Racer Update
We hope you are looking forward to the race on June 16. This is a quick update; please read through the race website for all the details on the race.
Note a few changes:
Starting Times. We have moved the starting times one hour earlier than was previously stated on the website in anticipation of warm weather. We also merged the half marathon and 10k into one start time since the fairly wide trail can handle the approximately 100 racers going off together. We’ll also likely start the 5k first so that most 5kers will head off on their shortened loop and likely stay ahead of most 10kers and half marathoners. Please look for an email a few days before the race for any changes, but this is very likely the plan.
Early Check-in. We will offer early check-in at Gazelle Sports on 2930 28th ST in Grand Rapids from 4:30 to 7:30 pm. That seems to be the time when most people stop by and we’ll need the rest of the day to set the course. You may pick up bibs, shirts, etc. for friends who have registered online.
Shirts. Just another reminder that shirts do not come with your entry. You must “register” for the shirt separately on the same registration screen as the races (top selection).
Could you please email me at mark@miadventureracing.com if you have a child who will be running in the free, 1-mile (or a little less) kids run as part of Hurt the Dirt? We are trying to determine when to hold the run – right after all of you start your race (if a spouse or friend will be there to watch your child start and finish) or later in the morning for those of you who will finish your 5k or 10k and then want to run with your child (approximately 9:15). Or both, but since we don’t expect a lot of kids, we are leaning toward one race so there are enough kids to make it feel like a race (a fun one, but still a race). Kids 10 and under will receive a medal.
8:00 am 5k
8:05 am 10k and half marathon
8:10 OR 9:15 kids race??
Finishers award. Half marathoners will receive a unique wood finishers award. 
It’s laser engraved and hangs on a rustic string. It looks massive in this sample photo but it’s about the same size as most race medals – 2.5″ diameter. Just to set expectations!
Prizes. We have about $4,000 in prizes. We will have 3 age divisions per race, 2 genders, and 3 distances. So we need 18 prizes at each place. The only way to do that and stay in business is to go two places deep. That’s 36 prizes total plus raffle. We wish we could go deeper but each place means 18 more prizes and for a race based on revenue from only 200 racers, that’s a quick way to lose money. The good news is that your odds of finishing 1st or 2nd statistically speaking are infinitely better than most large road races! Thanks to Patagonia Footwear, Gazelle Sports, New Balance, 8th Day Gym, Swiftwick and Zanfel for some great prizes.
Just a reminder that the start/finish is at Kent County Conservation League, a few hundred yards east of Seidman Park.
Look for one more racer update a few days before the race.
Mark VanTongeren
Michigan Adventure Racing
