2015 Official Guide of the Big Wild Life Runs

2015 OFFICIAL GUIDE OF THE BIG WILD LIFE RUNS

SATURDAY, AUG. 15 • SUNDAY, AUG. 16 WWW.BIGWILDLIFERUNS.ORG BigWildLife.com

RACE TO ADVENTURE

BigWildLife.com

Mayor’s welcome ".(/0" R1%%"!*2 A message from On behalf of the Municipality of Anchorage, I want to welcome you to the 2015 Big Wild Life Runs put on Wby the Anchorage Running Club. Whether you traveled across the race director the country or across the Park Strip to get here, whether this is !""#$%& !'(" )'!#$($)'%#*, your 3 rst race or 30th, or whether the sun is shining or it’s pour- On behalf of the entire race committee, welcome to the ing rain, I hope you are able to appreciate the beauty this run has 2015 Big Wild Life Runs (BWLR), presented by the Anchor- to o- er. Gage Running Club. + is year, Anchorage is celebrating our centennial year and we + is is a very exciting year as we celebrate the city of Anchorage’s have been spending the summer celebrating all things Anchor- centennial. We are honored that BWLR has been selected as one of age. Alaskans sometimes forget how fortunate we are to live in the o, cial centennial events. In its eighth year, BWLR has come a such a spectacular place. When I am out on the Coastal Trail, I long way. We have grown into a world-class running event and con- try to take a moment to appreciate the views of the city, Mount tinue to welcome runners from around the globe. Susitna across the inlet, and all the activity around from other I want to welcome back Olympian Je- Galloway and his wife, runners, boats docking at the Port, to cargo jets 4 ying overhead. Barbara, for their sixth year with BWLR. I am so pleased that our During your run, I hope you are able to take a quick moment to marathon has been featured in Je- ’s new book America’s Best Places marvel in the beauty of our city. to Run. Along with our natural beauty, Anchorage is also fortunate to I am also excited to welcome back Bart Yasso, legendary runner be a city with a strong sense of community; the running commu- and Chief Running O, cer at Runner’s World. nity especially is one of the most visible groups in town. Of course, this event could not happen without the countless Whether they are elite runners competing across the country, hours that the all-volunteer BWLR race committee spends planning or those who enjoy the summer pub runs, the Anchorage run- throughout the year. It is because of their time and e- ort, and the ning community is always there to support charity runs, volun- more than 800 enthusiastic race-day volunteers that BWLR contin- teer across town, and encourage and support new runners. ues to grow into one of Anchorage’s premier events. As mayor of this great city, I am excited to be the 3 rst to of- Lastly, I want to give a big thank-you to all our sponsors and the 3 cially wish you all good luck! Anchorage community for their continued support. Enjoy your run! Have a great time and a great race! See you at the start line, Sharron Fisherman Big Wild Life Runs race director Ethan Berkowitz Mayor of Anchorage Seward Silver BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 2015 Salmon Derby www.bigwildliferuns.org Ad deadline: July 17 ON THE COVER: Photo courtesy Willie Dalton Endorsed by the Seward Chamber of Commerce, this guide is the only guide for the state’s most popular COAST MAGAZINE 6921 Brayton Drive, Suite 207, Anchorage, AK 99507 2015 the derby continues to grow in www.coast-magazine.com • [email protected] • (907) 677-2900 PROJECT MANAGERS Rebecca Coolidge Haviland & Melissa DeVaughn ADVERTISING Jill Tillion (907) 677-2900 [email protected]

July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 29 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 3 CALM WATERS WILD SIGHTS PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND

! e Social Runner: Stay iTuned for updates BY EMILY STEWART IT’S TIME FOR A FAMILY VACATION /($'. %"#5/!6$%& 7'* 8"(/0" ' 9$#'. part of most runners’ routines: We post our routes and mileage Son sites like RunKeeper or YOU OTTER COME SEE US! DailyMile. We update our Facebook and Twitter follow- ers with news of our runs. We post sel3 es to Instagram showing our latest medal or a beautiful sight seen on our most recent outing. + e Internet is where runners 3 nd training groups, running partners, and interesting races to run. (We’re all guilty of adding any race Runner’s World features on one of their “Best” lists to our running bucket lists!) We’re guilty of it, too. Our race committee spends just as much 2015 time online checking out other races to 3 gure what we’re going to run, in what races our friends will be participating, and what people are saying about the courses. In our community of runners, our social ,, networks play a part in our running almost as much as our running SUNDAYSUNDAY network does. MILITARY DISCOUNT Whether running or supporting, everyone is encouraged to We support our troops with a discount. tag us during your BWLR weekend with #RunWildAK and SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 2727 #BigWildLifeRuns. Here at Big Wild Life Runs, we love being social! We’re on Facebook (facebook.com/bigwildliferuns), Twitter (@BigWildLifeRuns), and 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Instagram (@BigWildLifeRuns). 26 GLACIER CRUISE: GLACIER QUEST CRUISE: bly Close! OUR MOST POPULAR! Incredi GREAT FOR FAMILIES! 12:30 pm - 5:30 pm | 10:30 am Tunnel 1:00 pm - 4:45 pm | 11:30 am Tunnel 5/8 – 9/30 | $149 Adults | $89 Child +tax/fees 5/15 – 9/13 | $99 Adult | $59 Child +tax/fees See the beauty of Esther Passage, towering glaciers Waterfalls and glaciers in Blackstone Bay are impressive. in Harriman Fjord, and watch for curious otter, Visit a bird rookery, watch for otter, harbor seals and whales, Steller sea lions and birds! Cruise in comfort mountain goats. The M/V Glacier Quest is a high speed aboard the M/V Klondike Express, the fastest, most catamaran, providing a smooth cruise experience.

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Volunteers contact Dr. Pete Hansen at [email protected] or (907) 283-4611. SEE A VARIETY OF WILDLIFE! Call Bob Frates at Kenai Parks and Recreation at (907) 283-3692 for more information. HOSTED BY THE sea otter mountain goats register online at: Kenai Chamber of Commerce www.26glaciers.com harbor seals www.kenairivermarathon.org and Visitor Center kittiwakes 800-544-0529 • 907-276-8023 Steller sea lions cormorants 4 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 30 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 519 West Fourth Ave • Anchorage, AK 99501 humpback whales and lots more! Come check it out! CALM WATERS WILD SIGHTS PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND

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26 GLACIER CRUISE: GLACIER QUEST CRUISE: bly Close! OUR MOST POPULAR! Incredi GREAT FOR FAMILIES! 12:30 pm - 5:30 pm | 10:30 am Tunnel 1:00 pm - 4:45 pm | 11:30 am Tunnel 5/8 – 9/30 | $149 Adults | $89 Child +tax/fees 5/15 – 9/13 | $99 Adult | $59 Child +tax/fees See the beauty of Esther Passage, towering glaciers Waterfalls and glaciers in Blackstone Bay are impressive. in Harriman Fjord, and watch for curious otter, Visit a bird rookery, watch for otter, harbor seals and whales, Steller sea lions and birds! Cruise in comfort mountain goats. The M/V Glacier Quest is a high speed aboard the M/V Klondike Express, the fastest, most catamaran, providing a smooth cruise experience.

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T T Service Ranger BOOK TODAY! Call 907-276-8023 L & U Narration N E E or stop by our office in downtown C H F F Anchorage to book your cruise. , C O SEE A VARIETY OF WILDLIFE! sea otter mountain goats www.26glaciers.com harbor seals kittiwakes Steller sea lions 800-544-0529 • 907-276-8023 BIG WILD LIFEcormorants RUNS • 5 519 West Fourth Ave • Anchorage, AK 99501 humpback whales and lots more! Come check it out! Training with the pros: Yasso, Galloways headline BWLR

B! R"#"$$% C&&'()*" H%+('%,) other memories of his participation in more '!# Y'**/ 7'*, 5$#7/1# ' :/18#, the than 1,000 competitive races during his best job in the world. As Chief Running nearly three decades with Runner’s World. O,cer at Runner’s World magazine, he Yasso will be one of the featured speakers Bspends his time traveling to races and running at the prerace pasta feed and will run the events all over the world. Running has taken Moose’s Tooth Marathon. Catch him at the Yasso to many amazing places and a-orded Health and Fitness Expo and the morning him the chance to experience di-erent cultures shakedown runs. Check the weekend sched- and meet all kinds of people. ule page for more information. A 3ve-time Iron Man competitor, Yasso is one of a handful of people to compete in JEFF GALLOWAY races on all seven continents including the BWLR has had many special guests Antarctica Marathon, the Kilimanjaro Mara- travel to Alaska over the years, but none as thon and Comrades to name a few. He is also dedicated to the event as Olympian, author a 3nisher of the grueling Badwater 146, a race and running expert Je- Galloway. He and from Death Valley to Mount Whitney, Calif. his wife, Barbara, have run the marathon Yasso is the inventor of the appropriately together every year since 2010, making the named Yasso 800s, a speed workout in pair BWLR regulars. +e 2015 Moose’s PHOTO COURTESY JANE HALKO which runners should be able to accurately Tooth Marathon will be Galloway’s 201st Bart Yasso’s nickname: “Mayor of Running” predict their marathon 3nish times based marathon. on how fast they can run 800 meters. Don’t Widely known for his marathon training guidance continues to grow. He is a monthly worry Alaskans: It only takes a few minor programs and run/walk method, Galloway columnist for Runner’s World magazine and adjustments to make the workout treadmill had an impressive running career before author of many books on running. compatible for those winter days when it’s becoming one the country’s most successful Galloway also will speak at the prerace just too cold to do speed work outside. running coaches. He was an all-American pasta feed and will run on Sunday. Catch Yasso’s book, “My Life on the Run: +e collegiate athlete and a member of the U.S. him at movie night, the Health and Fitness Wit, Wisdom, and Insights of a Road Racing Olympic Team, competing in the 10,000 me- Expo, weekend shakedown runs and at his Icon,” chronicles his life as a runner – why ters at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, running clinic. Check the schedule page for he started running, how it changed his life Germany. information. and how a crippling illness almost ended his In addition to his Olympic career, Gal- career. He shares his stories of heatstroke, loway was a member of the U.S. Track and BARBARA GALLOWAY frostbite, heartache, triumphs and many Field Team in Europe, Russia and Africa, A talented runner in her own right, and in 1973 he set an American record in the Barbara Galloway is the other half of BWLR 10-mile road race with a time of 47:49. most supportive running duo. She has co- Now, Galloway devotes his time to helping authored several books with her husband, runners perform to the best of their ability (whom she appropriately met on the running and reach their marathon goals. He has au- track) including: Woman’s Complete Guide thored more than a dozen books on running to Running, Half-Marathon: A Complete and has been a consultant for West Point, Guide for Women, Running and Fatburning NASA, Homeland Security and many other for Women and Woman’s Complete Guide corporations. He has coached more than to Walking. Having run through two preg- 300,000 runners over the years and as the nancies and menopause, Barbara is a wealth o,cial training consultant for the RunDis- of knowledge when it comes to the unique ney events, founder of the Galloway Train- challenges that female runners face. ing Program and the director of Atlanta’s Barbara was a member of the Florida State Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk women’s track team and has completed more the number of runners under Galloway’s than 100 marathons and currently partici- pates in roughly 12 marathons and 12 half REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND marathons a year. She also plays on several Jeff and Barbara Galloway have writ- USTA and ALTA tennis teams. She holds a ten between them, many books and master’s degree in physical education and guides on Running. Former Olympian conducts running clinics during running re- Jeff Galloway is called the People’s treats with her husband, Je-, at Lake Tahoe Running Coach. and Athens, Greece.

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July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 33 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 7 ALASKA NATIVE HERITAGE CENTER

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8 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 34 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Spectator locations

1. ELDERBERRY PARK 5. POINT WORONZOF All runners will pass this stunning park as they head out on the Another great spot to see 49Kers and marathoners as they run trail and again as they come back Downtown for the 3nish. +e trail along the coast. You can see runners as they head out to the turn- serpentines here, creating a great photo opportunity with the ocean around and again as they double back. +ere’s a large parking lot but as a backdrop. You may even catch a glimpse of the Alaska Railroad be careful as you enter and exit, as runners will be crossing the lot. on its way to Seward. +is is a kid-friendly spot complete with a playground and musical entertainment. Check out a bit of Anchorage 6. DAVENPORT FIELDS history while you’re there at the Oscar Anderson House Museum. +is o-ers easy access o- of Lake Otis Parkway. You’ll see runners along the trail just past the baseball 3elds. 2. WESTCHESTER LAGOON Park anywhere along the large park so you don’t miss the runners 7. GOOSE LAKE PARK as they run by the lagoon. +is is a great spot to come and go, as +is is the third relay exchange zone. +e trail is steps from the runners will pass this peaceful lagoon as they set out on the Coastal parking lot so it’s fairly easy to get in, out and on to the next viewpoint. Trail, again as they head to the Chester Creek Greenbelt, then yet again as they make their way back Downtown for the 3nish. 8. BRAGAW STREET AND NORTHERN LIGHTS BOULEVARD Catch 49Kers and marathoners as they make their way to the turn- 3. LYNN ARY PARK around point. Park at the East High School parking lot, and walk Park and walk down the paved pathway to the trail. +is scenic across Northern Lights to the bike path. little park is a fantastic place to watch 49Kers and marathoners go by with Cook Inlet and the Alaska Range as a backdrop. 9. VALLEY OF THE MOON PARK Marathoners will pass this location as they head out on the Ches- 4. POSTMARK DRIVE ter Creek Greenbelt and again as they make their way back to Down- +is is home to the 3rst and second relay exchange zones for the mar- town. Parking is limited, but the park is within walking distance of athon relay and a good spot to cheer on all the 49Kers and marathon- Downtown. +is is another kid-friendly spot with plenty of room to ers. +ere will be lots of excitement at this scenic overlook. If Postmark run around and a large playground to keep kids busy as they wait to Drive is too crowded, head down the road to Point Woronzof. cheer on their runner.

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July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 35 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 9 McKinley Flights and glacier landings

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10 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 36 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Come prepared, leave fulfilled

nchorage is a fantastic place to run a race – it’s not too hot Aand not too cold. However, the weather in Anchorage can change faster than most people can run, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for any and all conditions. Temperatures in August usually hover between 55-65 degrees during the race, but it can be chilly in the morning. An- chorage is beautifully situated on the coast, so a little rain shower and a breeze are always possible. Historically, the Big Wild Life Runs has boasted perfect running weather with mild temperatures. Remember, its better to have too many options than to be wishing for something on race day. Here are some tips to help make your race both safe and comfortable.

PRE-RACE ❑ Yoga warm-up with Cazoshay Ward Gently warm up your muscles with pre-run yoga in Town Square. Specially created for BLWR by Cazoshay Ward of Yoga by Devine Intervention Design, this runner-specific rou- tine will help stave off injury and prepare your mind and body for a fun and safe run.

❑ Taping by United Physical Therapy The amazing folks at United Physical Therapy will be providing pre-race taping for those runners who require a little extra support. Look for the taping tent in the start area.

POST-RACE ❑ Recovery fuel Replenish those lost calories with fantastic fig bars from REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND Nature’s Bakery, tasty bread from Great Harvest Bread Com- pany, refreshing water from Clear Alaskan Glacial Water, sa- ❑ Awards tent vory chips from Alaska Chip Company and delicious grilled- Awards will be distributed to the top-three overall finish- cheese sandwiches from Franz Bakery. Post-race snacks will ers in each race as well as the top three finishers in each age be available in the finish area. group. Awards can be picked-up at the awards tent after results are posted. ❑ Beer garden You’ve run a long way, now sit back and enjoy a refreshing brew or soda from Broken Tooth Brewing Company. Only runners with valid ID will be admitted into the beer garden. Back 2 Back Challenge ❑ Post-run yoga Be sure to stretch those tired muscles with yoga experts at Can you handle it? the REI tent. Post-run yoga aids in the recovery process by ake the most out of your Big Wild Life Runs experience by increasing mobility and easing post-run pain. You’ll be ready Mrunning two races in two days with the Back 2 Back Challenge. for your next run in no time. Runners will receive a $10 discount off the Anchorage Mile registration fee when they sign up for one of the longer races on ❑ Post-run massage Sunday. Massage therapists will be available to rub down sore To participate in the Back 2 Back Challenge just register online for muscles at the massage tent. Stop by for a quick massage to a Sunday race of any distance and you will be given the opportunity jump-start your recovery. to add the Anchorage Mile for only $10 before you checkout. Instructions for a run-tastic weekend: ❑ Results tent Register for the 5K, Half Marathon, Marathon run, walk, relay or Skinny Raven Timing will have results available within a few 49K ultra online. minutes of finishing, at the results tent. Stop by and check out Click the box to add the Anchorage Mile for only $10. your time, pace, overall standings and age group place. Start training. July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 37 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 11 REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND Young runners take off in the Healthy Futures Kids 2K race.

!e power of fun Kids race teaches young runners to develop lifelong love of the sport

/! 0/!" #7'% ' :"(':", Healthy comfortable letting their children play Futures has remained committed to outside in urban settings due to safety con- its mission of working to empower cerns. And technology was enticing children FAlaska’s youth and build the habit of daily o- their feet and onto the couch with an physical activity. Over that time, it has evermore accessible and addicting array of grown from a tiny grassroots initiative to a video games and gadgets. Physical activity multi-faceted statewide program. But one was being shoved to the cultural margins of thing has never changed: Healthy Futures society. has always believed at the core of the cause Bonny started small. During the 3rst few that exercise must 3rst and foremost be fun. years, Healthy Futures partnered with a When Bonny Sosa founded Healthy handful of key events in the Anchorage area, Futures back in 2003 out of a concern for the including the Anchorage School District growing childhood obesity epidemic, she elementary school jamborees and the Tues- sensed a lack of positive association around day Night Races. Healthy Futures provided physical activity in Alaska. a classy medal to every child who came out Most community recreation events were and ran, jogged or walked the course – the designed with the adult in mind and lacked last child celebrated as much as the 3rst. the kind of festive atmosphere that attracts +ere was a DJ and music and Olympic children and families. Schools were depriori- skier Kikkan Randall and other prominent tizing physical education and recess time in Alaskan athletes were out running, jogging REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND order to provide more focus on academic- and walking with the kids. Flush-cheeked Cameron Todd shows off his ﬁnisher’s medal. based classes. Parents were decreasingly smiling children abound. 12 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 38 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Children, of course, pester their parents when they’ve enjoyed something and want to do it again. So it’s been in Alaska over the past decade as we have seen a tremendous surge in fun family- friendly community events. Nowadays in Alaska, most recreation- based events are as much for the child as they are for the adult. Healthy Futures currently supports more than 115 events around the state (more than 40 in Anchorage) in myriad ways. +e Chil- dren’s Hospital at Providence Kids’ 2K is a perfect example of the At Rhyneer Caylor Clinic, it all begins type of event Healthy Futures is proud to help sponsor. +e 2K provides a perfect bookend for children and families to the Big Wild with your comfort. No matter where you Life Marathon the following day and has been attended by nearly come from or what the source of your 1,000 children the past couple years. But it is so much more than a orthopedic concern, our medical and run. +ere is music and guest speakers and a carnival area at the 3n- professional staff offer you the best of ish line, complete with face painting, a climbing wall and dozens of other fun-centric community vendors. care, and a quick path to comfort. Healthy Futures covers the cost of entry for children participating in the Children’s Hospital at Providence Kids’ 2K but also contrib- utes to the fun factor. A troupe of prominent Alaskan athletes don George D. Rhyneer, MD “Healthy Hero” capes and lead the kids through rollicking warm up exercises before joining them on the course. +e Healthy Heroes Mark T. Caylor, MD then drape medals on every proud 3nisher before meeting and greet- ing and signing autographs in the carnival area. Jeff C. Parker, MD Fun! Recent data shows that Anchorage is one of a small handful of Jonathan A. Metzger, PA-C communities in the nation that is evidencing a 4attening-out of the childhood obesity trend. A visit to the Children’s Hospital at Provi- dence Kids’ 2K provides some hints to explain this good news! Specialty Orthopedics Shoulder and Knee Ligament,Reconstruction, Harlow Robinson Cartilage and Meniscus Transplants, executive director, Healthy Futures Anterior Hip Replacement Minimally Invasive REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND Knee Surgery, Young runners take off in the Healthy Futures Kids 2K race. Shoulders, Book by phone Knees, using Promo Code Ankles, “#COAST” Wrists, for $10 off Hips a person.

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July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 39 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 13 Daily Coach Service Seward • Anchorage • Talkeetna • Denali Denali NP The ONLY transportation between Seward ® and Denali National Park in the same day!

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14 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 40 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Race day information

REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND

START AND FINISH LINE COURSE CLOSURE +e entrance and exit to the start/3nish chute will be at Sixth +e course o,cially closes at 3:30 p.m. Marathoners must reach Avenue and E Street. For safety reasons, this area is for runners and the Valley of the Moon checkpoint by 2:30 p.m. to be an o,cial 3nish line sta- only – spectators may watch runners 3nish along the 3nisher. If runners do not reach Valley of the Moon by the time cut- street. Runners can reunite with family and friends in Town Square o- they will be o-ered a ride to the 3nish or if they wish to continue Park at the end of the 3nish chute. they may do so without the support of race personnel. Do not cross the 3nish line twice. Crossing the 3nish line mat more than once will create timing issues and could result in an incorrect SHOWERS AFTER THE RACE time. Relay teams may cross the line together and are encouraged to +e Hotel Captain Cook Athletic Club has invited runners to 3nish as a team but please cross only once. shower at the athletic club a>er the race. +e club is on the lower level of the Hotel; just show your bib at the desk. 939 W. Fi>h Ave. LINING UP As you line up in the start area – please line up according to your NO STROLLERS, DOGS AND IPODS speed. Let the faster runners line up in front. We don’t want anyone No dogs please and we discourage the use of iPods or other music run over! players for the safety of you and those around you. +ere is the po- Race day tip: Scout out a meeting place before the race. +ere will be tential to run into wildlife on the course, and runners must be able a lot of noise and activity in the 3nish area so it’s helpful to know exactly to hear the animal and each other. For the safety of all runners, we where you will be meeting your family and friends a>er the race. do not allow the use of strollers or joggers.

GEAR CHECK COURSE DETOUR #DON’T PANIC$ A gear check tent will be available at the start/3nish area. A plastic Due to the Westchester bridge collapse last summer, the BWLR bag will be provided for you to mark with your bib number. Volun- course has been diverted. Racers will make a sharp le> turn just before teers will guard your bag while you’re running – just present your the downed bridge as they exit the tunnel and run through the South bib and your gear will be returned it to you a>er your race. Addition neighborhood across 13th Avenue and U Street. Runners will Bags must be picked up by 4 p.m. BWLR will not store abandoned rejoin the trail at Westchester Lagoon; marathoners and 49k’ers take bags and is not responsible for lost or damaged items. All unclaimed a right and half marathoners head le> to the Chester Creek Greenbelt. bags of clothes will be donated to a local charity. +e marathon and half marathon courses have been re-certi3ed and the marathon remains a Boston Marathon quali3er.

July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 41 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 15 Anchorage Running Club

Start / Finish Glenn Hwy W 5TH AVE

E 6TH AVE

5k Turnaround H ST

INGRA

GAMBELLST

IST

LST

Westchester Half Marathon 49 k Lagoon Turnaround Marathon

SEWARDHWY Half Marathon 2nd Turnaround MINNESOTADR (Marathon) 5 K Goose L 49 k 2ndTurnaround

W NORTHERN LIGHTS BLVD W BENSON BLVD

1st Turnaround 49k Detail Downtown Detail (Marathon) W 2ND AVE

1st Turnaround (Marathon) CHRISTENSEN DR W 3RD AVE

W 4TH AVE E

S S I ST

K ST

L ST T

W 5TH AVE 49k Start / Finish 49k 1st Turnaround

F W 6TH AVE G

H ST

ST Kincaid Park Miles 0 1 2

16 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 42 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Anchorage Running Club

Start / Finish Glenn Hwy W 5TH AVE

E 6TH AVE

5k Turnaround H ST

INGRA

GAMBELLST

IST

LST

Westchester Half Marathon 49 k Lagoon Turnaround Marathon

SEWARDHWY Half Marathon 2nd Turnaround MINNESOTADR (Marathon) 5 K Goose L 49 k 2ndTurnaround

W NORTHERN LIGHTS BLVD W BENSON BLVD

1st Turnaround 49k Detail Downtown Detail (Marathon) W 2ND AVE

1st Turnaround (Marathon) CHRISTENSEN DR W 3RD AVE

W 4TH AVE E ST

F ST

I ST

K ST

L ST

W 5TH AVE 49k Start / Finish 49k 1st Turnaround

F ST W 6TH AVE G ST

H ST Kincaid Park Miles 0 1 2

July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 43 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 17 Just 45 minutes south of Anchorage on the scenic Seward Highway! AWCC is a non-profit wildlife refuge located on a scenic 200 acre preserve dedicated to wildlife conservation and education.

Mile 79, Seward Highway Portage, AK 99587 | 907.783.2025 www.alaskawildlife.org

18 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 44 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 2015 Big Wild Life Runs schedule

THURSDAY, AUG. 13 SATURDAY, AUG. 15 7:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m. Run/walk with Je- Galloway (Hotel Cap- Run/walk with Je- Galloway and Bart tain Cook lobby, 939 W. Fi>h Ave.) Yasso (Hotel Captain Cook lobby, 939 W. 5:30 p.m. Fi>h Ave.) +ursday night movie: “Trails in Mo- 9 a.m.-4 p.m. tion” (Bear Tooth +eatre, 1230 W. 27th BWLR Health and Fitness Expo and Bib Ave.) Tickets available at the Bear Tooth box Pick-up (Dena’ina Center, 600 W. Seventh o,ce. Ave.) 9:30 a.m. FRIDAY, AUG. 14 Kid’s 2K Run (Delaney Park Strip, 10th 7:30 a.m. Avenue and G Street) Run/walk with Je- Galloway and Bart 10 a.m. Yasso (Hotel Captain Cook lobby, 939 W. Free Fitness Clinic: Are you Power Hun- REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND Fi>h Ave.) gry? by Heidi Beer 3-7 p.m. 10:30 a.m. 2014 men’s marathon champion Amjed BWLR Health and Fitness Expo and Bib Anchorage Mile (Delaney Park Strip, 10th Aboukhadijeh with BWLR race director Shar- Pick-up (Dena’ina Center, 600 W. Seventh Avenue and G Street) ron Fisherman. Ave.) 11 a.m. 5:30 p.m. Free Fitness Clinic: Breathing Your Way 12:30-2:30 p.m. Free Fitness Clinic: +e Empower Hour, to a Stronger Core, presented by Aka Kokau- Pasta Feed (Dena’ina Center, 600 W. presented by Tara Lampert. rova Seventh Ave.) Featured speakers: Bart Yasso and Je- Galloway; $10, tickets available at the door 2-5 p.m. Je- Galloway Running Clinic (Dena’ina Center, 600 W. Seventh Ave.) Cost: $99

SUNDAY, AUG. 16 8 a.m. United Physical +erapy 49K Ultra (Sixth Avenue and G Street) 8 a.m. Moose’s Tooth Marathon Walk Start (Sixth Avenue and G Street) 9 a.m. Moose’s Tooth Marathon Start (Sixth Avenue and G Street) 9 a.m. Bear Tooth Marathon Relay Start (Sixth Avenue and G Street) 9:30 a.m. Skinny Raven Half Marathon Start (Sixth Avenue and G Street) 10 a.m. Snow City Café 5K Start (Sixth Avenue and G Street) REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND The top-three women in the under six-minute mile division celebrate their finish: Denali *Schedule is subject to change - Be sure Foldager (first place at 5 minutes, 19 seconds), third-place finisher Emma Bohman and second- to check www.bigwildliferuns.org for more place finisher Hallidie Wilt. information and updates. July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 45 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 19 KENAI FJORDS TOURS Cruise the Pristine Waters of Kenai Fjords National Park Celebrating ALASKA’S #1 WILDLIFE AND GLACIER CRUISE We pioneered the art of exploring Kenai Fjords National Park. Cruise with us aboard the catamarans and sightseeing vessels specifi cally designed 40 Years! with your comfort in mind. Walk-around decks provide up-close views of active wildlife, massive tidewater glaciers and incredible scenery.

• All tours include a healthy meal at no additional cost • See graceful whales, colorful pufﬁ ns, playful otters, towering glaciers and more • Only tour operator with exclusive visits to our remote getaway on Fox Island – lodge stays also available • Kayak and cruise combos available Come join the most experienced, knowledgeable captains and crew for the cruise of a lifetime through Kenai Fjords National Park!

Cathy Hart Photography Cathy Hart Photography Cathy Hart Photography Always complimentary: healthy meal, wildlife guide and parking with shuttle service Choose Your Cruise National Park Tour Our most popular tour! Cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park to view abundant wildlife and spectacular tidewater glaciers. The 10 a.m. tour includes a buffet-style meal of wild Alaska salmon and prime rib on Fox Island. Northwestern Fjord Tour Premium full-day cruise to tidewater glaciers and the magniﬁ cent Fox island Northwestern Fjord. Cruise through the Chiswell Islands, part of the Alaska exclusive Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and home to teeming seabird rookeries. Every visit to Fox Island includes a buffet-style wild Resurrection Bay Wildlife Tours Alaska salmon and prime rib meal. Featuring Fox Island Half-day tours highlighting marine wildlife, incredible scenery and our exclusive Fox Island day lodge. Complimentary, buffet-style wild Alaska salmon and prime rib meal. Add a half-pound of king crab at booking for just $12.50 (available on the boat or at Fox Island for $15.50).

KENAI FJORDS’ ORIGINAL TOUR OPERATOR SINCE 1974 • OFFICE: 1304 4th AVENUE, SEWARD, ALASKA 888-4PUFFIN (478-3346) • KenaiFjords.com/COAST 20 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS KENAI FJORDS TOURS Cruise the Pristine Waters of Kenai Fjords National Park Celebrating ALASKA’S #1 WILDLIFE AND GLACIER CRUISE We pioneered the art of exploring Kenai Fjords National Park. Cruise with us aboard the catamarans and sightseeing vessels speciﬁ cally designed 40 Years! with your comfort in mind. Walk-around decks provide up-close views of active wildlife, massive tidewater glaciers and incredible scenery.

KENAI FJORDS’ ORIGINAL TOUR OPERATOR SINCE 1974 • OFFICE: 1304 4th AVENUE, SEWARD, ALASKA 888-4PUFFIN (478-3346) • KenaiFjords.com/COAST DOUG LINDSTRAND / ALASKASTOCK A young moose crosses the Campbell Creek Greenbelt trail in Anchorage. Be aware that you’re sharing the trails with wildlife.

Wildlife safety: sharing the trails

%(7/!'&" $* '% 1!8'% 5$.:.$;" '%: $%#"!'(#$/%* with its breathing and snorting. Afour-legged residents are inevitable. Be sure to be safe if you meet Back away if the animal seems distressed. animals along the trail. If you happen upon a moose calf or a bear cub, be on the lookout For the most part, wildlife around the city won’t pay much atten- for the mother; it is very dangerous to get between a mother and her tion to you, so you can usually run right by. However, if an animal is baby. blocking your path, stop and give the animal plenty of space. Race marshals will be patrolling the course on bicycles, if you see Never approach wildlife. a moose or bear on the trail report it to the next race marshal you see Look for signs of agitation including ears pinned back, heavy or anyone in a volunteer shirt.

Enjoy a screening of “Trails in Motion,” the world’s 3rst and Runners at the movies only international trail- and ultra-running 3lm tour. +e annual Weekend kick-o- celebration international 3lm tour brings a collection of the 3nest trail- and Trails in Motion – +e World’s Trail Running Film Tour ultra-running 3lms to passionate audiences around the world. Bear Tooth +eatre Pub, 1230 W. 27th Ave. For 3lm information: www.trailsinmotion.com Thursday, Aug. 15 www.facebook.com/trailsinmotion 5:30 p.m. +e annual +ursday-night running movie is a great way to Tickets are available for purchase at the Bear Tooth Box O,ce relax, meet fellow runners and enjoy delicious food and refreshing Join us for dinner and a movie as we kick-o- BWLR weekend! brews.

22 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 48 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com COPPER RIVER WILD! SALMON FESTIVAL

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July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 49 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 23 FAIRBANKS DENALI TALKEETNA WASILLA ANCHORAGE SEWARD

In Our Cars, everyone gets to ride shotgun. Book your trip today and leave the road behind. ©Frank Keller ©Frank ©Matt Hage ©Matt 24 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS BE MOVED | AlaskaRailroad.com | 800.544.0552 FAIRBANKS DENALI TALKEETNA WASILLA ANCHORAGE SEWARD

Anchorage Running Club races and club events

B! R"#"$$% C&&'()*" H%+('%,) 7" A%(7/!'&" R1%%$%& C.18 (ARC) puts on several exceptional races that are open to all runners. T+ ese events are chip timed, and the funds raised through registration fees bene3 t the club’s many community events. ARC members receive a registration discount to In Our Cars, these runs. Trent/Waldron Glacier Half Marathon and Pulsator 10K: + is half marathon everyone gets to was created in memory of Marci Trent and Larry Waldron, mother and son who were ride shotgun. killed on a training run in 1995. Racers that have run this race in the past, and beat Book your trip today and leave the road behind. their previous best 3 nish time (with an age adjustment being applied) will receive a nice memento from the event. Big Wild Life Runs: + e 4 agship event for the Anchorage Running Club, Big Wild Life Runs (BWLR) provides several distances including an ultra-marathon, marathon, marathon relay, half marathon, 5K, mile REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND run, and kids 2K fun run. With over 3,000 Runners start their watches at the beginning of the 2014 BWLR half marathon. participants, BWLR is the largest ARC event of the year and is the primary fundraiser for the ARC scholarship program. Oktoberfest/ Run For Beans: + is 5K and ! e club hosts several runs for 10K race bene3 ts Brother Francis Shelter and Beans Café. For a fun twist, race tradi- ARC members that do not require tion allows runners who show up in costume a one minute head start. a race entry fee to participate. Zombie Half Marathon: As darkness falls upon the land, the undead rise up and run. For the club’s last outdoor race of the season, ! ese quirky timed races o" er this fun half marathon gets runners revved up for Halloween. Costumes are encour- a distinctive twist for ARC aged. + e event also includes an untimed 2K for the kids. members.

MEMBERS%ONLY RUNS + e club hosts several runs for ARC Mugwumps and will be enlisted to volunteer members that do not require a race entry with putting on the run the following year. fee to participate. + ese quirky timed races Boondocks Breakaway: A race created o- er a distinctive twist for ARC members. to introduce members with little or no trail Currently the club provides the following running experience to the great trail system fun runs: in Anchorage’s Kincaid Park. + e race has Do Run Run: Traditionally the club’s 3 rst both a 2.5K and 5K option. outdoor race of the season, with distances Masters 5K and 10K Runs: Distance of 5K, four miles and 7.5K. + e course runs runners statistically peak in their late 20s, so along the scenic but underutilized Ship here’s a race for the over-40 crowd. Runners Creek bike trail. 40 years old and over have the opportunity REBECCA COOLIDGE HAVILAND Mugwumps: A 10K race along the Coastal to break the tape without all those whipper- BWLR race director Sharron Fisherman Trail for middle-of-the-packers. Any indi- snappers getting in the way. celebrates with 2014 half-marathon women’s vidual that completes the 10K in less than Visit www.anchoragerunningclub.org for winner (and race committee member) Anna 45 minutes receives a lifetime ban from race information, dates and times. Dalton. ©Frank Keller ©Frank ©Matt Hage ©Matt July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 51 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 25 BE MOVED | AlaskaRailroad.com | 800.544.0552 Join Today! Pre- pressForum.Com

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26 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 52 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 27 Fueling running dreams: Anchorage Running Club sponsors student scholarships, local races

B! R"#"$$% C&&'()*" H%+('%,) * ' *#')." $% #7" A%(7/!'&" !1%%$%& (/001%$#<, the An- chorage Running Club (ARC) works hard to support and sustain Anchorage’s thriving running scene. +e club incorporated as a not-for-proA 3t organization in 1982 in order to provide recreational and competitive running and walking programs at all levels of ability. +e club has roughly 800 members of all shapes, sizes, ages and abilities, from elite runners, middle-of-the packers, red-lantern award winners and recreational walkers. It is the mission of the ARC to encourage a healthy lifestyle through running and exercise. In keeping with its mission, the ARC provides assistance to many community races and events by lending out timing and race equipment, providing race volunteers, and in some cases providing 3nancial support. Races can be di,cult to get started, and the club’s mission extends beyond o,cial ARC events. So, for some new running events, the ARC will provide 3nancial support for a short time until the event can sustain itself.

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS A major function of the Big Wild Life Runs is to raise scholarship funds for college-bound Alaska high school runners to help out with their education expenses. Each year a volunteer committee si>s through dozens of applicants and chooses outstanding students who demonstrate a passion for running as well as academic excellence to receive college scholarships. +is year the ARC board is pleased to be able to o-er four $2,500 scholarships to a group of very deserving Alaska students. +e ARC scholarship class of 2015 has demonstrated educational excellence, a commitment to their community and a passion for running. Bartlett High’s Miguel Obregon, above, and Johanna Fleis- 2015 ARC SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS chman of West Anchorage High, below, are two of Anchorage MIGUEL OBREGON: Bartlett High School (pictured above) Running Club’s four scholarship recipients. Obregon wants to Running Highlights: Miguel participated in track and 3eld all four years be a physical education teacher and running coach. Fleischman of high school. He was also a member of the cross-country running team plans to pursue a degree in biomedical engineering or biology. his junior and senior years. Academic Goals: Miguel plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in physical education with the goal of becoming a high school physical education teacher as well as a cross-country and track and 3eld coach.

JOHANNA FLEISCHMAN: West Anchorage High School (at right) Running Highlights: Johanna has participated in four years of cross- country running and earned a varsity letter each year. She was the most- improved runner her sophomore year. Johanna has also participated in track and 3eld. Academic Goals: Johanna plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology or biomedical engineering and eventually a doctorate in physical therapy.

ALISA AIST: Polaris K-12 School Running highlights: Alisa has participated in four years of cross-country running and three years of track and 3eld. She has received a varsity letter each year. +e award that she is most proud of is the Sportsmanship Award she received at the state meet. Academic Goals: Alisa plans on studying marine biology and political science. Her goal is to participate in undergraduate research and complete her Ph.D. in marine biology.

SPENCER MITTON: South Anchorage High School Running Highlights: Spencer participated in cross-country running all 28 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 54 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com •Full day • Half Day •Paddle/Hike Combo FREE •Paddle/Hike/Dine •Overnight Cabin Packages

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Kids’ 2K The Anchorage Mile 49K Ultra Marathon Go! movi"? Ge! psyche#! Marathon Marathon Walk Marathon Relay Movie Night at Bear Tooth Theatre Pub August 14, 5:30 pm Half Marathon 5K www.bigwildliferuns.org

July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 55 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 29 four years of high school. He was the captain for runs and walks. During the summer of the team twice, MVP twice and went to months, the club traditionally meets at state three times. He placed 3>h in the CIC Westchester Lagoon. During the winter, Cup his sophomore year and fourth his ju- October through March, the club provides nior year. Spencer was also a member of the members with free access to the track at track and 3eld team his sophomore, junior the Dome so members can continue their and senior years and went to state with the Wednesday night runs in a safe and pro- team. tected environment. Academic Goals: Spencer plans to earn a Known to ARC members as Winter bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering Wednesday Nights at the Dome (WWND), and possibly a master’s degree. He plans to these gatherings provide excellent network- become a mechanical engineer upon gradu- ing opportunities for runners looking for ation. training groups. +rough the weekly meet- ups many members have formed their own CLUB ORGANIZATION training groups, found training programs Club membership is based on the calendar for speci3c events and expanded their run- year. For an individual member, a $25 fee ning network. allows discounts on running club events as well as access to club member exclusive runs COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT and races. During the winter months, club +e ARC places a priority on encouraging members receive complementary access to young Alaskans to live a healthy lifestyle. the Anchorage Sports Dome each Wednes- South High graduate and ARC scholarship +e club o>en provides donations to orga- day. +e ARC o-ers family memberships recipient Spencer Mitton plans to earn a nizations that are in keeping with the club’s and a military discount. degree in mechanical engineering. mission as well as providing some 3nancial From its membership, a nine-person vol- support to high school sports teams. +e unteer board is elected to help the club ful3ll the support of community running events, ARC provides donations to high school its mission. Board members serve three-year the creation on new events throughout the sports teams and organizations who work at terms and each year the board selects four year, and the ARC scholarship program. aid stations for ARC events and has provided of the board members to be the o,cers and funds to cover the cost of socks and shoes for oversee club operations. TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES children in need. Not all support is mon- Funds raised by the club consist of race +roughout the year, ARC club members etary as the club o>en provides race bibs and fees and club dues, all of which go toward informally gather on Wednesday nights medals for children’s fun runs.

Email: [email protected] Or visit: www.The AlaskaCollection.com

30 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 56 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Scenic Aerial Tram Rides Open Daily 9:30 am - 9:30 pm

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Alyeska Cup DH Bike Series June 28, July 26, Aug. 30 & Sept. 6 Open Friday to Sunday all summer! Free Entry | Great Prizes Fridays: Trivia Night & $2 Tacos FREE live music every Saturday Downhill Mountain Bike Skills Camps Ages 10 - 18 | Dates & Registration Online July 3 & 4 Forest Fair After Party with Big Fat Buddha July 11 Eternal Cowboys July 18 Matt Hopper & !e Roman Candles July 25 Gipsy Moon Full music line up, events and menus at !eSitzmark.com

July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 57 BIG WILD LIFE RUNS • 31 2015 SPONSORS:

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32 • BIG WILD LIFE RUNS 58 • July 2015 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com