Runners had the choice to wind through the woods and along the river on a 2.5 mile or 7-mile course. Both began in Whitneyville on the Sunrise Trail and cross the Machias River on a historic railroad bridge. Runners then explore the trails of the Machias River Preserve on mostly single track trails with stretches along the river, under giant hemlocks, around a 65-acre marsh, through a long-abandoned tree plantation and homestead farm. These runners brace the roots and rocks, traverse over bog bridges, skip across the top of a beaver dam, and navigate possible wet holes in an effort to make it across the finish line.
This event is truly a community effort coming together to celebrate conservation and help raise awareness for the protection of Downeast Maine’s wild places. DCC is grateful to the Bold Coast Runners who organize the logistics of the event. Financial sponsorship came from Machias Savings Bank, Downeast Community Hospital (who also donated a tote of medical supplies), Mark Wright Disposal, Peter Knowles Chiropractic, and Hannaford. The event was also an amazing success in thanks to the large turnout of volunteers! Special thank you to Paramedic Walker from the Machias Ambulance for providing first aid, David Kennedy for taking photos of the day, and the Machias Rotary for sending a team of volunteers to help with everything from parking to course sweeping to ensure no runners were left behind!
