BALDY 2.0!Though Mount Baldhead is its “official name” (inspired by deforestation at its summit mid last century) locals affectionately refer to the beloved landmark simply as “Baldy”.
And this year…so shall we. And since The Mount Baldhead Challenge is nearly 2 decades young AND has been significantly reimagined (keeping all the best and adding more) we are introducing this year’s race as Baldy 2.0! West Michigan’s “Ultimate Multi-Terrain Race” has become more spectacular for its 19th running. Featuring a new start and finish in Saugatuck and longer, more-varied courses, more (challenging) trails with water views for most of the race. Historically there have been 2 races. The Full Challenge (15K) and the Short Course (5K). Only the Full Challenge actually included Mount Baldhead and its 302 steps to the summit. The 2018 course features 2 races, both with significant upgrades. The Short Course is called “The Mount Baldhead Challenge” includes the steps, challenging new trails near Oxbow and measures about 6 miles. The Long Course is called “The Mount Baldhead Challenge – Extreme Version”, includes the above and the beloved stretch thru the Tunnel of Trees along Lake Michigan and measures about 12 miles. A unique new Simulstart for both races is scheduled for 9am. The Mount Baldhead Challenge (6 Mile) will START across the river from Wicks Park on Bliss Street. Shuttles provided from Wicks Park to Bliss Street. Please arrive early to catch your shuttle. The Mount Baldhead Challenge – Extreme Version (12 Mile) will start at Wicks Park. Both races will END in Saugatuck at Wicks Park. Several new post-race celebration activities have been designed for your enjoyment. Saturday, September 8, 2018
12 Mile Run - Start time: 9:00a 6 Mile Run - Start time 9:00a COURSESMt. Baldhead Challenge
(6+ Miles) COURSE: 9am Start at Bliss Street on the west side of the river, directly across from Wicks Park. Arrive early to catch your shuttle from Wicks Park to Bliss Street. Proceed to Oxbow. Note: 1.3 miles of additional trails thru Talmadge Woods have been added including your new favorite vista from The Crows Nest. Proceed to Mount Baldhead and climb the 302 steps to the summit, turn left and “run the ridge” toward and through Dunegrass Development. Exit right onto Park Street and continue around Lake Kalamazoo toward Saugatuck and Wicks Park. Maps available on the website mtbaldheadchallenge.com. Aid stations will be located throughout the course. Mt. Baldhead Challenge – Extreme Version (12+ Miles) COURSE: 9am Start at Wick Park. Proceed toward Douglas along Lake Kalamazoo to Lake Michigan. Heading North enjoy the cool fresh air atop the Lake Michigan bluff called The Tunnel of Trees. Left on Park Street toward Oxbow and the remainder of the race mimics the 6 mile race. Maps available on the website mtbaldheadchallenge.com. Aid stations will be located throughout the course. Little Feet, Big Feat .1K – Free Kids' Fun Run Friday, September 6 at 6 p.m., Wicks Park, 452 Center St., downtown Saugatuck |
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