HARPERS FERRY — How many times could you run a 10k (6.2 mi.) trail loop in eight hours? One hundred fifteen runners flocked to Harpers Ferry’s Rolling Ridge Conservancy early Saturday morning to find out in the Miner’s Lady 8 Hour Endurance Race.
The race course packed 857 grueling feet of elevation gain across the loop but one could be easily distracted from their aching legs by the beautiful mountains, waterfalls and creeks along the trail. There was also a village of tents near the starting line where participants could rest between loops. Spirits in the village were lively and encouragement was widespread.
As one could imagine though, eight hours of trail running could produce unusual tolls. One runner claimed that she had completed the last two miles of her final loop with her hands in the air because they had swollen so much. Another runner, who happened to be a five-time Ironman triathlete, said the only thing nagging her six hours into the race was a bee sting on her ankle.
Health and safety was an utmost priority that was monitored by multiple volunteers as well as medical professionals, ensuring everyone was having the best time possible. Additionally, every time a runner finished a loop they were greeted with a variety of foods and beverages to refuel before they set out yet again. The majority of runners called it quits after three loops at a total of 18.
6 miles. However, five runners completed a high of six loops for a whopping total of 37.2 miles.
Fifteen .