Runners invited to take part in Dire Wolf 5- and 10-mile trail race

"It is beautiful and fun, but it's definitely a challenging race," said Lee Ann Johnson, president of the Octorara Junior-Senior High School Cross-Country and Track and Field Booster Club, when describing the upcoming trail race that the club is presenting as a fundraiser for the Octorara cross-country teams. "Most of the (participants) are serious, dedicated runners."

The ninth annual Dire Wolf 5- and 10-mile trail race will take place on Saturday, Oct. 21, at Wolf's Hollow County Park, 1399 Schoff Road, Atglen. The race, which will be held rain or shine, is being facilitated by RunPA and the Lancaster Road Runners Club. According to event organizers, runners will travel a course that will consist of hills, rocks, roots, a rugged downhill switchback and a shallow creek crossing, which may run deeper in the event of rain.

Race-day bib pickup and registration will be from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m., followed by race announcements and instructions at 8:50 a.m. Both the 10-mile and 5-mile races will start at 9 a.m. At the conclusion of the races, the awards ceremony will begin at 11:45 a.m.

If someone breaks the 10-mile course record, he or she will receive a cash award. Zach Miller currently holds the record with a time of 1 hour, 1 minute and 38 seconds.

The top overall male and female finishers of the 5-mile and 10-mile races will receive a special Dire Wolf Award. Awards will also be given to the top three male and top three female finishers in various age categories.

On-course water and snacks, as well as post-race refreshments, will be provided. "We have three separate stations set up throughout the park," said Johnson. "We make sure that there are (sports beverages) and water. We also have pickles in cups and some other snacks. Even as they run past the aid stations, they can grab something to eat and drink."

Members of the Octorara cross-country teams, who utilize the trail as part of their training, will be stationed throughout the course to offer guidance.

"They help direct the runners," said Johnson, noting that some students also make signs to encourage runners. "As the race concludes, they make sure that they are counting the racers as they go past (to make sure everyone is accounted for)."

Proceeds from the event will be used for items such as warmup suits for the cross-country athletes and to pay travel costs when the teams are involved in competitions.

To register for the race or for more information, visit http://www.runsignup.com and search for "Dire Wolf 10 & 5 Mile Trail Run." A link to register is also available at the "Octorara XC and Track & Field" Facebook page. Those with questions may email race director Jason Logue at jasonlogue@comcast.net.