“Blazing” run offers challenge to racers

If you want to run the Ridge to Blazing Ridge, don’t forget your water.

The 10.5-mile and 21-mile races will feature lots of elevation change and the intense August heat, so race organizers make it mandatory to carry a water bottle or hydration gear on the course. Bringing electrolytes is also recommended to prevent dehydration due to sweating.

Ridge to Blazing Ridge will be held at Oak Mountain State Park, starting at the Redbud Pavilion by the park’s BMX track, on Aug. 24.

The run’s website says the course, which is the same as last year, includes 10,892 feet of elevation change. The most intense segment of the course is a 6.3-mile section between two aid stations, which will include four “very demanding climbs.” This is the fifth race in the 2019 Southeastern Trail Runs series.

On Aug. 10, Resolute Running will host a “preview” run of the Ridge to Blazing Ridge course, which is free and open to anyone.

Registration is $50 for the 10.5-mile run ($60 after Aug. 12) and $65 for the 21-mile run ($75 after Aug. 12), and all runners registered by Aug. 12 will receive a T-shirt.

Runners can pick up their packets or enter late registration on Friday, Aug. 23, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Mountain High Outfitters store at the Summit, or on race day from 6:30 to 7:15 a.m. at the Redbud Pavilion. Both races will begin at 7:30 a.m.

Top overall and age group finishers will receive awards.

To sign up for Ridge to Blazing Ridge or learn more about the race and the Southeastern Trail Runs series, visit southeasterntrailruns.com/ridge-to-blazing-ridge.html.