The RD's perspective
Whew, it was hot for the Kettle Moraine 100 Endurance Runs this year! The heat and humidity were too much for some runners. An additional 27 100 mile runners opted to call it a day at the 100 km point. The results reflect the fact that we gave our 100 mile runners credit for their 100 km time if they dropped out at or beyond that distance. However, medals for place awards were given only for the distance the runners signed up for. We crowned four new solo champions in addition to our two 100 mile relay champions.
We anticipate these 4-person relay events will gain in popularity in the years ahead, giving more trail-runners a chance to compete at a less daunting distance while enjoying the special camaraderie of a team effort and the ultra running community.
Our selfless and enthusiastic gang of volunteers was able to keep up with the runners' needs throughout the day and night. At the 100 km point one runner who was continuing, but at the same time fretting over how tired his feet were. Upon hearing this, the aid station captain, offered up her socks and made his day. (By the way, if you happen to read this please bring the socks with you next year.)
The 100 km point of the race was a place for joy and trepidation. The heat made it an oasis for those finishing their race, a comfortable resting point for those working up the courage to continue on for 38 more miles and an easy decision to accept the 100km finish for those signed up to do the 100 mile but just too worn out to continue. Hans Dieter Weisshaar left it up to fate as to which option he would choose - the quarter came up heads and he continued. Unfortunately, he had to drop later in the race, but was pleased to be told he would receive a finisher’s copper kettle.
We strove to find a finisher’s award which was unique and represented the Kettle Moraine name. The little copper kettles arrived two weeks prior the race in great shape all the way from Peru. Our four champions received full-size engraved kettles for their winning efforts.
It was an additional honor for us that France's sexagenarian, Henri Girault, ran here and completed the 467th (we think) 100 km race in his illustrious career.
This is the only 100 mile race in Wisconsin and Illinois. The founder of the Kettle Moraine 100, Kevin Setnes, laid the groundwork for a great annual event in the previous six years, and we're trying to build on that tradition. Though at times it seemed overwhelming, the race came and went with many satisfied volunteers and runners. Many thanks go out to Tom Bunk, Frank Slamar, our aid station captains and other volunteers. A special thanks to Kevin, Kris Clark-Setnes and Ultrafit this year for their support.
There were a lot of tears on the trail - and not just of pain. The joy we felt every time someone came across the finish line was very rewarding. We look forward to doing it all again next year, June 8 and 9, 2003. Expect to see quite the competition for best aid station next year.