WHAT IS IT: The Bear Run is a 5-mile challenging run to the TOP of Grandfather Mtn. This is a running race and is NOT designed to walk the entire race. We have to hold everyone at the top until the last runner is in. We will have a sag van picking up anyone who does not make it to the 3-mile station within 50 minutes.

ENTRY PROCEDURES: This event is growing fast and pre-registration is gratefully appreciated (note that you are NOT guaranteed a t-shirt size unless you pre-register. On-line registration is now open. Entries before July 1, 2008 are $20 and $30 after that date. Entries are accepted only by regular po mail, online or fax (must have credit card for fax). After July 1, 2008, entries will NO LONGER be accepted, except during the 2 packet pick-ups on-site. So please, so ***NOT ** mail entries after Jul 1. Entries will be accepted at the 1st packet pick-up Wed July 9,2008 5:00-7:00 pm and at the 2nd packet pickup Thurs July 10, 2008 4-6 pm. On-site registration will close at 6:00 pm race day - NO EXCEPTIONS !!!!!

ENTRY FORM: Online registration for the Bear is now closed down. Please register onsite... please do not mail any at this point .

PACKET PICKUP: Wednesday, July 9th, 2008 5-7 pm at Owns Fieldhouse (ASU Stadium). And, Thursday, July 10, 2008 4:00-6:00 pm at the tent on the side of the road at the intersection of Hwy 221/105 in Linville, NC. Note: onsite registration race day closes at 6 pm !!!!

COURSE: The Bear Race is a challenging 5 mile run up to the top of Grandfather Mt.. The race begins in the beautiful town of Linville at the intersection of Hwy 221/105. The first couple miles are run on a gravel road as you make your way up the mountain. As you reach the entrance to Grandfather Mt., you SLOWLY wind to the finish at the entrance to the "Mile High" Swinging Bridge. That view is certainly breath-taking (that is if you can still catch a breath by the time you reach the top !).

AID STATIONS: There is one (1) water station at the 3-mile mark. Medical help will be on course or nearby if needed. We also have a trailing van.

AWARDS: Awards will go to ABOUT the top 10% male and top 10% female finishers as they finish. The first 900 finishers will receive a Bear medallion. The Highland Games. will have overall awards to the top 3 winners in both male and female races. Highland Games awards will be presented at the Opening ceremonies of the Highland Games. You must be present to receive awards (they will not be mailed out).

T-SHIRTS: T-shirts (long sleeve) will be given at packet-pick-up. Pre-registered runners will receive their specified size. We may run out with on-site registration - so register early ! Short sleeve t-shirts, hats and a few other items will be available to buy at registration both nights.

SHUTTLE: A shuttle down Grandfather Mountain will be provided free to all runners. Anyone wishing to have a friend or family member watch the finish of the race may obtain a parking permit at the registration table. This is available first come, first served, one pass per racer !!! This will allow them to get into Grandfather Mountain FREE as long as they get in the gate by 7:00 pm. No one will be allowed in after this time. Spectators are asked to leave the start line by 6:30 pm due to the Highland Games traffic congestion. THERE ARE LIMITED PARKING PASSES AVAILABLE, ONE PER RUNNER AT PACKET PICKUP UNTIL WE RUN OUT. If you follow our suggestions, we will all have a great time. NO ONE WILL BE ALLOWED TO PARK AT THE TOP LOT !!! Shuttles will be provided from the lower lots. There is a snack bar, gift shop and restrooms at the top. Be prepared for it to be COLD and WINDY - hooded sweatshirts and wind jackets are a must, yes in July in NC (not kidding !!!!). Bring a camera for spectacular photos.

ACCOMODATIONS: There are many motels in the area. Make reservations early ! Write or call High Country Host for information: 701 Blowing Rock Road, Boone, NC 28607 (828-264-1299).

BENEFICIARY: "The Bear" proceeds will go to various Watauga County organizations and Appalachian State Track Program. Thank you for your support !

OTHER QUESTIONS: Contact John Weaver at 828-262-3074