert E. Lowe footbridge. Just before reaching the bridge there was a very technical section alongside a steep slope that dropped into the river. The path was only about 18 inches wide and very windy. Any careless steps could result in a swim!

On the other side of the bridge, the half marathoners meandered through pine forests along the north side of Schwatka Lake. There were many hills through the Hidden Lakes cross country ski trails; some so steep, only a handful of athletes and some Dall sheep managed to run them! But at the top of every hill was another spectacular view of the mountains and countryside.

The route then followed along the hiking and biking trails that go back to the Yukon River and Rotary Peace Park. As each finisher passed the finish line, they were given a unique hand made kiln fired clay medallion. A good number of runners took refuge in the cool but swift water of the Yukon River after crossing the line.

The post race awards banquet took place later that day at a local hotel. A great race deserves a great meal and the High Country Inn put on an impressive spread. A 25 ft gourmet buffet of pastas, salads, chicken, and breads satisfied everyone’s appetite. The Yukon Brewing Company took care of everyone’s thirst with complimentary beer.

I had the pleasure of talking with William Scott who ran the marathon. After learning he won the Masters Plus category and placed 2nd overall, I had to ask him his secret Jedi techniques for performing so well on the trail.
“I don’t drink during the race, just rinse my mouth out whenever there’s a water station. And when one of those young guys catches up to me and is breathing down my neck like a dragon, I just pick up the pace until they can’t keep up.”

The Yukon River Trail Half Marathon was very rewarding. I truly enjoyed the challenging course and superb banquet. Aside from the great long sleeve Sugoi Technifino shirt and the unique finisher’s medal, I took home some invaluable running advice from a Sourdough trail dog! Next year’s race is August 7th, 2005.