Old Dominion 100 Recap Part 1: Course Description

When I began writing this I had no idea it would turn into a novel. So to save your eyes, I have broken it into two (still lengthy) parts.

The first part (below) will be just a description of the course. The lack of what I feel is an adequate description of this course needed what I am writing.

The second part is my own personal race and will be posted separately. I hope you enjoy.

Old Dominion 100 Mile Cross Country Run


This is a bittersweet recap to write indeed. Never before have I not finished a race. But in the interest of self-preservation, as well as an eye to the near future, when sheer exhaustion took over at mile 86 (and foot problems as well) I am glad to say I did something very non Dane-like and decided NOT to push through until the end. Unlike earlier in the year when I pushed through the pain and exhaustion in my 50k, here was neither the time nor the place to continue. (How utterly ironic that in my last blog I mentioned I might DNF at mile 86).

What makes this most pleasurable for me is how I get to share the info I learned, not only about 100 mile races but also specifically this 100 mile race. You see, in the months leading up to this race I scoured the internet looking for detailed course descriptions or race reports from those who had run it. Instead of something that may actually help you, I found “From about mile 5 to mile 7 or so you climb Woodstock Mountain. The first aid station is at the top.” Believe me, there is much more information that could be shared about that particular section of the course, as well as many other sections. As such, I am hoping that this recap will be the tip of the iceberg of information shared about the Old Dominion 100 Mile Cross Country Run.

In addition, I have some suggestion for the race directors. I was pleased with how they handled most aspects of the day but where they were lacking was unfortunately, in the most glaring of spots. Therefore, I will not only offer constructive criticism, but praise them where they deserve it.