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Upcoming North Coast Strider Races
● Willits Classic: February 9th
● Boontling Classic: May 4th
● Legends of the Redwoods: July 12th
● Celebration of Life-Trail Trek: Sept
● Turkey Trot: November 23rd
Legends of the Redwood 5K Run & Walk to be held July 12th
A great local cultural/athletic tradition continues Saturday, July 8 in Talmage with the 17th Legends of the Redwood 5K Run & Walk, presented by the North Coast Striders.
The racecourse is on the well-maintained gravel roads of Beckstoffer Vineyards, beginning at 8 a.m. at 2240 Old River Road, the Mendocino County Office of Education.
This annual event is a celebration of the Native American ultramarathon races in 1927 and 1928, which publicized the completion of the “Redwood Highway”, covering the entire 480 miles from San Francisco to Grants Pass, Oregon – the equivalent of more than 18 consecutive marathons.
Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are invited to join the Striders July 8 for a much shorter but inspiring, race commemorating the amazing feats of superb athletes.
Yearly, this local event draws many of the area’s best runners and walkers, and participants who come to pay tribute to the historic tradition.
On June 14, 1927, eleven Native American long-distance runners lined up in San Francisco, and were told the rules of the race: “Run when you can, walk when you wish, and sleep if you have to. Finish in 15 days, don’t accept lifts, and don’t get off the highway.” The prize was $1000 for first place. Runners were cheered all along Highway 101.
The event attracted participants from as far away as New Mexico, and included Native Americans from the Karuk, Pomo, and Zuni tribes. The winner of the ’27 race was Karuk runner “Mad Bull” John Wesley Southard of Happy Camp, who averages nearly 50 miles a day for 7 ½ days. The 1928 race featured over twice as many runners. The winner, Flying Cloud – Mad Bull’s brother – shaved a day off his brother’s previous time.
All are welcome for a day of exercise, well-being, and community, as well as homage to these incredible athletes of the past and their feats of heart and stamina. All race proceeds will go to the Ukiah High School Cross Country team and North American running programs.
Register at RunSignUp or at MCOE on race day up to 7:50 a.m.
Adults: $25, NCStriders members: $20, 17 and under: $15, Family: $40