Two popular trail runs, the Tick Ridge Trek and Grand Viduta Stage Race, are ending in 2023 after 10-year runs.
Organizers of both events made the announcements last autumn. The events are beloved by participants, with registrations climbing each year. But, all good things come to an end.
The Grand Viduta Stage Race is a three-day, 43-mile trail running event in Huntsville. Runners hit the trails at the Land Trust of North Alabama and Monte Sano State Park. The first day’s events at the Land Trust include the infamous Waterline trail and climb. Saturday is the 25K at Monte Sano, and Sunday’s wrapup tests runners ready to get to the finish line. A “mini stage race” is offered with 6, 7.2 and 5.3 miles for those wanting a taste of the action.
Running Lane Events, which puts on the Grand Viduta race, says it “is sure to challenge anyone who comes to the starting line. The race winds through some of the best single track trail in the Southeast. The course includes a healthy dose of flat runnable sections along with big technical climbs, bluff views, waterfalls and more.”
The race is capped at 200. Only two runners have participated and finished each year, Chad Woods and Graham Gallemore of Huntsville. Gallemore is celebrating his 80th birthday this year.
The race weekend is April 28-30.
About Tick Ridge
The annual Tick Ridge Trek is a wonderful event in the hills of south-central Tennessee and one of the first trail runs of the year.
This year’s event, on Feb. 11 north of Elkton, Tenn., will offer a 25K, 10K and 5K, and registration is limited. The course is lovely, with scenic views from atop some of the mild hills and tractor trails through woods and pastures on private land. It is a solid event for new runners, especially the 10K and 5K events, with well-marked trails, aid stations and ample food at the finish line.
There is no time limit for the 5K or 10k races, but any 25k participants that reach the 8 mile aid station after 2 hours 40 minutes or 12.5 mile aid station after 4 hours (just under 20 minute mile average) will be transported back to the finish area.
Team Rocket Tri Club of Huntsville puts on the event, with help from generous sponsors and volunteers. Proceeds have benefitted the Wolf Gap History & Education Center.
