3-4 MAY, 2003 - Eldridge, Iowa

Under ideal day time weather conditions 65 degree high and night time cool of 42 degrees, 52 runners made their way around the quarter mile all weather track at a high school track in Eldridge IA. Runners, volunteers and crews watched a mileage fest put on by the runners. The men's field was very competitive from the start and took almost 16 hours to sort the order out.

The over so smooth Scott Eppelman, making the trip from Texas, made his trip and training worthwhile by setting a new course record and besting the competitiors by over 11 miles. Scott's display of pacing and food/beverage management was scripted perfectly and was well executed.

Tim Johnson, using this as a training run for his second Western States 100 trail run in late June, demonstrated his training and skill. In 2001, Tim won this race with almost 10 less miles than this new PR for himself.

Alex Swenson, veteran ultrarunner, stepped on the track as a 24 hour novice and walked away a new force in the 24 hour category. He displayed his obvious talent with a huge 129+ mile effort despite that he could be quoted stating he ran "a perfect 18 hr effort". Alex finished his day by walking the last 6 hours after his tired body wouldn't tolerage any more running.

11 runners over 100 miles with the very last one coming minutes before the close of the race made for interesting viewing. Gutsy performance in all categories showed many, many heores - Louise Mason continuing to rack up miles although she fell slightly shy of her 100 mile dream, veteran runners Ron Grimes and Debbie Jones sticking the race through to the end despite some early and often troubles, and the senior runners showing what perseverance can achieve over occasional speed. Many new ultra runners joined the ranks with this race and all came through with flying colors.

Runners enjoyed pre-race and post-race meals and a somewhat delayed shower setup after the race. Race Management is grateful for the support from the community for all the manual lapcounters and the great facilities for this race. We will be back the first weekend next May.

Respectfully, Bonnie Busch

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