A fall staple of the region’s outdoor activity is going forward with modifications this fall in Rothrock State Forest. Organizers of the Tussey Mountainback 50 Mile Relay and Ultramarathon have announced details of the Oct. 11 event, which will feature limited registration and a simplified format in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
This year’s event will focus on runners of the 50-mile ultramarathon, with a few exceptions.
“We took a very careful look at how the event could be approached with the safety of everyone taken into account,” said Mike Casper, race director. Casper and other local organizers worked in consultation with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Bureau of Forestry to develop the event plan.
“All ultramarathoners participating this year will be self supported in terms of food resources,” said Casper.
Runners covering the 50 miles solo can provide their own race supplies to be delivered at the course’s 11 aid stations during the race. The aid stations will stock medical supplies and water, but no sharable food items.
In addition, a limited number of small relay teams, comprised of family members residing in the same household, will be permitted to take part.
And there’s one other notable participating team.
“We’re incorporating one additional wrinkle to this program,” said Casper, “for participation by The Old Men of the Mountains relay team.”
This team of runners, all over age 65, have a 13-year streak participating in this event. Led by their team captain, State College’s centenarian George Etzweiler, the team will utilize separate vehicles for each of its runners to keep them isolated during the event.
For more information about the event or to volunteer at an aid station, visit www.tusseymountainback.com.
The Central Pennsylvania Convention and Visitors Bureau is a major sponsor of the Mountainback event. For more information, call (814) 424-1314 or send email to info@tusseymountainback.com.
