Shane Lishawa of Mt. Shasta, CA set a new course record in the 50K, covering the 31 mile course in 3:52:22, eclipsing his brother Brian's course record of 3:59:37 set just last year.  Krystin Smith of Oscoda, MI captured the women's 50K title in 5:12:02.  Jim Seymour of Saint Louis, MO (4:15:28) and Sean Munro of Northville, MI (4:21:08) completed the podium for the men.  Chasing Smith for the women’s title was Meredith Garner of Muskegon, MI, only 48 seconds back in 5:12:50.  Gail Shurlow, racing to bring awareness and assist in fundraising for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, was third among the women, crossing the finish in 5:44:06.

In the marathon, Kevin Burke of Athens, GA cruised to an overall victory in 3:28:50.  Amellia Vasquez-Collins of Marquette, MI ran a strong race to win the women's marathon title in 4:24:31.  Matt Bozung of Okemos, MI was the only other runner to crack 4 hours on the Waugoshance course, finishing 2nd in 3:47:07.  The 3rd overall place among the men was captured by Michael Nelson of Grand Rapids, MI (4:18:04).  Joining Vasquez-Collins on the women’s marathon podium were Emma Bialik of Manistee, MI (4:28:24) and Serene Griffin of Battle Creek, MI (4:42:43). 

In the half marathon Wood Moore of Peachtree Corners, GA threw in several sub 6 minute miles on the rail trail section to achieve an exceptional time of 1:34:45.  Lydia Marano of Dearborn, MI won the women's half marathon title in 2:08:52.  Both Moore and Marano provide a promising picture of the future of trail racing, being 16 and 19 years old, respectively.  Separated by only six seconds, Phillip Harmon of Roanoke, VA and Jackson Etheridge of Manhattan, IL finished 2nd (1:40:13) and 3rd (1:40:19) in the men’s half marathon.  Cacia Lesh of Petoskey (2:13:10) and Ellie Bradach of Roswell, GA (2:16:51) joined Marano for the top trio in the women’s half marathon. 

Complete results  and a photo slideshow are available for viewing. Early morning rain showers transitioned to partly sunny skies by afternoon, with 133 runners from 20 states completing the race.

Many generous people helped to make this event so successful.  Parents and students from the Mackinaw City School worked each aid station, the Carp River Fire & Rescue provided medical coverage and radio communications, the Harbor Springs Chapter of the North Country Trail Association cleared and maintained the trail, Jim Engel assisted with course marking and Chris and Ethan Westercamp swept the course, picking up all flags and mile markers.

We were also pleased to have the folks form King Orchards at the finish.  King Orchards, located in Central Lake, MI supplies the tart cherry juice that we serve at all of our events.