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2012 Gristmill Grinder Race Report

Click Here for 2012 Race Results

Holy Smokes that was fun!!! It was another beautiful race day at Babcock on April 14th… and a record turnout AGAIN for the amazing Grinder course. Race day is always full of energy and excitement… and this was one for the record books. Starting at Water Stone Outdoors with our packet pickup- you could feel there was something special about to unfold…. And it was amazing! Race Day and 7am at the Park… folks were rushing around setting up aid stations, hanging banners and organizing for packet pickup. Lots of activity and wheels in motion… I was humbled by the numbers and effort of all the volunteers. Volunteers - - THANK YOU for your help and support – you are the BEST!

Race weather was perfect! Cool morning temps in the low-mid 50’s and cloudy which kept our temps down. Dry trail conditions would surely allow for some fast times this year – and that was indeed the case.

Our fastest overall in the men’s category was again Robert Smith from Huntington. Robert posted an amazing time of 1:27:22. Not far behind was Zachary Beckett with a time of 1:30:16. Third overall in the men’s category was Brian Menzies at 1:36:12. Nice work guys!!

In the women’s category we had a new overall winner, Stephanie Zorio from Fayetteville. Stephanie had a fantastic time of 1:46:02 and was followed closely by Audrey Larrimer with a time of 1:46:47. Third overall in the women’s category was Kate Caldwell at 1:48:57. Excellent work Ladies!!

This year we again had a strong showing of young guns out there…with 7 runners in the 19 years and younger category- great job you guys, it is so cool to see you out there!!!

Looking for race day photos? Check out - iplayoutside coverage and the article by Don Parks- nice one Don, thanks!

As always, it was a great trail event because of YOU! Thanks so much for coming out and pouring your energy into Babcock. It is amazing for me and everyone involved whether running, walking or helping – the support, smiles and just JOY to be out there in the woods having fun. Thank You All! Next years date will be set soon – we will cap at 300, so better get that racing schedule planned. Best wishes running this year, come back and visit us here in the New River Gorge. Want to come and hook up at all… need info… trail ideas…. Drop us a note and we are here. We may even meet you there! Until then, Happy Trails!