Runners prepare for Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon
Some of the most experienced runners from around the world are competing this weekend in the Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon. The annual event draws in thousands and plays a big tourism role in Manitou Springs.
“It’s a very tough race, rated the toughest marathon in the world,” said Ron Ilgen, president of Pikes Peak marathon.
Athletes and vendors have spent months preparing for the race for months.
“They’re coming months in advance here to train on the lower section or going to the top of Pikes Peak and running the upper section. It brings the locals and people out of state to prepare and acclimate,” Ilgen said.
Runners navigate through diverse and technical terrain. The altitude can be an added challenge. The course starts at 7,000 feet and ends at 14,000.
“Being from Kansas, we don’t have a lot of hills or mountains to train on. So a lot of us use the treadmill and set it at an incline. I do hours of that to train to try to simulate this, but you can’t simulate the altitude,” said Andy Stephens, a runner.
Not just anyone can sign up. Runners have to qualify months in advance to be able to register and participate.
“It takes three years within your last ascent or marathon to qualify. You can also run the Barr Trail mountain race and qualify,” Ilgen said.
The ascent portion of the marathon can take as long or longer than a full marathon.
“For me, the hardest part is keeping your focus and keep pushing on. It’s a long race,” said Scott Harder, a runner.
The 26.1 mile race to the summit of Pikes Peak means runners can expect to endure weather of all seasons.
“Four years ago when I did it, it was absolutely beautiful, short sleeves at the top. I think this year there’s some question what to wear because of possible snow or rain. I guess you kind of put your head down, keep going and enjoy what you can,” Harder said.
Today’s expo at Memorial Park goes until 7 p-m. The ascent is Saturday at 7 a.m. followed by the Marathon on Sunday at 7.a.m. A total of 2,600 athletes are competing.
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