After the party

The snow had long since melted, the sun shone and the runners ventured from their cabins to bash the westwoods trails. The occasion was the fifth Bimblers Bash, allegedly 10 kilometers of technical single track trails through preserved woodland, but those in the know will tell you it might be a little longer. In just five years the event has doubled in size, in the grand scheme of things it isn’t a huge race, but with a field of just over 200 runners it is able to host a friendly intimate atmosphere while at the same time provide a competitive and challenging race.

The winner flew the course in well under an hour while the last runners to cross the line took a little over 2. In between there were smiles, the excitement a few bumps, grazes and a cut had that might have required a stitch or two. Hopefully one or two of those who took part will share their stories, thoughts or comments for others to read. The full results can be found here and see pictures here.

Once it was over and the finish line taken down, Westwoods returned to its normal peaceful existence. It is preserved by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust and maintained by their volunteer group, the Westwoods Trails Committee. Proceeds from the race go to the trust. To them, all the runners, race volunteers (there was over 20 of them) and KC’s Pub for their hot soup, thank you for making the Bash a success once again. See you all next year.

Footnote: if you think the course was a tad short there is always the Bimbler’s Bluff 50k. This year’s race will be on October 23^rd, 2011, come on you know it makes sense – trust me!