Thursday, July 12, 2007 7:00 pm
Linville, NC
WHAT IS IT: The Bear Run is a 5-mile challenging run to the TOP of Grandfather Mtn.
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, 2007 are $20 and $30 after that date. Entries are accepted only by regular po mail, online or fax (must have credit card for fax). Entries will also be accepted at the 1st packet pick-up Wed July 11,2007 5:00-7:00 pm and at the 2nd packet pickup Thurs July 12, 2007 4-6 pm. On-site registration will close at 5:00 pm race day !!!!!
ENTRY FORM: Online registration is now closed for 2007. You can register on-site at the specified packet pick-up times above. DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT mail any more 2007 entry forms, we probably will not receive them on time !!!
PACKET PICKUP: Wednesday, July 11th, 2007 5-7 pm at Owns Fieldhouse (ASU Stadium). And, Thursday, July 12, 2007 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 5 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 1 water stop 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 the top 10% male and top 10% female finishers as they finish. The first 800 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, sweatshirts and hats will be available to buy.
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 1st come, 1st served, 1 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, 1 PER RUNNER AT PACKET PICKUP. We are not kidding, it's a nightmare. 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 snackbar, giftshop 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