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A funny thing happened on the way back from the mailbox the other day. Sifting through the usual mix of junkmail and bills I noticed a letter that was addressed to the BMRC. When I looked at the return address I knew instantly what it was: our first entry for the inaugural Freedom Park New Year's Ultra. It took me back to mid-June of 2006, before our first Ridge to Bridge Marathon, when we weren't really sure whether or not the race was going to get off the ground. Then, as now, a lone letter arrived for the BMRC. It was our first marathon entry. We were officially stuck, and the rest is history. This time around the entry was sent by new dad Brad Smythe, from Raleigh, NC (I hope Brad doesn't mind our outing him, twice).

Since then, we've received a small avalanche of entries. Very small. Okay, one more, this from BMRC member Dennis Kuhn, who only returned to running one year ago after a 16 year hiatus. Now that he's back, Dennis, appers to be making up for lost time, with seven marathons and a 50K to his credit over the last nine months! I am eager to see how well he does in his first 12 hour run.

A downloadable entry form is available by clicking the link above. Please note there is a special discount offer for runners who bring a volunteer to help make the race run smoothly -- and have something to do while you're running endless laps around the park.

One more thing: the race will be capped at a total of 75 runners to limit congestion on the 1 mile loop course. A minimum number will be set aside for each of the three runs (6, 12, and 24 hours), but only until November 15th, when the set asides expire. Please see the General Information page for details.

In the meantime, please plan to come and join us. This is the first New Year's holiday that I have really looked forward to for a very long time.

- David Lee