Hello hikers and runners!
IF YOU SURVIVED THIS YEAR’S CHALLENGE, LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LIKED OR HOW WE COULD MAKE THINGS EVEN BETTER FOR NEXT YEAR!
IF YOU SURVIVED THIS YEAR’S CHALLENGE, LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LIKED OR HOW WE COULD MAKE THINGS EVEN BETTER FOR NEXT YEAR!
March 10th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
FYI camping is available about 100 yards from the start/finish. We’ll have a nice fire going and some emenities just for campers. Trailers can park across the road at the airstrip. For $20 campers get a WCSA membership, food Friday night, breakfast Saturday morning, and showers. The first 25 campers to pick up their membership cards Friday night will receive a free pair of $10 Wigwam Trailrunning socks. Space is limited so reserve your campsite early. Ray Werts, president of the WCSA, can be reached at rwerts@localnet.com
April 15th, 2008 at 11:48 am
Wow!! Great course. I ran/hiked it from Hyner to Huff(a lot of the new section) on Sunday, April 6th. If you did this event last year, you are going to seriously enjoy the changes the race crew has made. Exceptional trail, awesome views(after huffing up the switchbacks), and some neat running along and across the stream sections(Huff Run and Johnson Run. Craig, fantastic! You and your crew have spent some time on this trail and have masterminded a beautiful, fun, and of course challenging run thru the “PA Wilds”. Not only can I not wait until this weekend but I can’t wait to revisit this area and terrain often. Thank you for really putting your heart into this and listening to last years hike/run comments and suggestions. For all those who missed the cut off date, please mark your calendar for next year. You won’t want to miss out! To all the rest of the 650 participants, get ready for a GREAT day in the forest. Looking forward to spending the day with a a bunch of like-minded, energetic, and challenge-seeking hikers and runners.
April 15th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
This is a special thanks to the members of the Western Clinton Sportmen’s Association for their involvement with the Hyner Challenge. Many long hours have been donated to build and maintain the Event Center. Those who participated last year will notice the many improvements made in the recent months. This in part was made possible through donations made last year from you the participant and from a donation from the PA Trail Dogs.
An ongoing building fund includes plans for a large deck facing Hyner Mountain along with outdoor showers. A large pavilion is also planned. This is your event! If you want more amenities at the Event Center we hope that you will consider a small donation. We, on the race committee side, speculate this will become the largest trail event in Pennsylvania next year. We don’t want to be the largest….. We want to be the best! We will provide the toughest and most scenic trails…. The WCSA will provide the comfort and hospitality at the start and finish. My challenge to you is simple. If you felt that this event was a good value, consider a small donation to the WCSA. Meet and talk with Ray Wertz whose passion is to build the best Event Center possible. If you would like to use the WCSA Event Center for your event, talk to Ray.
April 20th, 2008 at 6:50 am
Craig and crew,
Just wanted to say thanks for putting on the event. The time donated by all from preparing trails to filling water bottles was well appreciated. It was a real challenge and as Trail Guy said this will be a good base to start on for the Mega. I’m looking forward to next year and maybe I can drag the kids out.
Again, thanks to all.
April 20th, 2008 at 7:53 am
Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the Challenge yesterday. The trail was outstanding but what really made the event was all the volunteers. Everyone of them are what I call ” good people”. Thanks to all of them; especially the one on the trail that said “it’s all down hill from here!”. I really needed to hear that:) It was a great day. Thank you!
April 20th, 2008 at 8:57 am
In a word: Intense! For all the “constructive criticism” I offered last year, I can’t say anything needs to be improved upon. It was just perfect. Johnson Hollow was a welcome reprieve from the heat and bugs and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Returning down Huff Run was a nice relaxing way to end the trails with a good feeling about it all. Your volunteers were fantastic and the food at the finish was wonderful. It was great that they brought along gardenburgers for the vegetarians too. Great job all!!!!!
April 20th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Intense??? try Sadistically Intense!!! Wow, I can really apprecialte the long hours and hard work that went into making these changes from last years course. Great Job! Thanks to all that made it happen.
April 20th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Craig,
You guys did a great job of organizing and orchestrating the event. The trails were were groomed perfectly, a runner or hiker couldn’t have asked for more. There was plenty to eat and the check points great. I thoroughly enjoyed the event.
I was one of the unlucky ones that went down with the heat just before the pipe line and didn’t finish. I wanted to continue when I recovered but the firemen said “NO”. Well, discression was the better part of valor and it was the right thing to do under the circumstances. The disappointment of not finishing was harder for me than the heat. I must say though I have a new found respect for the mountains and the heat and will be more prepared for the next challenge. I wish to thank all the volunteers who braved the heat and bugs to see to our needs and care for those of us in our time of need. I hope everyone came through the challenge ok and hope to see you all on the trails soon and for sure the next Hyner Challenge.. Thanks very much!!
April 20th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
Well guys, THAT was interesting! Having taken the entire winter off after the Mega and the fact that my training for this event consisted of me running 5 consecutive miles on Thursday just to see if I could, I am proud to say I survived. Notice I didn’t say finished. Finished is NOT the right term for Hyner. Survivors, not finishers. I did see one dead guy laying along the trail but he managed to pass me on Huff Run coming down. I am guessing pact with the Devil.
I went in blind. Which is good because otherwise I doubt I would have signed up! I had heard conflicting reports stating that it was easier than the Mega or as some said, a bit more trying. A BIT MORE TRYING??? And these were individuals from LAST year when it was supposedly easier!!
Anyway, since an out of shape mother of three was able to do it in I THINK under 6 hours, perhaps you should make it more difficult? Some suggestions would be having UFC fighters along the course to kick you in the kidneys. SOB would be a bit harder if you would cover it in rattle snakes and have us pick our way through. Maybe some shard glass and rusty nails too? Just some suggestions so it doesn’t get boring.
My favorite part was all the gnats you had shipped in for the occasion. Nice touch. I think they were my main source of protein during the race and I am still blowing them out of my nose.
Seriously though it was a great event. Food was good and the massages were heaven sent!! Two suggestions would be having more porta potties down by the cars and maybe a shuttle wagon of sorts to take us back down after the race. This would also benefit WCSA as many wallets were left in vehicles. The walk to the parking lot wasn’t bad if you didn’t mind eating dust.
On to the Mega!!
Oh and thank God I didn’t talk Kiaya into doing it, I value our friendship too much!!
April 20th, 2008 at 7:18 pm
I thought last years event was well organized and the course was great. This year was even better. The course was truely a challenge. I was certainly tested both physically (ran the last hour with cramps but refused to stop until I finished) and mentally. That is what this event is all about. I have done the Mega and the escartment, I rank this course and event on the top of that list. Thanks to the organizers and volunteer staff. I look forward to next year.
April 20th, 2008 at 9:26 pm
Hey Craig and everybody in the gang,
Thanks so much for everything! I really appreciated the encouragement of everybody- volunteers, runners, hikers, etc. It was a phenominal event. It’s something I’ve never done. I’m a very determined person, and knowing that I was so far back along with another, made me wonder if you’d allow us to finish. I’m thankful you did…I wouldn’t have been a happy camper if y’all would have had us just quit. Crossing that finish line, with the encouraging comments, and hollering, and cheering was awesome. So, thank you SO much for everything. The trails were awesome! I loved the challenge…keep up the awesome work with everything in the near future. You guys are great! I’m looking forward to next year…just I’ll be in better shape!
April 20th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
The race was awesome!! Trail running has definitely became my new love and this race gave me a greater love. I did the damn half in October which was awesome but the challenge of this course made it even better. I ran the Philly marathon in November which was tough and definitely gratifying! But when i ran Hyner Saturday, I can honestly say that it was harder than the marathon. Thanks for the wonderful challenge! I look forward to having the challenge again next year!!
April 21st, 2008 at 6:52 am
There really isn’t many words to describe my experience this past weekend. Needless to say I was incredibly humbled by the Hyner Trail Challenge, and it was a challenge in every sense of the word. From the Goat path to the endless Johnson Trail to the borderline suicidal Cleveland Hollow Trail (I literally became sick to my stomach after I climbed most of the GARBY to come face-to-face with the S.O.B. sorry for all of those who had to watch). I never been pushed to the limits that I was pushed to this past Saturday. Thank you to Craig, Trail Guy, WCSA, all the volunteers. The support was great, the people were fantastic and I will not soon forget Hyner View. Only another 363 more days until the next challenge, and I will come much more prepared this time around.
April 21st, 2008 at 6:54 am
I just wanted to say thank you to everyone involved. This is the first time I have ever done anything like this in my life and I have to say what a rush! The volunteers were awesome and the encouragement from the other participants went a long way in helping me acheive this goal. I mark this event as a true personal victory. I have to thank Chris who continues to train me and inspire me to continually challenge myself. I can’t wait to see what I can do next.
THANK YOU
See you next year!
April 21st, 2008 at 7:54 am
A big “thanks” to all those volunteers who took their time & energy to make my first experience on a trail race/hike a memorable experience. Having trained, very slight on some of the Appalachian Trials I was unprepared for the sheer height and beauty the mountains have to offer. The trails were so beautifully maintained and well marked.
A kodoos to Craig the fearless organizer to be brave enough to be standing at the top of SOB awaiting those who may have fallen him harm after THAT climb. What was he thinking? Looking forward to next years event!
April 21st, 2008 at 8:22 am
Hyner View Trail Challenge Survey:
1) How many people thought the little hill/ path leading up to the finish line was just the last line in a series of cruel jokes? (Where was the camera to capture the faces of the people trying to make that climb?)
2) How many people looked up S.O.B. started climbing and grabbed the little thorn tree to help pull them self up? (Guess they wanted to wake you up so you didn’t fall 2000 vertical feet to you death.)
3) Did you run/ hike course last year? Train harder this year? Still almost die?
4) Do you think that the people who designed this course should look into some serious psychological counseling? (Or at least get a job interrogating suspected terrorists.)
5) Fell more than 3 times on the course?
6) Were you wondering during the race, “How am I ever going to finish?” Then thought, “Who is the mad man/ woman that carried a pick, shovel or rake and made these paths? “
7) Could you walk on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday…? Check all that apply?
9) Did you talk a friend into doing the race, only to find out after the race you have one less friend?
10) Have you already checked to web site to sign up for the 2009 Hyner View Trail Challenge? (Sick-o)
Seriously the race was very well planned, the volunteers were very very very helpful and I wouldn’t change a thing!! Thank you to everyone involved in planning and running such a great event.
April 21st, 2008 at 9:33 am
A great Course! Every bit as tough as the MegaTransect with a higher intensity level! Thank you to all the volunteers! That was a very well ’stocked’ trail with food and supplies just where you needed them most. Great Job race organizers! I will definitely be back next year!
April 21st, 2008 at 11:40 am
Great course! Can you trail crew take a bow and this year off? Keeping the same course will enable us to feel warm and fuzzy when we shave about one or two hours off our time next year. Besides, you can’t improve on perfection(well, maybe a chair lift up Cleveland Hollow would be a nice addition)
Craig-great job on the shoe and sock selection. My feet are the only part of me that isn’t hurting.
Rick-I expect to see you crossing the finish line ahead of me next year!
April 21st, 2008 at 12:07 pm
I had no business being out there, but somehow managed to survive the most grueling undertaking of my life. Thank God for lots of friendly people willing to share food, water, bug spray, and words of encouragement. Only by sheer willpower did I manage to get beyond what I believe to be about the 8.5 mile point. The mountain lion sign was a nice touch of humor. If I can get the nerve up to try again, I’ll do a better job of preparing.
Thanks to all the volunteers and the organizers for a truly awe-inspring event, one which forces each participant to dig down to their last ounce of energy and resolve. If I had known what I was getting into, I never could have done it.
April 21st, 2008 at 12:16 pm
Great job Craig and much thanks to Ray and WCSA. The camping was fantastic. The race was the hardest I’ve ever run - even harder than typical road marathons. Much thanks to the trainers who taped my ankle before the race - I think this really benefitted me. You really know how to put on a fantastic challenge event. Don’t change a thing. And congratulations to everyone who finished this beast.
April 21st, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Great course….. don’t change a thing for next year. I want a crack at it again….
April 21st, 2008 at 1:57 pm
Fellow Hyner View Challenge Crazies,
The Second Hyner View Challenge was super and all the volunteers and fellow hikers/runners made the day even better. I hope most or all of you will return to the Sproul State Forest during the weekend of July 18 to 20 for Prowl the Sproul. The trails won’t be quite as intense but the scenery and good companionship will be present and acounted for. The bright green sheet from KTA which was in each bag of goodies highlights the details. Every person who was involved as a helper or participant did it with such good humor and finishing was a Challenge made a lot more enjoyable by all who were there. Thanks for a great day!
April 21st, 2008 at 2:08 pm
OMG…I did the Megatransect last fall and vowed I would be better prepared to face Hyner this spring. I took off about 20 lbs over the winter and forced myself to climb what I thought were steep hills all winter long, but alas, found myself running out of steam on hill/mountain number two. I managed to fight my way to the next aid station where some gatorade and a couple handfuls of trail mix revived me enough to continue on. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I got to the bottom of the SOB. I might have even stood around for a minute waiting for the sherpa to appear that was certainly going to guide me up and over this moutain pass. The final stretch down Huff Run was pure agony as the blisters on my feet reminded me of the importance and worth of a good pair of trail shoes…Craig I’ll def be coming to see you on that! All in all, good race, great trails, wonderful volunteers! Keep up the good work and thank you for giving me the opportunity to prove to myself that training hard might not get you to the front of the pack, but it just might get you to the finish line. See you next year!
April 21st, 2008 at 2:23 pm
This was my first ever trail run…what an unbelievable experience! As I have said to a number of folks since Sat, running a marathon does not do this justice. Special thanks to Craig who helped me pick the right shoes a few months ago. About the only thing that does not hurt right now are my feet! Also, to back up what everybody else is saying, a big thanks to the volunteers. Especially the guy somewhere about mile 13 (?) as I was crossing the road hobbled with cramps. He told me to hang on and ran over to his truck quick and pulled out the last banana that he had..what a godsend! I am pretty sure that the guys that I came with and myself will train just a wee bit different for next year!!
April 21st, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Is that the best you have to offer? Alright, just kidding, that course kicked my butt. I loved every minute maybe except for the S.O.B. part. Craig I blame that section on you. I know how sick you are. Looking forward to see what’s in store for next year. Thanks to all the volunteers and station workers. Not a blister, thanks Craig, shoes & socks were perfect.
April 21st, 2008 at 5:42 pm
I don’t think there are any words in the English language that can adaquately describe that course so we’ll just say it was ridiculously painful!!! And well worth it. To everyone that put the time and effort into making this race happen… THANK YOU. Everyone did an amazing job and it was greatly appreciated. I just have one thing to say Craig… “when can we sign up for next years race?!”
April 21st, 2008 at 9:20 pm
Last year was my first trail challenge and I thought that was tough. This year was even more extreme and really pushed me to the limit.
Thanks Craig and all the volunteers for a great job!!!! Thanks also to the sweepers who helped me see the final hill to the finish line thanks to their flashlight.
It might have been dark when I finished, but I did and that was all that mattered at that point!! Craig thanks for not pulling us off the course and allowing us to finish what we started. I will be back next year and vow to finish before dark next year.
The SOB was insane. We thought that the climb up Clevland hollow was the SOB only to have Craig meet us along the climb and tell us we had not even reached the SOB. But I had come to far to go around, so I pushed through and made it to the top!!! What a sense of accomplishment!
Kathy
April 22nd, 2008 at 7:08 am
Height 4′11″
Weight 114 lbs
Legs: short
Athletic Ability: Beginner
Friends: Minus three
This was my first Hyner Challenge and the forest and the hiking were beautiful! I talked briefly to Craig and he mentioned that it was a challenge and he tried to get that across in his description, and I read it thinking lalala…a great experience, weekend at the Sportsman with friends, how great is this. Now, I read it and really get it !! He did describe it and warned us but, WHO could really read the intensity of the actual day. I thought I would never make thru the 6-9mile trek, but once I did and found out you were not calling us on time and I could continue I was happy I did. After that the SOB was hard but nothing compared to getting up that last 6-9 bug alley. I still have red spots as a reminder!!
And thank you to the EMT fellow at the first road area for fixing my poles, such a beginner the poles were fresh out of the wrapper!! They saved me and I thank them. Super volunteers at every station, happy and encouraging and full of good advice too. And it was nice to see Craig on the trail blaming someone else for the SOB portion!! But, all in all I was so happy to finish and to experience this event. It is the biggest challenge since child birth for me and I was proud of myself for making it and thankfull for people with the courage and commitment to put this event together, you have made so many people feel good about themselves and ready for the next challenge.
And I encourage everyone to make a donation and help the organization that gave us such a great day!
Hopefully next year will be the same because I would like to try it again.
April 22nd, 2008 at 8:25 am
Just a special word of thanks to the angel at the third aid station, who put gatorade in my camelback. I was too out of it to open or close it at all. She handled everything with speed and a smile. Without that wonderful extra effort, I doubt I would have made it to the finish.
Magnificent course, but could you turn up the A/C next year?
April 22nd, 2008 at 9:37 am
It’s obvious that the organizers of this event listened to a lot of the feedback from last year, and I think that it improved immensely. It was good last year, great this year. The course was great, and you somehow found a way to make 16 miles feel like 25! Mile for mile, that’s now the hardest of the 4 similar events I’ve done (Megatransect, Rachel Carson, and Brandywine). The never ending gradual uphill climbs wear you down! I think the cookout at the end was awesome, and many thanks to those volunteers and all of them along the way! Now I hate to be that guy that criticizes anything, but you seemed to listen to a lot of suggestions from last year, so here I go. Essentials at checkpoints- peanut butter sandwiches, fruit, salty foods like chips and nuts (although the pretzels were great to have), and full strength (not diluted) Gatorade or Powerade. I would definitely pay a few more bucks on the entry fee to have these few things! That’s my only suggestion for the entire event. It really was great. Thanks for moving the check-in to the building by the cars!!!
April 22nd, 2008 at 12:40 pm
this was the most physical challenge I have endured since i had my last child. The scenery was great, it was a beautiful day and the volunteers were appreciated from beginning to end. Thank you! I,m looking forward to next year.
April 22nd, 2008 at 2:24 pm
Had several inquiries from people who did the Hyner Challange last year but couldn’t do it this year. They asked if it was harder. 1000 extra feet of elevation, almost a mile longer, gnats the size of grass hoppers, 80 degree weather, 3 mile uphill and the S.O.B.
Hell yes it was harder!!!!! But more satisfying. Congratulations to all who participated. Special thanks to Sean from D.C. for motivating me and finishing strong.
Food and drink, friendship and fellowship. What more could you ask for. Great job by all involved. (Even Trail Guy!!!!)
April 22nd, 2008 at 5:28 pm
I thought I was just getting old and feeble when I finished this years “challenge” nearly an hour and a half slower than last year. Having read the comments I feel much better! I wore my heels to the bone in my Vasque shoes and merino wool socks, so what does Craig know that I don’t? And who is Craig anyway?
The pick-up truck at the top of SOB saved my race (and possibly my life!): when I saw it I wept with joy for about 3 seconds, then it dawned on me that they were just there to check we were still alive… they took pity on me, sat me down, and dug out one of their bottles of water. It was elixir. After a couple of minutes I could see properly again, knew which way was up, and carried on. I did miss a turn off the link path and led two other runners about a half mile in the wrong direction. If that was you, I am really sorry!
How can I better prepare? More onfo on the training hikes would be good.
April 23rd, 2008 at 8:28 am
OK, I will speak for those of us wondering how people that put on such a wonderful event can take so long to post the times. We know you had a computer at the finish line. If a mountain lion or bear made off with it, it is ok to tell us. WE WILL BELIEVE YOU
April 23rd, 2008 at 9:14 am
ran without watch,
We still have people out on the course!!!!!! I believe they just got to the SOB section. Just joking. We have the results and will have them up tomorrow. We had a few people who transferred their numbers because they couldn’t make the event so we want to double check that the names match up. Sorry for the delay but we would rather have them right the first time. Look for them tomorrow. See you next year!!
April 23rd, 2008 at 1:07 pm
Hyner Hike/Run Challenge
Trail shoes from Haven Shoes———————————– $80
Socks—————————————————–$14
Registration————————————————-$35
Body net I should have purchased for the bugs———————-$15
Bug spray—————————————————$3
Full body massage needed after the hike—————————$45
Trip to the Chiropractor after the hike—————————–$20
Surviving the Challenge———————————-PRICELESS
I must say thank you to everyone who helped prepare this entire event. As I continued on the trails, I began wonder who in their right mind would carry a saw out these mountains, just to clear a path for this challenge. Or better yet… Who in their right mind would come out here more than one time? Thanks to all of you!!! The event was amazing. It was nice to hear the music at the top of Hyner lookout. If only you could have had those guys playing while I was attempting to climb Cleveland Hollow, maybe that would have pushed me up that hill. … Than again… maybe not. : ) This definitely pushed me to the limit! I can’t wait for next year!!! Thanks again Craig and Jen for talking me into the challenge.
April 23rd, 2008 at 3:41 pm
What a masochistic bunch of people I must hang with. As I crawled up SOB lined with carcasses of fellow contestants, I was concerned that maybe this event was say….. over the top! To the Guy that was inching up SOB on his butt with severe leg cramps…. You are one tough guy! Maybe the severe electrolyte imbalances suffered have altered my recollections of the day. Perhaps the gnats extracted so much blood from the ten thousand bites on my arms and face that there was a hypo-perfusion to my brain. Ok I am not ashamed to say that I slacked off my training in the last few weeks but it came at a great cost. I had to hide under a trailer wheel well to avoid being scooped up by the EMS and carted off. I never knew that every muscle in both legs could spasm so painfully. To my loving wife that was fortunate enough to have an injury that kept her from participating, I owe big thanks for reviving me with fluids. Congratulations to Jay and Nicole who trained so well and dusted me at the bottom of Cleveland hollow. I still can’t believe that after finishing they went to a black tie event! There is some unsettled business at Hyner!
April 24th, 2008 at 6:38 am
Susquehanna River Bridge, Huff Run, Hyner View, Johnson Hollow, Psycho Path, Post Draft Hollow, Cleveland Hollow, S.O.B.–all GREAT! Look for my article at http://www.sungazette.com, under “Region,” beginning April 28. It will be in the Williamsport Sun-Gazette’s Sunday, April 27th, paper. Thanks Craig Fleming, Dave Hunter, and other organizers and all the many volunteers! See you next year, I hope.
April 24th, 2008 at 8:18 am
We just wanted to congratulate everyone…Craig, Dave and all involved in the pre race process that required so much dedication and sweat. Also Doug, Rich, Ted and the guys and gals at DCNR for their behind the scenes efforts in making the event happen. My wife Sherry and I enjoyed the race immensely…not just the awesome physical challenge, but the way in which the event showcases and fosters a new appreciation of the magnificent Northcentral PA mountains that might otherwise never be realized by many folks from out of the area. For that, we can’t thank you enough! There is much work to do in the region regarding economic revival, mine acid remediation, etc., and in order to invoke conservation efforts, it is important that people know and understand the incredible resource that is at stake.
April 24th, 2008 at 10:50 am
I liked the commentary..massage..run .. priceless.
GOOD JOB MISSY, as Garret would say. 4 hours, 17 minutes and 3 seconds…..GREAT JOB! xoxox mom
April 24th, 2008 at 10:51 am
oops…. 9 seconds
April 24th, 2008 at 12:29 pm
I agree with all of the positive comments regarding the challenge. I’ve done the BE Mega and Rachel Carson and Hyner is right up there as tops. The shorter distance certainly doesn’t necessarily translate to easier. I like the course as is and would do it again. The pre/post events and trail support was also great.
My only criticism goes to the participants who think littering is OK. I don’t remember seeing litter to this degree at other events. It was disappointing to see. My appreciation goes to the crew that has to police the trail afterwards.
April 24th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
Wow, is anybody out there still itching those nasty mosquito bites? They started out as flat red spots and are now classic mosquito bumps. They were definitely hungry and had a lot of us to feed on through Johnson Hollow. I liked the reference to this section of trail as “Bug Alley”. I vow to never forget the product that Avon puts out called “skin-so-soft” for bugs and mosquitos. It comes in a spray that’s nice. There’s one that even has SPF. Check it out if your bug spray let you down or if you got eaten alive.
Oh, and of course the Hyner Challenge was everyting I knew it would be. Can’t wait to visit the crew at Haven Shoes and maybe do some runs with them in their beautiful neck of the woods.
Congrats to all who took on Hyner!
April 24th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Days after, I am coming down from the “Hyner High” and my quads have finally stopped screaming at me I still can’t believe I was able to finish that beast!! But I must admit, I feel a sense of accomplishment never felt before! It was an excellent course and we had a great great day!! I must admit, I am now curious about what brutal surprises await us at the Mega. Dare you share???
My only suggestion for next year would be more water stations and those yummy PB & J’s that you always have at the Mega!!
April 24th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
I agree with Greg on all counts. Having done the Mega twice and the Rachel Carson 3 times ,the Hyner was my most difficult event yet. I am embarassed by and wish to apologize for my fellow participants who were such slobs with their litter. did they think they were in the New York Marathon and the city public works department was following them with a garbage truck? Next time maybe they’ll wear some fancy running shorts with a pocket to carry their trash to the next checkpoint.
Come on people….. KEEP PENNSYLVANIA BEAUTIFUL!!!!
April 24th, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Hey everyone,
Just a report from the race director’s eyes:
1. Someone is praying way TOO hard for nice weather. Back it off a little, won’t you!! Two years in a row. 60 and clouds would be perfect.
2. Where did the bugs come from? I ran last night and they were gone. Maybe someone did ship in some trained bugs and then returned them. Why did OFF make them worse? Next year I’ll use whatever Mary K recommended earlier in a blog.
3. More trash on the ground than last year. Partly our fault. We’ll have to put more trash bags further down on the trails from the checkpoints. Still unexcusable, but we’ll share the blame. The sweepers had it all picked up by the end of the event. Thanks Roland and Robin!!
4. Shame on the guy who “yelled” at the EMT’s at the top of SOB. Please re-read the Helpful Hints page on the website. I believe it talks about water, checkpoints, and being prepared for weather. I heard there’s a good road race next April 18th. Hint. Hint.
5. PB&J does sound good. We’ll see if we can get someone to make them for us next year. Maybe we’ll have a big PB&J making party Friday night!!! That’s what the Mega does.
6. I thought the volunteers and EMT’s did a wonderful job. To stay out there all day in that heat and with all the bugs had to be a trying experience. Thanks to the LHU athletic trainers for all their support on the course.
7. Course was challenging. Was it the weather or the actual elevation changes? I liked the course. Sounds like a lot of people want some redemption next year. I know we like to tweak our courses, especially the Mega, but it’s your race. Change or Not Change?
8. Parking was better at the Eagles Nest. We’ll try to have it there again next year. Notice the place is “for sale”. Let’s cross our fingers.
9. Troegs seems to be a hit as far as beverage. Maybe we can get the brothers to make an appearance next year.
10. Hope all had a good time. Ray at the WCSA is working hard to get the place finished. Notice the improvements from last year. A pavillion is on the list as well as finishing the wrap around deck. Keep checking the website for additional events throughout the year. Prowl the Sproul is fun and we are going to include a 10K fun run this July.
11. Congrats to all first timers who hadn’t participated in anything like this before. Especially if you finished. You should feel proud and hopefully we’ve opened up new outdoor fitness opportunities for you. Drag a friend or family member out with you next time.
12. Hope to see everyone again next year. April 18th!! If you plan on doing the Mega, sign up now because it will be filled up soon. Please don’t get boxed out. And if you do, I’m only on the trail committee so please, please don’t whine to me. I’m signing up tonight myself.
April 24th, 2008 at 7:26 pm
Craig…if you are tallying votes, I am a definite “Don’t change” for next year. As I said above this was my first trail run after years of road running. What an exciting and challenging change of pace (no pun int!). Especially SOB. Making it up that guy would be one of the reasons I would go back again. My only concern was an issue that I sent you a pm on this morning concerning the posted results. Hopefully it gets worked out. Great job by all.
April 24th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
As long as you are looking for input, I loved the changes in the Hyner. While I was in the midst of it, I thought, my god this is insane. However after the fact, I was in my glory that I was able to get beyond the pain nad suffering of the challenge, and actually make it through. Would I do it again…ABSOLUTLEY!!!! Don’t change a thing!!! It’s all good. As far as the Mega, I look forward to the mystery of a new challenge. Last year it was the “goat path” The “unknown” is alway intriguing. Keep it interesting…Add a little something new each year. It adds to the excitement and the physical challenge. After all, that is what this is all about. Keep us posted!
April 24th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
I was looking at the results and I found a mistake. It says that Kolton George finished in 245 place, which is not possible. Kolton registered for the hike, but was not able to attend. I wanted to bring this to your attention because I know people take pride in having the results posted and don’t want someone that deserves having their name on that list being left out. I just thought I would let you no.
I also wanted to say that the hike was great and it was very well organized. I have lived in Renovo all of my life and never experienced anything like that. It pushed me to the max and I loved every minute of it. Thanks to all of the hard working people who made this event happen, especially all of the volunteers. I also wanted to tell Craig that he did a hell of a job and this whole thing probably would of never happened if it wasn’t for him. He was so commited that he didnt even hike the challenge. Congradulations to all who attemped and I hope everyone comes back again next year and supports this wonderful event!
April 25th, 2008 at 5:23 am
As a first-timer I have to say that this was the most physically (and mentally!) challenging thing I have ever accomplished. What an amazing amount of time and effort it had to have taken Craig, Dave, Ray, Bob and so many others to make this wonderful event possible. Thanks to the many volunteers who were so helpful at each aid station. I can’t wait to take on the Challenge next year!!
As to the course itself, I would say “don’t change” for next year. Maybe make change(s) every other year?
April 25th, 2008 at 7:00 am
As I look at my last post…it sounds confusing. What I mean is, I like that you change up the courses a little each time, but that can also be done without changing the intensity level. I was one that did like the change in the Hyner, so I wouldn’t like to see a drop back down in intensity, but changing the course up a bit just makes it more interesting. Same goes for the Mega. I guess, the only concern I would have is that if you make it too difficult, you may lose people that just feel it’s too much. However…It is supposed to be a challenge…..
It’s interesting to see what other peoples thoughts are. Keep them coming.
April 25th, 2008 at 7:55 am
Jami,
We only make changes to make the course better. After this year’s course, I believe there are a lot of people who want another crack at it. We’ll take a few weeks and listen to all the feedback. With 300,000 acres of land in Sproul to play with, I think we could come up with a brand new course. Why change if most people want the same for one more year? We’ll keep you posted. Thanks again. See you at the Mega!!
April 25th, 2008 at 4:01 pm
I’m so honored to say I survived the Hyner Challenge!!!! I agree with the woman who ranked it up there with child birth! Having completed a marathon also, and never having competed in a race like this before, I’d say the Hyner wins hands down for intensity and difficulty!
I echo all those that have sounded out thanks to the numerous volunteers and trail blazers. -We wouldn’t bear our medals of blood, sweat and tears if it weren’t for you! To you, we tip our hats and pour out abundant thanks.
As for changing the course, NOPE! Keep it the same or harder. It makes it all the more thrilling to “bound” across the finish line!
Way to go fellow runners/hikers! I was proud to be with y’all that day!
April 25th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
I TRAINED WITH TWICE THE INTENSITY THIS YEAR IN AN EFFORT TO AVOID THE LEG CRAMPS THAT HOBBLED ME IN THE FINAL TWO MILES OF LAST YEAR’S EVENT AND I FULLY EXPECTED TO BETTER MY TIME FROM LAST YEAR (2:45) BY AT LEAST 10-15 MINUTES…IMAGINE MY SURPRISE WHEN I WAS HUMBLED AGAIN AND THEN THERE WAS THE FINAL CLIMB!!!……………..SUBLIME.
WITH A DISAPPOINTING 3:38 THIS YEAR I’LL TAKE SOME OF THAT REDEMPTION!
(NO CHANGE PLEASE)
—SIGN ME UP FOR THE PB&J MAKING PARTY—
THANKS CRAIG AND THE ENTIRE CREW FOR ANOTHER SPECTACULAR EVENT!
April 26th, 2008 at 10:44 pm
“May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing views. May your mountains rise into and above the clouds.” Edward Abby
Yeah, that pretty much sums it up.
April 29th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Here’s an idea. Run the course in reverse. Go up Huff Run to the road and follow it around the top of the mountain to the top of Cleveland Hollow. Go down the S.O.B. (you may need a retaining wall or net built at the bottom of the S.O.B. to stop people from plumetting to their death). Down Cleveland Hollow, up Post Draft Hollow, down Johnson Run and up the escarpment to Hyner View. Then down Huff Run to the finish. This would allow us to relish in the fact that we did the S.O.B., Cleveland Hollow and Johnson Run in record time and curse the new uphills of Post Draft Hollow and the escarpment to Hyner view.
Just a warped thought!!!!!
April 29th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
Quick Kert,
You are truly a sick man!! I would rather run up Cleveland twice than have to climb up to the View from Johnson Run. Been there, done that and it’s not much fun. I heard Laurelton is re-opening. They may have a bed for you.
Take care and thanks again for all your help on the course over the winter!!
April 30th, 2008 at 7:18 pm
It seems as though most people feel the same way as myself. I have also done the Mega twice, Rachel Carson and the Brandywine each once but this was by far the hardest. After nine miles I was ready to quit. The black flies had gotten under the sleeve of my shirt and to this day the bites constantly remind me of April 19th. This was my first event to give me an upset stomach, drive me insane and literally drain all energy from my winter training.
Craig, Jen, Dave, Jean and the rest of the PA Trail Dogs, thanks for everything. This has got to be the most gut wrenching, heart pounding and leg throbbing event in all of Pa.
Count my vote as a “NO CHANGE” for next year. I have a real need to do some soul searching on the same course, cause I think I lost mine.
May 1st, 2008 at 12:01 pm
O.K. I guess I will officially cast my vote for next year’s course. Wow, as much as the forest is vast and a new trail would be exciting, I have to go with the majority so far and say keep it the same for another crack. Let’s face it, you(the race committee) created a real “kicker”. I think also that some of the 2008 Hyner participants would want to drag their friends out this summer or fall to show them the trail they’ve been talking about since the 19th. It would be an instant sell to any adventure seeker.
See you on the trail.
May 3rd, 2008 at 12:23 pm
Thank you Craig and all volunteers that helped put on this great event. I will agree with most comments about leaving the course the same for next year. This was my first Hyner and I must say it was a very tough course, but tough in a good way. Great job to all who participated…………
May 3rd, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Many thanks to Craig, Dave and all who gave so generously of their time and expertise to make a wonderful, grueling, challenging event. I, too, was distressed by the litter and very much appreciate the folks who gave their time to clean it up. It is hard for me to imagine how anyone could leave plastic bottles, etc behind to mar that beautiful trail. It was a personal delight to see so many wild flowers blooming, particularly the trillium.
Keep up the good work.
Fellow hikers, please don’t litter and we’ll all enjoy the event even more.
In case you haven’t guessed, I vote to keep the trail the same.
September 7th, 2008 at 9:33 am
The hyner trail challenge is a great event. Great location, great course, great people, great organization. I would just love to see a poly shirt provided instead of cotton. We all have HUNDREDS of cotton t-shirts from races/events. But what we RUN/HIKE in is some kind of poly shirt. Thanks for everything.
September 25th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Andrew,
You may just get your wish this year. The local company that we dealt with last year didn’t have a decent wicking shirt. This year they do. I like poly shirts as well. Thanks for the input.
October 28th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
September 25th, 2008
I did not get registered early enough for April, so we took the challenge in September. Our family of 6 walked the bridge to Huff. My 22 year old daughter did Huff with me. My 20 year old son did the top to Hyner and up Johnson. Without the support we were wasted. Sandwiches and Gatorade and fruit got absorbed before going down Post. The dog took the next treck with me, but turned back before going far into Post. Up Cleveland and the power line was the ‘challenge.’ With walkie talkies along, the family saw me climbing the S.O.B. They had taken the trail from Huff to the power line across from Cleveland. After Cleveland the top was icing on the cake.
Then down hill to the bridge and WCSA. Great trail. Thanks for the work.
October 30th, 2008 at 9:49 am
Dave,
Wish we could have joined you on the course. Hope you found it to be fun, yet challenging. It’s a little easier when there are water and food stations along the way. Sounds like your family got a “kick” out of you climbing up SOB. Do you have any pictures? If so, we’d love to put them on the site. Visit our contact page for more info. Hope to see your registration come across our desk soon.
November 2nd, 2008 at 5:42 pm
Hyner View Trail Challenge is going Green! We thank Tracy Clayton, owner of Tracy’s Café, located in Hughesville PA for raising our awareness of our small but negative environmental impact this event has produced over the past two years. She has started the effort by donating biodegradable cups made from corn products. The Hyner View Trail Committee will now promote a new effort to lessen our carbon footprint. New committee member Nicole Rall-Miller is leading the charge to help us go green! Updates will be posted over the next few weeks. Please blog or email any suggestions to help our cause to make the Hyner View Trail Challenge greener. (A hint is not to throw away any of your old trail shoes until further notice.)
November 5th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Craig, thanks for all you do in the area for trail running. Steve and I ran 9 miles of the Mega course again today in reverse… Great stuff.. Anyway, I wanted to say that I am glad that you posted a directors message about the Hyner. People really need to understand what the course is. I support the Hyner and the Mega. and will do whatever I can to help you guys out going forward.. Let everyone know of any fun runs and/or work days to groom the courses. I will do what I can to promote and help you with that. Everyone stay healthy and train hard…..
Jeff