Trail Races Galleries

09.29.12: Big South Fork 10k, 17.5 MileTrail Races : Perhaps my favorite trail race of the year. The drive to Bandy Creek passes some of the best scenery in Tennessee, generally not too cold, and trail runners come from everywhere. As 17.5 miles is more than a little out of my league, I've always been a volunteer - help the finish line crew set up and photograph the runners as they finish (also took advantage of the wait to run the 3.6-mile Blevins Farm Loop last year). But his year, Bobby threw a changeup at us short-distance guys - a 10k option, which finally got me to lace up the running shoes and give it a go. Like EXPO the two races followed the same course, with the 10k turning toward the finish line at the aid station 3.1 miles in, while the big race continued on toward and eventually onto the Grand Gap Loop and 11.3 more miles before taking the same route to the finish line. I also have to say this was the most difficult race I've ever run and not just because it was 2.3 miles longer than my previous long (3.9 miles in the MRHC Summer Series). From about 4.5-6 miles was near-continuous uphill and I had to walk a good bit of it. As for the finishing order, in the 10k: Jay Spiegel, Jason Halcomb, & Curtis Combs were top 3 men; Heather Martin, Andrea Roark, & Katie Walters were the first 3 women across the line. Course records set as follows: 53:02 men, 1:03:50 women. (I was 15th overall, 13th male, in 1:04:29). And in the 17.5-miler: in the men's race Bob Adams, Gideon Wilson, & Beach Hensley were the top 3 finishers. Sally Brooking, Lindsay Hensley, & Holly Sayne were the first 3 women to hit the chute. Anyone interested in purchasing a copy of one of these that is possible. Please e-mail me at shutter_beetle@yahoo.com for more information.

09.29.12: Big South Fork 10k, 17.5 MileTrail Races

Perhaps my favorite trail race of the year. The drive to Bandy Creek ...

Updated: Oct 09, 2012 6:04am PST

08.03.12: Haw Ridge Trail Race : What a night. This race had nice, partly-cloudy conditions at the start, but the skies clouded up after about 50 minutes, lightning & thunder followed, and the first rain drops fell after after the first runners had finished (at least 30 had passed me but I was quite a ways from the chute so I have no idea how many finished ahead of the rain). I eventually had to shut down and head for the staging area to get me and the camera under cover (due to the angle the rain was coming down I walked backwards, using my body to shield it from the rain). After reaching the staging area I left the camera with the clock in the back of David Simpson's truck and grabbed my raincoat (it was in my truck) which I used to wrap the camera in (there was no point in me wearing it; I was absolutely soaked) and the camera survived the deluge. For the comfort of the runners there was a covered pavilion with hot food and plenty of post-race refreshment. After a little more than an hour the rain stopped and we even had a rainbow appear. As for the results: Dyrk Greenhalgh, Andrew Smith, & Alex Piper were first three across the line, in very quick succession (1:15 difference from first to third). Kathy Smith, Misty Wong, & Jennifer Brockett were the top thee women.

08.03.12: Haw Ridge Trail Race

What a night. This race had nice, partly-cloudy conditions at the sta ...

Updated: Aug 29, 2012 6:49am PST

06.30.12: Lakeshore Trail Trek : With temps right at 80º at race start (90º+ before any of the 9-milers finished) and humidity very high, this was one of the hottest races in KTC history. I actually considered running the shorter option, but the combination of the heat, the cost (pre-registration is $10, day-of $15), and the distance (I had never done more than a 5k) talked me out of it. In spite of the heat & humidity, both races had good participation (9 mile had 69 & the 4+ mile 33), no one got heat stroke, and a good time seemed to be had by all. Andrew Smith was the 9-mile winner; with Luke Bollschweiler & Travis Wilson two-three. Kathy Smith, Sarah Crowley, and Susan Roberts were the top three women (pretty close women's race - only 1:45 separated #1 from #3). In the "4+ mile" race the top men were Daniel Thorresen, Mark Rupinski, and Chris Bossert. Kelly Fox won the women's race, with Jessica Brackett & Sarah Bowden second and third, respectively.

06.30.12: Lakeshore Trail Trek

With temps right at 80º at race start (90º+ before any of the 9-milers ...

Updated: Aug 13, 2012 5:19am PST

05.19.12: Panther Creek 10 Mile Challenge :

05.19.12: Panther Creek 10 Mile Challenge

Updated: May 29, 2012 6:34am PST

05.12.12: Mike Edenfield Memorial 5k : Mike Edenfield, a man well known in the running & fitness community in this area, was living proof of what can be achieved when one chooses to get healthy and is willing to put forth the effort to make it reality. Not only did Mike work out and run to lose a ton of weight while increasing his fitness level exponentially, he got into the nutrition science and was willing to give advice to others who were embarking on the same journey he was. I was looking forward to seeing and getting to talk to him at John Smyth's birthday 50-miler (where he was planning to join Doug Dibb and run every step of the way with John), when the shocking news of his passing arrived from John via text message. After several ideas on how to memorialize Mike members of the Morristown Running & Hiking Club, together with Mike's widow Mica, came up with this race. It utilizes the 5k course the high schools use when they run meets here and some, who were unable to make it, did a virtual run in Mike's honor wherever they were. On the race, Max Paquette & Victoria Martinez were the overall winners, made even better for Max since his mother was visiting and was able to see him run.

05.12.12: Mike Edenfield Memorial 5k

Mike Edenfield, a man well known in the running & fitness community in ...

Updated: May 23, 2012 6:36am PST

01.15.12: Dirty Dozen Doozy 8k :

01.15.12: Dirty Dozen Doozy 8k

Updated: Feb 08, 2012 10:01am PST

09.24.11: Big South Fork 17.5 Mile Trail Race : One of the longest KTC races (only the CHKM and the Norris & CT 50k's are longer), it's also probably the most remote and offers some of the best scenery en route. It's also a favorite of long-distance trailsters all over the eastern half of the country. Bobby Glenn, race director, has done this race for years and always does a great job getting the course marked, arranging volunteers for check-in, staffing the aid station (it's at the start of the Grand Gap Loop so runners pass it twice: at 5 miles & 12.5 miles), and organizing catering for the post-race meal for the runners & volunteers. The weather was foggy & cold (low fifties) at the start but by mid-morning the skies cleared and when the runners began trickling down to the finish the temps were climbing rapidly, all the way into the mid-seventies. For the second time in three years there was an injury at the front of the field as Max Paquette, leading the race, turned his ankle 3½ miles in (two years ago Bobby Adams ripped his head open on a low-hanging tree branch and was forced to drop out). In this case, however, Max was able to continue the race and finished with an impressive time of 1:57:50. As valiant as Max's post-injury effort was, it wasn't enough to win, as Ethan Coffey crossed the line first, in 1:56:00. Max did come in second, and Bradley Adams was third in 1:59:01. Mandy Meyer topped all women, with a time of 2:20:36, Amy Macintire was second in 2:27:05, and Laura Gearhiser hit the chute third and her time was 2:32:46.

09.24.11: Big South Fork 17.5 Mile Trail Race

One of the longest KTC races (only the CHKM and the Norris & CT 50k's ...

Updated: Oct 26, 2011 4:34am PST

09.17.11: Bays Mountain 15-Mile Trail Race :

09.17.11: Bays Mountain 15-Mile Trail Race

Updated: Oct 11, 2011 6:58am PST

08.23.11: Reunion 5k : A small race, but a lot of fun. Billed as a race for former high school cross-country runners (though open to anyone), it was a Tuesday afternoon race, as opposed to the more usual Saturday/Sunday races in the area, and it started after a high school cross-country time trial. The race used Hardin Valley Academy's 5k XC course, which went through and around the staging area several times, allowing for multiple opportunities to see the runners during the race. Some members of the Farragut High School XC team stayed to cheer on Chelsea Jacobs, one of the Farragut coaches, who ran the race (thanks to Chris Kane for giving me her name). Results have not been posted at this time, but the race was won by Chris Kane and the female winner was Michelle Horton. And I have to say this race had the most entertaining finish I've ever seen. I don't have a name but her bib number was 1856 and her finish starts on photo '_MG_4631'. I would try to describe it but I don't think I can do it justice.

08.23.11: Reunion 5k

A small race, but a lot of fun. Billed as a race for former high scho ...

Updated: Aug 31, 2011 4:58am PST

07.16.11: I.C. King of Trails :

07.16.11: I.C. King of Trails

Updated: Sep 12, 2011 10:26am PST

06.11.11: Panther Creek 10-Mile Challenge : The closest TTT race to where I live, this is also one of the most brutal (though none of them could really be considered "easy"). This race may not appear all that difficult as Panther Creek doesn't have super-tall mountains - the high point is about 1465'-1470' and Cherokee Lake is about 1070'-1075' when full so the park's total elevation change is just under 400' - plus the course is a net downhill, but Michael deLisle (who set up this course last year) had the runners traversing that distance several times over, for a total rise~n~fall of about 2400'. Turnout was up from last year, weather was great (a tad warm & humid but not bad), and most of the runners appeared to be having a good time. Thanks to both MD & Race Director (and Park Administrator) John LeCroy for what was a well-run (no pun intended) race. As the runners neared the finish line the man at the point was well-known to most KTCer's (road & trail alike) - Bobby Adams, who finished in a record-setting 1:16:53. Morristown West XC ace Jordan Noe crossed the line in second and Michael Smelser was the third finisher. The women's race was won by Jennifer Singh. Veteran KTC trailsters Laura Gearhiser & Leah Jones were second & third, respectively. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

06.11.11: Panther Creek 10-Mile Challenge

The closest TTT race to where I live, this is also one of the most bru ...

Updated: Jul 15, 2011 5:53am PST

02.20.11: Wild West Ridge Run : After the trails committee decided not to continue Belly of the Beast, they turned their eye to Haw Ridge park. Already the site of a TTT race the first Friday of August, Haw Ridge is big enough to have two races without doing much if any duplication, so they decided to run the lead-off race at Haw Ridge, turning the difficulty level up a couple of notches from Belly of the Beast in the process, and the Wild West Ridge Run was born. In keeping with the Sunday afternoon tradition the race started at 2:00 and the weather could not have been better - hardly any clouds in the sky and unseasonably warm. Additionally the turnout of 90 runners was more than any Belly of the Beast ever run. The course was designed to be difficult and only one runner eclipsed an hour - Xterra regular Fred Smith. Joseph Goetz & Brian Williams were the next two to cross the line, each just a few seconds over an hour. KTC trail ace Laura Gearhiser won yet another race, Jennifer DeBruyn was second, and Nicole Rammer finished third. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

02.20.11: Wild West Ridge Run

After the trails committee decided not to continue Belly of the Beast, ...

Updated: Mar 22, 2011 4:23am PST

01.16.11: Dirty Dozen Doozy 8k : One of my favorites - afternoon start, wide-open course, very low-key, and a lot of fun overall. The weather this year was the best in the history of this race, combining the best elements of the two previous years - the mid-40's temperatures of 2010 and the sunny skies of 2009. Additionally, lots of snow and rain the preceding weeks made the soccer field VERY wet (also like 2010), with 2-3" of standing water pretty much everywhere, which only adds to the preceding "a lot of fun overall". The male winner was Stewart Ellington (he's won every Dirty Dozen to date - 3 so far), and Foot Locker H.S. All-American Joanna Thompson won the women's side. Top Masters pair were Craig Schwartz & Laura Gearhiser. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

01.16.11: Dirty Dozen Doozy 8k

One of my favorites - afternoon start, wide-open course, very low-key, ...

Updated: Feb 02, 2011 6:03am PST

09.25.10: Big South Fork 17.5-Mile Trail Race :

09.25.10: Big South Fork 17.5-Mile Trail Race

Updated: Dec 08, 2010 11:00am PST

08.06.10: Haw Ridge Trail Race :

08.06.10: Haw Ridge Trail Race

Updated: Aug 10, 2010 7:05am PST

07.17.10: Panther Creek 10-Mile Challenge : One of the most grueling races East Tennessee has to offer. Race Director Michael deLisle started runners down the Ridge Crest trail almost to the lake, then right before the finish line they passed the highest point in the entire park. In between, according to one runner's GPS data, was almost ½-mile of up~n~down (2400-2500 feet). About the only way MD could make this any tougher would be to reverse the course for next year (then the runners would have to do the steepest-uphill-grade-in-the-entire-park Ridge Crest trail the HARD way instead of the easy way AND at the end instead of the beginning). Adam Merook & Connor Hatfield were the first two, both finishing in under 1:20. Meriberto Torres was third. The women's race had a familiar face out front - trail ace Laura Gearhiser. Leslie Hansen & Leah Jones were 2-3. Like all TTT races, there were no teams. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

07.17.10: Panther Creek 10-Mile Challenge

One of the most grueling races East Tennessee has to offer. Race Dire ...

Updated: Jul 26, 2010 8:20am PST

05.15.10: The Trail That Can't Be Concord : This was a great race. The later-than-usual start meant a little more rest before having to head out, though it also contributed to a warmer race. That heat plus the larger-than-expected turnout meant that there wasn't enough water (such is the uncertainty even experienced race directors like TR face - a big turnout can mean shortages; a small turnout can mean the volunteers have to lug heavy coolers of gator-/power-ade back out - she still did a great job). There was plenty of food and even with no awards ceremony a lot of runners hung out to socialize after the run. Brent Johnson, Brad Adams, & Justin Hiday were the top 3 men, while Laura Gearhiser, Christi Deyton, & Susan Finney were the first 3 females to cross the line. As is usual with the TTT series, there were no awards except series points (based on overall finish; volunteers also earn series points) which counts towards awards at the end of the series (the Top 10 Open & Masters, male & female) and complimentary hotel accommodations for and free entry into Big South Fork or the Cumberland Trail 50k for the overall Open & Masters winners (again male & female). Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if anyone has any questions or to place an order.

05.15.10: The Trail That Can't Be Concord

This was a great race. The later-than-usual start meant a little more ...

Updated: May 21, 2010 12:45pm PST

01.17.10: Dirty Dozen Doozy 8k : In only its second year, this race has had about as extreme a weather as it can get: not a cloud in the sky & near-freezing conditions last year; this year continuous rain ranging from a light sprinkle to moderate (including 3" deep puddles on the soccer field) and a little warmer, at 50º (though due to the rain it didn't feel much if any warmer than last year). All in all, it was somewhat reminscent of Big South Fork '09 but without the waist-deep creek crossings. For my part, a borrowed umbrella, a couple of helpers, and the tarp at the finish line kept my camera from getting too wet to work and in spite of the conditions most seemed to be having a good time. For the second year in a row Stewart Ellington & Alan Horton were 1-2. The top two women were Emily Mack & Savannah Stair. There were no teams. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

01.17.10: Dirty Dozen Doozy 8k

In only its second year, this race has had about as extreme a weather ...

Updated: Jan 22, 2010 6:37am PST

09.26.09: Big South Fork 17.5-Mile Trail Race : This was a really fun race. Running 17.5 miles under any circumstances is a challenge; add rain and it becomes more difficult (some creeks were waist-deep, this was also the first year no one managed to crack 2 hours), but for the young-at-heart it also added a fun "let's play in the rain" element, which made it a lot of fun, whether running or watching (at least when there's cover for the photographer, as there was for this race), and most seemed to be having a blast. Luke Bollschweiler was the first across the line, with Jamie Cook second & Brad Higdon in third. For the second year in a row Tracy Brooks claimed the women's title. Sara Maltby & Sally Brooking rounded out the top three. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

09.26.09: Big South Fork 17.5-Mile Trail Race

This was a really fun race. Running 17.5 miles under any circumstances ...

Updated: Nov 16, 2009 8:00am PST

08.08.09: Trojan Trek 5k : The third in the EBS Quad series, this has gone from a small local race (less than 100 in 2007) to a rather large race, with 210 finishers, this year. Put on by the Morristown West CC Team, several other high schools, including Greenville & Knoxville Catholic, sent teams to compete. The winners were the usual suspects: Chad Newton & Kelsey Armstrong (both 3-for-3 with just Mountain Makins to go). Matt Bishop & Andee "Punky" Cranford were second, and Paul Thames & Ashley Ellenburg finished third. Prints are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping is a flat-rate $3 for prints up to 5x7, and $4 for 8x10 prints (due to the larger mailer & more postage required). To place an order or to make any comments please e-mail me at shutter_beetle@yahoo.com. K

08.08.09: Trojan Trek 5k

The third in the EBS Quad series, this has gone from a small local rac ...

Updated: Oct 26, 2009 7:39am PST

08.07.09: Haw Ridge Trail Race : Held on a Friday afternoon, this TTT race is unique among any KTC series. The only other non-weekend KTC races are New Year's Day, Fireball, & Autumnfest, and those are all holiday races. It was a little on the warm side at the start, but as the afternoon turned into evening things got pleasantly cool and a number of the runners stayed around for a while to enjoy the atmosphere and post-race food. Kudos to director Kevin Pack for providing grilled hot dogs for a post-race snack/evening meal. Andy Baksa was the first to cross the line and Laura Gearhiser was top female. There were no awards per se (Laura didn't even know she'd won until I told her afterwards); like most TTT races there are few if any awards and most runners are just running for the fun of it. Prints are for sale as usual. Pricing is as follows. 4x6: $3, 5x7: $5, 8x10: $10. Shipping is 1st Class U.S. Mail in a cardboard-reinforced photo mailer is $3-4 depending on the print size. I can also hand-deliver at a later race if desired. For more information or to place an order or make a comment please e-mail me at: shutter_beetle@yahoo.com.

08.07.09: Haw Ridge Trail Race

Held on a Friday afternoon, this TTT race is unique among any KTC seri ...

Updated: Oct 27, 2009 8:36am PST

08.01.09: Xterra Planet Panther Creek 10k : One of the few prized close-to-home races (and starts later then most, another plus), this one attracts only a relative handful (around 40), but they come from far and wide - one woman came from Pennsylvania and another from Florida. It was also a challenging race, with the trail starting and ending at the boat ramp - maybe 1100' elevation - but going by Point Lookout, the highest point in the park at 1460'. Tom Dever, one of the Knoxville-area speedsters, won the race in 41:25 (proving once again the difficulty of this course). Michelle Tanner, also of Knoxville, won the women's race in 56:43. Prints, as is usual, are for sale, at the following prices: 4x6 - $3 5x7 - $5 8x10 - $10 To place an order or to make any comments my e-mail address is shutter_beetle@yahoo.com K

08.01.09: Xterra Planet Panther Creek 10k

One of the few prized close-to-home races (and starts later then most, ...

Updated: Oct 27, 2009 11:10am PST

05.30.09: Panther Creek 4-Miler : The first of the new-for-2009 EBS Quad Series, this is the second year that Friends of Panther Creek has hosted the run. This also marks the second year that an event has been added. In addition to running the 4-mile race, FOPC added a 2.5-mile hike last year, and this year they added a 1-mile kids nature race/walk. Chad Newton was the winner of the men's race and Kelsey Armstrong won the women's side (at least her 8th 1st-place finish since 10/08). EBS took first place in the team competition. Since the nature walk was held concurrently with the race/hike, but in a different part of the park, I only have a few candids I grabbed before heading up to take the finish line race shots. I also had technical difficulties which resulted in me only getting one shot of the front of the field racing toward the Old Wagon Trail, where the runners made the transition from the road to the trails. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

05.30.09: Panther Creek 4-Miler

The first of the new-for-2009 EBS Quad Series, this is the second year ...

Updated: Oct 27, 2009 6:57am PST

03.22.09: Belly of the Beast Trail Run : The kickoff to the 2009 edition of the Treadin' Trodden Trails series, this is the first Belly of the Beast run I've gotten to shoot in three tries. While the forecast called for upper 60's, it was probably closer to 70-75º and with no shade at the finish area, made for a very hot day. In spite of the hotter-then-expected weather, the low turnout (46 runners) and a wrong turn that led to the runners running the Beast backwards, it was still a great race and everyone there seemed to be having a wonderful time. Kevin Carraher was the men's winner and Sarah Sterling was the top female finisher. There were no teams. No awards per se either, the only thing awarded was TTT series or maybe Mayor's Cup points. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

03.22.09: Belly of the Beast Trail Run

The kickoff to the 2009 edition of the Treadin' Trodden Trails series, ...

Updated: Oct 30, 2009 8:48am PST

01.18.09: Dirty Dozen Doozy 8k : Rather a fun race. In spite of being a trail run, the course was so open the runners could be seen at several points from the start~finish line and there were a few obstacles too. Director B.H. did a great job making this a challenging course, sticking a hay bale jump just past the end of the longest/steepest hill, plus he followed part of the same route as a bicycle race held earlier this month. The damage caused by the bikes almost guaranteed a muddy course, but the freeze on Friday (it was

01.18.09: Dirty Dozen Doozy 8k

Rather a fun race. In spite of being a trail run, the course was so o ...

Updated: Oct 30, 2009 8:20am PST

09.27.08: Big South Fork 17.5-Mile Trail Race : The second-longest KTC race of the year (after the marathon), this is a great trail race. Director Bobby Glenn, as usual, did a great job and the turnout was about 150. Unlike the 5k & 10k runs (both on road & off), this one is remote & long enough that it tends to draw more of the hardcore trail runners from all over the southeast than just the Knoxville metro area (the Farragut Fall 5k in west Knoxville may also have depressed the K'ville-area attendance). About the only downside was the yellow jacket nest near the trail that got stirred up, with the predictable result. Chad Newton took home the mens title with a 2+ minute record-shattering run, Sammy Nyamongo also broke the old record, and Bobby Holcombe missed it by 3 seconds. Tracy Brooks, running her first race as an EBS team runner, continued her string of strong runs by winning the women's race. Tonya Lumphrey & Marsha Morton were second & third females.

09.27.08: Big South Fork 17.5-Mile Trail Race

The second-longest KTC race of the year (after the marathon), this is ...

Updated: Nov 04, 2009 8:43am PST

09.13.08: Marine Corps League of Knoxville Mud Run : The most fun race of the year. Only a 5k, but what a 5K! This is a full-blown obstacle course, with pipes to crawl through, sand mounds to climb over, walls & a ladder to scale, sections that go through Melton Hill lake, tires to run through, and, of course, a large mud pit. Last year I was stationed at the pipes, this year just down the trail from the mud pit. This had the twin advantages of getting the runners after hitting the mud pit and since it was only a mile along the course, I was able to get to the finish line well ahead of most of the runners, so I could get candids at the staging area. Andy Baksa, who would have won last year had he not suffered an injury on the course, did get the win this year, and Taylor Poling followed up her win last year with another one this year. Kevin Green & Ron Manis were 2-3 in the men's category, with Jacqueline Olson and Tracy Brooks rounding out the women's top-3. Due to a non-compete agreement with the Marine Corps League I'm not selling these, but feel free to bookmark if desired.

09.13.08: Marine Corps League of Knoxville Mud Run

The most fun race of the year. Only a 5k, but what a 5K! This is a f ...

Updated: Nov 10, 2009 11:24am PST

08.09.08: Trojan Trek 5k : This is the second Panther Creek race to go from a medium-small event with just Morristown and a few from surrounding counties to a huge race in just one year. Unlike the Panther 8k in June, this one was never affiliated with the Knoxville Track Club, but there were several high schools, including both Morristown schools (West's Cross-Country Boosters were the sponsors), Greeneville, and Knox. Catholic, that sent teams to run the event and the turnout was much bigger than last year. Jeff Day, as usual, won the race in record-breaking fashion (his sixth course record so far this year!), finishing the 5k off-road course in under 16 minutes, and former West cross-country ace Andee Swann Cranford took the women's side. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

08.09.08: Trojan Trek 5k

This is the second Panther Creek race to go from a medium-small event ...

Updated: Nov 11, 2009 11:45am PST

08.02.08: Xterra Planet Panther Creek 10k : The second of the east Tennessee Xterra trail races I've attended (also Seven Islands in March), this is also the closest one to my home in Morristown. Not terribly well-attended this year (since the Knoxville Track Club chose not to renew their affiliation), it was still an enjoyable day. There were a decent number of people, especially members of the Cumberland Gap HillToppers. Two of their number were the race-winners - Jeremy Donahue took the men's race, with Tracy Brooks claiming victory on the women's side. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

08.02.08: Xterra Planet Panther Creek 10k

The second of the east Tennessee Xterra trail races I've attended (als ...

Updated: Nov 11, 2009 12:13pm PST

06.07.08: Panther Creek 4-Miler & 2½-Mile Hike : After the KTC decided not to renew this race for the 2008 season, mostly due to the driving distance, (lack of) attendance, and the fact that there were a number of trail races (BSF and the TTT series), the race was picked up by Friends of Panther Creek. It was a rousing success, with 131 runners who finished the race, far more than this race had last year. Since this was the first time Dennis Zazueta & Sheri Belling had ever directed a race, John Smyth was on hand to give help from his experience directing the Healthstar/Jackie Long 5k which will be held 6/28 at Rose Center. Everyone appeared to have a great time and I want to congratulate Dennis & Sheri on the job they did as directors. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

06.07.08: Panther Creek 4-Miler & 2½-Mile Hike

After the KTC decided not to renew this race for the 2008 season, most ...

Updated: Nov 10, 2009 11:12am PST

05.17.08: Seven Islands Sunblast : The lone Saturday race from the new KTC Treadin' Trodden Trails series (after the Xterra contract was not renewed), this was a very chilly, foggy morning (temperature probably

05.17.08: Seven Islands Sunblast

The lone Saturday race from the new KTC Treadin' Trodden Trails series ...

Updated: Nov 11, 2009 1:04pm PST

03.22.08: Xterra Planet seven Islands 10k : After the parting of ways with the KTC, the Xterra Planet people had some of the same races, just at different times. This was one of the first in 2008 and what a gorgeous day it was. Little if any wind and not a cloud in the sky. It was also a great one for the photographer, as it was a double-5k loop, so I got the runners twice. Jeremy Donahue and Tracy Brooks were the winners of the event. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping is $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

03.22.08: Xterra Planet seven Islands 10k

After the parting of ways with the KTC, the Xterra Planet people had s ...

Updated: Nov 20, 2009 12:33pm PST

10.27.07: Corn Maze 4-Miler & 1-Mile Fun Walk : Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping is $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

10.27.07: Corn Maze 4-Miler & 1-Mile Fun Walk

Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 ...

Updated: Dec 01, 2009 2:23pm PST

09.22.07: Bays Mountain 15-Mile Trail Race : Held at Kingsport's park of the same name, this was a great race in one of the most beautiful & picturesque parks in all of east Tennessee. Originally set up as Kingsport's water supply, the park is situated around a 43-acre bowl that is dammed up to form the lake. After outgrowing the lake in the early 1940's the city eventually decided to turn the site into a city park, complete with a planetarium & observatory, barge rides on the lake, and wildlife exhibits including wolves, bobcats, deer, otter, and many more. The race started at the wolf pen, headed up to the firetower, then along some wooded areas, down to the lake across the dam, and back to the wolf pen. The overall length allowed me to catch them at the firetower (I had a shortcut - 0.7-mile hiking trail, to their about 4-6 miles) and then again at the dam. Aaron Saft was the winner, finishing in a near-incredible 1:33:20. Frankie Adkins & Jerad Crave were 2nd & 3rd, respectively. Jeanne Parish won the womens race, with Sally Evenden & Nicole Goodman 2-3. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping is $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

09.22.07: Bays Mountain 15-Mile Trail Race

Held at Kingsport's park of the same name, this was a great race in on ...

Updated: Nov 30, 2009 11:11am PST

08.25.07: Marine Corps Mud Run :

08.25.07: Marine Corps Mud Run

Updated: Dec 14, 2009 12:04pm PST

08.11.07: Trojan Trek 5k :

08.11.07: Trojan Trek 5k

Updated: Nov 30, 2009 11:21am PST

06.30.07: I.C. King of Trails : This is an Xterra series race like the Seven Islands race in May. Unfortunately my camera had some real focusing issues so some of these aren't sharp and I had to throw a lot of finish line photos away - too blurry. Oh well. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

06.30.07: I.C. King of Trails

This is an Xterra series race like the Seven Islands race in May. Unf ...

Updated: Nov 16, 2009 7:43am PST

05.19.07: Xterra Seven Islands Sunblast : The first race of my KTC photography career. In what was to become a rarity, I was also a course monitor in addition to photographer. I had a great spot - at a clearing with a T-junction. The runners first ran across the cross of the T, then came up the vertical part and turned right to the finish line. The weather was great and everyone seemed to be having a great time. As regards the winners, Mike Moran was the overall winner (I actually missed him because his number had slipped behind his back and by the time I saw his bib he was already by me) and Sally Evenden won the women's side. Chad Dean & Barry Lucas were second & third men, Tracy Brooks and Jaime Brede were 2-3 for the women. There were no teams. Prints from this event are for sale at the following prices: 4x6: $3 5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Shipping will be $3-4 depending on print size. Digital files are also available: 4x6/5x7: $5 8x10: $10 Please e-mail me at krosskountryphotography@yahoo.com or shutter_beetle@yahoo.com if you have any questions or comments, or to place an order.

05.19.07: Xterra Seven Islands Sunblast

The first race of my KTC photography career. In what was to become a ...

Updated: Nov 27, 2009 6:31am PST

01.13.13: Dirty Dozen Doozy : 8k starts on _mg_0722.

01.13.13: Dirty Dozen Doozy

8k starts on _mg_0722.

Updated: Feb 13, 2013 11:22am PST

04.19.13: Spring Series @ Frank Lorino Park :

04.19.13: Spring Series @ Frank Lorino Park

Updated: Apr 19, 2013 12:14pm PST