Fria Update

PLEASE CHECK THE BLOG OFTEN AS RACE DAY APPROACHES! Hello runners! I think it is safe to say we will not be running ON the Classic Nantahala Fria course. As of 2 days ago, I was only a short way into the trail and the snow was above my knees-then waist deep. As our course record holder in the Fria Classic 100 said "it takes twice as much energy and twice as much time to go half as far!" (Well put Denise). We have an alternate course that is beautiful and it would start and finish in the same original area. Problem is, we will have to see what happens with mother nature and the course over the next week. The parking area was only accessible Monday with high clearance 4 wheel drive. Anything is possible, but I want everyone to be aware of current conditions. They received an additional 3 inches up there today. It is supposed to warm up for a few days this weekend, so we will see what happens.
FYI-the alternate loops are beautiful and potentially fast (unless there is 2 feet of snow) one loop is 16 miles and the other is 18. The start and finish is in the same place as the prior course. Aid is at 6 miles and at the start/finish area. 50K=2x16 mile loop. 50 mile=1x18 mile loop and 2x 16 mile loops. It is possible that we may have to drop the 100 mile this year if the snow levels do not subside. Stay tuned for current updates. Katoolah makes a GREAT traction device called microspikes for your shoes. They give you superior traction while running in snow. They are VERY easy to put on and take off, and they are very durable. I will be up there much of the weekend and will send further updates. The Standing Indian Wilderness Area is 10 miles west of Franklin on Highway 64 west. There is a sign to the turnoff. About 2.5 miles after you turn off you take a right (there is another sign) and go 2.2 miles to the back country parking center. If you are in the neighborhood this weekend, those are the directions in a nutshell. You can map quest the Standing Indian Campground-Franklin, NC.
Sarah