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Run to the top of the Adirondacks on Sept. 22

09/11/2012

In June, cyclists raced to the top of Whiteface Mountain's Veterans Memorial Highway, in Wilmington, N.Y. In September, it will be the runner's time to conquer the eight-mile climb to the summit of New York State's fifth highest peak. As many as 200 running enthusiasts from the northeastern United States and Canada are expected to participate in the 35th annual Whiteface Mountain Uphill Foot Race.

For the first 34 years this popular event was run in June, preceding the uphill bike race, but this year, organizers moved the date to Saturday, Sept. 22, hoping to attract even more competitors to the 3,500 foot climb up the mountain.

"We feel this is a great way to ‘wrap up' the running season and reward yourself with the ultimate in finish lines," said Michelle Burns, director of the Whiteface Regional Visitors Bureau. "Truly there is no greater way to finish a race than to be on top of the world looking down on the Adirondacks admiring its fall foliage."

From the beginning of the highway, runners will begin their eight-degree accent, which will take them to more than 4,600 feet above sea level.

"The climb begins immediately," remarked Burns. "In fact, within the first mile, the field will climb almost 500 feet in elevation and by mile four; they will have climbed almost 2,000 feet.

"There will be some help along the way. Aid stations will be available at every mile. I expect that the elite athletes will finish the run in just over an hour, while a majority of the field will cross the finish line in an hour-and-a-half to two hours."

Once at the top, the athletes can relax, catch their breath and enjoy 360-degree views of the Adirondack High Peaks, deck out in the autumn colors of red, orange and yellow.

To register for the 35th annual Whiteface Mountain Uphill Foot Race, log onto https://www.runreg.com/Net/2964. The cost is $35 per athlete. Online registration will be available through Thursday, Sept. 20.