Running the Bigfork Valley Challenge

Ah Saturday ... a chance to sleep in, maybe linger over an extra cup of coffee and revel in a gorgeous fall morning by relaxing on the front porch.

Sure, some people might enjoy that, but 93 hardy souls decided that the First Annual Bigfork Valley Challenge was a better way to enjoy the wilderness and the spectacular dappled sunshine of our northwoods autumn.

Once reserved for those maniacally devoted to training, or naturally talented with gazelle-like speed, distance running and fitness walks now draw more participants than any other athletic events in the world. The September 9th Challenge featured a 4.5 mile run and 3 mile walk along the scenic Jingo Lake Road in the Chippewa National Forest.

Organized through Bigfork Valley as a community health and fitness initiative with Race Director Stephanie Martin, the event was a picture perfect example of why so many people pay an entrance fee to challenge themselves for the glory of a t-shirt. Combine the accomplishment of completing the distance with the camaraderie of fellow participants, and it almost doesn’t matter that you’re working to strengthen muscles, prevent bone loss, reduce the risk of diabetes or heart disease, and manage your weight. Of course the ice cream, cookies, and donuts at the finish line motivate some, even if they undo just a little of the weight management benefits.

Tim Welker of Grand Rapids was the first runner in the men’s division to cross the finish line, in 29 minutes 54 seconds while Amy Dettmer, also of Grand Rapids, finished first among the women with a time of 39 minutes 4 seconds. However, the run was truly made for individual challenges, whether to finish, run a personal best, come back from an injury, or prepare for a longer distance.

The three mile walk saw families walking together on this road well-known and marked by the National Forest Service, as a “Fall Color Tour” route. Though motivation for the challenge varied from just spending time with family to accomplishing a post-knee surgery goal, everyone enjoyed the support of the friendly crowd at the finish line.

First time distance event participants are often surprised by the enthusiastic, and heartfelt, encouragement they receive. With a “good luck” at the start, or a “good job” at the finish, walkers and runners are an outgoing bunch who hit the finish line then turn around to cheer for old friends and complete strangers. Their enthusiasm confirms that the only people who fail at a run or walk are those who fail to show up.

Make the Second Annual Bigfork Valley Challenge, scheduled for September 8, 2007 part of your personal wellness plan for the coming year. Whether an experienced runner or a confirmed couch potato vowing to make next year a healthier year than this one, the Challenge offers a great way to affirm your commitment to getting and staying fit.