Lake Sonoma 100-Miler Expands with New Lake Sonoma 50-Mile Relay, Welcoming New Trail Runners to the Adventure

December 10, 2024

Healdsburg, CA – [December 10^th, 2024] /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The Lake Sonoma Race Series is proud to announce the addition of the Lake Sonoma 50-Mile Relay to its iconic roster, set to debut in February 2024. This new event is designed to introduce beginners and friends to the world of trail running in a fun, supportive, and accessible way, all while sharing the stunning beauty of Wine Country. The Lake Sonoma 50-Mile Relay will run concurrently with the existing Lake Sonoma 100-Mile Relay and the popular Kids’ Little BABY (Bay Area Backyard) Race, offering a range of options for athletes of all ages and abilities.

Series Director Skip Brand is excited about the opportunity to create an entry-level race that encourages new run club members to join the trail running community. “We believe too much attention has been paid to the 100-mile and 50-mile distances, often at the expense of new and emerging trail runners. The 50-Mile Relay is a simple, approachable event—a half marathon per participant—designed for beginners and running clubs to come together and experience the magic of trail running in a fun, team-based format,” said Brand.

The 50-mile relay is an excellent opportunity for friends, family members, and running clubs to tackle a portion of the renowned Lake Sonoma course. With each runner completing a manageable 13-mile leg, the race provides a perfect introduction to the challenges of trail running without overwhelming beginners. The event will offer participants access to the same world-class aid stations, breathtaking singletrack trails, and the rolling hills of Wine Country as the 100-mile race, allowing everyone to share in the excitement of this unique race day.

“Many new trail runners—and even some veteran road runners—don’t know where to begin. With the 50-Mile Relay, we’re offering a supportive environment for new athletes to join the fun and experience trail running alongside seasoned veterans, such as firefighters and other ultramarathoners. It’s an amazing way to dive into the sport,” Brand explained.

The Lake Sonoma 50-Mile Relay will join the highly regarded Lake Sonoma 100-Mile Relay, which has become a cornerstone event for ultrarunners across the country, and the Lake Sonoma Kids’ Little Baby Race, which provides an exciting introduction to running for young athletes. All races will be held on the weekend of 2024, allowing runners of all levels to experience the beauty of Sonoma County’s wilderness and the camaraderie of the running community.

Creating a Path for New Trail Runners

Thanks to partnerships with organizations like UltraSignup, the Lake Sonoma Race Series has gathered valuable insights about what new trail runners need to get started. Skip Brand added, “New trail runners often face challenges like finding affordable accommodations and building a sense of community. The Lake Sonoma 50-Mile Relay offers an entry point for these athletes, with free and low-cost accommodations nearby, a family-friendly race environment, and the support of a local run community where with one run they become family. It does not hurt that all Lake Sonoma Races are charity runs, so you can feel good and do good!”

In addition, for over 10 years, HRC Trail Shop and Run Club has offered more than 2,000 free runs and countless races for the local community. As part of this mission, the club is focused on growing the next generation of trail runners and reintroducing the thrill of running in nature to new and young athletes.

Lake Sonoma Race Series’ Commitment to the Trail Running Community

The Lake Sonoma Race Series continues to expand with additional events, including the newly established California Fall Classic (CFC) 100K, which took place this past October. The CFC 100K has emerged as one of the top qualifiers for the Western States Endurance Run, with over 86% of finishers achieving qualifying times. This year’s CFC race was responsible for generating 139 applicants for the Western States lottery, making it the 10th highest in terms of lottery applicants among the 250 Western States qualifiers.

With the addition of the Lake Sonoma 50-Mile Relay, the Lake Sonoma Race Series now includes three major events: the Lake Sonoma 50-Mile (April), the California Fall Classic 100K (October), and the Lake Sonoma 100-Mile sufferfest (Spring). This expansion provides athletes with more opportunities to challenge themselves, regardless of experience level, and continues the series’ commitment to fostering the growth of trail running throughout the year.

About the Lake Sonoma Race Series

The Lake Sonoma Race Series is an elite endurance racing series set in the breathtaking hills and trails of Wine Country in Sonoma County, California. Known for its incredible scenery, challenging courses, and welcoming atmosphere, the series attracts runners from around the globe. With events that cater to all levels—from beginners to seasoned ultrarunners—the Lake Sonoma Race Series is dedicated to creating a sense of community, fostering outdoor adventure, and promoting the health and well-being of athletes through its world-class events.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Dr. Skip Brand

Founder Healdsburg Running Company &
Lake Sonoma Race Series Executive Director
skip@skipbrand.com
650-274-9433
LS100miler.com