October 1, 2005 Results

The 2005 run began in a downpour and ended in sunbursts. Runners had a fun day on the trail and enjoyed hot soup, sandwiches, and many giveaways from our sponsors at the finish. In addition, each division winner took home their own Baker Bear. There were 103 starters and 101 finishers. We would like to thank volunteers Kathy and John Morelock, Mark Barnett, and Robin Loen for their tremendous wonderful work! Below are race results as reported by Dave Dutton, Race Director.

It is always amazing for me to watch ultrarunners engage in their love for adventure and sport. Despite all kinds of weather and environmental hazards, they persevere, and each one claims a victory in their own right. With sometimes steady rain, sometimes showery downpours, the thrill of being in the woods and coming out the other side captured the hearts of the 2005 Baker Lake finishers. Steve George came across the dam and finish line first, followed by a procession of other fun loving troops that braved the elements and secured this day a place in their record books.

This 50k trail run includes crossing the Upper Baker Dam twice, near the start and finish, which from the center on a clear enough day, has a panoramic yet close-up view of Mt. Baker. Soon after, runners enter a mossy old growth forest, the trail twisting and turning, across wooden foot bridges and streams, up and down constantly with sometimes views of mountains, but a constant companion in the lake. For 14 miles, runners enjoy a changing foot path, while being captivated by the Fall color and falling leaves. Runners cross streams that enter the lake from surrounding mountains, requiring careful foot strikes. Moss snares runners to take a tumble.

After 13.5 trail miles, runners cross a foot path suspension bridge across the Baker River and realize they are within a half mile of meeting the turnaround aid station. After replenishing their energy stores, runners return to the arduous task of negotiating their tiring bodies to the south and the sight of the dam, from which they are within grasp of finishing today's chosen destiny. Along the way they come to grips with their selves. Whether it's a race, a run, or a stroll this place turns you inside out. It is a place of learning, for reflection, and for achievement. It is a test.

We have seen a gradual increase in runners choosing to spend an early Fall day at Baker Lake. We continue because it is here; the opportunity to challenge one's self, aside from the rigors of our careers and daily lives. We are especially thankful to those that return, some again and again, and share the experience with us. We have always found our runners to be grateful for the experience this day provides. Tradition grows and we hope that memories never fade.

Thanks ultrarunners!!!

Dave

BAKER LAKE 50K
October 1, 2005

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