I came across the McHenry Ultrarunning Dudes and Duddettes (MUDD) page via Facebook looking for local ultra groups and fun places to run. With a plan to take on my first 50 miler in 2013, I was on the fence as to whether to run the 50k or 15M. Well, life happens sometimes so I opted for the shorter race as a way to get in some fun miles on the trails on my way to training for some other events. Not knowing what to expect, I hit up the park, Veteran Acres which links to Stearnes Woods, a beautiful gem that I got to know very well over the summer as it is perfect for training for trail running. The park is amazing and the folks at MUDD take pride in caretaking of the many trails throughout the park. Great people too!

Having had some exposure to what was in store, I showed up on race day with a general idea of what to expect. This is a smaller race put on by the MUDD organization and their respect for the park, the trails and the runners makes for a fun event.

The race was run at the same time of the 50k and shares the 5 mile loops of the 50k. The course winds through a mix of field, moderately hilly technical single track and some gravel paths here and there, enough to keep things interesting the whole time. Overall, the course was somewhat challenging and it is easy to overcook your race if you are not careful. It is highly recommended that you get some practice on rolling climbs and descents so you don't trash the ol quads (though you might anyways!). Support throughout the loop was primarily water stations but at the start/finish of the loop, the aid station was stocked for the needs of an ultra adequately.

The medals were all natural and I was fortunate to place in the 15 miler overall and the award is one of my favorite things from races, made of wood and old recycled license plates. Since the aid station of a 50k has all kinds of food, it was easy to grab some post race food as well and stick around and cheer the folks still churning out loops along.

Low key, well run and beautiful. Whats not to like? They are adding a 5 miler this year as well. Highly recommend if you aren't afraid to get a little bit o mud on those pretty lil shoes of yours!