Nov 5 – Whistler 50 Relay & Ultra – Whistler

BC Athletics is excited to announce the inaugural Whistler 50 Relay and Ultra, to be held Saturday, November 5, 2011. The 8-person, 50 mile relay race or solo ultra-marathon, replaces the formerHaney-to-Harrison 100K Relay and Ultra on the running calendar.

The reason for the move is to address safety concerns caused by the growth of both the H2H event and the communities it ran through. By relocating to Whistler, many of the limiting factors are removed. There will be no more running along a major highway. Traffic congestion will be eliminated. And Whistler opens up many more accommodation and dining options.

The relay will retain the 8-person format, with a tentative plan of alternating legs of approximately 12K and 8K, centered around Whistler Village and the picturesque Valley Trail system. The 50 mile (80K) total distance is an achievable goal for novice ultra-marathoners, while still being a recognized qualifying distance for Western States or National Team selection.

The all important post-race dance will be retained, most likely at the Whistler Conference Centre.

A selection of hotels is now available for booking, with rooms starting from $99/night. All hotels are within steps of the planned start/finish and post-race activities.

You are also invited to design a logo for the new event, and win great prizes. Details here

BC Athletics acknowledges the support of Tourism Whistler and the Resort Municipality of Whistler in helping make this possible. Partial proceeds will go to supporting food banks in Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton.

Check back soon for further information. Event registration will open in the Spring.

We hope to see you there. Start recruiting your team today. The Whistler 50 — more than just a relay.

Contact info: BC Athletics, 604-333-3553 or bcathletics@bcathletics.org