GORE-TEX® TransRockies Run
August 14-19, 2012 – Buena Vista to Beaver Creek
What to Expect
Technical Guide
VERSION 2012.2 – May 2012
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Welcome to the 2012 GORE-TEX® TransRockies Run
Welcome to the 6th Annual GORE-TEX® TransRockies Run! This is North America’s premiere Trail Running Stage Race,
also known as the ultimate summer-camp for trail runners. This guide is provided for those considering registering to
better understand how the event works, and also for registered runners planning and preparing for the event. This
document is subject to change as we fine-tune details prior to the start of the race, but will be a great starting point for
planning your TransRockies Run experience. More details and printed documents will be handed out at sign-on to guide you
through the week.
Formats
The GORE-TEX® TransRockies Run offers 2 formats:
TRR 6-Day Team
Teams of two running together for all 6 stages. Teams must stay together and are timed according to the finish time of the
team. The ranking is by team.
RUN3 3-Day Solo
Solo runners completing the first 3 stages only, concurrently with the TRR teams. Times and rankings are individual. RUN3
runners may unofficially upgrade at the end of 3 days for a cost of $550 and run the remainder of the event, but will not
receive a ranking for the 6-day event. This option is only available on-site and maybe purchased through the race office.
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Route Overview
2012 Stages
Stage 1 - Buena Vista to Railroad Bridge
21.0 miles, 2,500 feet of elevation gain
Stage 2 - Vicksburg to Twin Lakes
13.4 miles, 3,100 feet of elevation gain
Stage 3 - Leadville to Nova Guides
24.4 miles, 2,700 feet of elevation gain
Stage 4 - Nova Guides to Red Cliff
14.2 miles, 2,800 feet of elevation gain
Stage 5 - Red Cliff to Vail
23.3 miles, 4,100 feet of elevation gain
Stage 6 - Vail to Beaver Creek
23.7 miles, 4,800 feet of elevation gain
TRR TOTAL - Buena Vista to Beaver Creek
120 miles, 20,000 feet of elevation gain
RUN3 TOTAL - Buena Vista to Camp Hale
58.8 miles, 8,300 feet of elevation gain
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Event Schedule Overview
GORE-TEX® TransRockies™ Run 2012
Daily Schedule - Subject to Change
Stage 0
Monday, August 13
Stage 1
Tuesday, August 14
Stage 2
Wednesday, August 15
Stage 3
Thursday, August 16
Registration
Registration Location
Race Office Open
Breakfast
Breakfast Location
Shuttle Vans/Bus to start Departs
Shuttle Arrives at Start
Call to Start
Race Start
Start Location
Finish Location
Latest Finish
Shuttle Vans/Bus to Camp
Dinner & Ceremonies Location
Dinner/Banquet Begins
Stage Winners
Overall Winners
Leaders Jersey Presentation
Course Briefing
Pictures of the Day (Photos)
Pictures of the Day (Video)
Opening Ceremonies/Dinner
Opening Ceremonies Location
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
BV Heritage Musum
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
5:00 - 7:00 PM
Avery Parsons Elem. School
Stage 4
Friday, August 17
7:00 - 8:30 AM
BV Heritage Musum
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6:00 AM - 7:30 AM
Avery Parsons Elem. School
6:00 - 8:30 AM
6:00 - 8:30 AM
8:30 AM
9:00 AM
East Main Street - BV
Railroad Bridge Campground
5:00 PM
11:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Arrowhead Point Camp
5:00 PM
7:00 PM
NA
7:00 PM
7:20 PM
7:35 PM
7:45 PM
NA
NA
Stage 5
Saturday, August 18
NA
NA
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6:00 - 7:30 AM
Arrowhead Point Camp
7:30 AM
8:05 - 8:15 AM
8:10 AM
8:30AM
Vicksburg - Missouri Gulch
Twin Lakes Reservoir
5:30 PM
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Mining Museum/Leadville
5:00 PM
7:00 PM
NA
7:00 PM
7:20 PM
7:35 PM
7:45 PM
NA
NA
Stage 6 (Final Stage)
Sunday, August 19
NA
NA
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6:00 - 7:30 AM
Mining Museum/Leadville
NA
NA
7:40 AM
8:00 AM
Harrison Ave./Leadville
Nova Guides/Camp Hale
5:00 PM
NA
Nova Guides/Camp Hale
5:00 PM
7:00 PM
RUN3: 7:20PM
7:20 PM
7:30 PM
7:45 PM
7:55 PM
NA
NA
Departure Day
Monday, August 20
Registration
Registration Location
Race Office Open
Breakfast
Breakfast Location
Shuttle Vans/Bus to start Departs
Shuttle Arrives at Start
Call to Start
Race Start
Start Location
Finish Location
Latest Finish
Shuttle Vans/Bus to Camp
Dinner & Ceremonies Location
Dinner/Banquet Begins
Stage Winners
Overall Winners
Leaders Jersey Presentation
Course Briefing
Pictures of the Day (Photos)
Pictures of the Day (Video)
Opening Ceremonies/Dinner
Opening Ceremonies Location
NA
NA
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6:00 - 7:30 AM
Nova Guides
NA
NA
7:40 AM
8:00 AM
Nova Guides/Camp Hale
Red Cliff/Mangos
5:00 PM
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Nova Guides/Camp Hale
5:00 PM
7:00 PM
NA
7:20 PM
7:30 PM
7:45 PM
7:55 PM
NA
NA
NA
NA
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6:00 - 7:30 AM
Nova Guides
7:30 AM
7:45 AM
8:10 AM
8:30 AM
Red Cliff/Mangos
Vail Village (Vista Bahn)
5:30 PM
NA
Rugby Field (Vail)
5:00 PM
7:00 PM
NA
7:20 PM
7:30 PM
7:45 PM
7:55 PM
NA
NA
NA
NA
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6:00 - 7:30 AM
Rugby Field (Vail)
NA
NA
7:40 AM
8:00 AM
Vail Village (Vista Bahn)
Base of BC (Chophouse)
5:00 PM
NA
Park Hyatt (Beaver Creek)
6:00 PM
7:30 PM
7:45 PM
8:05 PM
NA
8:00 PM
8:15 PM
NA
NA
Transfer to Buena Vista
departs at 11:00 AM
from Centennial Station
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Online Registration
For current pricing or to register visit our website: http://transrockies.com/transrockiesrun/transrockies/reg_main.htm
Registration Phases
Online Phase 1 – Opens Online Saturday, August 27th, 2011 10 AM MST – Available to the first 100 registrants only Online
Phase 2 – Available to the next 100 participants
Online Phase 3 – Available to the next 100 participants
Final Phase – Open until all the spots are gone!
TransRockies Run – Team Registration Fees per person (includes meals, camping and $100 per person optional donation
to charity)
Phase 1: $1,199 per person ($250 savings)
Phase 2: $1,299 per person ($150 savings)
Phase 3: $1,399 per person ($50 savings)
Final Phase: $1,449 per person
Minimum Deposit on Registration: $1,000 per team, due in full on June 1, 2012.
RUN3 – Solo Registration Fees per person (includes meals, camping and $50 per person optional donation to charity)
Phase 1: $749 per person ($150 savings)
Phase 2: $799 per person ($100 savings)
Phase 3: $849 per person ($50 savings)
Phase 4: $899 per person
2012 Field Limits
TRR Teams: 200 Teams of 2 people
RUN3 Solos: 100 Solo Runners
Overall Field Limit: 500 Runners
Categories
TRR Team Categories:
•
Open Men
•
Open Women
•
Open Mixed
•
80+ Men (combined age)
•
80+ Women (combined age)
•
80+ Mixed (combined age)
RUN3 Solo Categories:
•
Open Men
•
Open Women
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Sign-On
Location: Buena Vista Heritage Museum, 2nd Floor, 511 East Main Street, Buena Vista, CO 81211
Schedule: Monday, August 13th, 12PM – 5PM; Tuesday, August 14th , 7 AM – 8 AM.
At sign-on you will complete the following:
1.
Sign Waiver and Media Release
2.
Purchase any required add-ons (pending availability)
3.
Pick-up Race Number and Timing Chip
4.
Pick-up Race Duffel Bag and Gifts (Gore Running Wear Jacket, T-Shirt, etc.)
5.
Pick up Wristband for Meals
6.
Massage Bookings
Daily Notes
Stage 0 – Sign-On
•
Sign-On starts at Noon on Monday, in the Buena Vista Heritage Museum, an old courthouse. Proceed up the
wooden staircase to the upper level where our staff will be ready to greet you.
•
Note that we typically have a line-up in the first hour that sign-on is open. If you prefer not to wait in line, plan to
come later in the afternoon, we will be open until 5 PM
•
At 5 PM we will have the opening ceremonies dinner next door at the Avery Parson Elementary School. Follow
the orange cones to the back entrance to the school gym. Dinner and seating will be inside the gym, and the
opening ceremony will be held outside on the front lawn of the Heritage Museum at 7 PM.
•
No Camp or Accommodations are provided on this day, so please book your hotel in Buena Vista well in advance
to ensure availability. For a complete list of accommodations please see the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce
website: http://www.buenavistacolorado.org
•
At the end of the opening ceremonies, we will be reading a list of hotels where we are picking up luggage. If your
hotel is not on the list, you will have an opportunity to add it.
Stage 1 – Buena Vista / Arrowhead Camp
•
We will be picking up luggage at hotels around town between 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM. Please have everything you
will need for the duration of the event packed in the provided duffel bag. Any additional luggage will also be picked
up, but will not be accessible until the end of the event. (RUN 3 extra luggage will be offloaded at Camp Hale)
•
Vans will also be running between hotels and breakfast on a rotation basis. If you are within walking distance of
breakfast we encourage you to walk.
•
Breakfast will again be at the Avery Parsons Elementary School, in the same location as the Stage 0 dinner.
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•
The actual start location is two blocks west of the Buena Vista Heritage Museum in front of Colorado Kayak on
East Main Street. Please report to the start no later than 8:20 AM.
•
The first stage is notoriously hot and sunny. Be sure to come equipped with hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Be
sure to practice proper hydration, nutrition and electrolyte replacement in moderation.
•
The finish of the stage is a Railroad Bridge campground on County Road 371. IF you have supporters wishing to
see the stage finish, please be aware that they must purchase a $6 day-use fee to park at this facility. Please do not
park on the road. Park Rangers will be patrolling the area.
•
Runners will be shuttled from Railroad Bridge Campground to our Stage 1 camp at Arrowhead Point Camping
Resort, just North of Buena Vista. Vans will also be occasionally running between Arrowhead and Buena Vista
throughout the afternoon if you wish to head into town for food or supplies.
•
Dinner starts at 5PM in camp.
Stage 2 – Vicksburg / Twin Lakes
•
Breakfast will be served in the tent at camp between 6 AM and 7:30 AM.
•
After breakfast busses will depart for the stage 2 start in Vicksburg at 7:30 AM.
•
The bus ride is approx. 30 minutes. Toilets and water will be available at the start line.
•
Drop bags will be accepted at the start. It is typically chilly at the start in Vicksburg, so if you want to leave a drop
bag, feel free to drop it with the announcer van prior to entering the start coral and we’ll bring it to the finish for
you. You must supply your own drop bag.
•
Please note that this stage has limited supplies at checkpoint 2, about 5 miles in. Please bring adequate water to last
the entire stage, since we must pack in supplies using horse and mule (this stage only).
•
The stage finishes at Twin Lakes Dam, and busses and vans will be waiting to take you to our camp in Leadville,
about 20 minutes driving time.
•
The Leadville camp is located approx.. 3 blocks from Hwy 24 on 6th Street at Leiter Field. Historic Leadville offers
plentiful shops and restaurants to occupy your afternoon.
•
SPECIAL EVENT: Jonathan Toker from Salt Stick will be hosting a pool party at the Leadville Pool. 2 blocks west
on 6th Street. Time is TBA.
•
This year, the Leadville meals have moved to the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum, at the north end of
Harrison Ave. (main street). The meals and ceremonies will take place in the banquet hall of the building. The
location is walkable and we will also be running shuttle vans from and to camp as in the past. Dinner starts at 5
PM.
Stage 3 – Leadville / Camp Hale
•
Breakfast will also be at the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum starting at 6 AM. We will be running vans
between camp and breakfast from 6AM – 7:30 AM. There is now shuttle to the start line, but it is an easy walk
from camp.
•
You will start on Harrison Avenue, the main highway route through town, across from the courthouse.
•
On this stage you will be running on and across US Highway 24 several times – follow the directions of marshals
and law enforcement. State Troopers will be on hand to manage the crossings.
•
The camp today is located at the finish line of the stage, which is at Nova Guides, located at historic Camp Hale.
•
Nova Guides will be offering a limited BBQ at camp.
•
The nearest town is Red Cliff, approx. 10 minutes drive north.
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•
SPECIAL EVENT: Jonathan Toker from Salt Stick will host a panel discussion on Nutrition and Hydration in the
expo area at 3:30 PM
•
RUN3 participants will receive finisher’s shirts and medals at the finish line today.
•
Dinner starts at 5 PM.
Stage 4 – Camp Hale / Red Cliff
•
Breakfast will start at 6 AM at Nova Guides.
•
Today the start line is in the same location as yesterday’s finish.
•
The finish of the stage is in Red Cliff, but we will be spending an additional night at Nova Guides. Dinner is in Nova
Guides. Shuttle vans will be running from 10 AM until late afternoon from the finish in Red Cliff back to Nova
Guides.
•
Traditionally, many participants eat lunch at Mango’s following completion on Stage 4. Fish Tacos and Margaritas is
the most common order. There is also a convenience store, liquor store and post office at the finish line, so bring
your money if you need anything. You may also choose to go back to camp to get cleaned up and then come back
to Red Cliff for the afternoon if you prefer.
•
Dinner starts at 5PM at Nova Guides
Stage 5 – Red Cliff / Vail
•
Breakfast starts at 6 AM at Nova Guides.
•
The start today is back in Red Cliff, so we will be running busses and vans from Nova Guides to Red Cliff starting
at 7:30 AM following breakfast.
•
Mango’s will be open for use of bathrooms and hot drinks will also be available. Red Cliff it typically cold for the
start, so you will be able to stay warm in Mango’s until the start coral opens. We will also be accepting drop bags
at the start if you want to bring extra clothes. You must supply your own drop bag.
•
The stage finish is in Vail at the base of the Vista Bahn lift at Vail Village. Camp is located at the Vail athletic fields, a
half mile 10 minute walk away. The route to camp will be marked with TransRockies cones.
•
Meals will be located at camp. Dinner starts at 5 PM.
•
Vail has extensive dining and shopping options located nearby in Vail Village.
Stage 6 – Vail / Beaver Creek
•
Breakfast starts at 6 AM at the Vail Camp.
•
Today’s start will be located in the same place as yesterday’s finish, at the base of the Vista Bahn in Vail Village.
Leave time for the 10-minute walk to get there. Drop bags will be accepted at the start. You must supply your
own drop bag.
•
The finish line is at Beaver Creek Resort on the grass in front of the Beaver Creek Chophouse.
•
At the finish line you will receive a finisher’s medal (anyone crossing the line) and a finisher’s t-shirt (only if you
completed the entire distance of all stages).
•
Please remember to return your timing chip.
•
All athlete luggage will be located next to the finish area beside the Centennial Station bus loop. Beaver Creek
offers free transfers to all hotels located within the resort – look for the green vans in the bus loop.
•
The race office motorhome will also be parked in the Centennial Station bus loop for race questions or final ticket
purchases for the banquet.
9
•
The final banquet is located in the McCoy Peak Room of the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek. This is located just a few
hundred feet from the finish line on the base of the mountain. As you cross the finish line it is to the right. Doors
open at 6 PM.
•
Typically after people finish the final stage they check into their hotel room, get cleaned up and relax for a while
before the banquet.
•
Limited additional banquet tickets are available. Please pre-purchase to guarantee availability.
Travel to the Event
By Air
•
Fly into Denver International Airport.
•
To get to Buena Vista, book the airport shuttle offered by TransRockies, which may be added to your online
registration. Try to book your flight around the transfer schedule to minimize wait time at the airport.
•
Shuttle Schedule:
o Saturday, August 11, 2012
§ 1:00 pm
§ 7:00 pm
o Sunday, August 12, 2012
§ 1:00 pm (56 Passenger Luxury Bus)
§ 4:00 pm
§ 7:00 pm
o Monday, August 13, 2012
§ 1:00pm (56 Passenger Luxury Bus)
•
We recommend arriving in Buena Vista no later than the afternoon of Monday, August 13th to ensure adequate time to
check in and get organized for the start on Tuesday morning.
•
What if I miss my flight? If you miss your flight please call our transportation coordinator. The number will be published
well in advance of the event.
•
Make sure you book your hotel in Buena Vista well in advance of the event for best availability.
By Car
•
1.
2.
If you are travelling to the race by car you have three options:
Leave your car in Buena Vista, and return back to Buena Vista following the conclusion of the race
a. Free parking is available off N. Railroad Street at Main Street
b. Return Shuttle is available at 11 AM on Monday, August 20th for $50 per person. Book online or with the
race office during the event.
Leave your car in Beaver Creek and take the pre-event shuttle to Buena Vista
a. Free parking is available at the Elk Lot, located in the town of Avon at the entrance to Beaver Creek along
US Hwy. 6.
b. Book the pre-event transfer from Beaver Creek departing at 11 AM on Sunday, August 12th, and picking
up in Leadville at 12:30 PM. Booking details coming soon.
10
3.
Have someone drive your car for you.
a. If you are travelling with a support person who can drive your car from site to site for you, you will
require a vehicle camping pass ($99). The pass is required if the vehicle is staying in camp overnight, but
not if it is only picking up and dropping off.
b. Supporter Meal Packages and Camping Packages are also available.
Travelling Home
RUN3 End of Event Transportation
•
We offer shuttles from the finish of RUN3 to both Buena Vista and to the Vail Transportation Center at the
following times:
o Thursday, August 16 - 5:00 PM
o Friday, August 17 - 9:00 AM
•
If you have left a vehicle in Buena Vista, take the Buena Vista shuttle.
•
If you flew into Denver and took the airport transfer to Buena Vista, take the Vail shuttle, and connect with
Colorado Mountain Express to get back to the airport. See details below for booking with CME.
•
As we have an evening and morning transfer, you have the option to leave immediately following stage 3, or stay an
additional night in camp, including meals.
TRR End of Event Transportation
•
Nearly all participants stay in Beaver Creek the final evening of the event. If you are flying out from Denver, we
recommend booking a flight for the afternoon of Monday, August 20th, since you need to allow 3 hours if travelling
by Colorado Mountain Express to the airport, plus time to check in.
•
If you need to leave earlier please consider that stage 6 is long and challenging, and you may be finishing anytime
between 11 AM and 5 PM depending on your pace. Showers are not available at the finish of stage 6, since most
people are staying in hotels, so we recommend making arrangements with another runner to use their showers
before departing.
•
Transfers provided by Colorado Mountain Express
o Cost: $71.10 per guest, plus gratuity
o The price of the transfer includes your seat on the coach and the transport of all luggage.
o Phone: 1-800-525-6363
o Website: www.ridecme.com
o Quote group code: *TRANSROCK*
o Schedule is 7 days/week
11
Depart Beaver C.
Vail Transportation
Center
Depart Vail
Arrive Denver
4:45
5:25
5:30
7:45
6:15
6:55
7:00
9:15
7:45
8:25
8:30
10:45
9:15
9:55
10:00
12:15
10:45
11:25
11:30
13:45
12:15
12:55
13:00
15:15
13:45
14:25
14:30
16:45
15:15
15:55
16:00
18:15
17:45
18:25
18:30
20:45
What to Bring
Mandatory Gear While Running
•
The following items are checked at the entrance to the start corral starting on stage 2. You will not be permitted
to start without these items:
o Jacket (shell type – waterproof or water resistant)
o Warm Hat (must cover the ears)
o Gloves
o Emergency Blanket (1 per team for team event)
Required Equipment
•
The following equipment is highly recommended during your run, but since we don’t check for these items, they
are not strictly mandatory:
o Insulating clothing layer
o Small first aid kit including tape for blisters
o ID and money
o Sunscreen (also available at checkpoints)
o Electrolyte capsules (Saltstick brand is also supplied at checkpoints)
Recommended Equipment
•
Personal Running Gear
o Mandatory and Required Equipment Above
o Trail Running Shoes (2 pairs)
o Running Shorts (6)
o Running T-shirts (6)
o Running Socks (8)
o Running Tights (1)
12
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
•
Compression Calf Sleeves (1)
Hat and Visor (1 each)
Long Sleeve Running Shirt (1)
Insulating Shirt (1)
Hydration Pack (1)
Nutrition (Bars/Gels/Electrolytes)
Watch (could be GPS/altimeter)
Other Gear
o Pants/Jeans (1)
o Cotton Socks (2)
o T-Shirts (3)
o Sweater (1)
o Insulated Jacket for Camp (light down recommended)
o Beanie Hat
o Sandals/Sneakers
o Sleeping Bag
o Sleeping Mat
o Small Digital Camera and batteries
o Cell Phone and charger
o Toiletries
o Headlamp/Flashlight
o Small Book
o Small closed “drop bag” for extra clothing at starts
Extra Luggage
All your gear for the week needs to fit into one large duffel bag (approx.. 120 L). Extra clothing for travelling etc. can be left
in the luggage you arrived with, which will be transported to the finish line for you.
Route Details
Route Details are subject to change based on permits and land management considerations. Here is a quick description of
what to expect from each stage. A complete map book will be provided at sign-on with topo maps and elevation profiles
for each stage.
Stage 1 – Buena Vista to Railroad Bridge – 21.0 Miles/2,500 feet of elevation gain
Although starting at a relatively lower elevation and lacking the monster climbs of other stages, stage 1 has proven to be
one of the toughest stages over the year since it is often quite hot and dry. The running surface varies from gravel and rock
to sand on a mix of trails, four-wheel drive roads and Forest Service Roads. From the start, you climb steadily to the high
point at CP1, and from there it’s mostly downhill to CP3. Be ready for the last 4 miles, which is a grueling false flat on
County Road into the finish at Railroad Bridge.
13
Stage 2 – Vicksburg to Twin Lakes – 13.4 miles/3,100 feet of elevation gain
Starting from Vicksburg, not far from the turnaround of the Leadville Trail 100, you will start climbing gently on gravel
Forest Service Road. The first checkpoint is at only 1.7 miles at the Sheep Gulch Trailhead, where you will enter the
singletrack and start climbing steeply for about 2.5 miles to thee summit of Hope Pass at over 12,500 feet. After this
outstanding photo opportunity, you will descend towards twin lakes. The trail is steep and technical until the aid station at
5.3 miles, and then descends more gradually down to the altitude of the lakeshore at about 9,200 feet. From there it is a
beautiful rolling singletrack trail on the south shore of the lake, and through the historic village of Interlaken. The last few
minutes are on dirt road to the finish. Remember to bring enough water for the entire stage, since supplies are limited at
checkpoint 2.
Stage 3 – Leadville to Camp Hale – 24.4 miles/2,700 feet of elevation gain
Our longest stage, stage 3 has moderate elevation gain, with the largest climb out of the way early in the stage. After 2.5
miles on pavement out of Leadville, you start climbing steeply on four-wheel drive road to the summit of the first climb.
Descend again on double track into the first checkpoint. A more gradual climb on doubletrack takes you onto Ski Cooper,
where you descend to Checkpoint 2 in the ski area parking lot. You will cross the Highway at Tennessee Pass on the
Continental Divide. From there you can look forward to a long rolling descent on the Continental Divide National Scenic
Trail into Camp Hale. Once you hit the gravel flats in Camp hale you have about three miles of gravel ahead of you, which
will test your mental toughness. You finish at Nova Guides, where camp is waiting.
Stage 4 – Camp Hale to Red Cliff – 14.2 miles/2,800 feet of elevation gain
Like Stage 2, stage 4 is short and steep, although it tops out a little lower, at 11,700 feet. Starting with a rolling run on
gravel roads for about 2 miles, you will then start climbing on a jeep road, which gradually gets steeper as you work your
way up Hornsilver Mountain. Remember to bring enough water for 12 miles, since supplies are limited at checkpoint 1.
Once on top, you are treated to an extended run on the rolling meadows along the ridge with views of Mount of the Holy
Cross before starting the descent into the Wearyman Creek drainage. Watch for loose footing on the way down, as this
stage has claimed a few ankles and bloodied few knees. Once you turn left at Wearyman Creek, the creek is running down
the middle of the trail. There is no way to avoid getting wet, as this water section goes on for about half a mile. The water
is never more than knee deep and is cold, which is refreshing for hot feet. Cross a bridge and you are at Checkpoint 2.
From there you have 2.5 miles of gravel road descent into Red Cliff.
Stage 5 – Red Cliff to Vail – 23.3 miles/4,100 feet of elevation gain
From Red Cliff you start with almost 8 miles on dirt road climbing moderately to Checkpoint 1. From there you will enter
singletrack through the forest with several steep climbs and descents until you come to the open meadows on the back of
Vail Ski Resort. Once on the ski resort, you will traverse the long ridge mostly on road and double track, but with one
technical descent where the trail drops through a cliff band. After leaving checkpoint 2 you will continue on the ridgeline for
a few miles before dropping on to the front of the ski hill, descending towards Vail on a mix of access roads and
singletracks. Pay close attention to marking as there are many intersections and trails on the resort. Descend to the finish
at the bottom of the “Vista Bahn” chairlift in Vail Village.
Stage 6 – Vail to Beaver Creek – 23.7 miles/4,800 feet of elevation gain
At the time of writing, it is unclear which route we will use for the 2012 event due to changes in the White River National
Forest Travel Management Plan. It will either be the route that we used in 2011, or more likely the route we used from
2008-2010 with some modifications. This route runs from the start in Vail Village on pavement, uses an overpass to cross
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the Interstate, and shortly enters the singletrack of Vail’s North Trail. The details of the remainder of this stage will be
announced as we clarify the routing for this stage.
Checkpoints
Nutrition
The following nutritional it typically available at each checkpoint:
•
Water
•
Electrolyte Drink
•
Energy Bars and Chews
•
Fruit
•
Saltstick electrolyte tablets
•
Various Snack Food (eg. Chips)
•
Various Candy
Limited Checkpoints:
Stage 2, checkpoint 2 requires supplies to be brought in by pack animals, and only limited supplies will be available.
Please use a hydration pack and start the stage with a full bladder. Be prepared to run the entire stage after checkpoint 1
with no outside supplies (12 miles). However, you are welcome to refill at this checkpoint if you are concerned that you
may run out.
Stage 4, checkpoint 1 requires supplies to be brought in by ATV, and only limited supplies will be available. Please use a
hydration pack and start the stage with a full bladder. Be prepared to run the entire stage up to checkpoint 2 with no
outside supplies (12 miles). However, you are welcome to refill at this checkpoint if you are concerned that you may run
out.
Services
The following services are also performed at checkpoints:
1. Emergency Medical – in some cases medical staff will be posted at checkpoints and if not, checkpoints are
communications points where medical support can be called. Checkpoints are also evacuation points if you are not
able to complete the stage.
2. Sunscreen – Available at Checkpoints
3. Spectator Access – Some checkpoints are spectator accessible, and a great place for friends and family to catch up.
Details will be listed in your event guide.
4. Number Control – we will check your number at checkpoints to track runners on course and ensure you are
running with your teammate (see Regulations).
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Supporters
Sure participating in the GORE-TEX® TransRockies Run is an incredible experience, but being able to share it with family and
friends makes it richer. We have several options to welcome and accommodate your support “network”.
Supporter Camping
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Camping Passes – bringing a vehicle with you throughout the event? No problem. The camping pass offers a
reserved spot in the event village each day for a car, truck, or RV - $99
Additional Tent Rental – Additional tent rentals in our tent village are available following stages 1-5. This is also a
great option for teams who don’t wish to share a tent. We take care of the assembly and take-down each day $99
Supporter Meals
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Additional Food Passes – Join the runners for daily meals (breakfasts and dinners provided) starting with dinner the
evening before the start and ending with breakfast on the final day - $299 adult / $199 kids
Finisher’s Banquet Tickets – Participants tickets are included, but don’t forget about the your friends and family,
who will want to celebrate with you! A limited number of additional banquet tickets will be available in advance –
price $49 adult / $29 kids.
Meals
Recycling/Composting
TransRockies works hard to reduce the waste generated by the GORE-TEX® TransRockies Run. For year we have
provided extensive recycling options at our venues. Where possible, we will also be offering composting of dinnerware and
cutlery. Please looks for the appropriate recycling receptacle and follow the instructions provided.
Menus
2012 GORE-TEX® TransRockies™ Run Menu
A hot, catered breakfast and dinner will be provided daily throughout race week. Quantities and variety will be plentiful.
Lunch is the responsibility of the participant, however, the GORE-TEX® TransRockies™ Run route is designed to finish in areas
where food is readily available throughout the afternoon. The 2012 Menu is currently being developed and will be announced soon.
Dietary Restrictions
Vegetarian and gluten free options will be available, although we may not be able to meet all diets. Please e-mail our
caterers for special dietary concerns: Dina- gourmetcowboy@comcast.net and Drew Fortner: drew@novaguides.com.
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Medical
Getting Medical Assistance
Our dedicated and professional medical team is available throughout the week week to keep you healthy and happy as you
run the Rockies. Here is how to get medical assistance:
1. On the trail at a checkpoint. As the checkpoint staff for medical help. The checkpoint staff will know how to
contact a medic if there isn’t one at the checkpoint.
2. On the trail, not at a checkpoint. If you are sick or injured and not able to make it to a checkpoint, relay a message
with teams passing that you require medical assistance to the next checkpoint. If it is urgent, you may need to send
someone backwards to the nearest checkpoint.
3. At the finish. Medical staff will be stationed at the finish. Ask at the finish line food tent if you need help finding
medical support.
4. In camp. The medical team will be stationed in camp in an RV marked with “medical” signs. If you can’t locate a
medic there, check with the Race Office RV.
TransRockies observes a good-Samaritan rule, which means that if you stop to help another runner in distress, you may be
eligible for a time credit to adjust for time lost.
During the nightly briefings, our medical director, Kreston Rohrig, will offer specific advice for the stage, as well as weather
updates.
Athletic Therapy
In addition to medical support, we are proud to partner with Steadman Hawkins clinic from Vail to provide athletic therapy
throughout the event to treat athletic injuries. Treatments available include taping, foot and blister care, and more. Look for
the Steadman Hawkins or Howard Head clinic tents or trailer in camp.
Massage
Massage therapy is available throughout the event in camp, on a pay-as-you-go basis. Be sure to book your massages in
advance.
Regulations
2012 OFFICIAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
1. Team Ranking (Does not apply to RUN3)
All participants of the TransRockies Run will start in teams of two. Both participants on each team must appear together at
the start, at all checkpoints, and at the finish. If this does not occur, the team will not be considered in the daily results.
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Should one team member arrive more than two minutes before their partner at one of the checkpoints, the team will be
given a 60-minute time penalty. If this occurs more than once, the team will be disqualified.
2. Start Numbers and Timing Chips
Start numbers (both members of each team have the same start number) must be pinned or fastened to the front of the
body between the chest and the waist. The sponsor placement on the start numbers must be seen and no additional
advertising may be added. The leading teams in each category are obliged to wear the leader jerseys from the previous day.
All runners must report to the start with their timing chips or they will not be permitted to start.
3. Start
The “call to start” begins 25 minutes before the starting time specific to each stage. The short daily briefing for all
participants begins 10 minutes prior to the start time. The exception to this is at the first stage, where extensive briefing on
the entire race starts at 8:15 AM at the start area. There is also a daily course briefing each evening, going over the next
day’s stage. After the first stage, all runners must have the mandatory equipment (Jacket, Hat, Gloves, Emergency Blanket(1
per team)) or they will not be permitted to start.
The start will remain open up to 5 minutes after the start time listed for each day. Teams starting up to 5 minutes after the
designated start time will be measured according to the official start time. Teams who start later than 5 minutes after the
official start time will not be considered in the overall results. “Gun time” is used for official times.
4. Check Points
During each stage there will be one to three mandatory check points where both members of each team must have their
start numbers recorded. Teams who do not pass one of the checkpoints will receive a time penalty of 60 minutes for each
check point missed. The jury reserves the right to impose a higher or lower time penalty in special cases.
Participants will be recorded together at the checkpoints in the order of arrival. Should one participant arrive prior to their
partner, he/she must wait at the checkpoint until his/her partner arrives, within the allowable time limit of two minutes.
Otherwise, the 60-minute time penalty will be assessed.
5. Finish
At the finish of each stage, the team participants must arrive together as a team. The official finish time of the stage is
recorded here.
Teams or individuals who arrive at the finish after the finish time limit due to exhaustion, injury, etc., but who are still on
foot under their own power will receive the maximum racing time (from official starting time to finish time) plus 60
minutes. They are eligible to continue racing the following day. Teams or individuals who can prove a severe defect or
injury and arrive at the finish in/on a vehicle, will receive the maximum racing time (from official starting time to finish time)
plus 120 minutes, and can continue the race the following day. If one team member drops out of the race but the other
team member wishes to continue, the race organizers will make every attempt to find another running partner. The “new”
teams do not qualify for placement, but their results will be listed and they will receive a finisher T-shirt. Each participant
must run or walk the entire distance of every stage to qualify for a finisher T-shirt and certificate.
Maximum times:
Stage 1: 7 hours
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Stages 2-6: 9 hours
Cutoff times at check points will be announced prior to each stage.
RUN3 participants who wish to continue as an unofficial entry for the remainder of the TransRockies Run must team up
with another solo or team, and pay the difference in registration fee with the Race Office, who will issue new team
numbers for the remainder of the event.
6. Withdrawal from the Race
Teams who cannot continue the race or wish to withdraw for whatever reason, must inform the race organizers (race
office) immediately at the start, check points or finish, or by calling this emergency phone number: 1-(970)-274-9255.
Failure to inform the race office will cause a search and rescue action (rescue, mountain rescue, helicopter) at a charge to
the participant/s.
If you withdraw from the race, the organizers will ensure that you are transported to the closest town, and you are then
responsible for your own transportation back to the start, Denver or another destination.
7. Food and Beverages
All participants are responsible for their own food and beverages during the stages. The organizers will provide an adequate
supply of energy bars, gels, fruit, water and electrolyte drinks at the checkpoints. There is no guarantee of specific foods
and beverages at the control points, although there will typically be more than adequate supply for every participant.
Each participant must commit him/herself to protect the environment and not to leave any garbage along the route.
Purposely littering the route or causing harm to the environment will result in a time penalty and can be cause for
elimination from the race.
8. Safety Equipment
For safety purposes, participants are required to carry the following mandatory equipment:
1. Rain Jacket for both participants (must be waterproof or water resistant)
2. Warm hat (covers the ears) and gloves for each participant
3. One survival blanket for every team
These items will be checked at the start of each stage starting with stage 2 and you will not be permitted to start without
them.
The following equipment is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED:
1. Long pants or tights for both participants
2. Warm clothing (fleece sweater or similar) for both participants because weather in the Rockies can change by the minute
3. One small first aid kit for every team / tape for blisters
4. ID card, money
5. Sunscreen
6. Route book
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9. General
1. The race will be taking place partly on public roads. Each participant is to obey all traffic laws in effect and yield to motorvehicles with right-of-way at all times. Runners must also obey the commands of course marshals and law-enforcement
officers. Occasional course-holds may be required at road crossings.
2. The organizer reserves the right to penalize or disqualify participants and teams when one of the following applies:
* Not following the course
* Participant health problems
* Violating rules and regulations of the event
* Unfair or unsportsmanlike conduct
* Any disregard for the environment
* Disregard for traffic rules or Marshals
10. Environmental Considerations
We will enforce littering, cutting trails and environmental abuse with stiff penalties. Every participant who is caught
disregarding the environment will be fined with a one hour time penalty at first offense and disqualification at second
offense.
Note that all runners must stay on the established trail tread. Switchbacks will not be specifically flagged at each corner, but runners
must stay on the established trail. Cutting switchbacks or corners will be considered shortcutting and will be subject to penalty.
Do not store food or garbage in tents, as it is a bear attractant. Food may be stored in the Luggage Truck overnight. Place
all garbage in Bearproof Bins promptly. There is a serious bear problem in the area.
Solid human waste produced where no toilet is available must be collected by the participant in the plastic bag provided.
The bag may be deposited into a garbage at the finish of the stage.
Supporters and spectators are not permitted on the course, due to the possible cumulative impact to the natural
environment. Runners must obtain all support from the checkpoints provided.
In the case of environmental concerns, the organizers have the right to make changes to the route on short notice due to
fire bans/closures, weather, wildlife concerns, unforseen construction or other circumstances beyond our control, safety or
other reasons. TransRockies has the right to cancel, delay or re-route the race. Participants will not be reimbursed in an
environmental situation that is out of TransRockies control. In case of cancellation of a race leg, participants will be
brought to the next stage location.
11. Safety Rules
1. Slower participants are required to make way for faster racers.
2. Course Hazards are not marked. Run in control and be prepared for possible course hazards.
These rules primarily serve to assure the runners’ safety. Violating these rules can also lead to subsequent time penalty or
disqualification from the race.
12. Following the Official Course
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All runners must stay on the marked and mapped course. Follow the course by watching for course flagging tape and signs.
If you don’t see flagging tape for an extended period you may be off course. If you find yourself off-course, you must return
to the point where you left it or you will be subject to a penalty.
13. Protest and Jury
Each participant can file a protest against other teams for disregarding the rules or against decisions of the race director.
Protests can be filed in the race office up to one hour after the finish time limit. Witnesses should be named. A jury of
three members appointed by the event director will debate the protest and render a decision prior to the start of the next
stage. The protest fee is $50 USD. The fee will be reimbursed only if the protest is withheld.
14. Liability
Each participant is responsible for his/her own safety and security. The organizers, sponsors and event personnel are in no
way liable for injury or damage incurred to the participants. A stipulation to participation in the event is that the runner
agrees to take responsibility for risks against his/her person and his/her belongings when participating in the race, and give
up any right to claim from persons, institutions, or companies running or having run the TransRockies™ Run.
ADDITIONAL NOTES
1. Prizes
Cash prize of $20,000 USD will be split amongst the overall winners of all six categories in the TransRockies Run Team
Divisions only. RUN3 participants will receive product prizes. The division of overall prize money is determined as follows:
a. The first 50% of the prize money is determined according to the percentage of teams starting in each category. Eg. if
Open Women category accounts for 15% of the teams in the event, that category will receive 15% of 50% of the prize
money from the first allocation. The allocation is made according to the number of teams starting in each category.
b. The second 50% of the prize money is allocated 75% to the open categories, and 25% to the age group categories. Open
Men, Open Women, and Open Mixed will each receive 25% of the second 50% from this portion. 80+ Men, 80+ Women,
and 80+ Mixed will each receive the remaining 8.33% from this allocation.
c. The amounts calculated from a. and b. above will be added to determine the overall amount for each category.
d. The prize money within each category will be a 3-deep allocation for all categories: 3 DEEP: 1st Team: 55% / 2nd: 30% /
3rd: 15%
e. Prize money for each team is split evenly between the team members
f. Prizes are presented to the top three teams in stage results in each category daily. Leader Jerseys are presented to the
leading team in each category following each stage. Trophies are presented to the top three teams in each category overall
at the final awards ceremony.
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g. Prize Money vouchers will be presented to all money winners at the final awards ceremony. Checks will be mailed no
later than 1 month following the Final Awards ceremony to the address we have on file. To correct the mailing address,
please contact TransRockies US within 1 week following the awards ceremony at registration@transrockies.com.
2. Participant Support
Participants may bring friends, family or other support during the race. If the participants wish to purchase a meal package
for friends, family or support they can purchase the package prior to the race, at sign on at the start or at the race office
the daily stages. Support vehicles will be charged a daily or weekly rate for a site in the official camp. Support crew/vehicles
will not be allowed to park or enter the TransRockies staging area unless they purchase a camping pass. Participant support
crews will be responsible for their own accommodation and transportation to each stage location. Support crew and
vehicles are not permitted on the race route and should only be present at the start and finish areas.
3. Catering
Included in the TRR race package or the RUN3 meal pass, each participant will receive an evening meal and breakfast at
each stage location. TransRockies will also provide electrolyte drinks, energy bars and fruit at each check point. It is
recommended that if you require more food/drink during the day that you make the necessary arrangements in advance by
purchasing food in the communities or camp venues. WARNING: Do not bring food into tents in the tent camps. We will
provide a storage area if you need to store food.
4. Sponsorship & Branding
Participants may wear sponsor logos on their clothing. They can not change or alter the start numbers supplied by
TransRockies. If the participants are one of the leaders in any category they are required to wear the leader shirt provided
by TransRockies. No altering or covering of the leader shirt is allowed. Signage of any kind is not permitted in start and
finish area, stage locations or camps.
5. Route Marking
The route will be marked by a combination of:
a. Flagging Tape
b. Arrow signs with the event logo
6. Shoe Wash
By running from one watershed to another, waterborne diseases can be transported between streams. These organisms
which may be transported on running shoes can cause serious health problems in aquatic animals, such as “whirling disease”
in fish. To prevent the spread of these organisms, runners will be required to soak shoes in a disinfectant bath (provided),
followed by a clear rinse for 15 minutes following stages where there are stream crossings. Shoe dryers are also provided.
Alternatively, you may choose to switch to a clean pair of shoes.
7. Equal Opportunity
No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subject to discrimination under, any event or
activity sponsored or conducted by TransRockies US LP on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, age, veteran status, or disability.
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Results & Awards
Daily Ceremonies
Our daily ceremonies start each evening at 7 PM in the dinner tent or hall location. We start with awards for the stage, and
if you prefer to skip this portion, please arrive at 7:20 PM for the briefings.
Stage Awards and Leaders Jerseys
Stage awards presentations are mandatory for the top 3 teams or individual in each category for the stage. All other
participants are invited to attend, but attendance is optional. We will call up the top 3 finishers in each category for the
day’s stage and present them with gifts from our sponsors. The overall leaders in each category will also be presented with
a leader’s jersey each day. If you expect to be called up to the podium, please sit at the front close to the stage so that you
can quickly get to the stage.
Briefings, Random Prizes, and Pictures of the Day
Starting no earlier than 7:20 PM each day we will begin the regular evening program which will include random prizes,
special presentations, course briefing, medical briefing, housekeeping, photo slideshow and video slideshow.
Finishers Medals and T-shirts
For both RUN3 and the 6-day team event, finishers Medals and T-Shirts will be awarded at the finish line of the final day. All
finishers of the final stage will receive a medal, and runners who have completed all stages will receive a finisher’s t-shirt.
Overall Awards
Overall awards will be presented on the evening following Stage 3 for RUN3 participants and on the final evening for 6-day
team participants. The top 3 finishers in each category will be called up on stage and will receive registration credit
vouchers for RUN3 and cash prize vouchers for 6-day TRR teams.
Final Banquet
On the final night of the 6-day GORE-TEX® TransRockies Run we will host a special wrap-up banquet at the McCoy Peak
room of the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek, adjacent to the finish line. Doors open at 6 PM and ceremonies start at 7:30 PM.
There is no dress code, although the majority of attendees have tended to dress up a bit. On this evening we offer
extended ceremonies including speeches, overall awards presentation, an extended photo slideshow, and an extended video
presentation. The evening ceremonies usually take approx. 2 hours. If you are booking additional tickets for friends and
family, be sure to purchase tickets in advance since the event typically sells out. Following the banquet, there is an informal
after party at a nearby bar.
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Official Charities
An optional donation is built into your registration fee. This donation will be going to our official charity SOS outreach. The
TransRockies Run has raised over $70,000 for charity since it began in 2007.
TransRockies is also proud to support Leave No Trace – lnt.org
Official Sponsors
A big thank-you to all of our official sponsors: GORE-TEX®, La Sportiva, Windstopper, GORE Running Wear, Outside
Magazine, Beaver Creek Resort, Michelob Ultra, Nathan, Rudy Project, Neways, Salt Stick, Erin Baker’s, Gu, Headweats,
Zorrel, Fitful.com, and Play Green. For more information visit:
http://transrockies.com/transrockiesrun/transrockies/partners.htm