Wausau’s first ultramarathon returns for second year
WAUSAU (Wausau Pilot & Review) – Race directors Ellen Humberston and Jenn Schmoldt expected that organizing the second IRONBULL Ultra Trail 50k/15k in 2020 would be easier than the inaugural event in 2019. On top of making adjustments in race protocols because of COVID-19, Humberston and Schmoldt overhauled the courses for the event. Due to permitting related to the pandemic, they had to create two different racecourses for 2020 with the second course planned almost entirely on trails on private land. Thanks to their efforts, the IRONBULL Ultra Trail event is one of the few running events to be held in 2020 in the state.
“We have been so blessed to have ten property owners allow us to use their properties for this year’s event. Without them, we simply not could have held the event,” said Schmoldt.
Although racers were given the option to defer to 2021, many racers have not taken that option and are excited to have an in person race on the calendar. One of the two 50k waves is already full.
“With so many races canceled, my heart was not into training. Knowing that the Ultra Trail will be held has made me super excited and all about training again,” said Tracy Major. Major volunteered at the event last year and is returning to race the 50k this year.
Adaptations for COVID-19 include day-of bib pickup with a virtual pre-race meeting, socially distanced (six feet apart) wave starts, and drop bags rather than communal food at aid stations. Free food and beer for racers and a live band is planned at the post-race festival with plenty of room for attendees to distance themselves at State Park Speedway.
“Our top priority is to provide our racers, volunteers, and spectators a safe, but still challenging and enjoyable event,” said Humberston. “Wimmer Racing has been very accommodating to our needs and we look forward to State Park Speedway being our headquarters for the IRONBULL Ultra Trail.”
A free training run to be held on September 19, 2020 will be led by race directors and open to all. The IRONBULL Ultra Trail 50k/15k will be held October 3, 2020 starting and ending at State Park Speedway in Rib Mountain. More details including how to volunteer are at: https://www.ironbull.org/ultra-marathon-details