Iron Legs Mountain Races

The podium for the men’s 25k.

1st - Mason Goodchild - 2:45:10
2nd - Troy Morgan - 2:51:43
3rd - Jeffrey Routledge- 2:53:28

Congrats to all 3 for amazing times. Running in the dark adds a whole bunch of challenges and you all cherished it.

Last year, fellow racer and owner/operator of The Fitness Guy, Pete Estabrooks, started a special award in honour of our late local running store owner and ultrarunner, Gord Hobbins. The award is called The Golden Gord and is given to a participant who exhibits perseverance and optimism in the face of adversity and who exudes positivity. The award comes with a monetary gift, generously donated by Pete Estabrooks.

Volunteers made several nominations this year for the award, and it is hard to choose just one recipient as every situation is so different and worthy. However, we would like to acknowledge one particular runner’s spirit.

The winner of this year’s Golden Gord award goes to Thana Boonlert, known on course by his crew as “Ship.” Thana completed the 100km and was facing cut-offs along the course but persevered through each to the finish, all the while maintaining a positive attitude. He went into the race recovering from a sprained ankle that he nursed the whole way. In his post-race report, he wrote: “I knew I would get my butt to the start line no matter what, and I’m so glad I did.” The aid 5-6 captain said that he knew Thana “was genuinely excited about the race the course.”

Thana’s wife and crew supported him through his training this year as he wrote how he “planned out this crazy idea of running 100km. Many long days in the mountains training, weekends sacrificed not seeing friends or going to cool events together, and money spent on various running things” led to Thana’s finish. We know that Gord would be a big cheerleader of all of your efforts, Thana, and we are so proud to celebrate along with you with this award!

Way to go!

Jamie & Tasha

The men’s podium for the 60k.

1st in 7:02:07
2nd in 7:23:45
3rd in 7:56:02

It was an international podium with first from Scotland and third from Germany. While second is from Vancouver, while not international he did travel to be here.

Congrats o the three of you for an amazing race.

We are still busy organizing Iron Legs but couldn’t forget about Racing Dusk. Registration is now open! So, come join us on Dec 19th for a fun filled day on the trails. Maybe Santa and Rudolph will join us again for a last minute workout.

A small but mighty group headed out and flagged part of the course today. The infamous Ford Creek and the Powderface area is done. Thanks to those who came out to help! See you all in a week.

Volunteers are the backbone of races and without them races can’t exist. We are super low on volunteers this year and hope that some of you can join us. If you would like to get a run in please consider sweeping part of the course. Volunteer signup link is in the bio.

Everyone is excited before their race, they have been training hard, putting in the miles and enjoying the fitness they gained. But, remember that before you get to enjoy the views and camaraderie of other runners. There is a thing called tapering!!! I know this can be something some people hate to hear but the truth is we all need it before our race. So, enjoy the next week and a half as you reduce the amount of time on feet, reduce the amount of intensity, and spend a bit more time with friends and family. Try and be rested when you are standing at the start line.

See you on the 8th as we get ready for the 17th running of the race.

Once again we have Fluid Sports Nutrition providing the sports drink on course. Their drink mix is light and easy to get down without being overly sweet.

We hope to see you on August 8th!

Races need the hands of many people to get everyone around the course. We are still looking for people to fill spots on race day, and a few other days. We can offer you a great hoodie, a meal at the finish line, time with amazing people and a fantastic day with many laughs. If you are able to come out and help for the day check out the link in the bio. Can you also share this post for others to see! #trailracing #ultramarathon #albertaultraseries #kananaskis #albertaparks