2011

It's been a while since the race. It was my first hundred. I was talking with my pacer on the phone this evening. Discussing what I needed to do differently at Leadville. We talked about how I need to up my salt intake. I remembered how sometime in the night at that dam(n) road aid station, one of your volunteers wrestled soup broth into my narrow opening water bottle. It wasn't an easy request. They had no funnel. Everyone was tired. The leaders had finished hours ago. Noodles were in the way. It was dark. I was collapsed in a folding chair while this all took place, and didn't get to meet the person that my pacer made asked this strange favor of... Well, in hind sight... that volunteer quite possibly saved my finish. All of the dozens who came out to support the run are deserving of a big "thank you"... Especially whoever struggled to fill my bottle with broth in the dark. They hold a special place in my retelling of the run. Kindness from others rekindles my sense of hope. This was an excellent example of that. Thanks for putting something special together. It was full of amazing people.
Bill Murphy

Thank you so much for organizing this event. It was my second attempt at the hundred mile distance and it went far better than the first, in large part due to the terrific course and the first class aid stations. Please extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every volunteer who was out there - especially to the guy making the sausages with rice at DamNation - that boosted my spirits in a massive way!
Pat Malaviarachchi

Thank you again for a phenomenal race. It was my second time travelling from the UK, less successful than the first time but supremely well organised.
James Elson

Thank you Joe and all the volunteers, this Italian girl is very happy with her first bucke! Also great meeting so many new friends from all over. Well done to all and speedy recovery.
Francesca

Well, I did it! I ran my first 50 mile race yesterday, Rocky Racoon 50 Miler!!!!! I had such a grand time!!! I am so grateful for all you do for us trail runners and your volunteers/staff were amazing! Each aid station had it's own personality. I wanted to give a special thanks to Brad Quinn's Group....it was the first aid station I came upon and Brad is always very supportive! Also, I want to give a huge shout out to the folks at Dam Road Aid Station. They were incredibly energetic and full of encouragement. I wish I got the name of the gentleman who was there and greeted me each time I came in to the station...he made me feel as though his sole purpose was to meet my needs. On my last visit to the station, I told him it was my first 50 miler and he congratulated me and said, You got it! 8 miles to go and you are done! Gave me a hug and all :) I am also very grateful to a lady named Debbie. She collected my chip and gave me my medal. She realized how emotional I was and just gave me the most sincere hug, congratulated me and said some kind words. That was awesome. All of the people I met yesterday treated me as if they had known me my whole life and were just so incredibly supportive. It made for a wonderful first time 50 mile race. I will do it again :) Thank you so much!! I loved every minute of it! Sincerely,
Lucy Guevara

Well another Rocky Raccoon has been supported by some very incredible volunteers. Mom and Dad, being the ever dedicated, headed up to Huntsville State Park on Thursday to avoid the bad weather conditions. They were able to get a site for their RV that had electrical and ran the heater faithfully for days. I went up on Friday, and Dad and I set up his tent that shelters us for the Start/Finish timing. Saturday the 50 and 100 mile races went off without a hitch. Kyle had new and different timing gear which we all adapted to quickly. The chip mat that the runners cross turned into a chip speed bump, but Dad resolved that with a nice piece of Astroturf. Kim Runge, Kimberly Johnston and Mom were on first duty getting numbers, recording times and transcribing times onto the official timing sheets. At the noon hour Kimberly Johnston stayed on and was joined by Dianne Reed, Shirley Musfy and June Harris. Things got a little hairy from time to time, but Dad kept us warm and alert with good strong coffee, Mom's soup, some cookies and luckily things warmed up a bit. Carrie and Mark came on at 4pm and worked diligently until 8pm when things started getting really cold. Chris and Amy Shaw and Phil took the first true night shift from 6pm to 10pm when things moved into the very cold, but they were good sports and we were brave. I think the true key to this was the wonderful hot pizza Phil brought, but maybe it was just the true warmth of his personality. At 10pm we abandoned Joel, Sharon, and Carol to the elements. This was the first break I had and the 4 hours of sleep that it afforded Phil and I made all the difference in the world. You guys are truly to be commended. From 2am to 6am Robert Alexander, Phil and I stuck out the night when we moved into the butt cold, but the company was very entertaining. The heater started to run out of fuel at this time which made getting warm inventive and funny. Then the heater let out a little puff and it was gone; which left us with only the small heater my brother in law had lent us. Sheila and Dennis came on promptly at 6am. What great sports!!! They stayed on until noon, finishing out the race and providing assistance while we tore down the tent and other equipment. The race was a great success. We probably had a record number of 'Did not starts' and quite a few of 'Did not finish', but we also had a record set in the 100 mile by the men's winner. I thank all of you for your great support. Joe Prusaitis says we are the best timing crew he has and would love to have us at every race. Sadly Joel and Sharon will be leaving the county and not able to join us for a few years. Mom and Dad have had a great run of it, but now feel they need to relinquish their efforts. So please be on the lookout for new enthusiastic volunteers. You guys are the best and I am sincerely thankful for people like you who are motivated to give their time and energy so willingly. take care,
angela marie

This is my second year to run Rocky. Although I've done many marathons, half marathons, 10K's, 5K's, and Tri's. Of all the events I've done, Rocky is my favorite. It didn't have the most SWAG or best fan support or biggest finish line. Heck, I didn't even get a slice of pizza at the end. But why this is by far my favorite is you put on a race that has the best hospitality and competence I have experienced in an event. The aid stations were well stocked and staffed. It is such a comfort to approach the aid stations and have volunteers shouting out, "What do you need? What can I get for you?" I really appreciate your organization, especially this year with all the strange weather. The course was well thought out, well marked and beautiful. It was great for me as a mere 50 miler to be able to see the 100 mile leaders on several occasions. If I ever do a hundred it will be at one of your races if possible. Thanks again for a great race. If I stay healthy, I hope to be out again next year or maybe even at another one of your races. Peace,
Mark England

I wanted to pass along a huge thank you to you, the volunteers, and all the cast who helped put on the 2011 Rocky Racoon run. It's a couple days, a couple flights, and a full day of back to work later and I'm still replaying each section of the run while grinning a huge ear to ear grin. I'd especially like to thank the Mrs. for the huge post-finish hug. My Mrs. couldn't make the trip because of some last minute changes in work schedule so it was a solo weekend for me. And it meant quite a bit to get the big bear hug at just before 2 in the morning after the 19+ hour run. Again thanks to you and all for such a great weekend.
David Boudreau

Great race. My first 100 and it was painful and hard, but I had a blast. Thanks again for putting on a great race.
joshua

I wanted to say thank you to you and all the others who devoted their time to this event. This was my first 50-mile run, and I have to admit I was a little intimidated by the prospect of hitting the trails with so many experienced ultra runners. The race was so well organized, and the other runners so welcoming, it wasn't much of a surprise that the volunteers working the aid stations would be so outstanding. Without fail, the people at each station were enthusiastic in providing both encouragement and assistance. They were so up-beat and helpful that I found myself pushing harder to justify their praise. In short, I had a great time, and I'm looking forward to my next run (maybe the 100-miler next time).
Steve Dunn

I had a great time at Rocky! I'm still amazed that I did it. I felt pretty good for the most part, but like you said, that last loop was tough! In my misery on Sunday, I was already thinking about which 50 mile race I want to do next:) You got me hooked.
Rachael Blair

thanks again for putting on a great event!
Mike Wolfe

Thank you for putting on a great race last weekend. The volunteers lived up to their reputation and I couldn't have asked for a more clearly marked course. I did the November 50k in 2009 and I was really looking forward to the 50-mile. Now that we've moved back to Austin, I'll be registered for plenty more of your races. I will be registering soon for Nueces and Hell's Hills. Don't expect any land speed records like last weekend, but I'll be out there chatting and joking with everyone as usual. Thanks again for offering me that hamburger after the race. I should have taken you up on the offer; Niko Niko's in Houston had a line out the door when we got there and I nearly fell asleep at our table waiting for our buzzer to go off. See ya soon!
Kyle McQuire

Thanks again to you and Joyce and all your helpers for this race. I wanted to pass along special thanks to the Dam Road aid station people who helped me with my sprained ankle. And to the man with ATV who gave me a ride back to the finish. I had walked about 2 miles back towards Park Road when I met him but he really helped out. Then Shannon gave me sound no-nonsense advice about getting it X-rayed that day. Lucky for me it is just a bad sprain. I felt bad for poor Leah but it sounds like people looked after her too. I was really pleased to see that Sherry Meador got her finish after staying with Leah. Anyway, I'm going to work on getting my plantar better and strengthening my ankle. See you sometime later in the year. Sincere best wishes,
Julia Gale

In October 2009, I some how discovered that there were super humans who ran distances of 50 miles+. "How do I become one of them?" and luckily I stumbled upon TejasTrails. I immediately began training and in February 2010, I ran my first 50 miler. I'm sure the rest of our little community thinks the same way, "Now that I've done that...on to bigger and better things." I had my sights set on the 100 miler all year long; however, unfortunately for me 2010 was the year of injuries. Regardless, one month before the race I was able to somehow pull it all together and show up at the starting line. I write to you, your volunteers, and the other runners with much humility and gratitude. I thank you for allowing me to discover that other level of "push" that I never new I had. I completed the 100 miles in 27 hours, 38 minutes, and 59 seconds (I'm the turtle-not the hare). If you would have asked me the day of the race whether I would do one again, I would have said probably not, but now I can't stop thinking about it. I for some odd reason am yearning for the feeling I had at 3:AM, tired, unsure, hungry, and delirious. I am so elated to be apart of this running community and if it wasn't for your volunteers and their lavish buffet (my favorite- potato soup) I would have never finished. Joe, this is something special that you do and I'm grateful to be apart of it.
Runningroland

It's been over a week now and hopefully not too late to express my thanks and appreciation of all the hard work, care, and time that went into the race! It was my first 100-miler and although did not at all go to 'plan', I finished and will be back to have another go 'round, putting into practice all the lessons I learned! From what I saw and experienced, everything ran very smoothly and there were no real issues for me. The volunteers at all the CPs were absolutely fantastic. I spent quite a bit of time at DamNation and well frankly, I would not have finished without them. I received exactly the right combo of coddling ('oh you poor thing') and tough love ('are you still here?!?').They seemed to be enjoying themselves too (even at 24+ hours) which is just amazing! The pancakes and coffee at DamNation! I also appreciated the scented candle in the port-a-loo at Park RoadÉoh and whoever thought of PB and banana quesadillas is a genius! Thanks as well to Henry for getting us out course marking (albeit with a few hiccups!) and to Joyce for the buckle and hug at the finish! I'm sure you've heard it from everyone but Thank You so much for a great event! I traveled over from Britain, and it was absolutely a worthwhile journey! Congrats to you for putting together an ace team of energetic and positive people! Regards,
Julie Calkins

Just wanted to thank you for another wonderful race. I never would have imagined myself attempting or completing a 50 miler years ago, so thanks for helping me discover that. And I think a large part of my interest has been due to the high quality of your races, from the volunteers, to the atmosphere, to the food. One example, I came into nature center on my last lap, and my calf a bit earlier was feeling like it might cramp, which I mentioned to one of the ladies there. Without my asking, she was massaging my calves and asking me if I wanted the roller stick on it. I turned out fine, but don't think I thanked them enough for their kindness (social awareness a bit fuzzy 30+ miles in). Just one example, there are many others. Looking forward to the next challenge!
Michael Dino

Great race as always! Thx for the PR course and conditions! Legs felt strong after the punishment you doled out at Wild Hare and Bandera! You, Joyce, and Henry (and countless volunteers and others I don't know) put on a top notch race!
Jeff Miller

Many thanks to you, your staff and volunteers for putting on a great race this weekend. This was my first 50 mile race and Tejas Trails event and it was a wonderful experience. The course was challenging but fun and the support given by the volunteers was much appreciated. My wife and I look forward to another Tejas Trails event in the future. Thanks again,
Wade Barrett

Can we do it again this weekend? Obviously, I need to get out more!! Went to bed just after 8 (couldn't keep my eyes open trying to sortof watch parts of the game) and got up around 7 this morning to go to class. LOVED seeing everyone again this year, and hope I did enough to earn a spot next year. I certainly can't keep up with the kitchen crew! Wonder if we should do a theme next year? Wish my brain had been in enough form to have us wear wigs and beards every time Anton flew by. Might have been amusing, but certainly itchy! Thanks especially to Lynn for having enough room in his truck to drive me there (wasn't sure if I would get a ride back), but as he said, he needed the extra weight of my stuff in the back of the truck to drive on the ice! You all rock!! Hope to see you all soon!
Kim Brandt

Joe, Please accept my sincere thanks for all of your hard work and professional dedication that led to a wonderful event for me and so many more. We will never really know how much we benefit from your attention to detail and your caring spirit. Thanks a million.
Matt Crownover

Had a great time ONLY because of the wonderful volunteers.The trail was in great shape and the weather perfect.Please thank all your volunteers for me. You don't pay these people enough!
Butch Allmon

Thanks for putting on a great Rocky Racoon race. I had so much fun. You and the volunteers make this event the best for me. Once again the aid stations rock!! Have to say my favorite was the Hawaiin themed station. Those guys were so so cool!! Thanks for having Muscle milk at the race. That is one of my favorite protein drinks. Nice treat.
Jazzy

Thank you for an excellent weekend in the woods. The aid station volunteers were amazing though I was more partial to the DamnNation. It was my first attempt at the 100 mile challenge. Lack of calories and blisters caused me to drop at mile 72. I shall be back next year to complete the entire race. Again, thank you
Becky Williams

I want to take the opportunity to thank you for all the hard work and dedication to put together another great race. I also want to thank you for having the confidence in me and encouragement. I held back a little and just tried to finish without breaking anything. I will recommend your races to anyone and will also try to bring out HoneyMilk to your future races. Thank you again
Parvaneh Moayedi

A special good morning to Joe and Joyce, ......oh my goodness, this past RR100 weekend will be up there in my memory, a top ten experience in my lifetime. Looking back on it we should not have driven on those terribly icy roads but fortunately for the event we did. New York rarely come up with stuff like that. I was the one who demanded we attempt this trip yet it was conservative Dave's excellent and patient skills behind the wheel that actually got us there without damage or a towing bill. And looking back on the temperatures for camping out overnight I'm so very glad we got the hotel room for Friday night so I only suffered the one night. Strangulation on all those drawstring cords and even suffocation were some of the nightmare words in my head as I tried to breathe yet keep the insistent cold out. Oh well enough of that, you know I got through it since I was up working the Aid Station again on Sunday morning. First I wish to thank you so very much for returning to us the black bag with first-aid supplies and the Sunmart blanket; both Lynn and I were surprised and pleased to find our belongings from last year. You must have a really good organization system to pull that one off with all the races you put together in a year! Again, sincere thanks. A few kudos I wish to extend......the aid station workers food was excellent, timely and appropriate. Great breakfast burritos, plenty of pizza and a complete spread for the burgers Saturday night meeting everyone's needs for the perfect sirloin burger. The snacks, supplies and the pot and pans were well organized with plenty of paper towels too. The 3-burner gas stove worked perfectly AND we're glad NTTR brought the 2-burner to be used as a griddle since we served hot food for so many hours of the day. Char and I found you can make peanut butter and jelly usable at those cold temps in a pan of hot water, that instant mashed potatoes can be made by the box full and that those flimsy food gloves can be worn over mittens. The kitchen and food prep was intense for almost all hours of the event due to the cold but you probably already you know that, I just had to write it. Thanks for the good time, keep up all the good work you do for the ultra community and hope to see you at another event soon. HUGs. Things I would like to see added next year.....a cake icing spatula for PB&J (i.e. a wider/longer version of a stiff knife), a few hot pads, exam gloves size medium and large in addition to food prep ones and one more big pan with a lid.
Paula Billman

A HUGE thank you to you and all of your volunteers. Although I was disappointed that I DNFed, the only other disappointment was that Anton never took off his shirt. From the "personal valet" service at Dogwood, to the fantastic food selections, to the water bottle fillers, to the words of encouragement, I was made to feel that my race was just as important as the race of the frontrunners. Speaking of frontrunners, with the way the course was set up and my slow pace, I got to see them no less than five times. Thank you for a memorable weekend. I'll be back for revenge.
Janette Maas

Joe, Henry, Crash, and Joyce! I wanted to extend a special thank you to each of you for letting me come play before the race. I realize that there was some work involved in this, but it was so lovely to be out on the trails and have some quiet before the big dance out there. It gave me a chance to remember just how much I love to be part of the trail running community and be on the Huntsville trails...especially in the snow. Oh how the race has changed since my first 50-miler out there when Joe was just "checking things out" before he took over...a day when the shuttle exploded overhead while we were all lost in the woods. Of course being part such a special raceday wasn't too bad either :) What a team all of you are!!
meredith terranova

Thanks Joe for a great race - my 1st 100 miler and I'm happy that I finished.
Mary Lou White

Thanks for sending my award. This was my first 50 miler and I had a blast. I put on a 50K trail run and definitely came home with some great pointers. Awesome volunteers! They need to be commended!! I will be back!
Joe Edgecombe

Great race and great volunteers - esp. thankful to Shan and Troy for helping me stay safe after finishing. Of course, so many, many great volunteers. Mostly, thanks for putting on such a great race.
Ed Cook

Thanks for being at the finish. You and Joyce are class acts!
Julia Sophia Wharton

The 2011 "Rooty" Raccoon 100 was memorable, and possibly the best running of that event I have experienced although my time doesn't show it. Every thing about the event was spectacular, from the storms that battered me coming and going, to the coldest weather experienced during pre-race set up and early hours of Saturday, to the best overall running weather ever during the race, and finally the larger than life (beyond my life experience surely) battle for the overal win among the leaders. The volunteers at ALL the stations were exeptional in their positive attitude and effective help and I admire and thank them all for it. The crowding on the trail of the pervious year was not felt, suggesting that the number of runners this year is a better match to the course. The "early start", which I chose, was a positive feature for me and I hope it can be continued. All and all, very positive! Until next year, I hope!
Jean-Jacques d'Aquin

1st off thanks for putting on a great event. Things went well for me and I managed a Sub 24 which was my Goal. It was tremendous that you managed to attract some top class ultra runners which for a newbie like me was a thrill.
Andrew Harding (MI)

Good Morning Joe, I really enjoyed Rocky Raccoon and as usual think you & Joyce did an exceptional job at organizing the race!! Thank you,
Tammy Massie

A HUGE thank you to you and all of your volunteers. Although I was disappointed that I DNFed, the only other disappointment was that Anton never took off his shirt. From the "personal valet" service at Dogwood, to the fantastic food selections, to the water bottle fillers, to the words of encouragement, I was made to feel that my race was just as important as the race of the frontrunners. Speaking of frontrunners, with the way the course was set up and my slow pace, I got to see them no less than five times. Thank you for a memorable weekend. I'll be back for revenge.
Janette Maas

Thanks so much for all your help with the race. I really enjoyed it.
Hal Koerner

Many thanks for putting on such a well done race. I need to make plans to run it again and make my original time goals. This time the trails gave me a beating. I spoke with a few runners along the way that thought about dropping from fatigue and or soreness. Hopefully they pushed on. It's always worth it in the end.
Brenda Carawan

Many thanks for another great race of yours! Rocky Raccoon has many of the ingredients I like with running ultra. It definitely has a personality - a positive personality. That is something that characterizes the best races. One definitely saw that you have put a lot of effort into it. Great support and encouragement also at the aid stations. Forward my thanks to the fantastic volunteers. It was great to have the opportunity to run RR again, and to get the revenge for my drop out at Dam Nation last year. I definitely understand why dropping out there is not a good idea. Once again. Many thanks for taking the time to put together another great race!! Runner's Greetings,
Jan Soderkvist

Being a dad is so amazing and I thought it was so cool that your daughter was helping out.... I had visions of me and my daughter doing the same thing 20 years from now. Anyway, thanks again for everything...you really are a great race director and I enjoyed talking w/ you a bit. I'm already looking forward to Bandera 100k next January!
Yassine Diboun

Thanks for putting on such a great race. It's been crazy how much attention there's been from the running media and other runners. Even Eric Clifton's been in touch. Cheers,
Ian Sharman

Hi Joe. I was a participant in last weekend's race (#94). It was a tremendous event, and I want to congratulate you and the volunteers on the great work in organizing and supporting the event. I couldn't believe the all-star cast turn-out, and then the incredible race put in by Ian Sharman was icing on the cake. I am on a quest to run 50 ultras in 50 states before I turn 50 (December 2013). Texas was State #15. I chose RR because I wanted to experience the biggest and best Texas had to offer. I wasn't disappointed. This race is now one of my favorites. Again, Kudos. It will be hard to top this one.
Jeff Woody

I just ran your Rocky this weekend, and had a great time. Thanks to you and your volunteers for all the effort it took to pull it off for all of us runners. The course was in wonderful shape, the aid stations were so supportive, and the weather was a nice treat for us northerners. Can you pass an especially big thank you to the night time volunteers for me? I know I'm not as vocal in my thanks during the night, and in fact can be pretty pathetic. However, your volunteers were helpful and very kind to my whiny self! Thank you kindly night time wonder persons! I hope you are all recovering nicely, and getting the rest you deserve. I'm healing well, and already planning my next adventure.
Brenda Bland

Thank you so much for such a great event! As usual, the race was top notch! The volunteers were outstanding, going above and beyond anything I've ever seen anywhere.
Karen Felicidario

There were two ladies (or angels probably) at Park Road the last 4 miles of my 50 miler who saved my freakin race with some apple pie. Whoever you were that helped me recover from that bonk please send me a message...I want to thank you both.
Laz N Sally

Joe and company put on the best race. They had everything covered. Best volunteers around. I can't believe so many stayed up all through the night. Thank you, guys and gals! PS I'm wearing my new Columbia fleece pullover today. It's the greatest race "shirt" I've ever gotten.
Katie Oglesby

Congrats to another wonderful race! My favorite event of the year! A big thank you to all volunteers as well.
Nathaniel Cameron

I started running last year. First the half ironman in Galveston, then the Chicago marathon, then this 50, and I'd have to say this event was the most enjoyable -- best run event. Your volunteers were incredible and I will always remember the lady at the finish who gave me a big kiss and a hug when I finished.
Shawn Olanyk

Thanks to Joe and volunteers for managing a stellar event. I'm so happy to have finished my first 100, right on my time goal and in one piece. A couple of notes from a long-time runner (30-plus years) but a baby on the trails and ultras (less than 1 year):
Matthew Prineas

To all the roots that tormented me through the night: why? what did I ever do to you? Anyone hear that huge splashing sound in the dark lake: what was that? So beautiful. The mist steaming off the lake in the morning, the blazing stars at night. How amazing to really feel how large a whole day and night really are. How we've forgotten. Who are these people smiling the whole way? I look like grim death in the photos. But their smiles were like spiritual electrolytes to me. Thank you!
Matthew Prineas

I loved volunteering at the Nature aid station and then being on the other side as a pacer through the night. Great run Joe. You guys are the best, no matter what side I'm on.
Fawn Simpson

I wanted to pass along a huge thank you to you, the volunteers, and all the cast who helped put on the 2011 Rocky Racoon run. It's a couple days, a couple flights, and a full day of back to work later and I'm still replaying each section of the run while grinning a huge ear to ear grin. I'd especially like to thank the Mrs. for the huge post-finish hug. My Mrs. couldn't make the trip because of some last minute changes in work schedule so it was a solo weekend for me. And it meant quite a bit to get the big bear hug at just before 2 in the morning after the 19+ hour run. Again thanks to you and all for such a great weekend.
David Boudreau

Finally, I must express my appreciation for Jenny's most efficient crewing and Joe Prusaitis' hitch-free race directing. Thanks for putting on such a flawlessly organized race and for inviting me to participate again.
Anton Krupicka

Thank you to all the volunteers, many of them close friends, and, of course, Joe and Joyce. What a beautiful event! No wonder people come from all corners of the globe to run this race.
David Jacobson

That was my first 100 and I was thrilled with the level of understanding, compassion and competence for all the volunteers. Definitely made a hard task much easier and joyful. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Joe, HCTR, Tejas and everyone else involved in making this happen ROCK!!! Will pass it on. :-)
Dan Jordan

Yes. Thank you so so so much. I never before have almost felt like I was looking death in the face and still found people around me to encourage and support me. Unforgettable.
Gordon Montgomery

Absolutely, couldn't have gotten through without all your help. Thanks to the volunteers for feeding and watering me. Thanks to Joe and the Tejas crew for putting on a great race. And thanks to all the other runners who offered words of encouragement and inspiration when passing me.
Mike Ruhlin

I want to thank everyone who volunteered this weekend also, from the other side of the aid tables! It was a great race with great folks helping us get to the finish line.
Kyle McQuire

Again a great race. Everything was perfect. After running a couple of races out of state I know that your races are over the top. I am grateful to be able to enjoy so many.
Mary Ntefidou

Thank you for a very well run race. I can't imagine the logistics of something like that. My day, however, did not go as planned at all. Unfortunately, I was pulled off the trail by another runner around mile 58 and put in an ambulance. Then I spent the rest of the evening in the hospital rather than running. It was my first DNF. Anyway, even in my delirium, I kept trying to tell the paramedics to PLEASE notify you guys at Dogwood that runner 83 had been taken to the hospital. I don't think that they ever did because my friend was frantically looking for me when he finished, and then said he was the one who informed you that I dropped. I apologize for that, and know it is not the way to do things. Next year maybe you should stress to any paramedic who picks a runner up in between aid stations to be certain to notify a race official. They really did not understand the gravity and importance of this even though I kept trying to explain that you would be combing the trails for us (there were two of us) later. Clearly, I still have my chip. Where would you like for me to mail it? I walked in my front door in Charlotte not even an hour ago, but I'll get it in the mail to you as soon as possible. Thanks again for everything, and I hope to see you again.
Meredith Dolhare

Thank you for always putting on a great race. Ya'll are the best!!!
Julanne Lott

Thank you so much for such a great event! As usual, the race was top notch! The volunteers were outstanding, going above and beyond anything I've ever seen anywhere.
Karen Felicidario

Joe! Thanks so much for everything this past weekend...You do a great job! and I really had fun.
Yassine Diboun

Thanks Joe and all the volunteers at Rocky Racoon. Awesome race and the snow and cold start was a nice touch of home. Only two wipeouts from roots. Will be back again.
Gary Poliquin

Thanks to Joe and all of the awesome volunteers at Rocky. The aid station folks were also awesome. Especially the"Park Road" aid station crew. You guys rocked.
Lane Gremillion

Thanks for a well done race and the Volunteers are tops!
Margaret Curcio

Three cheers for the Joe and the volunteers!!! I've never received as much encouragement from people whose first names I don't even know. Thanks for making my first ultra a truly awesome experience!
Rod Hooker

DamNation had the best volunteers and potato soup- shout out to Lynn and MIke for making it worth the miles to see them.
Helen Wilms

Another amazing race, Joe! Thank you to all of the volunteers. I am in awe of your dedication to running!
Karen Felicidario

Joe - great event, we'll back next year! Thank you for all your guys' support, and truly sorry for the athletes who trained and couldn't participate due to inclement weather.
Boun Sananikone

Congrats to my Tejas Trails Rocky Raccoon 100 miler finisher friends: Michael Arnstein, Brenda Carawan, Brian Pilgrim, & Joshua Holmes !!! You guys make me feel so lazy for only running 8 hours on Sat. Great job fighting through the ice and roots from hell.

My pacer & I had a wonderful time this weekend. It was my first ever hundred, and that's a special thing. The smiling volunteers and great aid stations made it even more special. Everyone was great support; I'm not kidding when I say they "held me up" (after finishing as hard as I could, someone caught me at the finish line, and that was appreciated!) The park was nice, also full of smiling staff. I even saw the trail crew out. (Installing fresh roots? I applauded them as I went past, as I know how much tougher miles are without trail.) It is clear from the tightly knit group and the smiles all around that you're doing something right. If you had only a fraction the fun I did, then I'm sure you already know what a good thing this race is. Thanks for making it possible!
Bill Murphy

I just want to say a big "Thank You" to all of you! Whether you helped me out at DamNation, or saw me on the course, you all helped to keep my spirits up with friendly words or other encouragement. Your smiles helped me to get through the day, and your warmth carried me through the night. NTTR rocks!
Kay S

To the DamnNation Aid Station, I cannot thank you guys enough for treating me like a special guest in your home. The day was beautiful, long, and cold but you always had smiles on your faces. I love you guys. Even though I DNF at mile 72, I had a blast and want to attempt this insanity one more time. I just have to find a way to force the solid calories. Lynn Ballard cleaned up my bloody feet at mile 52 and sent me off. I recognized a few of the NTTR members who were running thiis weekend and offered me encouragements: Jennifer, Deborah, Kay, Clive, Mary H, and Mike Hansen(who injured himself in the first loop but helped crew me at the start of the third loop). My special thanks to Sonia Burdett(ran the 50 miler) who drove me to and from Huntsville, Samantha White who came to volunteer and crew me at DamnNation and drove me back to the hotel, and Linda Boggs(the best pacer ever) who stayed up front to keep me moving and carried a big stick to ward off the howling coyotes. I am so proud to be a NTTR member. Thank you again,
Becky Williams

2010

I had the pleasure of running the Rocky Raccoon 100 miler in Feb 2010. I came in 196th at a time of 28:58:32 (definitely a back-of-the pack guy). Anyway, I didn't get a chance to tell you how much I appreciate you putting on that race and helping me fulfill a goal of completing a 100 mile ultramarathon. Thanks so much for any help you can give me. Once again, thanks for all you do for the sport of ultrarunning.
Matt Ellard

This is long overdue, but I just wanted to say thank-you for putting on such a great event in the form of RR100 a few weeks ago. It was my second 100 miler and it was a battle for me. Had a fast 70 miles and then dealt with a perfect storm of a sprained ankle, hypothermia and hyponatremia in the last 30. Oh MY. I had a long time trying to process the race and how I felt about it; and especially how the hell I even finished. But one thing is for sure: I would not have finished without the support of your incredible volunteers. There was a woman with long dark hair at Dam Rd. who assessed the damage on my ankle and taped me up, allowing me to continue on into the night. She even came running after me with a cup of warm food as I continued on the 6 mile loop back. Unfortunately, a mile and a half out of the aid station my pacer (my boyfriend Dominic, who had won the 50 miler and then come back out to pace me... man I am a lucky girl) recognized all the signs of hypothermia and began to get a little fearful of my safety. Luckily we made it to Mike Riggs' tent where he took us in for over 2 hours - giving me warm coffee and letting Dom and I huddle in his tent and sleeping bag to try and warm me back up. At first light, I still had time to make the cut off and decided I was going to do everything in my power to try and finish the hardest race of my life (thus far, of course:) Mike walked me out of the tent and even gave me the coat off his back. I know I would not have finished without his help and spirit and I am eternally grateful. These are just two examples of the types of generosity I was shown out in the backwoods of Texas. Every single volunteer I encountered had a smile on their face and was completely encouraging in every way possible. I just wanted to extend my gratitude to you all and to you for putting on such an amazing race. I have reached out to Mike via Henry Hobbs to thank him personally, but there was one other person I was trying to reach if you have any information: there was a man and his daughter volunteering at Dogwood. In my 3rd lap, he told me I had inspired his daughter wanted to start running after watching me all day. I was behind on calories and kind of out of it - and I hate that I never went over and spoke with this girl. Once I started processing what this man told me, it brought tears to my eyes out on the trail. Unfortunately - they were no longer there the next time I passed through. If you have any idea who I'm talking about, I'd love to reach out to that girl. Anyway - I know this has been a very long message, and I could go on for DAYS... but the whole point is: THANK YOU. I had an unforgettable experience at Rocky Raccoon and one that after the pain and fatigue is subsiding, I will always hold close to my heart. Peter Williams, who runs with my trail group - the SoCal Coyotes, told me y'all would take care of us, and wow - he did not lie. Plus I loved the scenery of your trails - reminded me of where I first started running in the backwoods of rural Missouri, where I grew up. Thanks again and I hope to see you all again soon!
Katie DeSplinter

I've reflected some more on your question about where the cap should be for the number or race participants. First, I am very much of the opinion that running an Ultra in Texas means that there will be other people on the course, and this is part of the nature of the course. We, the runners, have to respect the fact that everyone has a right to be on the course, and on stretches of two-way traffic on single track, everyone needs to share the course. I had no experience with anyone being obnoxious on this point last week. So somehow the lack of limits seems fitting with Texas culture, and I derive a certain sense of pride that anyone can get into a race in Texas. Having said that, I found that Sunmart became overcrowded, mostly because there were people entered in the 50 km event that were less gracious with sharing the trail. I missed Sunmart the last year it was run, but I made no effort to try to adjust my work travel commitments to make it, and I wasn't disappointed that I missed it. I suppose that it is this type of attitude that you wish to avoid. I consider 3 options - cap the race at 650, 700, and 750 people. The 650 entrant limit is my minimum if there enough runners who express the 'loner' attitude. 750 is obviously the park limit, and 700 is a compromise. I think a case could be made for a 700 person limit based primarily on the amount of parking within the park. Parking during the day was an issue for my wife, Karin, who wanted to go back and forth between Dogwood and Park Road to support me. Fortunately we anticipated this problem and rented a shelter just for the parking space. However, this logistical aspect is probably one of the biggest risks in maintaining good park relations, especially if some year people are less thoughtful about car-pooling. Here's a thought to help deal with this parking issue - run a jitney service along the park road up until about sunset. This will make people more comfortable about parking farther from the start, and it will allow people to get to Park Road with using their cars. This is obviously an additional expense and an additional volunteer requirement, but it is the environmentally responsible thing to do, and it would make the rangers happier about fewer people driving over the speed limit in the park. So, I don't think 750 people on the trail would bug me from a running perspective. I worry that that number might stretch the park's ability to handle the associated people and possibly harm the relationship with the park. If the limit when to 750, you might need to consider supplementing the logistical support of people moving through the park, which would be an additional item to sort out. Anyway, I hope this offers you some food for thought. I hope you are having an easy time this weekend, maybe with a nice run for yourself.
Peter Vrolijk

I thought I'd pass this observation on to you about Rocky. I was very concerned about the impact the bigger field would have on the race this year. Specifically I was concerned about the start getting really backed up and also things being really backed up at the aid stations during the first loop. It turned out to be a non-issue at least for me. I ran my pace from the start of the race and never waited on anything at aid stations either. It really worked out great. Even the start finish, which is always the craziest place, seemed to be well under control with people spaced out enough that we were not climbing all over each other. Great job as always.
Deborah

Jim and I both want to thank you for a fun race and for the personal attention we got. Thanks for finding Jim a place to sleep and stay warm. Thanks for the help I got with my drop bag and supplies between loops 4 and 5. And especially thanks for the warm reception at the finish line!!! The shirt and buckle were both great. Although I faded a bit on loop 3 my race went pretty good and I felt fine the entire time. I had thick Perpeteum, Hammer Gel, Cliff Blocks and Heed in the hydration pack. That's all I ate. One of those every 15 minutes. Took a Provigil and a Celebrex early in loop 4 and did fine from there. The course was interesting and in good shape. Never any question of which way to go. I was, of course, towards the back but I never really felt that there was a crowd of 700 people out there. It was fun to see everybody and say hi every loop. The aid stations were real fine, but I didn't really explore their options too much at all. Thanks again for a well organized very fun race and all your help and encouragement.
Kathie Lang and Jim Ballard

Thanks for organizing the race ... for the volunteers and for the weather ... I am still recovering ... :-) ... and i remember you asked for feedback. i loved when cascade crest start time was 10 or 11 am :-). Even if you keep the same 12pm end time , i would love to start RR at 8am or even 9am for example and finish in under 28 or 27 hours. But if you do that ... my advice, from my experience ... is to NOT rank late starters in the first 10 for example. cheaper photos would be great :-). the cheese cesadias were awesome but they ran out after the 3rd loop ( pizza with beet would be even better, but i would ask for too much :-). allowing plastic bins for the main aid station saved me A LOT of time and trouble and allowed me to try a few pairs of shoes. Thanks for that just looking at the website .... 750 people on a loop course it seems too much. In reality after 2-3 hours it was fine. But in general you could restrict it to ... let's say 600 people. In any case please NO LOTTERY for RR ... i never get in any lotteries :-) Thanks
Bogie

BACK TO THE ROCKY RACCOON RUN, (50 MILE RUN). THERE IS NOTHING LIKE THE SMELL OF TIGER BALM IN THE MORNING. THIS YEAR THE WEATHER WAS GOOD, BUT THE EVENT WENT A BIT ROUGHER. I HAD NUMEROUS FALLS. TWO ON THE FIRST LAP. ONE ON MY RIGHT SHOULDER AND THEN ONE WAS ON A DOWN SLOPE THAT TURNED INTO A FACE PLANT ( PLOWED UP A LITTLE TRAIL WITH THE LEFT SIDE OF MY HEAD), AND THEN 4-5 FALLS ON EACH OF THE LAST TWO LAPS. I HAVE FOUR 2-3 INCH BRUISES ON OR AROUND MY KNEES ( BOTH RIGHT AND LEFT) AND ONE ON MY RIGHT RIBS ABOUT 4-5 INCHES LONG AND 1.5-2 INCHES WIDE. I HAD ONE FALL ON THE LAST LAP OVER ABOUT A 10 INCH DROP WHERE I FELL AND ROLLED OVER LIKE A DOG, AND RECEIVED BLISTERS ON THE OUTSIDE OF BOTH HEELS. SATURDAY NIGHT IT WAS COLD. THE FLATER PARTS OF THE TRAIL WERE OK BUT THE UP HILLS AND THE EXTRA ROOTY SECTIONS WHERE I WAS BREATHING HARD WAS LIKE BEING IN A FOG. WITH ABOUT 100 YARDS TO GO I MADE A WRONG TURN AND WAS LOST FOR ABOUT 10-15 MIN. I COULD HEAR A LITTLE BIT OF THE TALKING AT THE START LINE BUT DID NOT KNOW WHICH WAY TO GO. FINALLY SOME OF THE 100 MILER'S CAME ALONG AND I GOT MY DIRECTION STRAIGHTENED OUT, AND THEN IT WAS ON TO THE FINISH LINE TO SEE JOE'S (THE EVENT ORGANIZER) SMILING FACE AHHH. IT IS A GREAT EXPERIENCE THAT I RECOMMEND TO EVERYONE. ALL IN ALL THIS IS STILL MY FAVORITE EVENT (SEVENTH RACOON FIVE FINISHES) (Pondered a thought this year when you tangle with the roots and unleash expletives
Peter Raybourn

I just wanted to thank you for such a wonderful experience at the Rocky Raccoon 50. I loved every second of my 9hrs 58min and 11sec! I'll be back next year for the 100 mile run. Thanks for everything.
Roland Gomez

Hey Joe, Sophia and I didn't stick around for the awards ceremony. But we had a great time at your race. Good job on a highly-attended event.
Ben Holmes

I just wanted to take a second and thank you, Joyce and your race crew for a fabulous weekend out at Rocky Raccoon. It was my first 50 mile finish and I appreciate everything that was done to take care of us and provide us such a wonderful running experience. I don't think I would have even attempted 50 miles had you and Joyce not been at the helm. Thank you for helping me achieve something I didn't think was possible. My schedule prevents me from working out regularly with a group so I've had to learn trail running in bits and pieces from you guys, the Heynans, the Aysons and of course Bill Patience who's been stuck with me the longest. I can't tell you how good it felt for people to say my name that day knowing they actually knew who I was and weren't just reading it off my race bib. In addition to old friends I had a great time talking with all the runners and volunteers. Wow! What a great group of people.ÊI learned a lot and was shocked by how far some had come to run. I have a new appreciation for race directors and volunteers after experiencing what I did. It was absolutely incredible to watch the endless activity by so many cheerful volunteers. I can only imagine the hours and work that you all actually put in. Rocky put many "big city" events I've done to shame and you should be proud of what you have accomplished. I am looking forward to Nueces and a return trip to Hells Hills since I have unfinished business there after last year. Thanks again! Congratulations on putting on a first class event!
Ann Treffer

Joe and Joyce, Firstly, thank you for a great race. Once again, you are the best, but please for my gratitude to your many helpers. Without them it would not have been possible. However, without your energy, organization and inspiration, it would not have been the same great event. Thank you, thank you.
I also had two Canadian friends visit at the finish. They were completely blown away by the whole thing. The ultra running was an unknown world to them. It was a big eye opener to them.
1) I had a one loop test run a month ago, and was not sure I was going to like it better than the old. But after completing three loops, I conclude this is a better course than the old. I like the long hill after the Park Road aid station that gets steeper and steeper towards the top, but also for each loop. It is like you have a crank that gives it an extra nudge up each round. A nice challenge. I also like the loop out and back at the Dam Road aid station. I am surprised some would miss the signs and do it twice. I could see that the state I was in on my second 20 mile loop I would have been able to make mistakes, but that one was so clear that even my foggy head did not miss it. Again, thank you for the clear and good markings.
2) I think that number of starters were OK. Maybe it is approaching saturation, but I would let it grow to 400 for the 100 miler before I would consider limiting it. I did hear a few people around me grumble about too many people on the single track trails in the beginning, talking about all the time they were loosing. I kept my mouth shut, because the pace saved in the beginning adds miles to their legs in the end. To much testosterone pace in the beginning kills you later.
3) Trash talking. Yes, I did also notice that there was more trash on the trails this year. I am really disappointed in my fellow runners, that they have such a disrespect for the beautiful nature we have been given the gift to play in. Yes, disqualification should be the measure, but would be hard to fairly enforce. One way may be to threaten with DQ and encourage everyone to pick up a piece of trash they see, because if you do not pick up the trash you pass, you may risk being DQ'ed by the court marshal, uhh course marshal who passes the trail right after you. I must admit, that I have passed trash that I did not pick up and carried to the next aid station. I will do that in the future, because it did make me feel disgusted seeing the trash on the trails.
I will be back for more RR100 fun next year.
So why did I not finish the 100 this year. Simply because I had let myself go. So badly that I ended up in the hospital in November with irregular heart rate. I was tested to the n'th degree, and my heart was found to be in physical good shape, but the rest of me was badly out of shape and overweight. I had a base mileage of a handful of miles per week. So registering for the RR100 became a great motivator to get going. And I could feel I got stronger and stronger by the day through the next two months. That was a great feeling. However, I never did run longer than 20 miles that last two years, so the result last weekend is a personal victory. The second loop was scary, as my heat kept going into irregular heart beat and my body reacted by going to a state of fainting. Guess, because it wanted me to slow down. So I took a good long sleep till my body felt normal again and at $ AM I went out for the last third loop. It was touch and go till I got to Mike at the his tent on the far side. From there and to the finish line it finally felt like I had hit the 100 miler grove. I was running most of the way. Let's calling the 100 miler shuffle feet running, nevertheless running. Also on the long hill from Park Road aid station, except for the steepest part near the top. My legs and feet started to feel pain. Good pain which made me feel alive and happy.
So thank you far putting on this great event and allowing me to feel alive again. Happy trails
The Gr8 Dane Thorbjorn

Joe - thanks again to you, Joyce and your team of volunteers for making RR a great success. Don't know how you pull it off but glad you are willing to do so. My eyes were too fuzzy at the finish to know for sure who I was shaking hands with or hugging but I assume you were in the mix. Since I had to wait to get things back in focus before venturing out on the highway, I didn't make it over to the center before all the activities were over and folks had cleared out. I had arranged to have someone pick up my drop bag so that was covered. If there is a Texas Trilogy award out there for me I'll try to pick it up at one of your future races.
Les L. Ellsworth

Thanks again for a wonderful weekend in Texas. I was pleased with the run and enjoyed crossing the finish line.
James Taylor

Thank you for putting on an outstanding event. It really wasn't all that much of a surprise to us because our good friend Peter "P-Dub" Williams doesn't speak highly of much, so when he raved about Rocky Raccoon, you and your wife, we knew we would be in for a treat. Consider that a strike against, because we came in with sky-high expectations. You, your team (staffÊ& volunteers) really over-delivered on what was already a seeminglyÊimpossible to fulfillÊpromise. We were there as a part of two teams/groups, the SoCal Coyotes (the team that has adopted Austin transplant Peter Williams) and Team Moeben (Shannon Farar-Griefer's company & team). Team Moeben / SoCal Coyote Dom won the 50 miler, SoCal Coyotes June & Adam did their best in that race as well (June finished, Adam did nothing fatal as he had not run for four weeks). In the 100, ALL Team Moeben & SoCal Coyotes athletes finished. I set an epic PR (2-hours, 15-min) and I really owe that to how smoothly organized and run everything was. But can you PLEASE flatten the course more and remove ALL roots and mud next year? ;-) We'll be looking to this race on our calendar for future years and recommending it emphatically to anyone who will listen. Again, thank you so very much. We had a blast. The time of our lives. On a separate note, I am aware your team took meticulous notes of numbers and times at each and every aid station / checkpoint. Will you be making any of those splits / numbers / race standing public? I study that stuff both on the personal side and as a coach. It would be very valuable info to have access to. No problem either way, I just thought I'd ask... I hope you and Joyce are enjoying much deserved RnR!!! With Great Respect & Deep Gratitude,
Jimmy Dean Freeman

First off, awesome race this weekend! It was my first 50 miler and I'm already itching to do another. Like everyone says, the volunteers were top of the class. I was most impressed when I took my shoes off after the second loop. I noticed a blister that was so big, I was even grossed out to look at it. A woman volunteer was at my side in seconds, propped my foot on her knee, and she bandaged it up and made it ready to go for a third lap. Thanks for all of the hard work putting this together and rounding up the best volunteers in the world! I learned on Saturday that this is definitely a different monster than just a marathon.
Charlie Buser

Thank you so much! It was a great race!
Sarah Thomsen

One more thing, I'd recommend the Super 8 in town for your hotel list. Clean, good price, comp breakfast, refrigerator in room, convenient to the park.
Bob Clouston

Joe, you run the best races. This was my second RR50 and I had a great time. My father, Gary, volunteered the event while I was running and he also very impressed with how organized and professional everything was. I really look forward to running Rocky again and maybe even branching out to some of the other Tejas Trails events. I just wanted to say thanks and that your hard work is appreciated.
Devin Brown

Again thanks for a wonderful weekend and it was a pleasure to get to meet you. At the end of the race you asked me about my thoughts about the number of runners this year. Well now I have had time to think about the response. I think the number was fine and personally did not feel that anyone was in my way or that I was not able to get out of a faster runners path. Always, there will be frustration in the first few miles of a single track event, but that has happened in the past (during the 50's) and almost every single track race I have run. Now, please realize I know there are runners out there who a very performance based and they may have thought it was too crowded, I am not one of those runners. Personally, I enjoying saying hello or giving/receiving words of encouragement from others during the race. Others may not feel that way. I must also reiterate my frustration for the amount of trash deposited on the trail during the night time hours. It was the only disappointment I had in an otherwise splendid event. I wish I could figure out how to get runners to stop this behavior, but it seems to be becoming a more commonplace occurrence in races of all distances.
John Harrington

Thanks, Joe. Those guys were amazing. Thanks for a great race.
Jennifer Bernstein

I wanted to thank you for a really well-organized race. I know you like to collect compliments for your volunteers, so please tell them that I thought they did a great job. The course was marked extremely well, the drop bags were well-organized, and the aid stations were packed with useful stuff and responsive people. As an example of the latter, people refilled my water bottle a couple of times while I was in a port-a-john. A less experienced group might not have thought of this. Regarding the crowding on the course, it didn't seem to be a big problem for me. I was worried that the port-a-potties might be occupied when I needed to use them, but I guess I lucked out in that respect. There were a few iPod-wearing runners who were slow to react to me, but the vast majority were extremely courteous and pleasant.
Greg Crowther

Thanks for the great event. It was a joy to run my first 50 mile race on your course.
Mark McGowan

First class race!! LOVE those Dam Road folks!!
Edie Riedel

Rocky Raccoon was awesome. Very organized and the volunteers at the aid stations were top notch. I'm really glad I chose this race for my first 50 miler. The race was a 10.
Lane Gremillion

While I only made it 80 miles I really enjoyed the whole experience. Thanks to all the volunteers, RD, and other kind runners... Next year I'll get the whole 100.
Dan Burstein

Everybody was wonderful. The 100 miler was my first ultra (and 4th race). I had fun and met really nice people along the way that I will never forget. The aid stations were great. Still recovering, but can't wait to do it again.
Scott Harper

The race was great but the roots were killer!!! The volunteers were GREAT! Exceptionally encouraging, supportive, funny, motivating, helpful -- just overall Awesome!!! Thanks a million! you guys rock! Great job Peter and #252 -- you were my inspiration!
Anders Grant

I am disappointed I could not finish, but did make a personal best distance... this race is the best! Had a great time, thanks to Joe, Joyce and everyone else involved! Maybe next year!
Maryann Ramirez

Just wanted to thank you guys for getting my medal out to me so quick. Enjoyed the event from start to finish. You and your staff did a great job. The weather was good the trail soft,the food was great. The size was just right (people) had plenty of space on trail after we all got strung out. I and others I talked to are greatfull for the 29 hrs. for the 50 it lets us slow people enjoy our event without worry of getting kicked of the course and pushing to make a cut off time. Thanks
Monty Gossett

Joe, you run the best races. This was my second RR50 and I had a great time. My father, Gary, volunteered the event while I was running and he also very impressed with how organized and professional everything was. I really look forward to running Rocky again and maybe even branching out to some of the other Tejas Trails events. I just wanted to say thanks and that your hard work is appreciated.
Devin Brown

Just wanted to say thanks for holding a very cool ultra! Everything was great, the volunteers were awesome! I seriously mean that. I had a blast. I met a bunch of cool new friends. I'll definitely be back for next years Rocky Racoon!
Joel Ignacio

HI JOE THANKS AGAIN TO YOU JOYCE AND ALL THE VOLUNTEERS THAT MAKE THE ROCYRACOON SUCH A TERRIFIC EVEN EACH YEAR, & MAKE THIS SLOW OLD BIG MAN FEEL WELCOME, THIS WAS MOST NEEDED AFTER THE LOSS OF MY BROTHER LATE LAST YEAR, YOU GUY'S ARE THE BEST !!!
PETER RAYBOURN

Thanks Joe!! You know how to do it right!! Great Race from top to bottom!! Now you know why it keeps getting bigger.
Paul A. Powell

Joe, thanks for putting on such a great race. Everything was well organized, the course marked well, and the aid stations and volunteers were amazing! The finisher medals and jackets were really cool! Thanks for all your hard work.
David McCaghren

Joe and Joyce, coming to RR is like a (good) family reunion! You make us feel so welcome. Both Larry and I had a wonderful time and we thank you for all the hard work and effort that goes along with a classy 100 mile event. Already looking forward to next year!
Beth Simpson-Hall

Despite the roots, I had a good time (I even didn't fall this year). I like the course, especially since it is entirely in the woods. You have a great organization and a class group of volunteers.
Mike McCumber

Thanks for another great race, as always. Please pass along a BIG thanks to all of the volunteers for helping me finish my first 50M. The aid stations were just wonderful. If you wanted to get in and out quickly, they'd get you right back out. Need something? They'd do whatever they could to help. Always encouraging everyone all day (and all night, I'm sure too), with reminders to take in calories and stay hydrated. Great job all around by everyone. It was fun to come back to TX and see everyone, and knock out my 50.
Bob Clouston

Also thanks again for another awesome race! Incredible support and great race overall. I know that I wouldn't have been able to finish if it weren't for the support of my wife, friends and the awesome volunteers!
Adam Korona

RR50 was my first 50 miler. Great experience. You weren't lying about your volunteers. They were great. Thanks to you and your team for a great introduction to 50 miles and beyond.
Michael Westbrooks

I can't say enough good things about how well managed the ultra was this weekend. I was blown away by the hospitality of the volunteers and the beauty of the well marked and well thought out course. I've never done an ultra before but I have done fourteen marathons and other races to numerous to count. I don't have any other ultra to compare this one too but compared to the other marathons I have done this was hands down the most enjoyable experience. I only did the 50 miler but I think I'm hooked after Rocky.
Mark England

I ran my first fifty mile race at Rocky Raccoon last weekend and I wanted to say that it was a fantastic race. The course was amazing and the volunteers and other runners even more so. I also wrote my first race report. Can I send that to you for possible posting on the Rocky Raccoon website? Thanks for putting on an awesome race. I'm hoping to be able to do the hundred miler next year.
Jeremy Day

Joe I just need to tell you that you and Joyce are the most wonderful people ever!! You put on such an amazing race and how you two can make every single runner feel so special is so admirable. When I got to the Dam Road aid station on my 3rd loop, I said to the volunteers that I have a complaint, and all eyes were on me (: I said "you have too much good food here" and its true every time I came in they were making something new and something so perfect that hit the spot! the food, the volunteers, the every thing that you do makes it every reason why RR100 is becoming so popular and we love you for making the experience for us, the best possible! THANK YOU!
Shannon Farar-Griefer

Thanks, Joe. What a special event. I will always have good memories of that race! Can't say enough about the volunteers!
Jerry Hollingsworth

Thanks for another fantastic trail run. I can't even say enough wonderful thanks and sincere appreciation for all the effort of everyone involved in Rocky Raccoon for catering to runners in top notch form. My favorite thing-avocados-yummmmmy!
Jessica James Holmes

Joe and Joyce once again put on another fantastic race. What a team to do so much and have it so well organized. I rate this race 10 Stars. Thanks to you two and all the other folks, who gave their all make this race successful.
Charlene Janiak

I would like to thank the volunteers at the Bandera 100k/50k. I have never seen a better bunch of volunteers at any race I have ever been to. They absolutely were the best, and during some of the toughest conditions I have ever been a part of. Thanks Joe, and all those great people that assisted everyone through that race. Looking forward to Rocky Raccoon, now.
Jerry Hollingsworth

Congratulations on a race well done. It was a pleasure to participate. I know you encountered several unplanned occurrences yet you handled all of them with your usual calmness. Your volunteers were efficient and always friendly. The Start/Stop line was well ran and coordinated. The first aid station had very friendly people that refueled you and got you going again. The Dam People at the Dam Road were Dam impressive. I am glad they knew what was going on since I did not know if I was coming or going! The Ramon Noodles were Hot and tasty and complimented the Hot Cheese Tortillas. The Maytag Repair men at Far point kept everything running on schedule. The Mardi Gras aid station was a sight to behold. The aid was great and the beads were a bonus. (Ashley - Thanks for the Blue and White Beads, I will be cheering on Chapel Hill next time I see them). The weather was great and I am looking forward to next year. Thanks for all your Hard Work. It is appreciated.
Ed Green

Thanks so much for putting on such great races! My First 50 and my birthday - Complete Joy - well not really complete, but you guys sure made it bearable and then some. Appreciate all you guys do. This was my 4th Tejas race and 1st Rocky Raccoon and the top notch support, friendly Texas faces, awesome aid station grub and proddin - all that I've come to expect from you guys, was there in full effect. See you soon!
Boog Ferrell

Thanks so much for putting on such a great race. Finally my first sub 24 hour 100 miler. Now 3 Rocky's down and 2 to go for my 500 mile jacket!!! See you next year.
Mike Siltman

Fabulous Rocky as always, so well run and well volunteered! Thanks a bunch, you are very cool. Thanks for the birthday wish at the finish line, made my day even better. :)
Katy Cotton

Amazing race this weekend! Thanks Joe and ALL OF THE WONDERFUL VOLUNTEERS!
Jennifer Halabrin Kimble

Just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who volunteered at HTREX's kick-a-s Park Road Aid Station this year. What a tremendous job by everyone, from the early-morning shift (who took an overwhelming, formless mass of supplies, and turned it into something that worked beautifully), to the graveyard shifters (who cared for oftentimes spaced-out, not always "sociable" runners & trod down the trail to pick up their trash - ugh), to the folks who were there for the final tear-down - and everyone in between. Thanks also to all the folks who brought some amazing supplies, whether foodstuff (Karen's amazing lasagna soup, Mariela's apple pie and Michael & Beate's vegetable soup come to mind immediately - oh, and Chris's Pine Belt Pale Ale), or gear (Arlene's gloriously tacky Mardi Gras decorations & coona-s music; Shelly's blankets - which a number of runners definitely appreciated - and which I suggest she washes thoroughly; Chris's old 12-cup coffee maker - which got the working of its life & performed beautifully; and the marvelous panini makers - truly an essential piece of aid station gear). Special mention must go to Lynnor & her life-giving generator. After it had been running for what seemed like 18 straight hours on a single tank of gas, we started calling it the Hanukkah Generator.
Finally, thanks to Joe, Joyce, Henry & the larger Rocky Raccoon army of volunteers. As I was driving back into town with Chris, we both commented on how we'd felt less physically exhausted after actually having run an ultra then we did then. It's hard to fathom how you guys do it - and do it so well. One small example out of many: Early in the day, when it was becoming apparent that not only did we have a lot of runners this year, but that these runners had some sort of freakish hunger for anything containing enriched white flour, I drove down to Dogwood to let Joyce know that the locusts were eating us out of house and home. Within 10 minutes I had enough supplies to bridge the gap until they could do a store run, and from that point on we never ran out of anything essential. Just a phenomenal job all the way around. Can't imagine anything you guys could do any better. Well, maybe if you lined the entire 20-mile loop with giant trash cans every 50 yards (then maybe there'd be fewer gel-packets, paper cups, and other assorted items of crap along the trail - but probably not). Hope everyone had a good time out there & hope to see all of you back next year! Again - huge thanks to all of you.
Mariela Botella

I hope this message finds you and yours doing well. I wasn't able to stay for the ceremony as I had to get back to DC last night. But I wanted to take the time to say thank you. RR was my third 100 and I have to say it was the most enjoyable one to date. The folks staffing the aid stations were awesome and extremely responsive to our needs. I hope to one day return to Huntsville for another round in the future. Many thanks to you and the good folks behind the Tejas Trails series. Take good care! Semper Fidelis,
Mosi Smith (not...Dave Chappelle)

Thanks for an amazing weekend out at Rocky. It was a fantastic race - great people (volunteers, crowds and racers). I got pretty confused after the first lap, and all the volunteers did an amazing job of helping me out and getting me on my way. I like the size of the race - it gets really lonely out there at night, and it was mentally relaxing to see other lights out there and to see folks so you know you're not lost. My one feedback is that it would be wonderful to have a changing tent changing tent (a tiny portable one is perfect). Changing in port-a-potties is icky (especially if you need to change out shorts).
Jane Bui

This weekend was my first 50 miler and my first Tejas Trails experience. It was amazing. In addition to gorgeous weather and beautiful trails the race was truly a delight. The staff at the aid stations were fantastic! I didn't pass a single aid station without being asked multiple times if I could be helped in some way or without being encouraged as well. I have run one other trail race and a couple road marathons. This was the most fun I have ever had! I will be back next year for the 100 miler. Please pass on my thanks to your staff. Also, I believe I met Joyce at the kids run on Friday. She really made it a memorable event for my 5 yr old son. It was his first race and he proudly finished dead last- but you'd have thought he set the world record by the cheers he got coming in. He has already asked to come back next year. Thanks for a great weekend, you will be seeing more of me around in the coming years.
Michael Lair

I absolutely agree - the support was amazing - every time I could see the aid station in front of me there was a crowd of runners - but once I got there someone was always right there to assist - fill bottles - etc. Thanks for everyone's hard work in helping all of us that ran this event. All of the aid stations were top notch - but Dam Rd definitely edged out the others! ;-)
Brian

I would just like to say thank you to everyone involved for the excellent race on Saturday. I ran the 50, and the aid stations were great, the people so amazing, the trail was well marked, and it was just a great race. The people involved in this awesome event just did a wonderful job. I took a fall with about 13 miles to go, and an anonymous runner, who I believe was running the 100, stopped to help me to my feet, and give me some encouraging words when I felt most down. I don't know his name or number, but I think it just goes to show how ultra marathoners are such kind people. So thank you so much,
Donna Palmer

I know everyone has already said it, but the support this weekend was amazing. The crews were great all the way around the course, but Dam Road was the best. You guys had me in and out of there as quickly as I wanted to everytime. Many thanks to all!
Dave Carder

Working the Dam Road Aid Station is very inspiring, generally fun, sometimes cold but always worth the effort! My thanks to team members and runners alike for a great experience.
Jim Sproul

Thank you and your wonderful crew for an amazing experience Sat as I completed my first 50m at Rocky. I can't say enough about all the aid stations and bag check volunteers who helped me get through the race and have a great day! My next goal is the 100k at Bandera in Jan as I continue to climb the ladder! Bummer about the missing box of medals, but I look forward to receiving mine in the mail. Unfortunately, sometimes **it happens. My bib was 596. Thanks again!
Mike Hansen

Wanted to send a note while the experience was still fresh. THANK YOU for an incredible experience!! This was my first 50 miler, but thanks to you and Joyce, and your volunteers, it will not be my last. Special thanks to the Dam Road crew. They were a bright spot along the trail. Thanks to them for bandaging up my feet, and to the "banana guy" who made me laugh every time I went through. From start to finish, this was a GREAT experience. Thank you for being so organized that I didn't have to worry about too many details. Also, thanks for marking the trail so well. I think you would have had to been running with your eyes closed to get lost. I will definitely do Rocky again!!
Edie Riedel - TNT Run Coach

Just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who volunteered at HTREX's kick-a-s Park Road Aid Station this year. What a tremendous job by everyone, from the early-morning shift (who took an overwhelming, formless mass of supplies, and turned it into something that worked beautifully), to the graveyard shifters (who cared for oftentimes spaced-out, not always "sociable" runners & trod down the trail to pick up their trash - ugh), to the folks who were there for the final tear-down - and everyone in between. Thanks also to all the folks who brought some amazing supplies, whether foodstuff (Karen's amazing lasagna soup, Mariela's apple pie and Michael & Beate's vegetable soup come to mind immediately - oh, and Chris's Pine Belt Pale Ale), or gear (Arlene's gloriously tacky Mardi Gras decorations & coona-s music; Shelly's blankets - which a number of runners definitely appreciated - and which I suggest she washes thoroughly; Chris's old 12-cup coffee maker - which got the working of its life & performed beautifully; and the marvelous panini makers - truly an essential piece of aid station gear). Special mention must go to Lynnor & her life-giving generator. After it had been running for what seemed like 18 straight hours on a single tank of gas, we started calling it the Hanukkah Generator. Finally, thanks to Joe, Joyce, Henry & the larger Rocky Raccoon army of volunteers. As I was driving back into town with Chris, we both commented on how we'd felt less physically exhausted after actually having run an ultra then we did then. It's hard to fathom how you guys do it - and do it so well. One small example out of many: Early in the day, when it was becoming apparent that not only did we have a lot of runners this year, but that these runners had some sort of freakish hunger for anything containing enriched white flour, I drove down to Dogwood to let Joyce know that the locusts were eating us out of house and home. Within 10 minutes I had enough supplies to bridge the gap until they could do a store run, and from that point on we never ran out of anything essential. Just a phenomenal job all the way around. Can't imagine anything you guys could do any better. Well, maybe if you lined the entire 20-mile loop with giant trash cans every 50 yards (then maybe there'd be fewer gel-packets, paper cups, and other assorted items of crap along the trail - but probably not). Hope everyone had a good time out there & hope to see all of you back next year! Again - huge thanks to all of you.
Miles Klaff

Thanks for putting on such an awesome race! And thanks for helping take care of me when I bonked after finishing...above and beyond your job description!! I had a great time and can't wait until the next one :)
Shannon Mitchel

Hopefully you are sound asleep when this hits your computer. You've certainly earned it! I just wanted to let you know that as someone who has directed races in the past, I cannot even begin to fathom what it must take for you and your team to put together an event like I experienced at Rocky Raccoon. The course was extremely fair. Not a racetrack, not a killer. It was just right! OK, some of the roots grabbed my toes but we were forewarned...the volunteers at the aid stations "knew the drill" and functioned to perfection. None of us lacked for anything. You even dialed in 1-800-perfect weather. Thanks so much for all that you and your team did to make Rocky Raccoon such a great race!
Mark Plucinski

I'd like to express my unmeasured gratitude to Joe and Joyce and the Team of volunteers for putting up such amazing races! The course was rolling enough to make it un-boring, and the trails are soft to remind me of PNW - sans outnumbered roots (we do have those, may be just not so many). I got a taste of Texas in completing the Trilogy (Cactus, Bandera and Rocky) for my slab of rock, and it was all worth it (even if at the finish I asked Joyce to hold my hand if I ever start registering again). A special thanks to Melanie Fryer for lending me her shoe insoles (after mine bruised my feet to the point I couldn't even walk). Mel and Liza - congrats on turning stellar wins in 50 and a 100! Your smiles and encouragements were deeply appreciated. This is what makes you true champions. Also special kudos to that last AS staff (God, I should check out the AS location and course description next time, you think?) for the soup (they poured AHEAD of time into cups) and avocado - a perfect ultra meal! Not to forget Lynn Ballard from Dam Road AS - dude, without your duct tape for my bended ankles I'd still be crawling out there! This is what means to be a real ultrarunner-volunteer and be prepared. The races grew to some outstanding numbers, and, back to the point Meredith brought up after Bandera, somehow it also brought way too much trash. I had raced all around the country, and not only in small sub-100 folks runners races, but big ones as WS100, which features same number of starters. Folks, we need to take care of our trails! The amount of trash was, again, unbelievable. What was NOT an issue at Cactus Rose (was it because that race was small and had a family feel to it?). I saw everything from small tops of gu packets, gel packets themselves, full bags of food, many - MANY - Styrofoam cups as far as 3 miles away from AS (in the middle of Dam Road loop), and how difficult is it to toss a cup INSIDE a trash bag that is located (in 2 different places) a good 200 yards from the AS - as opposed to dropping it on the ground? I guess I've volunteered enough, and put enough races, to be really concerned. I have to say, though, I also saw runners bending over and picking up the trash they saw on the trail - not THEIRS, so THANKS! Anyhow, a stress-fractured tailbone and two rolled ankles later, I am thrilled to be part of this community! Thanks again, Joe and Joyce, who also give best hugs at the finish line!!! I should know, I used to be known for exactly that:) And a special thanks to Kyle for keeping the technology upgraded - heck, we had a live internet feed! Kyle, I owe you a massage, anytime. So, once it all healed and done - I am on for Nueces! Anybody? The pictures are beautiful!
Olga Varlamova

The volunteers and then entire organization were definitely as advertized. The peanut butter and bananna sandwich was a balst from my past. However, I would strongly recommend that you change the course description. While the inclines were not that extreme, the roots were. I chose this because of its description and had I known it was going to be at least 60% roots, I would not have registered, flown from Chicago, stayed 5 nights in a hotel and rented a car to suffer several falls. I know what style runner I am, and my style does not lend itself to lifting my feet high enough to traverse this type of course. Has it been a lesson, yes, did I get to run 48 miles in a warmer climate than Chicago, yes. Do I think the bruises, scrapes and black eye was worth it? The answer is no. I knew I was not a runner who did these types of terrain. Please save the next runner like me from an equally painful experience.
Karen Kirk

2009

I have been to a lot of races and have benefitted from many cheerful volunteers, many of which have made a very positive impact on my race(s). The ones I remember most are the ones who knew what I was feeling...the ultra runners who could read my eyes, see the lack of color in my face, understand what I needed without exchanging words...you know, like you guys did at Rocky... My sincere thanks to each of you for all of your hard work...you did NTTR proud!
Lynn Ballard (Dam Road Captain)

I'm still in awe of the new course, and upon further reflection I just thought it was such a vast improvement. But I guess after being there 7 times on the same course, I was getting tired of it. Now I have something to look forward to for the next 3 years as I go for 1000 miles!
Dale Perry

Thank you, Joe, and everyone else involved in the race organization. It was the best race I have participated in to date! I'll definitely be back next year.
Maryann Ramirez

First of all I'd like to thank you and the volunteers for making this such a welcoming and supportive experience for my first 100 mile attempt....It is not suffice to say that this was a totally moving event in my life's pursuit of dreams. It amounts to much more.. I can only hope that it will continue to lead me in the direction I believe I am meant to take. Thank You again for everything
Greg Lowe

Bill & Stephanie Annicella and I can't thank you and your crew enough for the outstanding ultra that you all orchestrated! You and your team truly put on the most organized and supported ultra that I've ever been involved in. We had a blast! Thanks to all the great volunteers who made every aid station an oasis on the trail! Texan's Rock! Bill and I are planning on making the Rocky our first 100 miler next year! See you then.
Ryan Yoch

Just ran my first 50 at Rocky! Thank you for a wonderful, wonderful experience!
Karen Felicidario

Ran rocky raccoon... first 50. it was GREAT! have plenty of good things to post on the website. thanks!
Steven Monte

Great job this weekend, Joe. It was a fantastic event. Next year let's turn down the heat a bit, ok . . .Your volunteers are top notch and I tried to thank them as much as I could, but please pass along a wrap-up high five. Be well.
Kevin Sullivan

Fabulous job this weekend- I am fairly new to trail running- but so fun and very well organized! Thanks so much for all you and your fabulous volunteers do.
Jennifer Halabrin Kimble

Many thanks to you and the many kind, supportive, and attentive volunteers who made RR 2009 such a great experience for so many! Never having been to Huntsville or the state park before, I now understand why so many folks come back every year they can and will hope to do likewise. All the best,
Richard King

I just wanted to let you know that I had a great time at rocky this weekend. I really enjoyed working the aid station, JJ and Dawn were really nice. It was a perfect weekend, volunteer, run 40 miles and meet great people. I hope our paths cross again soon. Thanks
Kim Gimenez

Just ran my first 50 at Rocky! Thank you for a wonderful, wonderful experience!".
Karen Felicidario

Thx for another year! Everything was great! Ice at the aid stations was a real treat and much appreciated. Volunteers were absolutely super!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kevin Dorsey

"this is awesome if for no other reason than it is called the rocky raccoon run. best beatles song ever! (oh, congrats on 100 miles well done...good GOD!)"
Kristin Carlisle

I just wanted to thank you both for such a great weekend. We had a terrific time. From the kids race (Macie is still talking about it), to the dinner and the race. Buddy is really feeling good about it. Amazingly since he was almost 4 hours off his goal. But he knew it just wasn't his day and was happy to have finished when he did. I think what really made it a good race was, as usual, the people.
Becca Teaster

Thanks to everyone for another good race. It was my third 50-miler with you and although the weather was warm, luckily my race day plans weren't impacted too much. My main reason for writing was to say how much I liked the new course. Everyone I bumped into during the race seemed to like it, too. I'm not sure if it was, but the new course seemed much flatter than previous Rocky Raccoons and even Sunmart races. I vote to keep the new course. Thanks again for everything you and all the volunteers do.
Jeff Gosmano

Great Race! Huntsville is my hometown and I was thrilled to complete my first 100 miler at home. I can't express the gratitude I have for all of the volunteers who provided aid throughout the race. I especially want to thank those at the dam road (aid station 2 and 3). If it were not for them, I would not have finished. On my last loop things were going down hill quickly, but they saw to it that they did everything possible to help me finish. One man bandaged my badly blistered foot, while 2 other men and a lady provided me with an extra shirt to layer, socks for my freezing hands and a hat for my poor little ears. Their words of encouragement were exactly what I needed at the time. Thank you again!
Niki Bellnoski

"Thanks for spoiling me, Coach. Once again, you put on a race that was organized and well-staffed with the BEST volunteers. (And I'm not just saying that because I finished this time!) Thanks for the best 13 hours of fun I've had in a long time."
Cheri Woldt

I just wanted to say THANK YOU for an awesome experience in Texas! Your race is a top notch event--from the event organization, volunteers, and everybody involved. I have wanted to do RR for years and am glad I finally had the opportunity! Thanks again for a great experience!
Jamie Donaldson

Wow, what a humbling experience! My first 100, and as for now, my last. Man, how tough! I did get through it. As I know you've heard countless times before, the volunteers were what made the race for me! I wish I knew their names, but the Dam Rd. volunteers saved my life!!! Shorter woman around 40 yrs old with shortish dark hair massaged my legs & really took care of me. Made me eat some crackers on the 6 mile loop before I came back to the aid station for the last time. Her kindness really stuck with me through that loop as I was puking & just trying to survive. Some others, especially at that aid station were really fantastic. Thanks for putting on such a great event. ...but yeah, I think I'll stick with 50K-100Ks for now!
Rick Spencer

Thank you Joe for good race.The trail marking is perfect .Aid stations volunteers are super ,thier help is beyond expectation .Texas hospitality is all over the race. I like the new course very much.See you next year,if God willing.
Nofal Musfy

Thank you Joe and Joyce for all your hard work. You are simply the best! Looking forward to seeing you in July. Till then...stay well and know that we think of you often!
Love, Beth and Larry Hall

Thank you for putting on an unbelievable race. Words cannot express my gratitude, but I will try anyway. This was my first ultra experience and I don't think I could have asked for anything better. I was coming down to Texas from the Washington DC area with no pacer, no crew, and no experience in a race longer than the 3 marathons I have done. I was quite nervous but all of your instructions and information were very clear and helped me understand things easily. In addition, I was anxious about the course, but it was marked perfectly, something that I could only imagine was very time consuming. I know you wrote about great Texas hospitality, but I could not fathom just what that entailed. Everything from how awesome the other runners were to how incredibly helpful the volunteers were simply amazed me. It did not take long for me to feel welcome. It started while grabbing lunch at Subway on Friday afternoon. I met a guy named Phil who was going to be volunteering at the Nature Center aid station on Saturday. When he found out I was there alone, he offered to pace me and ended up keeping me company from miles 80-90 (which started at 1am!). All the volunteers at all the stations went above and beyond what I thought they would do. They did everything including filling bottles, grabbing my drop bag, bringing me food, keeping me warm, encouraging me, and getting me back on the course quickly. I tried to thank them all, but my memory of everything got a little foggy towards the end, so if you could pass on my thanks I would greatly appreciate it. And one final note and special thanks to Sherry (not sure on the spelling) from Park Rd aid station, who on the final lap walked the remaining 4.4 miles with me, which given the shape I was in at the time took over 2 hours! Without the volunteers, I don't think I would have been able to make it all the way. I may have gone down there believing I would have to rely on myself to finish, but realized once I crossed the line that I certainly did not finish on my own. If I decide to ever run another ultra, I will certainly be back and will help out any way I can. I know this email does not do justice to the efforts by you and everyone involved put forth, but I thank you again for a spectacular race that I am sure to remember the rest of my life.
Jeffrey Grabosky

I ran the Rocky Raccoon 100 mile race last weekend and it was my first 100 mile race. I was extremely pleased to have a sub-24 on my first attempt! As usual, fantastic race organization, top notch dinner/ trail briefing, and great awards. I really appreciate the time and effort that you both put into your races to ensure that runners have a good time. I cannot thank your race volunteers enough- they were instrumental in my ability to finish. Specifically, the NTTR aid station at Dam Road were always going above and beyond expectations. Jeff and Mike were phenomenal at helping me tape up my blistered feet. Lynn Ballard told my pacer something at the last time through the Dam Road station that caused him to push me to the finish in record time. Thanks Lynn! Everytime we came in to all of the aid stations the volunteers were there offering food, water, and any other comforts. I don't know where you find so many wonderful people to work through the night to cater to cranky tired runners, but I really appreciate that you do! Great job/ Great race.
Jennifer Evans

I will spare you my entire race report, but wanted to share the part about the course! I must make mention of the new course because having raced in Huntsville many times the course has historically been the same in all of the races...at least one out and back on the jeep road and for Rocky Raccoon also a 3 mile out and back to far side. For me, the out and backs are a mental drain on the soul. You try to rally each loop for them, but by the 3rd, 4th, or 5th loop (depending on which race you are running) they get tough. Well, Joe and Chris came up with trails that I didn't even know could exist out there. We had these fantastic almost clover loops within each loop, bad description but the course was fantastic! They actually even found a few rollers so that your legs weren't totally flat the entire way! Wow, wow, wow! I loved it! You got to see tons of people from the front, middle, and back of each race and every section went by so quickly. Before long, off we went! Loop 1 was awesome. It went by so quickly. Heading out to the Dam Aid Station I got to see the lead 100 milers coming back. It was so fun to be on the same course with Jamie! We had this new awesome loop that cut-off so that we didn't have to go all the way to Far Side. I get that I am speaking almost a foreign language about the course, but the almost 3 mile loop went by so quick and was so much more manageable mentally than the long out and back. It was during this section that I just knew if I could be patient, it would be a good day. It was also during this loop that I realized that my Garmin was going to be useless. I was wearing it for the first time ever during a trail race to keep me conservative on the first loop. Well that is great until it reads 5.3 miles for about 30 minutes and doesn't give you a pace...so much for that keeping me conservative. Oh well. After that section, we went on the jeep road to another new section. I loved it! It was along this old jeep trail with a powerline of sorts. It was a section of gentle rollers, which felt great on my legs. I was almost giddy with how great the course was. Joe - You ordered up the best of it all this weekend! The course, the weather, your team, the awards, everything! Thank you so very much for a wonderful weekend and the best Huntsville race ever! I am truly appreciative.
meredith terranova

Thanks for all the hard work. This was my first Ultra. Your organization and your volunteers' hard work reduced the challenges to simply completing the course. I've waited to write this so that it is free from the post-race emotional high, but I still cannot think of a single thing that could have been done to make the race any better -- excluding the weather. It's tough to train for the humidity when you live in Midland. :-)
Rick Strange

Even tho I was a DNF I want to thank you for a great race. The volunteers were so wonderful!! Filled my water bottle, offered food, encouragement, kind words and a hand when I needed it. I am very slow, perhaps too slow to be trying something like this [or maybe just too old!], but I only got positive words of encouragement from everyone along the way. It was a great event--please let everyone know that I as a back of the pack/ DNF appreciate so much all the hard work that went into this event. Thanks!
Holley Lange

Chelsey here (female 2nd place finisher for the 50 mile race). First of all, I want to thank you for the incredible race. While RR was my first 50, I feel as if I can tell that it was one of the smoothest and well-run ultras. I felt very well taken care of throughout the whole race, and I think that really helped me to run such a great race. Thank you again for the wonderful experience...
Chelsey Clammer

One more time you and your crew delivered a great event, thanks so much for your dedication and hard work out there, that`s why this race will only get bigger and certainly better. A big thank you also goes to the great volunteers from The Hill Country trail runners, North Texas trail runners, Houston T Rex trail runners, Seven Hills running club and numerous others that lended a hand when we needed it the most. Next time we need to do something about this crazy Texas weather. Until next time...
Paco Garza

Joe--GREAT race. I had never done an ultra before and didn't know what to expect. Thanks for putting on such a great race. The race support was excellent, the food great, and the trail well-marked (although I almost missed a couple of turns on lap 3 out of inattention). The only thing that could make the race perfect would be if you could physically remove all those roots. During the race, my buddies and I decided never to do a 100-miler. On the way back to Missouri, we have changed our minds--most of us, anyway. Again, thanks a ton.
Mike Tripp

Thank you for putting on a fine race. You, your staff, and the many volunteers, should be very proud of a job well done. I have done many 50k's in the past, this was my first real Ultra. You and your team made it a wonderful experience. Thank you for putting on such a good run. If I do not do it again next year, I will certainly be out there volunteering at one of the aide stations. Thank you for a wonderful memory.
Dave Burdette

I wanted to thank you for such a well directed race. I had an excellent time and loved the course. The heat was quite unexpected coming from zero degrees in Syracuse the day before but the fact that you had ice on hand at every aid station was marvelous. The volunteers were amazing- always right there to help and encourage. I had to catch a plane back early to New York. Can you tell me what place I came in? Thanks again. Keep up the great work.
Matt Chaffin

I just wanted to say thanks for hosting such a well organized event. This was my first ultra and I completed my first 50 in a little under 11 hours. I have only been running for a couple of years and only had one marathon under my belt. I was a little nervous to attempt the 50 but was very pleased with all the help your experienced crew offered. I wish I would have found you and shook your hand after the race to say thanks but at least wanted to take the time to say thanks via email. Also I thought I remembered coming across somewhere on the web site where you guys will send a press release to our local newspaper. Not sure if you do but I cant find it now but thought I remembered seeing that somewhere on your link. Anyway, if you dont send one thats no big deal. I would like to post one in my local paper here in Norman, OK. I am a chiropractor in Norman, and also I own a gym in Chickasha, Ok and would like to post one there as well. Anyway, thanks again Joe and hopefully I will see you sometime soon at one of your future races that you host. God bless,
Kyle Griffith

I know you're probably catching up on some sleep, so when you awake from your much deserved rest, please accept my hearty thanks for a great run this past weekend. The organization was spot-on and the volunteers were incredible. Even though I DNF'd, I never would've made it 77 miles without the unparalleled support of all the folks out there. Special thanks go to the folks at Dam Road--Lynn and Mike, you guys were AWESOME! I also owe a great deal of gratitude to the dude who taped up my blistered feet on my 4th and, unfortunately, final lap. (Sorry, amigo, I forgot your name; no excuses, but I was a bit loopy at 2:30 a.m.) Dropping stinks, but I'll be back next year to give it another go. Thanks again for everything!
Ryan Valdez

I would like to thank the "Blister Fixer" at the Dam Road aid station. I stopped in there on my fourth lap and he did a great job patching up my foot so I could finish the lap. While I didn't finish the race I did appreciate the help. I would also like to thank the folks in the First Aid Station at the Start/Finish. They took a look at my feet and advised me to call it a day (from what I heard at the hospital - that was really good advise). All of the Aid Station support was great but I really appreciated the help/advise I got during my last lap. Thanks. Regards.
Falvey Malarcher

Thanks again for putting together Rocky. Volunteers were terrific as they were last year. You seem like a guy that appreciates comments so I thought I should send you a note. I hope you don't take offense since clearly this is not your problem - it is "our" problem. In the first 3 loops I picked up over 50 (first I wasn't counting and then I eventually lost count) gel packs and/or gel pack tops. I also picked up lots of jolly rancher and misc power bar wrappers. I drew the line at picking up the tissues along the way - guess I'm a germ-o-phobe. I saw two other runners that were stopping to pick up trash as well. This goes well passed the realm of accidental drops while running. Road races aside, I had never seen anything like it. I don't understand why people do when it is so easy to carry stuff to the next station. With the growth in ultra running I hope this isn't the shape of things to come. I never did see anyone actually drop anything but this was mostly all fresh stuff, still shiny and slimy, so I assume it was coming from us. I'm not talking about the stuff that was tossed next to trail markers although I don't think much of that either. I would have busted anyone I caught in the act. I was embarrassed and frustrated. There were plenty of non-runners sharing the trails. RDs and volunteers have enough to do without having to sweep the trails at the end of the run. A few RDs are eliminating cups and anything with wrappers - mostly it's a green thing but it does let people know you are serious. I don't know what the right answer is. Maybe a couple of DQs and people would get the message. Sorry to "dump" this on you. Very best,
Dale Humphrey

Fabulous job this weekend- I am fairly new to trail running- but so fun and very well organized! Thanks so much for all you and your fabulous volunteers do.
Jennifer Halabrin

I always enjoy running your races because I know I don't have to worry about the support. It's always there, and it's always friendly. Thanks for what you do,
Ed Brickell

Thanks for all of your efforts to put on such a great race. I recognize that there is probably a great deal of pressure to put on a stellar race, particularly as the popularity of the race increases. You and Joyce are awesome and the care you give to making it a great race really shines through. Support and aid stations were good and the new course was challenging.....tougher? Not sure, maybe. But I liked it. I'm attaching a picture my mom took after the race. Your words of congratulations and encouragement mean a great deal to me. Thanks for your support. See you in Waco.
Stuart Skeeter

First of all, thanks a million for a darn nice race. Again, well organized, everyone is sooooo nice, and awesome food at the aid stations! I came from Michigan with two friends, one who ran the 100 as I did and the other ran the 50. They absolutely loved the Texas hospitality and have now recommended your race to our little band of 45 ultra runners. Maybe expect to see more entries from Michigan? Second, thank you so much to both of you personally. I am sorry that I dropped out at mile 83, and thank you Joyce for giving me a ride back to the start/finish. The two of you are truly great folks. I felt bad getting patched up at 80 only to have more issues at 83. My podiatrist, however, yesterday confirmed the intelligence in my decision to call it a day. He let me know that if I had continued, I stood a good chance of tearing the plantar fascia on my foot. As it is now, I will not be able to run for 3-4 weeks, but much better than the alternative (he said a rupture or tear was worth 3-6 months of not running)! With that, I did want to let both of you know I'll be back next year and, come heck or high water (watch out for gators), I'll give it my best shot to finish all 100 miles. Again, thanks for a super race and, above all else, being great folks. Hopefully the two of you can kick back and enjoy this weekend together. Cheers,
Jeff Leigh

You put on a world-class event!! Jenny and I will be back. :-)
Nathan Echols and Jenny Chow

Thanks for a great race, Joe...the new course was a nice change of pace from past RR 100s...thanks also to all of the helpers at the aid stations, especially at night when I really needed their support...great job!
Pat Shannon

Hi Joe. I ran and finished RR 100, my first 100 miler. It was an awesome event, wonderfully organized and fun! Thanks so much!!
Steve Hilmy

For my first 100 miler, many people recommended your race - Scott Weber, Ralph Hirt....
I did it so yes - thank you! Great trail - incredibly well marked. Frequent aide stations. Super nice volunteers. Loved the loop and the scenery. I was wondering if you have the timer - Angela's email so I can explain my last loop and let her know although I did not make the 30 hour cut off, I made the other cut offs, as the aid station people recorded and that I did finish - the volunteers - Anne (I think or Diane - short with dark short hair) and JJ saw me finish in 30:32 I would at least like to be recorded for making the 100 miles although I know I cannot or should not be recognized for making it in 30 hours - I did not. But I was not a DNF finally
I want Angela to know I finished my final loop since she is doing the time and split analysis and posting of the results
Final Loop = 80 - 100 left the dogwood start/finish at 5:35 am
Nature Center - 6:45 - in and out
Dam Rd. (first time) - 7:46 - in and out
Turn around (they got me) ? - kept right on going
Dam Rd (second time) - 9:51 - they were packing so I do not know if they recorded me - they saw me and gave me water and took my night gear in their truck
Park Rd - 11:04 (the most recent RR packet said that cut off was 11:00 and the volunteers recorded me coming in and checked off my number. Finish = 30:32
I returned the chip to you Joe when I saw you while I was recovering and hanging out on the bench talking with the volunteers who were cleaning and packing up Well I hope you consider this Thanks
Teresa Rensch

Thank you, Joe, and everyone else involved in the race organization. It was the best race I have participated in to date! I'll definitely be back next year.
Maryann

Thank you for a wonderful event for my first 100 mile attempt. I can't say enough about the volunteers. You described them in the prerace meeting as "people who would know what you needed before you did." True enough. Who would have ever guessed that I needed veggie meatballs at night and apple pie and pancakes in the morning. Just the right things at just the right time.
June Leland

Hey Joe, that was one of the best experiences of my life
Matthew Condron

thanks for putting on a great race AGAIN this year! You and Joyce are so amazing and incredibly supportive race directors, and I owe your smiling faces at every 20 mile loop to my finish. I didn't think I was going to finish, I really wasn't training to well, (Moeben and 3 boys keep me busy) but I had to so I can get my 500 mile jacket next year (: xo
Shannon

Thx joe. I finished! This was my first 50-miler AND myfirst trail run! Didn't know how my prosthetic would work on rooty trails. It was fine til it got dark. Even tho I had a headlamp I just couldn't run. Too dangerous. Great race! Had a blast! I'll be back.
Amy Dodson

"Joe, thanks for an awesome race again. The KC trail nerds absolutely love your event."
Gabe Bevan

Thank you for a wonderful Race experience!! Probably the best of my 25 year career!
Christine Daly/Gibbons

Thanks again for a great race with such excellent support on every lap. You all really know what a runner needs, especially in the later laps.
Jenny Chow

2008

Well I have no idea who won, other than Jorge who blew through 10 times with no one in his wake so I'm sure he won. Ryan Loedling of NTTR was in second or third on the first loop and then I didn't see him again.
But I will say this, Dam Road was trash free, woo hoo! Thanks so much to all the runners who threw their trash in the trash cans. We had very little post-race trash pick up to do and I am very very grateful and appreciative to everyone who made the extra effort.
It was a little nippy Saturday morning but it soon warmed up into the 70s so we had a really beautiful day. Saturday night it stayed in the 50s so we didn't need the blankets and no one dropped due to cold. We had much fewer drops at Dam Road this year than last year. I know some people were hurting in 70 degree but at least at Dam Road it affected less people than the 20 degrees did last year.
Thanks to aid station captain Lynn Ballard, we had killer lighting. He had construction lights set up through the food tent and drop bag area. We managed to pick up all the drop bags that were available after dinner and had those organized before we went to bed. I'll also note that Lynn worked all day and all night with no break. He was giving everyone back rubs, leg massages and lots of words of encouragement to runners having a hard time. Stuart brought his stick and he was using that on lots of runners to loosen up those stiff leg muscles. He was great and so was Stuart from San Francisco who worked all day and then paced all night. We got lots of compliments on our aid station. Thanks to everyone for the postiive feedback. We were working our butts off.
We also had a three burner gas grill, thanks to Joe Prusaitis, and this allowed us to crank out the grilled cheese sandwiches all weekend long. We did run low on supplies a couple of times so some runners came by to slim pickings, but Joyce Prusatis did a great job of getting us more food as soon as possible. We had a lot of hungry runners this year and they were gobbling up the sandwiches as fast as we could make them.
Thanks so much to some surprise volunteers who came out to help us. We even had two people, Dave Emerson and Laurie Underwood, who ran the 50 miler and then came out ot support us. Thanks so much.
I got to meet a bunch of new people on this list, which was wonderful as well. Overall it was a great weekend and I have nothing to whine about.
Deborah Sexton

I decided to do Rocky Raccoon because I wanted to try a course that was more runnable than all the mountain trail races that seem to be the norm. I have to admit that I was surprised in several ways (all good) by the race.
First of all, it is an extremely "user-friendly" race. I was able to fly into Houston on Friday with a single carry-on bag containing everything I needed for the weekend, race on Saturday, and fly home on Sunday. The race site is an easy hour's drive north of Houston, and there are many hotels within 10 minutes of the race site. The course is 5 x 20 mile loops, so I only needed one drop bag. (There is the option to have a second drop bag on the course that you'll pass at 7 miles, and then again at 13 miles into each loop.) In a wet year, I can see that the course could be a mud bath, but this year, everything was dry.
I started the race with the expectation that it was an "easy" 100 miler. But now, I have to change that to call it an "accessible" 100 miler. The trails are non-technical, and entirely runnable. While there are inclines and declines on the course, there is nothing I would really call a hill. So Rocky doesn't have the sorts of barriers to completion that something like MMT has. Thus, it's accessible to people who might not be inclined to try a technical or mountain race. But the other side of that coin is that if it's runnable, you might end up running more. I ended up not doing any walking in the first 60 miles. In the last 40, I occasionally slowed to a walk only for as long as it took to get a squirt from a water bottle. So I'd guess that I ran > 99.5 of the 100 miles. By the end, I was toast. Once I stopped, my blood pressure dropped through the floor, and I spent two hours in the med tent waiting for the world to stop spinning. Further, I don't think I felt nearly as beat up after 25-28 hour finishes at MMT or Bighorn as I do after a 15 hour finish at Rocky.
Two days after Bighorn this summer, I was hiking in the mountains outside of Lander, WY. Five days after Bighorn, I went on a 17 mile hike with some Park Ranger friends to a mountain lake at 9,000 feet in Targhee National Forest. I'm hoping that five days after Rocky, I'll be able to ascend and descend a staircase without gripping the railing.
I had thought that Rocky Raccoon would be a one-time race for me. But the logistics are so easy, and the race is so well run that it is certainly one that I would consider doing again.
aaron schwartzbard

Thanks for a wonderful weekend. I had a great time and will try to come back next year. You have a terrific race there and while I was disappointed not to see any armadilloes during the run I had fun. All the aid stations were good and the people were friendly and helpful. I don't know if you have them do it on purpose or not but as a nurse who has checked the orientation on many patients it seemed like on the last loop all the stations were checking to see if you were still coherent as you came in - or else they were really bored by 4 in the morning or my delusional paranoia was kicking in (but at least I wasn't disoriented). Anyway thanks again and hope to see you next year. If you or any of your runners are coming for the JFK - we have extra bedrooms and transportation.
Barb Hunt

Great race on Saturday! Thanks to you and to all of the volunteers.
Matt Long

I just wanted to thank you for an AWESOME event. I enjoyed the course and you have the absolute BEST volunteers. Everyone was so helpful at each aid station- please let them know that their efforts are greatly appreciated. I had so much fun in the 50 mile event that I have decided to do the 100 next year! Thanks again for everything!
Jennifer Evans

thanks for an awesome race! it was my 1st 100 miler and i was proud to finish it! :) the entire experience was amazing!!!! i keep wanting to explain it to my friends but words don't quite do it justice- it's something than only the experience itself can describe. the aid stations were great and the volunteers were very helpful. my 2 favorite aid station volunteers were stuart and lynn (at the dam). i looked forward to their stop everytime because they were so awesome! i'm laughing as i write this just thinking about it- but they really took care of us. stuart used the stick on my legs a few times as we passed through and lynn even held ice packs on my knees so i could eat :) i even blogged about them on my usual post race blog :) thanks for a great weekend- all 28 hours of it! :)
carrie :)

Thanks for a great race. Can't say enough about the support at the aid stations. They all did a wonderful job and the food was just as good. We came to bring home a couple buckles and with all your help, we reached our goal.
Kev and Faye Hawn

Thanks for putting on such a great event. We will bring a bigger group of runners for next years race.
Bruce

Just now getting around to it, but I wanted to thank you for making my first 100 miler very memorable. After volunteering for the past two years, running the race felt surreal, but I knew I was in great hands with all the excellent volunteers that gave tirelessly of themselves. It was a first-class race and I am grateful for all the hard work every volunteer provided to make everyone's experience wonderful. I spoke with numerous people from across the country, while on the course, who stated that Rocky Raccoon was their favorite race, and that's hard to dispute. Until next time. Thank you!
Larry King

Thanks to all the volunteers for their hard work, as they are the true endurance athletes of these events. There were a lot of HCTR folks out that were so helpful to everyone. Thanks to all and to Joe for giving us such incredible events.
clea csycz

I had so much fun. I'm so glad I did it. I'm tired today, a little sore, but not bad. The volunteers were great - especially our group out at Far Side. Thanks to Robert and Joe for the training group and all the volunteers who made the race work.
Dawn Isensee

As always a first class event was present in Huntsville, and the weather provided great icing on a wonderful weekend. As Joe said, "the weather is for the volunteers this year." I disagree, the weather was for ALL! The morning was cool, and created an environment for all to head out on the trail quite speedy. Although the 50-milers didn't hit HWY, I can only imagine the warm reception began there for the 100-milers. For the "fun run" folks, we were greeted to the ready to serve and always wonderful NTTR crew at the Dam. They were on target to fill bottles and kick us out. Then on to Far Side, which I personally looked forward to as Diana, Robert, Mike, and Moogy were there to serve! From there, we all hit Dam at what seemed to be the same time, and they were ready for us all! Around the lake/swamp to 174 to a group I didn't know but warmly welcomed us all, and the cheers of some of the spectators from the start/finish! And before you could blink...it was to the start/finish area. Whether pacing or racing, and I have done both, Joe, Joyce, Henry,ALL of the Aid Station Captains, volunteers, and everyone who gives any of their spare time...it all shows and is so wonderfully appreciated. Every detail is covered and kept up on all day. What a treat to be out there and share the weekend with all of you, not to mention sharing the trail with oh so many who had such a wonderful day. It was so fun to get to cheer as I was running, and chat with so many :)
Meredith Terranova

Thanks to Joe and his wonderful support crew. Everyone was so positive, helpful and caring and with smiling faces everytime I reached another aid station. The aid station food was great and I even experimented with some different food which I know is a no-no, but got lucky and had no problems. I think the potatoes with salt was a godsend. I developed a cramp in my lower right calf muscle on the first loop and it brought me to a painful walk. I stopped, took four e-caps and tylenol. Took lots of salt at the next aid station, started to drink lots of Heed and within the hour I totally got rid of the cramp. Talk about luck. By the way breakfast this morning was great! A big thanks to the cooks for all their hard work.Thanks volunteers you were great.
Charlene Janiak

I really enjoyed volunteering at Far Side! It was amazing to see everyone trying to reach their goals of the 100 or 50. You do an excellent job times 100 of putting on an awesome and fun event.
Sky Garcia

The volunteers as usual were great. This was my first time to run this event - I'm usually on the other end - and I see why this race is growing. You are treated like royalty. Many, many thanks to EVERYONE involved!!!!!
chris matus

HUGE thanks to everybody who gave freely and cheerfully of their time. This race was a lifetime's achievement for me...I may never run further...we'll see: Thanks to:
3. Advil Liqui-gels
2. Bono , the Irish rockstar
3. Joe (super coach and RACE director
It was my pleasure to stand on the line with everyone who went as far as their bodies would let them...the minds were never in question...apart from us all being slightly insane of course! ;) WOW!
Gordon Montgomerey

Your race this weekend was awesome!!! You have an outstanding race!!! Thanks
Lee Greb

Thanks Joe for a great job. Thanks to all the volunteers. You guys made my first 50 miler, (second attempt), even more special by putting together such a well organized, smoothly run event.
Mark Hutchens

Thank you so very much for allowing Dreamchasers to be such a big part of the RR races. We had a blast and a great turnout. I will let you know all who ran from our group. We will be in touch soon to talk about doing other events with you..we look forward to seeing you in the Tetons!
Lisa and Jay Batchen

Hope this finds you well. Got into Texas late on Friday and didn't have the chance to say hello, but wanted to thank you and everyone for an awesome race! Everything seemed so organized and well put together---and I have to say that the aid stations were fantastic--the burritos, grilled ham and cheese, and quesadillas were the perfect "real food" during the run. Can't wait for next year. All the best
Kira Matukaitis

I would like to thank you and your volunteers for a wonderful weekend. I was out there a really long time and certainly got my money's worth! Your volunteers were so wonderful particularly your Dam Road workers who went above and beyond and were so encouraging when I was on the last loop "death march." Directing a race and volunteering all night and being so pleasant about it must be difficult- but you all made it look easy. I can see why you have so many repeat customers. Thanks again.
Marie Lewis

Thanks for all the hard work you and your great crew of volunteers put in to make RR100 "run" so well this past weekend. This was our first time here. Although Jim developed major foot problems that caused him to drop out of the race before the finish, he loved the rolling course and runnable trails and jeep roads. The course was very well marked and easy to follow all the turns. Thanks again for all your hard work at Rocky. We appreciate it.
Sue Norwood and Jim O'Neil

Anne and I wanted to thank Joyce, you and all the great volunteers for the experience of Rocky Racoon. We do appreciate but can not begin to realize how much work goes into a race of this quality. Even though our day didn't turn out as we had hoped we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and the race.
matt and anne watts

This was my first ultramarathon and it was fantastic! I wish road marathons were this well organized.
Mark C Smith

Thanks and nice race - professional as always.
Fred L. Lowstetter

Great event. Thank you and JoyceÑsincerelyÑfor all the hard work.
Matt Crownover

Thank you, thank you, thank you!! We had a wonderful time at RR this past weekend. You always make it so special for us. I'm so happy my daughter, Rachel and her boyfriend, Bryan were able to see what a wonderful 'family' we have in Texas. They had an absolute blast and can't wait to come back!! We appeciate all the hard work everyone does in order for us to run. Please extend our thanks to them as well.
Beth Simpson-Hall

Concerning your race, I must say I'm very impressed. Very well organized, super supported, great volunteers, great dinner and breakfast. The only comment would be, to add a few more trash cans a little further out from the aid stations. I saw 2 or 3 additional piles of cups/trash past the last garbage bag. Thank you so very much for a great race. Thank you,
Steve Corbin

I wanted to thank you and Joyce for a great race. It was challenging and fun, and very rewarding. I look forward to running more of your races in the future.
Nicole Strong

Thank you for the wonderful Texas hospitality.
jay batchen

I volunteered on Saturday for the race. I had never seen an Ultra before so it was very inspirational. Maybe I'll do this run one of these days!
Jane Kang

Thanks for putting together a great event last weekend. Your races are some of the best organized of all the races I've been to. I had a great time and improved my Rocky time by more than an hour.
Dmitry Rozinsky

I wanted to say thank you for putting together such a great race! It was an incredible experience for me. This was one of the best races that I have participated in. Again, great race! Thank you for making it such a positive experience for all of us.
Juan Andrade

JUST A NOTE TO THANK YOU GUY'S FOR ALL YOUR DEDICATION AND HARD WORK TO PUT ON THE ROCKY RACCOON, IT WAS AGAIN A GREAT TIME, AND THANKS TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS THAT MAKE THIS EVENT TOP SHELF, & ALL THE OTHER RUNNERS THAT ENCOURAGE ME EACH YEAR THAT I HAVE BEEN IN THIS EVENT MANY THANKS TO EVERYONE ( BELOW IS MY NOTE TO MY WORK GROUP) BACK TO THE ROCKY RACCOON RUN, (50 MILE RUN), WELL HERE I GO AGAIN NOTHING LIKE THE SMELL OF TIGER BALM IN THE MORNING, THIS YEAR I FINISHED DESPITE THE ROOTS WHICH I SEAMED TO FIND EVEN WHEN IT LOOKED CLEAR LOTS OF STUMBLES, I HAD ONE FALL THIS YEAR AND NO INJURIES BUT I DID SLIP DOWN A EMBANKMENT AND TWIST MY LEFT ANKLE (FIRST LAP) WHICH TOOK ABOUT THREE MILES TO WORK OUT NO BLISTERS, IT WAS QUITE WARM, & SUNNY WHICH WITH THE SHADOWS MAKES IT A LITTLE MORE DIFFICULT FOR ME TO SEE THE ROOTS, IT IS A GREAT EXPERIENCE THAT A RECOMMEND TO EVERYONE (FIFTH RACCOON FOURTH FINISH) LOOKING FORWARD TO THE MS150 IN APRIL AND WHAT MAKES MY RUNS A LITTLE MORE INTERESTING AS A SIDE NOTE FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT KNOW MY CORRECTED VISION IS 20/300 WHICH MEANS THAT WHAT I SEE AT 20 FEET IS WHAT REGULAR SIGHTED PEOPLE SEE AT 300 FEET I ALSO HAVE LESS THAN 5 DEGREES FIELD OF VISION (LEGALLY BLIND) LIVE LIFE AND MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY DAY
PETER RAYBOURN

Great hospitality and camaraderie. Impressive how well park drains. Excellent buckle design.
Jose Vargas

I want to give you guys a heartfelt thanks for the race. This was my first 50 and is something that I've been wanting and trying to do for a few years now. I have finally gotten that monkey off my back and you guys were a big part of that. After being on the other side of this event on a few occasions, I know what goes into putting this event on. From the running side, everything was so smooth, but I know there were bumps along the way for you guys. But you do such a great job that as a runner, you never notice it.
Chris Matus

Thank you to everyone that volunteered at the Highway Aid Station! We all made a great team! A very big THANK YOU to Al Salinas, Sherry Pleas, Kathryn Vidal, Keith & Kristen Ingram who were all up at the crack of dawn and worked the 6AM-12noon shift. Another big THANK YOU to Dennis Werner, Mary Ntefidou, Nina Jannetti, Keith and Kristen Ingram who worked feverishly during the 12noon-6pm shift. In there we also had Karen, Jennifer and Christina Lynn helping out for a while. The night shift did a great job!! George Bashen, Mariela Botella, Paige Krekler and Geoffrey Pierce - THANK YOU! Finally, the graveyard shift and Aid Station Clean up 12am-7am Sunday. You were all very much appreciated! Larry Teeter, George Bashen, Mariela Botella, Paige Krekler and Geoffrey Pierce - THANK YOU! I hope I did not forget anyone. PLease let me know if I did miss you...my memory isn't as good as it used to be. I still need to catch up on my sleep! I'm making a list of things we can improve on next year. If you have any suggestions please pass them on! THANK YOU (again)!!
HTRex and Mariela

You work so hard and it shows! No one, and I mean no one, puts on a better 'party' than you.
Beth and Larry Hall

Good job at RR100. Once again you put on a first class event.
Matt Harrington

Great race. Thank you so much for the special recognition as Mr. Sunshine. It was wonderful getting that special recognition for something that comes so natural to me. It's the way I run my life as a cancer surgeon (is there any other way). I had no idea you run the other two races and will make a special effort to attend (after all, you might need some nitetime lighting).
Marty Fritzhand

Most people would have thought that helping out at an aide station all night long would not have been this much fun, but I must say that it was a blast! It is just great to be able to help people as they come through, because most of them, unlike Larry, really need the assistance. I strongly recommend taking the time to volunteer at these races. It is a very fulfilling experience that gives back to the community.
Vance McMurry

Thanks again for another great year at Rocky. I've now finished 6 for 6 attempts, although I was injured this year...I still finished, but my last loop was UTTERLY UGLY! Your aid station help is the best! It really helps toward a participant's 100-mile success. You set the bar high. We try to emulate your races on every level for our own ultras. Happy trails
Ben Holmes

At the risk of sounding disloyal to my own beloved Heartland 100, I will say Rocky was just about the best-operated 100-miler I've ever been at. thanks
Gary Henry

I got back to Michigan after running the Rocky Raccoon 50 on Saturday. Wow, you guys put on a great race. I really don' t know where to start. Organization - Paramount! Well marked trails, everything moving like a well-oiled machine, everyone of your folks knowing answers to common questions. I can't tell you as a person who frequents a lot of these events how important your fantastic organization means to the runners. Just super, super, super! Aid Stations - Where do you find these people? What a terrific bunch of folks and what an organized group of aid stations. Your aid station folks ROCK! I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the race and your aid station folks are directly responsible for that. Give them huge kudos from one of the guys from Michigan. Race Course - Great course - a lot of fun to run. I thought that 3 of the same loops might be boring. Rather the opposite, planning out my latter stages of my race (and energy expenditure) were very much simplified by your course layout. It made things tremendously easier knowing what was coming in that third loop. Great, pine needle covered trail and a nice course, very well marked. I've been on courses where I spend a good deal of time trying to figure out where I was going - great marking on the trail. Overall, what a great experience. Thanks so much for having me in Texas for your race. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it and I may return next year or the next to run the 100 mile. Keep up the great work and may all of your races be successful. If you are ever in Michigan, feel free to give me a shout and we can go for a run. Cheers,
Jeff Leigh

Thanks for Hosting So Many Dreamchasers at Rocky Raccoon!! My name is Colleen Woods and last weekend marked the second time I participated in Rocky Raccoon. I was a DNF this year (a result I expected due to my lack of training), but I am so happy I came to your race. The organization was excellent and the volunteers amazing. I know many of my friends who are coached by Lisa Smith-Batchen agree. If you check out Lisa's Blog, you will see that many of her students have commented on how much they enjoyed the race. http://lisasmithbatchen.blogspot.com/ Thanks so much for being a great race director! :-)
Colleen Woods

I want to thank you for an absolutely incredible race this past weekend. This was my first 100-miler. The course was fantastic and the aid stations and volunteers were second to none. If possible please let them know I am very grateful for all their hard work and dedication in helping me reach my goal. They were just AWESOME! They were very eager to help, very encouraging, always so cheerful, self-sacrificing, and were always looking for ways they could assist me. They even had a great sense of humor that helped me get through the lows I experienced at times. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!
Steve Holman

I just wanted to send you this quick email to thank you and everyone else involved for putting on such a great race. This was my first 50 miler, I loved the whole experience and finished way ahead of my time goal. I have a rich collection of stories to tell from the characters I met, the things I saw and the emotions I felt. Everyone was super friendly and the volunteers were all fantastic, from the "full service" aid stations to the wonderful people at the drop bags to the incredibly enthusiastic crowd at the finish line. The course was marked so well that even someone as geographically challenged as myself was unable to get lost. I hope to be back next year to try my luck at the 100 miler. Thanks again.
Mark Richards

I just wanted to let you know that you put on one great race. The volunteers were absolutely fantastic - the aid station workers helped me soooo much. Although this was not the race result for me, I WILL definitely be back. In case you are interested - here is my race report: http://endurazone.blogspot.com/
Alan R. Geraldi

I would like to start off by saying that the event was top notch! Excellent course and the AS volunteers were even better! Dam station was in my opinion the best AS on the course ... " You folks did yourself proud.
John Morlock

First, thanks to you and all involved with the race, a first rate production all around. Special thanks to all the aid station workers, consistently awesome.
bob drake

it was a pleasure meeting you, running your race, and working w/your volunteers at far side. it was busy when i was there and i can only imagine what it was like while the 50-milers were out. i'm amazed diana, robert, and mike ran that thing all day long; i forget how hard volunteering can be. on the volunteer note, did phil give you my VT100 service form? if not, if you can download it from http://www.vermont100.com/service_req__form.html andmail (or e-mail)to me; i'll send that and my application in the same envelope. thanks again andi'll see you at hard rock! :-)
Paul Grimm

It was the best race ever. Thank you for doing such a great job. Is there a list of races for which you are the director? Thank you again. I want to run it again next week. What a kick!
Susan Stuwe in cold, snowy Michigan

This was my first 50 mile race, and I have to say that it was a fantastic experience. Of course finishing the race is a big help, but it would not have been easy if you hadn't put together such a great event. I thought everything went together perfectly.We enjoyed the trail and race update, and the pasta dinner was excellent. I ate too much as usual but could not resist the deserts. Ireally liked the course much more than Sunmart. The longer loops were nice, and while I was startingto tire of the out and back jeep road,it was much better than the jeep road in Sunmart. It didn't look like the samejeep road as Sunmart, although I am not sure how that was possible. The volunteers at the aid stations were fantastic, and were so helpful and kind. They really went the extra mile to not only take care of the runners needs, but offer them encouragement and advice. And while it's hard to single out any particular persons because like I said, they were all so great, I really have to express my gratitude and thanks to those folks at the Dam Road Aid Station. Icame back to the Dam Rd Aid Station at approximately 8:00PM as when I stopped for water, I started feeling a bit light headed. I took a seat there and theguy who appeared to be the head of the station was askingwhat I needed and what could he get me. Hewas wearing a baseball cap, that had some sort of things sticking out of the top. I don't know how else to describe them. Any way, he got me ice, and asked what all I had been taking in. When I told him what I hadall day, he said I needed to take inmore calories.I took some chicken soup which really seemed to help out. I was also talking to the lady who was recording the bib numbers of the runners as they were coming in. Both of these individuals were so nice and helpful,and really helped me out of a bad spot. I was able to sit there, eat a bit, and move on out and finish my first 50 mile race. This was a huge accomplishment for me, and I look forward to doing many more. If you could please pass along my thanks and gratitude to those folks, and if you would happen to know there names, I'd appreciate it if you couldlet me know. I'd like to drop them an email at the North Texas Trails Runners page. Thanks again for putting on such a great event and I look forward to seeing you again next year.
Bruce Evans

Thanks for putting on a great Rocky Raccoon. The amount of work you and your volunteers put into the race makes it a special event. I have wanted to do this race for a long time, but some how always got distracted from running between Thanksgiving and Christmas and then the Kansas January weather can make getting a long run a challenge. I hope to make it down to some of your other races. Work travel kept me from making the KUS trip to Bandera so maybe I will try to plan far enough in advance to get Cactus Rose on the schedule. Thanks again for a great race.
Randy Albrecht

We had our after action review. First, all our small group agreed that you have a sophisticated and efficient event. The staff were very good to work with and were patient with us when we did not understand the "lingo" of running. It is apparent that many of your staff are use to being around radios. Requesting and receiving information via radio appeared second nature. We appreciated being afforded the tent location to set up in. The food was great also!!!
Joe Connell, KB5DTS

I am almost speechless...(OK, I said almost)! We asked for your help and all I can say is WOW! I cannot say enough how thankful I am for the great folks of NTTR and how they continue to not just do what is asked of them, but to go far beyond what is asked to make anything and everything they touch turn into gold! I've decided that Deborah and Paula "let" me think I was in charge... I am still amazed at how the NTTR bunch transformed a sandy park service road intersection in the backwoods into an oasis for weary runners. Time after time after time after time, I witnessed selfless acts of giving...digging into a personal bag for batteries or a flashlight to give to a panic-stricken runner contemplating going "back out there" with no way to see the trail...digging into the depths to find the energy to not just help find a drop bag, but to sit a runner down, fetch the bag, rifle through it to find the magical item that the runner needed, but was too weary to get for themselves...WOW, just WOW! At times, it seemed like a scene from some horror movie, you know, where the "living dead" just keep coming and coming, wave after wave... Runners with the 2,000 yard stare, just looking for someone to tell them it would be OK...runners who came into the Dam Road Aid Station convinced they were done, were able to go no more. NTTR volunteers would swarm them, analyze the situation, pump in calories and/or fluids, and I have to say...bring them back from the dead! Chip nailed it...you get back more than you give. My personal thanks to all of the Dam Road volunteers for setting NTTR apart from the rest! Thanks, you guys... Deborah "Croc Pot" Sexton Paula "Never Say Never" Billman Dave "The Pres" Billman Craig "Texans Rock" Slagel Fred "I'm just a pacer" Thompson Letha "Hot Dog" Cruthirds Mark "Unic(ycle)" Dick John "Can I Hang Out With the Cool Kids?" Joyce Lee "Houston, We Have a Problem" Whitlock Matt "Sub-8" Crownover Juliana "Sweetness" Crownover Mike "I'm Here To Help" Krejci Nathan "I'm Like Mike" McMartin Marty "Mah-tayyy" Metzger Kevin "The Brewmaster" Wessels Kevin "I'll Be Back" Boudreaux Mark "Speedy" Blenden Doug "What's Yer' Number?" Ryan Jim "Cookie" Sproul Ed "All Night Long" Kopiak Chip "Happy To Be Here" Alliger Stewart "Medic" Skeeter Laurie "Can't Get Enough" Underwood Dave "Me, Rest?" Emerson Until next year
Lynn Ballard

I just wanted to thank you and Joyce for a great race, it was very well put together and your volunteers are oustanding. All of you did an awesome job. Keep up the good work. Gracias!...
Francisco "Paco" Garza.

Just a quick thank you for a terrific weekend - my first 100 finish, due in no small part to your skills as an RD. You and your gang are always top-notch. Whether it's Bandera or RHR or RR, you consistently show how it should be done. As for me, I'm starting to notice a pattern: Bandera knocks me on my ass and Rocky Raccoon lifts me back up. Can't wait to come back for more. Best regards
Miles Klaff

Just wanted to send a note to thank you and your crew for helping me get through my first 100 miler. Everyone was so helpful, friendly and knowledgeable - it made for a great experience. I've paced my husband for 2 100-milers and I have to say that your aid station staff were the best! I messed up and missed the Far Side stretch on my second loop. I went into a panic when I reached the lodge way too early, but your volunteers helped to calm me and fix my mistake by repeating it twice on my third loop - patted me on the back like it was "no big deal". I know that you spend more hours than most people can even imagine organizing this event. Kudos to you for making it look so smooth and easy!!!
Linda Pulver

First and foremost, thanks to you, Joyce, all of the volunteers and sponsors for a fabulous event!! It is one of the most organized and friendliest events I haverun. I can't imagine all of the hours of work that go on behind the scenes and throughout the event to make it run so smoothly. Everyone makes it look so effortless. This was my first 50 miler. I had heard from many, who are much more experienced than I, that when I decided to run a50 miler, I had to run Joe's Rocky Raccoon. I finally took the advice of those very wise people and registered. My main goal for the event, other than to finish,was to see how far I could push myself and concentrate on maintaining a consistent intake of calories and stay hydratedfor as long as it took me to finish. I couldn't have asked for better weather and trail conditions for my first 50 miler. Things were rocking right along and I was sticking to my plan and I finished the first two loops in just under 8 hrs. I was amazed and pleased that I could finish in 12:00-12:30 hrs - far exceeding my expectations. However, with any endurance run, things happen. The long and short of the story is that a bad blister and one of those famous HSP tree roots caught my right foot - while I didn't go down it caused enough damage. I was determined to finish but by the time I got to Dam Road the second time (42.7 miles) the foot was swollen and the painwas pretty intense - so intense that it made me nauseous and I had stopped eating and drinking fluids. When I got to Dam Road, I sat down and immediately NTTR volunteers were there to address my every need. I explained my situation and feared I couldn't go on. The NTTR volunteer called Lynn over. When he asked me what was wrong, I explained my situation to him. While he was sympathetic about my foot, he was much more concerned about the fact that I had not been able to eat or drink. So one of his volunteers brought me soup and Coke. I did my best to consume it but it wasn't going well. His volunteers did everything they could to calm me down and see if I could gather myself and get back on the trail - after all I was just 7.8 miles from the finish. After about 30 minutes, the swelling in the foot was getting worse and the painmore intense. Iwrestled with the factof dropping out but IknewI couldn't bear enough weight on the foot to balance myself and one of thetoughest parts of the course was yet to come. Lynn came back to check on me andI told him I thought it best I turn in my chip.We talked about it for a moment andhe said he understood and reluctantly took my chip. Fortunately for me, Butch was there delivering supplies and Lynn helped me to the truck so Butch could give me a ride back to the start/finish area. If there is any way you could forward the following note to Lynn, I would greatly appreciate it. All of the volunteers went above and beyond the call of duty. I can't thank them enough!! Luckily, no permanent damage to the foot. By mid-week things were back to normal and I was back to my routine. You can count on seeing my name again as a participant in another one of your events, especially RR50 in 2009. Thanks again!!!
Becky Spaulding

Thanks for putting on yet another great race. I really enjoyed the event and appreciate all the hard work you put into such a well organized race. I was also getting excited listening to a couple of folks talk about how much they enjoyed the Cactus Rose run, and am wondering if that shouldn't be in my future also. Thanks again. Regards,
Tim Allen,

I am very appreciative of you and your wonderful volunteers. Great job!!! Thank you for doing this ( putting on Rocky Raccoon ) Sincerely
Kevin Dorsey

2007

You guys put on an excellent race, and I am proud to say I finished my first 100 at your race. Thanks for all your hard work! I don't know that I'll run another 100, but I'm pretty sure I'll volunteer at one. Thanks again,
Jeff Coble

Thanks for putting on such a good race.
Logan Beaulieu

I will be back to run again next year. Keep up the good work. This is an excellent event.
Jim Perry

It was great to meet you and to get the opportunity to run RR and Bandera. I had a great time. A good race and excellent support from you and the volunteers :-) Many thanks for taking the time to put together two great races!! Best running regards, Great job with the race this year! I was very impressed with the level of organization and execution exhibited for the full 30 hours. I really can't think of anything that I would've had wanted to be handled differently (other than maybe having some kind of actual start/finish line). Anyways, I just wanted to say well done and thanks for your efforts. I'll definitely be back in the future to take a crack at the CR (and will hopefully have more confidence so as to not pursue such a blazing pace the first couple laps---it was all Jorge's fault, i tell you!). thanks again,
Tony Krupicka
p.s. i fully encourage a "disqualification for littering" rule. i admit that I unintentionally dropped a couple of tabs from gel packets (and, by a couple, i literally mean "two") so I'll have to be more careful in the future, but even after the 12-13hrs or so of my race, things were beginning to pile up at the aid stations.

Just want to send a big thank you to you and the whole gang at the race. The aid stations were wonderful, the best I ever have seen and ate from, and the people could not do enough for us. It was well run from start to finish, and the aid stations never ran out of anything and having Hammer products was just icing on the cake. The one thing I might add is the drop bags, I understood that they would be out until after 11 am,Sunday, I had to leave to get some attention to my ankles, (love the roots) and by time my wife (crew) got back to park everything was cleaned out and on way to Austin. A note saying drop bags must be picked up by certain time might be of help to future runners and crew people. We did manage to get gear back, again thanks to wonderful crew for that. Again thanks for a race that truly looked out for the runners at all times and this is one I will recommend to all in my club, thanks,
Harry Good

I wanted to thank you for a memorable race this weekend. Your volunteers were outstanding and the aid stations were incredible. I felt well cared-for, well-fed and fully enjoyed your race. Thank you for all the small details that made such a big difference! (variety of food, cheerful aid stations, vaseline, . . . ) Thank you!
Laurie Nakauchi-Hawn, Arvada, CO

Congrats to you and your wife for putting on a great race. Sincerely,
Tom Whalen

Just a short note to say THANK YOU! Being able to run in your races this year (Bandera and Rocky) has been a blessing. The aid station volunteers make me feel like a king, always asking how they can help. Can I get your drop bag? Would you like some hot food? And my favorite..."hey, we have some pizza:)". I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate what you do. How much I appreciated the time and effort and energy and love all your volunteers put in. THANKS THANKS THANKS THANKS
Arne Espe

thanks again for the great event. Aid stations and volunteers were great!!! course was a little tougher (hills) than I expected, and they somehow seemed to get bigger as the day wore on!!!
Frank Healey

I just wanted to thank you and all your volunteers for your efforts. RR is a REALLY well run race and I appreciate your efforts.
Lee Norris

I want to tell you what great people you had working the aid stations. On probably my third lap when I got to the Highway aid station I asked for some coke. I was told that they hadn't gotten any yet but that they had 7-Up. I said, No thanks I have a caffeine withdrawal headache and need some caffeine. I'd had only had one cup of coffee before the race and no caffeine since then. I started to head out when one of the women working the aid station got a coke out of her purse and gave it to me. Just one example of the helpful, caring people you had. I also appreciate you coming by to congratulate me after the race. I realize my battery wasn't fully charged then so if I seemed a little slow please consider the circumstances. I'd only been up for a little over 30 hours and put in a few miles. Hopefully, I'll see you next year.
Kenneth R. Bland, Little Rock, AR

Thank you both for hosting a great event. We both really enjoyed our run and stay in Texas. Marion was unable to make the cut but still enjoyed her 60 mile training run for her next hundred miler. Also we would especially like to thank all those great volunteers. The aid stations were great and took such good care of us. Your race is so well organized and you have such a great team. Hope our paths cross again soon. Thanks again for everything. Best Regards,
Marion & Don Landry

Many many thanks for your efforts in '07! The fresh fruit at all the aid stations made my run much more comfortable. I'm a vegan so food can be a problem - my only regret is that I was unaware of the tofu hot dogs on the course. Dang! That would have been incredible at night... Thanks again!
Dan Fox

THANKS! My first Rocky Raccoon 50 miler was an awesome experience. The aid stations had a selection of food that made it feel more like a 50 mile buffet, rather than a 50 mile run. The course was well marked and the volunteers created a real positive atmosphere. Thanks again!
Reid Bader, Katy, Texas

Hopefully Joyce and you have gotten some much needed rest. Anne and I had a great if cold time. The volunteers and race were great as usual. Thanks for everything. There have been several comments about the amount of litter on the course. There is no excuse for the littering and I feel bad for making the aide station workers into garbage men. Have you ever considered having no cups at the stations and making the runners have and use their bottles? Just a thought.
Matt Watts, Broomfield CO

Thank you very much for all of your hard work, I imagine there are all sorts of behind the scenes issues that were handled well and completely transparent to the runners and their crews. The most important thing was the aid stations and volunteers were top notch and I witnessed some incredible hospitality during the pre-race dinner and awards ceremony and of course, while I was on the trail. For that I am extremely appreciative. One area I would like to call your attention to was the parking situation. This being our first time at your event, I was completely oblivious to how inadequate the parking facilities were in regards to the number of available spots. There just weren't enough -especially during the day when you consider the number of runners and daytime use visitors. I thought it should have been an obvious issue and like other races that share this problem, a shuttle system should have been implemented to alleviate this frustrating problem -or at the very least discussed. Maybe a quick mention that a parking ticket runs $160 and it may be worth your while to hike your supplies in from the gate if necessary -would have been a valuable piece of advice. This must have been quite a revenue generator for the park. I noticed there were several spots blocked off for race officials -which should be the case, but the rest of us who were visiting were completely clueless and left hanging. At the time my runner completed her first lap, and the runners were still congested, there were lots of cars circling the lot for at least 15 minutes with no spots opening up. Many of us were forced to park on the side of the road and unload coolers and other necessary supplies which resulted in parking tickets. I didn't expect to get any sympathy from the park's officer, but I really felt like a victim when I learned how much the fines were. As a frequent user of state parks across the country, I have nothing but the utmost respect for the facilities I consider myself lucky to use. Under the circumstances that crewing for an ultra can demand, I felt trapped and I hope you can appreciate my writing to you. I know there were probably dozens of tickets written and do not believe it was a direct result of carelessness on anyone's part. Any thoughts? Respectfully,
Aaron Mascarella

First I want to say that this was our (our meaning there were 5 of us) first trip to Texas for this race. You (and everyone that volunteers) do a phenomenal job - the aid stations were extremely nice and helpful and the whole event was put together wonderfully. I couldn't imagine the time spent preparing and I want to say thank you for a job well done. Thank you for your time and thank you again for putting on a fun, enjoyable and well organized race.
Joan Balinas

Thank you both so much for putting on this great trail run. It is a pleasure to volunteer for such a well organized and family/friend oriented event. Houston Trail Runners (HTReX) had a great time manning the Highway AidStation (#1) all day and night. You guys and all your crew are just awesome! Cheers
Mariela Botella (Highway Aid Station Boss)

I came back in 2007 to complete the 100 mile trail run that I didnt finish the prior year. I just wanted to tell you and all the other volunteers that your group is the best . I ve done a lot of volunteering my self for the SLUGS and others but you guys are the standard that I try to measure up to and I will never be able to surpass . I dont know how you can get so many to help and I am sure you owe a lot of people plenty of pay back time , but all the volunteers are organized and ready for the runners to come in , very friendly , but encourage you to not overstay your welcome at their station. They made this run a success for me and tell them that I appreciate what they did for me. Thanks and I am sure I will be back for another of your runs in the future.
Joe Neubauer, St. Louis

HI JOE THANKS AGAIN FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR AT THE ROCKY RACCOON YOUR TIME AND EFFORT TO PUT ON SUCH A FANTASTIC EVENT IS GREATLY APPRECIATED THE ENCOURAGEMENT I RECEIVE FROM THE OTHER RUNNERS MAKES THIS RUN SO MUCH FUN EVERY YEAR YOU GUYS ARE THE GREATEST FEBRUARY 3-4, 2007 WELL ONE MORE YEAR AND ONE MORE RUN I WENT BACK TO THE ROCKY RACCOON RUN, (50 MILE RUN), THIS YEAR I FINISHED DESPITE THE ROOTS & BLISTERS THE COLD & THE TRAIL ALSO HAD SEVERAL MUCKY AREAS THAT TRIED TO PULL MY SHOES OFF AND GOING AROUND THEM LEAD TO SEVERAL BATTLES WITH TREES AND BRUSH AND AFTER DARK THE JUMPING ROOTS, I HAD NO FALLS THIS YEAR AND NO INJURIES JUST A FEW BLISTERS AND WHAT MAKES MY RUNS A LITTLE MORE INTERESTING AS A SIDE NOTE FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT KNOW MY CORRECTED VISION IS 20/300 WHICH MEANS THAT WHAT I SEE AT 20 FEET IS WHAT REGULAR SIGHTED PEOPLE SEE AT 300 FEET I ALSO HAVE LESS THAN 5 DEGREES FIELD OF VISION
Peter M Raybourn

Great race! I had an excellent time out there. Aid and volunteers were awesome. I am a big fan of the loop course. Run Happy
Nancy Warren

For as long as it takes for all the mud and crud to fall from the undercarriage, I'll have regular reminders of what a great time I had this weekend. Who knew sleep deprivation and total exhaustion could be so much fun?
Todd Roper

It was a great race and wanted to thank you and everyone involved for putting such a great event together!
Kira Matukaitis

Many thanks for the effort you and your team of volunteers did in putting on RR this past weekend. Despite a recurrance of the vision problems that bounced me out last year, I was able to finish this year - so it was my first completed 100.
Les L. Ellsworth

You put on a top notch event. I had so much fun it was almost criminal. Thanks too for supplying me with a real armadillo out in it's habitat. I had never seen one - being the northerner that I am. Scared the crap out of the little guy. Didn't know they could jump like that. I was humbled and awe inspired by the 100 Milers - what a great bunch of people. Your volunteers were the best. The Farside aidstation - or should I say the 80's music station - was awesome. Grilled cheese sandwiches, potato soup and good cheer all under one roof! I have done Sunmart 50K and 50 Mile - they have a lot of good stuff - but my day on your course is my favorite Ultra to date. All I can say is awesome awesome awesome. I was amazed at the wonderful volunteers everywhere. The course was one of the best marked courses I have run on. I didn't have a single complaint all day. The organization of the race was wonderful - beginning to end. For that - I thank you very much. I am coming back next year for the 100 Miler. I have pushed 100K (12:53) - next up is the 100 Mile for me and I can't think of a better place or better race for my first attempt.
Judy Weller

I feel so privileged to be a part of such a great race. You are an awesome RD. Joyce is unbelievable.
Angela Marie Weatherill (Timing Boss)

Thanks again for putting on such a great race. Beth and I really enjoyed the trails, Sammy's cookin and your(and Joyce's) hospitality. And we got to see the debut of the next great runner. Patrick Russell is the real deal.
Larry Hall

howdy from warm and toasty OC thanxy for a wonderful weekend. you folks really know how to put on an awesome trail party. love that texas hospitatity! this race gets better and better every year! have a hot and dirty recovery,
xoxoXy Weiss (Dirty Girl Gaiters)

Congratulation on an outstanding Rocky Raccoon 100 weekend. You and your staff are to be praised for your work and dedication to making Rocky a super event for runners. It was a perfect running day. Thank you for everything!! Unfortunately, I finished only 60-miles. My legs got heavy early in the day. I'll be back to finish a 100 miles. Again, thanks for your support and everything you do.
Tom Adair, Atlanta, GA

I wanted to thank you for putting on such a great race last weekend. I thought you and the volunteers were excellent. I ran the 50 - and wanted to thank you for the heat in the tent overnight as the 100 runners came through! I thought the race was extremely well organized and it was such a great group of folks. Yeah, it was a bit more muddy this year, but everything was completely runnable and just got my feet a little wet at times - part of doing a trail ultra!! The awards were beautiful also - and the race shirts were great, I'll definately use it! As usual, the meals were awesome too. I appreciated your efforts at the award ceremonies to keep it short and sweet. I liked the format you used with having people pick up their medals after the names were announced. The laptops in the lodge were a great addition - and very helpful to see how my friends were doing throughout the race. Again - thanks for all you did to put on such a great event
Michele Jensen

I wanted to send you something sooner, but life gets in the way sometimes. I just wanted to say yet again "Thanks!" for putting on what is one of the most class acts of 100 milers around. You and your volunteers are what makes this race what it is: a memorable, fun, and rewarding event for all. Although the miserable Texas cold got to me and forced me to stop short of 100 miles, it still was one of my more memorable 100 milers. I got to know myself and as the old Kenny Rogers tune says, "Know when to draw or know when to fold" became so true for me this year. You already know this, but the trash situation this year was WAY out of control. Farside was the worst, with piles and piles of cups and gu wrappers all over. Not sure if this is due to newcomers used to running road marathons where throwing trash to the side is encouraged. I did see one runner who tossed a cup off to the side of the trail and challenged him about it. All I got was a blank stare and silence. You could do what they do at Javelina, have someone patrol the course and DQ anyone on the spot. It's too bad it has come to this, but it was really heartbreaking to see all the crap along the course. Just carry out your cup (crush it and stuff it) and drop it off a few miles down the trail at the next aid station. That is what I do. I hope you continue to put this race on Joe. It is really one of the best run and fun 100's out there, and the main reason I keep coming back each year. Again, thanks so much for your effort and dedication to this event.
Dale Perry, Loveland, CO

Also, thank you for a very well organized race. The RR 100 was a fantastic experience. The volunteers at the aid stations were wonderful, and the course is nice. I can see now why it is such a popular race with such a good reputation. Thanks,
Chris Lowry

I'd like to really thank you for making the time for completing the 50 Miler so generous. The heyday of my ultrarunning was in the 80's and early 90's, and after I completed the Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Run in 1991, my speed eventually decreased (due to muscle and joint issues) to the point that I could no longer make the intermediate time cut-offs for any 50 milers out there. However, I continue to love being out on the trails and usually hike parts of courses while my husband (Bill) runs them, e.g., I hiked 16 miles of the JFK 50 last fall while my husband was running. The problem with that is that in a point-to-point course I have to drive ahead of where I think my husband will be, park my car, hike back toward my husband until I meet him, return to the car, and drive ahead again, etc., so I can't cover that much total distance. In your run, however, I could just stay out there and continue walking without interruption, which is what I really love to do. I really got the feeling of being in the 100-miler by being out there almost all night with a flashlight--just like in the good old days. Please pass along my gratitude to your volunteers for being so friendly and helpful and staying out there all night for us. I particularly enjoyed the potato soup and breakfast tacos at the Far Side aid station, as well as the Coca Cola, potato chips, and M&M's at all of the aid stations. They really hit the spot. I also appreciated the efforts of the guys who tried to make the trail more passable by strategically spreading pine needles and branches of trees over the muddy spots. All in all I found Rocky Raccoon to be a very well-organized run, and I hope that I can return again for another great time.
Luanne Turrentine

I want to let you and your phenomenal crew of volunteers and race staff know that I really appreciate you. Thank you for putting on this event. Everything was great. Again, my sincere thanks. PS I especially enjoyed the rice a beans at the aid stations. It was also exciting to observe the amazing accomplishments of the winners, especially on the female side, Grant Holdaway's finish, and the sheer power of will of basically every person I encountered on the course. What an inspiration.
Kevin Dorsey

I just want to say thanks for all the hard work you and Joyce did to give us all something to remember. The volunteers and the aid station setup was first rate. The food was excellent! The trail was well marked.
Bob Botto

Just wanted to let you know I had a great time at your event and look forward to doing it again. Tremendous Thanks! Your support crews did an admirable job and made sure to keep the participants moving in the right direction.
Bill Dunn, Orange Park, FL

Just wanted to thank you for another geat year at RR. Super volunteers, great aid, awesome buckle, but what did you do with all the armadillos this year?! Last year the place was crawling with them. Thanks again,
Anita Fromm

Also, thank you for a very well organized race. The RR 100 was a fantastic experience. The volunteers at the aid stations were wonderful, and the course is nice. I can see now why it is such a popular race with such a good reputation.
Chris Lowery

You are by far the finest RD in our state, and one of the best in the nation. I always treasure reading your race reports, but most importantly, the wonderful experiences you create for everyone who runs one of your races. The tireless efforts of you, Joyce, and all the volunteers is deserving of so much more respect than it appears was shown in Huntsville. I am saddened to hear what all of you had to experience on the negative behavior realm, but I applaud you for saying what needs to be said. You remind me so much of my Coach from Team for Kids out of NYRRF, in your attitude, philosophy, and outlook on life. You are one of those rare, true born leaders. People follow you, and you are making a difference in many, many lives in our Texas running community. Thank you for all you and everyone who supports you does for all of us who get to enjoy the pleasure of just showing up to enjoy the fruits of your labors. We all owe you a great debt of gratitude and putting our money where our mouth is by volunteering in a support role ourselves as a gesture of our appreciation.
Jane Svehlak

2006

I just wanted to let you know how impressed I was with you and your crew at the Rocky Raccoon 100. Tho' I have nothing to compare it to as this was my first 100-miler, I can't imagine there being a better organized, better crewed ultra. The volunteers were great - from the aids stations to the med tent (where I had to spend some time after DNF'g at mile 80). I can't wait to do it again, and next time I will finish. Again, wonderful job! Thanks for all your hard work. Please pass my thanks on to all the great volunteers. God's blessings to you all,
Jeff Coble

Rocky Raccoon Rocked My World! Thank you so much for making my first hundred mile finish simply perfect and most unforgettable. The volunteers were so attentive, charming and sweet! The course was very scenic and I was pleasantly surprised that I made pretty good friends with the roots and never tripped once. It was so much fun being able to see my friends along the course and be able to high five and cheer on the front runners, like awesome Jorge, Andy and Guillermo along the out-and-backs. The aid stations were pure perfection. Being vegetarian, I was really pleased to find a delicious array of the triple 'P's' - veggie pizza, pasta and potato soup. The hot coffee was da bomb during the night. Even better than a Starbucks latte, I might add! And Slammin' Sammy is a rockstar gourmet chef. Thank you for pampering every runner, even when we sometimes turn into moaning and grunting zombie's in the middle of the cold, long, dark night. Thank you for your acute attention to every single detail and for putting together a seamless race. I loved every mile to pieces and I love Texas! Yee! Haw!
Dirty Grrrl Redblur
Michelle Barton, Laguna Niguel, CA

Thanks Joe....what an incredible experience. I will never forget it. Never...
Stuart Skeeter

I just wanted to thank Joe Prusaitis and everyone for putting on a fantastic race. The Rocky Raccoon 100 was my first 100 finish of two attempts. My physical abilites are certainly passable and mentally I'm always 100%, but the level of organization and assistance from the fabulous and efficient volunteers made completing this race a WHOLE LOT EASIER! The only regrets I have are that I don't know the names of those to thank who helped look for Tylenol at every aid station; and that I don't live closer to the Huntsville, TX so that I could participate every year! Thanks again,
Art Smith / Northern California

You paired me up with my perfect match. Ryan Loehding is an incredible distance runner and I learned a lot from him. Everything was new to me and it was an exciting experience.
Tom Willis

Thank you for all the work you did on organizing the run for the pace volunteers last weekend. Pacing was more rewarding that I had expected, not easier but more rewarding. All the aid stations were tops and the volunteers were eager to help. Maybe next year if I don't get asked to run, I should volunteer.
Dianne Garban

Thank you for being such a fantastic aid station captain! Gaye and I are planning to be out there working your station again next year!
Dennis Halpin

Thank you for organizing such a well-run aid station. You made it so easy for those of us who came to help out. And thanks to Frank for working tirelessly through the day to get his antique generator working for us. Even if it made our jobs a little harder to raise people's spirits while Jim Morrison was blaring 'This is the end...' Thanks for making such an easy opportunity for us to give back to our fellow runners.
Peter Vrolijk

The info you gave me at the pace clinic was very useful. Thank you. I enjoyed volunteering. It was a wonderful experience.
Tina Fox

Thank you for organizing pacing and the highway aid station. Your contribution had an important role in making the RR100, 2006 a big success.
Thorbjorn Pedersen

THANK YOU. I had a wonderful time and met wonderful people who I learned a lot from that afternoon, night and morning. I had a great time and will definitely do it again.
John Meriwether

Thanks for setting me with a runner to pace for the RR100, it was alot of fun.
Russell Meyer

What an awesome weekend. I really had a blast working at the aid station.
Kevin Walker

By the way, the meatballs and rice you fed me help a lot. I felt some strength come back after that. Thank you so much for everything.
Ryan Loehding

Thanks for all your hard work.
Richard Lynn

Aid stationing is probably harder than running. I was so glad to see all the familiar faces at our aidstation. Thanks for running it.
Kim Pilcher

Just wanted to say thanks for all of the work you did in coordinating the pacers and doing the aid station.
Morgan Lusby

We served food and fluids all night. Soup, pasta, meatloaf, hot chocolate, coffee, sandwiches.....It looked like a gypsy camp. We were cooking on propane stoves and grills. HTRex went above and beyond.
Jill Baur

I can't tell you how much I enjoyed the whole experience, and certainly hope to participate more as the kids get older and I have more time to train and volunteer.
Nina Jannetti

I hope you and the other volunteers are recovering by now from a totally wonderful event. I had a great experience, and the nice thing about these 100 mile runs is that I can finish at the back and still feel like I won! Thanks again for your efforts, and I'm looking forward to next year! See you later
Joe Galloway / Des Moines, Iowa

I wanted to comment on the Rocky Raccoon 100. It was my first 100, and I fear that this experience will spoil me for future runs. Joe Prusaitis and all the volunteers were wonderful. The course was well-marked, the aid stations were well-maintained and manned by unfailingly happy and helpful folks, and the whole atmosphere of the run was excellent. It was also amazing to get to see the front runners multiple times (on out and backs, and as they lapped me). Thanks to all.
Drew Anderson

Had a great time running and experience at this year's Rocky Racoon 100 mile run. Thank you for having me and to all your wonderful volunteers who were just fantastic and the aid station volunteers were real "Angels" for us ultra runners. How friendly and helpful they all were. Please thank them for me. They were the real hero's for us, without them we don't make it. Heard many nice reports on RR 100 over the years, now I know why. Hope to return back next year in 2007. The course is a challenge allright, you're right-"the roots" seem to grow taller at night and yeas you do have to" high step it at night"! Congratulations to all the runners from Jorge to the very last finisher and to those who tried. Keep up the great work. This is a true classic 100 mile race.I buckled barely-despite stepping in a "foxhole" at 90 miles-thought my race was toast and ankle broken-somehow it did not-but "hobbled in" still under 24-barely made it-like to come back and prove myself better. All part of the adventure of running ultras and taking in the experience. Happy trails,
John Radich / Monrovia, CA

You are the mack-daddy of race directors! Thanks again to you, your wife and all the incredible volunteers that worked together to make for an epic weekend for so many. You took such good care of us.
Gretchen Lammeman

Thank you from the Southern Nevada contingent ( Dennis Jensen and myself ) for a great run. I'm always amazed on how much needs to be done to put on an ultra, especially a 100 miler. Kudos too to your Chief. The Lodge kitchen is busy day and night , but I don't think there's any run that has better food ! Yours,
Jim Rapp

I want to express my sincere thanks to you and the other volunteers for all the effort each of you put into this year's race. You have done an awesome job of turning a nice little hometown run into one of the tops in the nation. The people in the Southwest are the friendliest most courteous people I have ever come across. While the future is hard to predict Rocky Raccoon will always be my number one consideration as I prepare my race schedule each year. Sincerely,
Dave Bursler

Belated thanks to you, Joyce, & everyone who helped make Rocky the success it was/is. I had a wonderful time in Texas. ('Course for me, just being able to run in shorts in February was a real TREAT!) I especially like the groovy belt buckle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can think of nothing but positive things to say about the race & hope to go back again one of these years.
Sue Johnston

Just wanted to say thanks to you and all of your supporting team!! As always I cannot say enough about your aid station folks...they were just wonderful! I had a wonderful experience for my first 100 miler! I'm already planning for the next one and how I can do it better...I guess I've caught the fever! Thanks again for everything!
Anne Watts

Although this was my first 100, the race set-up was clearly a first class act of love on the part of the organizers. The collective energy of volunteers, directors, cooks(!) et al had a definite, positive influence on me to run my best. I'm sure you hear this a lot, but let me add my voice to the chorus of thanks and appreciation for all your efforts. Best regards,
Dan Fox (#176)

Thanks for staging your usual superb event. Your crew's races are always a treat in which to participate--whether it be running or working.
Fred & Char Thompson

Hey Joe, you ought to think about directing a race! I'll never forget RR 2006. You're right, you had an awesome group of volunteers, they truly looked after the runners. We were able to draw from their energy everywhere we turned. Thank you, Joe. For without your vision and leadership this year's event could not have been nearly as successful. It was good knowing you were there pulling for each and every runner to run the best race they could. Love the buckle!
Lynn Ballard

I know you've heard it from a few hundred already, but I hope one more won't be too many. Thank you for putting on such a fine event. Your aid stations were great, your staff was the nicest in the world. The course was marked perfectly. Thank you again for a superlative event!
Andy Mathews / Tampa, Fl

It is exhausting to read your note. So much work done by so many people. And it went so well and smoothly, that most people did not even notice all the effort. I would like to honor those who did the real endurance job that weekend. I was reminded about that, when Trevor and I were about to leave at 3 PM Sunday. Joe and Joyce plus their super crew were getting all the stuff packed again after the race. It looked like a war zone, organized though, in front of the lodge. There was a buzz of activity. An activity, that had started already Wednesday/Thursday. Our whole running community is in debt to these people who unselfishly put on these great races for us again and again.
Thorbjorn Pedersen / The Gr8 Dane

Great job done by you and your entire crew. I had blast hanging out all weekend.
Mark Dick

I really appreciate the hard work and effort you and your crew put into the Rocky Raccoon '06 - it was well organized and put-together. I very much enjoyed the course and the weather was great! Most unfortunately, I rolled my ankle and broke a bone in my leg only 2-3 miles into the race. I finished the first loop and went another 10 miles or so before I realized I would not be able to continue. The people at the Dam Rd aid station did a wonderful job of helping me get back to the Lodge. While it is a bit frustratrating to have this happen, it's good to know that I was in good hands. Thanks again for putting together a super race!
John Ussery

Based on the feedback from my friends who ran it, it seemed like it was another very well-conducted race -- congratulations to you and your staff/volunteers. Sincerely,
Andy Kumeda

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! This was my first ultra and I was thoroughly impressed. The course was beautiful, the weather was perfect, and your aid stations......well, they made the run. There was nothing better in the world than to come up to a station and have a smiling volunteer ask "What do you need?". It cheered me up when the Lodge laughed at my corny, semi-coherent jokes ("#522 reporting in!"), the Far Side's pizza was superb and I think I would still be wandering in the woods if Site 174 didn't have batteries when my headlamp went out (and they were able to get the batteries into the lamp- even better!). But my most heartfelt thanks goes to the gentleman I proposed to at Dam Road after he rubbed down my legs. I got an extra 7 miles out of those weary, contorted stubs of pain- couldn't have done it without him. Please give to all of your volunteers my appreciation. You all have put every other race I've been in to shame. PS. And one final thanks for setting the course cut off for the 50 milers at 29 hours. That was the deciding factor for me to fly all the way from Virginia. It's nice to have a race director who supports us back-of-the-packers.
Heather Weir

Thanks for a really great race Joe!!!! Awesome job of Race directing!!!!!
Bob Botto

Thank YOU for putting on such a great event! It was a great weekend!! I was a quivering mass of brain goo at the end. I was so nervous about getting the station up and ready before the first loop onslaught that I only got 1 hour of sleep friday night...my own fault really! I tried to get some sleep early in the day, but the excitement and overall nervous energy made that pretty hard to do. I calculated I was awake for 50+ hours that weekend....just like you guys!!
Mariela Botella

The volunteers at all of the aid stations were amazing, filling water, getting whatever we wanted and getting us back on the trail super fast. Joe and Joyce did such a fantastic job and I really appreciate their encouragement and congratulations.
Doise Miers

I just wanted to say thank you for an incredible race. I fell short and only completed 80 miles. The guys at the Far Side Aid Station took care of me and pulled me back from death in the middle of the night. Without their help I would have never made it back to at least get 80. Last years event I was a spectator at the lodge and was completely blown away by the event. I came home after that day and started preparing for Rocky. I may have fallen short of finishing the race but I have gained an incredible amount of knowledge. Once again, thanks to all your hard work and to all the volunteers who make it possible for us to run such a world class event. See You Next Year!
Rick Cook / No 246

Thank you, Mariela, for organizing such a well-run aid station. You made it so easy for those of us who came to came to help out. And thanks to Frank for working tirelessly through the day to get his antique generator working for us. Even if it made our jobs a little harder to raise people's spirits while Jim Morrison was blaring 'This is the end...' Thanks for making such an easy opportunity for us to give back to our fellow runners.
Peter Vrolijk

Just a quick line to give you a big thanks for putting on such a fine race this weekend.
Todd Eitleman

thanxy so much for a wonderful weekend. your race was so well-organized and so well-managed. we loved the upbeat volunteers and bountiful aidstations. it was also good to see old friends and make new ones. you texyans are a class act! have a hot and dirty day.
xy weiss

I can't say enough about the quality of the food and beverages, the experienced ultra aid station volunteers, the good course marking, and the fine organization of this race. It all makes for a stress-free, quality hundred. (The course was also in the finest shape it has ever been, due to decent weather). Happy trails
Ben Holmes / Kansas City

I want to add my thanks to the volunteers for all their support. The aid stations made a real difference - good food and drink, really fast service and welcome encouragement. Everything done by the volunteers helped me get to the finish line under the 30 hour time limit -could not have done it without all of them and the leadership of RD Joe Prusaitis. I should add a comment about trail markings. They could not have been more frequent or better. Those marking the trail took extra pains to make sure we did not go astray. I'm not sure who to thank for the fine weather and about perfect train running conditions. So I'll just thank the almighty and be reminded, as it says in the New Testament, "We don't have the right to claim that we have done anything on our own. God gives us what it takes to do all that we do."
Ed Demoney

This weekend I had the pleasure of sharing the trail with 3 gentlemen that personify what ultrarunning is all about for me. Jorge Pacheco, Andy Jones-Wilkins and Guillermo Medina are three of the most humble, talented people I've ever met in my life. I spoke with Andy and Guillermo during the run and both were very supportive and encouraging. Jorge took control of the run less than a 1/4 into the race so I never had a chance to actually speak with him until the next day. All I can say is that he is one extremely modest guy. Rather than talk about his performance he seemed to be more interested in mine. I walked, rather hobbled, away with nothing but admiration and respect for these 3 guys not to mention the rest of the participants, volunteers and crew people. It was one big party that included friends that somehow now feel like family. I do want to thank Joe Prusaitis and his crew for all the hard work they put into organizing this great event. (and they do work hard) I've had the chance to watch this race grow over the years into what I believe to be one of the best in the country. I'm still a little wired up but once things settle down I plan to have a more thorough report.
Dave Bursler / Bear, Delaware

Just wanted to thank you again for all the hard work you and your wife put in to making the Rocky Raccoon a wonderful event, It was once again a great time the other runners are so supportive and friendly to even us pokie folks, and it really feels good to get another finish, the aid stations were all great Thanks again you guy's really do a fantastic job
Peter M Raybourn

Rocky Raccoon is such a great race, with incredible aid stations and volunteers that we ended up staying till the early morning. It was fun to see runners come in and to be on the other side for a change. You put on a great race, and it's becoming a really special and very well organized event. The aid stations are plentiful and the volunteers are the best! Thanks for putting on such a great race...
Shannon Farar-Griefer

I volunteered for my first 100 mile race at the "Highway" Aide station provided by Houston's TREX club and had a blast. I was there from Noon Saturday until 6am Sunday and felt I had just come from a once in a lifetime experience. It was a thrill to watch Jorge fly through the station each time and he seemed to be getting stronger. Just amazing. He didn't have time to talk to us but his crew were great to talk to and the two pacers I helped on his last loops were great to work with. But I enjoyed even more seeing the brave struggles of those late Saturday night and Sunday morning coming through the aide station on their fourth loop struggling with going on and seeing them later coming in on their fifth loop thrilled that they were on their way to the finish. My fellow aide station workers were a blast to meet and work with. I am definitely going to volunteer again and someday hope to run with these wonderful people.
John H. Meriwether, CLA

Thank you Joe and Joyce the RDs for putting together a fantastic race and giving us an opportunity to come together for a big party! I just wanted to THANK Joe and his wife Joyce for putting together a fantastic race. Everything was just perfect and smooth, volunteers were awesome, aid station food was really good. Sammy is an awesome cook - his pasta and breakfast were upscale restaurant level and then some. I will never forget Joyce taking care of me at 3AM, when I was pretty much out of it. She got me out for the last loop in just a few minutes and in a much better mood than before I got there. Thank you guys!!!
Dmitry Rozinsky

The main reason for my note was to say thanks for a great event. This was my first 100 and my reason for picking Rocky Raccoon was that I was fortunate enough to get picked in the drawing for Western States and wanted to see if I could do the distance. It was an incredible experience on a number of levels, but that is another story and one I'm sure you hear often. I did want to let you know that of all the Marathons and trail events I've done, and its a bunch, I would be hard pressed to think of a better organized event with more helpful volunteers. The course was very well marked, particularly re: the placing of the glow sticks. Even during the goofy hours of early Sunday morning I couldn't get lost. The volunteers at the lodge aid station were literal Florence Nightingales, particularly to all of us babbling infants crossing the finish line. Anyway, a big wave of my cowboy hat (here in San Francisco) to all of you there for a "wonderful" weekend. I'll definitely spread the word that this one should be on everyone's list.
Scott Parker

Thank you so much for putting on an incredible race on Saturday. The organization is first-rate and the entire event is truly outstanding. You really put together an awesome race and Championship or not I'll be back in 2007. Don't think I can stay away.
Andy Jones-Wilkins

Thanks again to you and your wonderful support crew and team of volunteers for putting on yet another fantastic day on the trails. The aid station folks were remarkably kind and supportive every single loop. They were working hard for every runner to ensure they had a successful and safe finish. When my batteries died, one of the aid station guys went to his truck and found some so I could continue. Your volunteers deserve a huge kudos for their generosity and sincere kindness on so many levels. Thanks again for another memorable time.
Julie Fingar

What a great race you put on!! From start to finish, everything is in order. Your volunteers are among the best, if not THE best. It's such a pleasure coming out there and I always have a great time. Thank you so much for all your hard work and effort.
Beth Simpson

I wanted to drop you and Joyce a line. I can't tell you what a class act ya'll put on. I am so happy I did rocky, everyone is so encouraging and positive. This was by far the most challenging event I have ever toed the line for, but the only one I wasn't nervous. The trail runners I have gotten to know make it like a big friends and family gathering. Thanks for hosting a memorable weekend. I hope you and Joyce can get some well deserved rest.
Brenda Baker

Thanks for all of you effort to put on such a well-organized, fun event. We had a great time
Cathy Tibbetts

2005

Thanks so much for your advice and encouragement. This was my first 100 and I did not really know what to expect. Thanks for advising me to keep it simple and just make it to the starting line. Although I only made it to mile 97 (ankle failure), it was a great experience that I enjoyed very much. That was the most organized race I have entered. You really know what you are doing. Thanks to all the aid station personnel. You would think that I would know all their names, but I'm not that smart! Thanks to Sam...the food was fantastic...both at the pre race meal and on the course. There is nothing like some warm soup at night to sooth your soul. Also thanks to Michael (the RN) and the people at the 97 mile aid station for their support. Michael, did a great job with my wounded limb. I look forward to seeing you next year.
Clay Winnette

Thanks for the WELL RUN race at the RR100 this year. Ill definatly be back nest year!
Jeff Heasley/Gunnison CO

Once again you did a fantastic job organizing the event. Rocky is and has always been one of my favorite races. The upgrades you have made the last two years have really made this an extra special event for me. The most impressive change I think you've made is the quality of the finishers buckle. Absolutely one of the best I've ever received. Thank you for all your hard work and I'll see you next year. sincerely,
Dave Bursler

Thank you for putting on an outstanding event! I can only imagine how much work you and Joyce must have put in for the event to go so well, and I appreciate it. The volunteers at the aid stations were phenomenal, and I am especially thankful for them. By the way, I was also very pleased that you provided bottled water.
Kevin Dorsey/Cordova, TN

Thank you for yet another memorable experience on the Rocky Raccoon trails. Your crew and staff of wonderful volunteers did everything and anything to make my day enjoyable from start to finish. The aid stations were once again superb in the food selection, but more importantly the support and encouragement from the volunteers was incredible. My batteries died several times and any time I asked someone, they came to my rescue. One volunteer even sacrificed the batteries out of his headlamp (even though, later he would need them to pace another runner!) You do an amazing job and all that have raced your race know your time and hard work do not go unnoticed. Thank you again for providing us all with this amazing opportunity to be part of a top notch event!
Julie Fingar/Two-Time Women's Champion

Thank you once again for everything - what a good show you put on. The volunteers sure know their stuff!!
Louise Mason

Thank you so much for the opportunity to run in your very special race. From start to finish I had a truly outstanding experience. The course was extremely well-marked and thoughtfully conceived. The aid stations were incredibly well-stocked and the aid station volunteers were friendly, encouraging, and kind. The facilities at the State Park were comfortable and welcoming and the race itself was quite a competitive one. Of course, I was most appreciative of your willingness to find me a warm cot and a blanket as I was trying to get a little rest after the race. From top to bottom, the Rocky Raccoon 100 miler is a first class event. I look forward to returning in the future.
Andy Jones-Wilkins

I celebrated my 50th birthday this weekend with a couple of hundred other runners and some terrific race volunteers on the trails at Huntsville! It was my first race at this distance and I'm glad I chose it. You and Joyce as usual do everything right. The volunteers were smiling, attentive, and provided a lot of encouragement. At one aid station when I was asked if my water bottle needed a refill, I was a little slow to respond. Then I noticed that the guy was looking carefully at me to make sure I was still "with it." It was comforting to know that folks were being that concerned. As I headed off for my last 3 miles, I heard congratulations being shouted. It really carried me home. Then, there you were cheering me in at the end! Thanks for the great experience!
John Palmer/San Antonio

I would like to thank you for putting on such an excellent race. It was extraordinarily well organized and run. The volunteers were a super bunch of people too. Rocky Raccoon is the best trail run I have done.
Kevin Walker/Fort Bend Fit

Awesome job coordinating this event this past weekend. Did the winner of the 100 break Eric's record and what was his time? I have big blisters on both feet and my calves are screaming for relief but once I get up and steady myself, I can walk in an almost straight line but I feel great! After I took a good rest after the fifty, I drove to the park entrance (1.2 miles), parked the truck and walked back to the start/finish and then back to my truck before leaving for a total of 52.4 miles. A double marathon.
Rick :)
Thanks to y’all for putting on the race this past weekend; this was my first 50 mile race and therefore somewhat special to me…

Special thanks to Wanda at the start/finish line, yes I was the guy (hopefully the only one) with hypothermia at the end. Also special thanks to Leonard and (maybe Anne or someone with medical knowledge???) at Dam Road, who were very helpful and fixed up my blister. Also, here’s a suggestion for improving returning the drop bags from the course aid stations: Allow the runners on their last run through the aid station to say their bag can now be returned to the start/finish line; that way it’d be very possible they’d be on the prior drop-bag collection and so get back sooner. I had the same experience at Bandera, but of course that’s so accessible by the road that’s it easy to pick up our own drop bags there.
Richard Lynn...

Again, thanks so very much for providing this amazing opportunity. I can't even imagine how many hours you and all the volunteers put into this every year. I, for one, am humbled at your unselfish act! It was exciting to undertake something like this, not having any idea how my body and mind would handle it. Well, I am SO glad that I have the first one under my belt. Now I can start looking into my next ultra (don't know which one yet) and go into it with the knowledge I now have. I made many mistakes, but had a great time doing it! I really bonded with my friends (Lionel Briggs, Tony Mireles..... my pacers for the last two loops) in a way that I couldn't have in any other situation. Again, thanks. You are a unique, talented, and giving person and many, many people are very appreciative of your efforts. We love you!!!
Gretchen Lammeman

I enjoyed the 50 mile run. thank all your volunteers for a great job. I did not upgrade to the 100 since I had not run one mile in 6 weeks because of my healing stress fracture. I am very pleased with my time ( 20 minutes slower than last year). Plan to be back for the 100 next year. Thank you again.
Andy Velazco

You guys are so awesome!!!!! I had such a good time with the timing thing this year. I learned sooooooo much. I thank you for the opportunity to be involved in a class production like Rocky Raccoon and hope you will invite me back next year.
Angela Marie Weatherill

Dear Linda and everyone who made the RR100/50 such a fun weekend. From my perspective, as a volunteer, I want to extend my thanks to you and all the other organizers and other volunteers. I've run many Marathons, but this was only my 2nd time to be a part of an endurance trail run. German is respectfully doing his best to convert me to a trail runner! I knew as a volunteer that my number one job was to make each runner feel as though they were the most important one on the course. It was my pleasure to help each runner, fast or not-so-fast feel great about themselves and make sure they were healthy enough to continue on their runs. It was fun working with the crew at the Lodge, then later at Station 174 with Todd and Ramona. I think I finally went to bed in my shelter at 4am or so Sunday morning, I can't remember exactly, my body was not talking to me anymore from keeping it up since 3:30 am the day before. LOL. That didn't matter, because so many brave people were out there giving it all they had for as many hours. ( I haven't cooked so much Chicken Ramen soup since I was in college! That was a huge hit for the night runners through Station 174!!) Seeing the bravery of the runners and the whole-hearted goodness of the volunteers and organizers made me feel good about all the hours of hard work I put in. I had a great time. Thank you again, and hope to be up for my first 50 or 100 next year.
Joe DeBruyn

You did another outstanding job directing the 100. What a monumental task and how well you did it
Paul Stone

Looks like you dodged the bullet. When I got home at noon on Sunday I looked at the radar and saw it was raining up there. I assume only the last people had to put up with it. Based on the weather today we really got lucky.
Donald Griffiths

Thanks to you and your crew for a terrific event. This was my first 100 mile trail event, so other than shorter events, I have little to compare it to, but I heard numerous comments from other runners about the terrific improvements you’ve made. “Ya, Joe REALLY knows how to put on a good race.” You and your crew offer me zero opportunity for constructive criticism, and I’m one who always finds something. I’ve participated and volunteered a few 50 milers and many other, shorter events, and I’ve never even heard of the kind of personal, knowledgeable assistance like that provided by Leonard at the Dam Road. It was as if he were a close friend in my own personal crew! You both should know that it didn’t end yesterday, as I’ll be trying to pass along what he taught me the next time I’m volunteering. I remember thinking after my third loop that I’d be spoiled and probably disappointed after the volunteers rotated, and then I was blown away when I found them staying out there all night long. I don’t know what the volunteers were drinking out there, but you might consider sharing it with the runners next year. Thanks a hundred times,
Marty Metzger

Well, we say this every time, I guess, but it bears repeating. Don't know how to thank Joe, Joyce, Henry, all the volunteers, Sammy, Jim, (I'm forgetting many others) for the amazing execution at RR. The setup, aid stations, dinner, support, all of it went with clockwork precision. As a 100 mile newbie, I couldn't have asked for a better venue, had a great time. Thanks all.
Jeff Lynn

Thank you and the volunteers at the race. They did a flawless job! Always friendly and helpful, makes a 100 feel less painful. Thanks again for a great race.
John Dove

HI JOE THIS IS THE NOTE I SENT OUT TO THE FOLKS I WORK WITH THOUGHT YOU MIGHT ENJOY AND I ALSO WANTED TO THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR EFFORTS TO PUT THE RUN ON I PLAN TO BE BACK NEST YEAR BETTER PREPARED AND GET ANOTHER FINISH THANKS AGAIN JOE D N F _BUMMER GREETINGS. WELL ONE MORE YEAR AND ONE MORE RUN I WENT BACK TO THE ROCKY RACCOON RUN, (50 MILE), TO GIVE IT ANOTHER TRY, WELL I ONLY COMPLETED 34 MILES THIS YEAR I FELL DURING THE FIRST LOOP AND BY THE END OF THE SECOND LOOP I WAS DEHYDRATED AND HAD BLISTERS AND HAD NOT CONSUMED ENOUGH CALORIES I WAS SPENT, I WILL WORK HARD THIS YEAR AND GO GIVE IT ANOTHER GO NEXT YEAR I HAVE THE SPRING BIKE RIDES TO FINISH NEXT. AND WHAT MAKES MY RUNS A LITTLE MORE INTERESTING. AS A SIDE NOTE FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT KNOW MY CORRECTED VISION IS 20/200 WHICH MEANS THAT WHAT I SEE AT 20 FEET IS WHAT REGULAR SIGHTED PEOPLE SEE AT 200 FEET I ALSO HAVE LESS THAN 5 DEGREES FIELD OF VISION. LIVE LIFE AND MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY DAY WHY RUN A run on a long road is your own world and this is the world you can control, long runs are the best therapy I have found, they will cure anything even a sore leg, make a bad day good and a good day great. Have a run on me
Peter M Raybourn

I'd like to thank Joyce and Joe Prusaitis for putting on the Rocky Racoon 100 and 50 mile race. They and their tireless volunteers made for a very enjoyable event. There was Linda Hurd who managed the finish line aide station all day and night and still managed to pace a friend the last lap to a successful 100 mile finish. If you are ever fortunate enough to run an ultra where Sam Voltaggio is cooking you are in for a treat. Besides being a skinny ultra runner he is one hell of a chef. The toughest runner I met at Rocky was Beth Simpson who ran the last 35 miles with a broken nose. The biggest applause was for the amazing Grant Holdaway who finished during the award ceremony. And last but not least to the frogs of Huntsville. There were places on the course they were so loud that they almost hurt your ears.
Matt Watts/Broomfield, Co

I just wanted to say "Thank You" very much again for the GREAT race you put on! You are the man of all race directors. I had no problems finding my way through the course, especially at night and last lap, it was very well marked. My hat is also off to all the aid station volunteers. I'm so happy and thankful that my first 100-mile race was one in which you directed.
MSgt Gary J. Moroney

It was amazing, agonizing, and astounding! But I would not have traded the experience for anything. And to do the whole thing with friends was particularly special! Congratulations to Ava, Donna, Chris (for showing courage & not quitting) and Diana & Robert. I didn't see Steve after loop 3 but I'm assuming he finished as he looked strong. Jeff looked strong and finished strong as well. Thanks to Ava, Chris and Donna for running with me and helping me get through it. And special thanks to Ed and Alan for pacing---they each saved my race for me in their own way: Ed, by getting me to the 6:00am cutoff and Alan getting me through loop #5 (which was the hardest for me). Terry and Carmen your words of encouragement meant a lot, especially when I was hurting real bad (Carmen you know what I mean). Robert and Diana, your motivating words were crucial as well (and Diana, I can't wait to see the pictures!). Doise thanks for your positive words too. Henry, Joe, Joyce, Doug and Shan all had expert advice measured in a calm, reassuring manner and the highlight has to be Henry's literally giving me the shirt off his back. Next time we all meet, we can trade stories.
Robert "piernas cansadas" Melendez

I cannot tell you the emotions I felt throughout the weekend. Watching my favorite runners (HCTRs) come through the aid stations (Start/Finish and Far Side). I felt like running after you when you left the stations because I was so happy for you. If I could have given you some of my energy I would have, but you obviously didn't need it. Congratulations to everyone, runners, pacers, volunteers, family and friends.
Terry Champion

Thank you for hosting a great race. We really enjoyed our run and please thank all your wonderful volunteers especially the aid station volunteers who took such good care of us over night and a special thank you to SAMMY for all the great food. It was a pleasure watching Sammy in action. He can do twenty things at a time. What a great chef! Thank you also for letting us fulfill our Western States Service requirement and we learned lots doing so and appreciate more the huge effort the RD has to put in to get a race event running. Thanks for everything Best Regards
Marion & Don Landry

Just a quick note to tell you what a great job you and Joyce have done with RR. I know you both are probably more tired than you would have been if you ran the race. It is a much harder job to put one of these events on than it is to run them. The buckle and other changes all improved the race. That five year jacket is really nice. You continue to have great volunteers who take great care of the runners. Thanks to all.
Frank Probst

Thanks for putting on a great run. The trails were marked well. All the volunteers were very helpful and supportive. Sammy did a great job with the cooking as usual. You go out of your way to make everyone feel welcome and help to reach their individual goals. - Thanks
Bob Beck

Thanks to both of you for such a wonderful race. I completed my first 50 this past Saturday after running 37.5 of 50 @ Sunmart. Hope to compete at Bandera 100K next year and then a 100 with you at RR.
John McAllister

Thank you for your hard work in putting on an excellent event. I would recommend it to anyone considering running an ultra.
Brian Tidmore

I just wanted to thank you and your wife, Joyce for putting on an awesome race! This was actually my first 100 miler and I was extremely psyched with my run. I wanted to get under 24 hrs and went 22:40. I learned a lot during the race that will better prepare me for future races and I am really looking forward to doing some great things in Ultra running. The people are incredible. We briefly met during the race. I was one of the runners who went off course on the first loop. Thanks for being flexible and understanding to let me make up the mileage on the second loop-I can't tell you how much I appreciate it.
Pete Mehok

I wanted to thank you and your wife for a wonderful race, as always! This year was a little bit more challenging than other's for me. I was running very well through mile 65, then took a nasty spill breaking my nose, splitting open my lip and chin. I'm glad there are no mirror's at the aid station's, as everyone said it did not look good. I bled the remaining 35 miles, but somehow crossed the finish line 3rd woman. Second place woman passed me with 4 miles to go. I just didn't have anything left to give, so let her go. She beat me by 7 minutes!! The volunteer's were tremendous, helping in whatever way they could, knowing I was not about to quit!! It was a pleasure running RR, this year will have extra special memories for me. You bet I'll be back next year. Again, thanks for putting on a class race.
Beth Simpson

I raced in the Rocky Raccoon over the weekend. It was my first ultramarathon. It was hard, but I'm happy that I pushed through and finished. Thanks for putting on a great race. The people were all very nice and helpful, the course was beautiful and challenging, and I might even say I had fun. It was definitely my first, not my last. I can do much better.
Brian Franklin

Again, many, many thanks for putting on a great run. I was pretty pleased with the run. It is the first time that my stomach has held together in a 100-miler, or for that matter any ultra over 50-km. I have to admit that it was also the first time that a hot chick at an aid station offered herself to me during a run, but she must have known that nothing could possibly have happened after 44 miles, even if I wanted to! It certainly made me look forward to laps 4 and 5 in what I could call a full service aid station. If you know who I am talking about, tell her thanks. (What really happened was they ask me if I wanted anything hot and I said no, so she jokingly ask me if I wanted her because she was hot. It was quite comical). Anyway, thanks again for the great event!
Gene "Fatboy" Trahern

Thanks for a fine event!!! We are gradually working are way up,,,,,60-80 to 100. Loved the course and your v-teers. I really liked the Jerzees sweatshirts you gave us. Thanks!
Mike Ehredt

You guys did a great job putting it all together. Everything seemed to go without a hitch! I am very proud for being part of the 'well-oiled machine' of volunteers that helped it all come together.
Mariela V. Botella

Thank you so much for everything you do. It is really strange how safe I feel out on the trail at 2am knowing you and Joyce are taking "care" of us. I could not have done this without knowing that both you and Joyce were cheering me on. I respect the hard work you both do to make this race amazing.
Ava Arzola

I want to say Thank You so very much for being given the opportunity to share in the RR 100/50 medical component of this event. I learned quite a bit from Mike and do hope that you will consider me a recruit and will be only too happy to be there next year to serve the Ultra runners and the community. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was an awesome experience. Again, thank you for the great experience and welcome feeling you and your staff gave me. Oh yes, I am wearing the Sweatshirt you gave me with pride and have been telling everyone that will listen the awesome experience of volunteering at RR.
Wanda Mattucci

Thanks! It was a great race and you do such a good job we have already decided we will be back next year! Although next year make sure you kick our butts out onto the course for the fifth loop :) Take care and see you next year!
Terri Spencer

I credit it all to the race director and his clean water! Seriously, I love your race. The aide stations were great and the volunteers went above and beyond my expectations. The weather was great, too bad you announced at the pasta dinner you weren't responsible for weather. Otherwise, I would be giving you credit for that also. The new buckles are sharp looking. I hear a lot positive comments from other runners. Thanks for all you and your crew do for us runners. I try to thank as many as I can on the course but probably not as many as I should. You have already fixed the only thing I didn't like about my first run at Rocky. Thanks for the clean water and don't change anything.
Bob Engel

While I did not have 1 of my better days after mile 60, your volunteers had a great day. I wonder how you attract so many wonderful people. Our club runs some good races and we have good volunteers but yours are the very greatest. Every aid station each trip around was like being in a very expensive motel. Just eager to help you. (I just stayed at 1 in Phoenix where for the price they should have been eager). Wish I could single 1 station out but that would be unfair because they were all GREAT. See you next year, Good lord willing and the creek don't rise. Incidentally I am glad I did drop because that last fall did hurt my hip worse that I thought at the time.
Bill Hollihan

Well its done now I don't need to do another unless I want to! Thank you for helping me get through, in what I thought was a great time for a slow poke like me. As always the volunteers were the best ready to help with anything. I’m sure we will see you at another race, thanks again in helping me reach this goal.
Shirley Musfy

Great race & support -- many thanks.
John McCarey

I would like to thank you for a really great run. I have finished RR three times in the past but this year everything was so much better. My first 100 finish was Arkansas in 1997: what impressed me about the race was the aid station food, and until this year I have never seen its equal. Hope it carries on like this, and I expect to be back next year.
Bob Rayburn

Such a great race. Thanks so much for all you and Joyce did. It went perfectly.
Deborah Sexton

I just wanted to say "Thanks!" for putting on a great event this past weekend. I've run Rocky before but this was the first time under your direction, and I really liked what you have done. I liked the new aid station at the Farside out and back, and also the fact the turnaround there was moved in a bit from earlier editions of the race (it didn't seem as far to go at night than before). That section can be a real drag at night as it seems to go on forever! The aid was fantastic...spaghetti, lasagne, meatloaf, hamburgers, REAL chicken noodle soup, etc. Too bad I was in such a hurry to get done as I would have liked to sat down and munched on some the excellant fare. My favorite (PB&J sandwiches) was always on hand and there was plenty! Thanks for the bottled water Joe! It really made the difference. The new buckle was great as well, and the shirt (I'm wearing it as I type this out). I'll be back next year to pick up my 5 year jacket! Thanks again Joe for putting on a classic event. I always enjoy my run out there in Texas and you made it even more enjoyable.
Dale Perry

I am still on a high after the completion of my 1st 100 miler. Many thanks to all who made it possible... of course, Joe and Joyce for putting the whole thing together, Volunteers all along the way. No race is possible without them. The aid stations were truly heaven to behold. My trusty pacer, Shan. This has truly been an incredible journey, from the training runs all the way to the finish line. I am very thankful for the friendships and strengths this journey has bestowed upon me. And extra icing on the cake, hubby Robert and I were able to train for and complete our 1st hundred together. It is all just too cool. I'll shut up now.
Diana Heynen

I want to thank you & your race staff & all your Volunteers. You guys & gals could not have made it any easier for me to finish my first 50 Miler! A first rate event from start to finish. I always pass the good word along. With luck I will see you all again next year. Thanks Much,
Alex Armato

Although I had what I consider to be a bad day, the memory of pain is really short. I can easily look back and say that overall I had a nice time down there, and I know it was because of your work as well as that of Joyce, Henry, Sam, and so many countless others last weekend.
Paul Tidmore

Quit when you are ready. You have certainly done your part. However, you do more than you will ever know for those of us who run those races. Running them is kind of like having cancer, and realizing how much we depend on God; but we get to go home in the morning.
Leo Lavender

Thank you for a wonderful race and weekend in Huntsville. You do a heck of a job. And thank you for a wonderful writeup. The work that you and Joyce plus family and friends put in is enormous. I was breathtaken to observe all the details you have thought. If I was to plan this event I would sit down and write lists and lists and time tables for execution. But I took note during the night at the start/finish aid station that my lists would have been pathetically short. Again and again I saw things that I had not thought of. AND it was something that Joyce was handling. From deep in my heart I send you, Joyce, family (does that include Henry?) and friends a deep thank for all what you do. All the best and Happy Trails.
Thorbjorn Pedersen/The Gr8 Dane

Thank you for organizing such a great race. Rocky Raccoon 50 was my first ultra. The volunteers were fantastic and very encouraging. I wanted to try an ultra but I didn't know if I would do more than one. The positive experience I had at RR changed my mind, I would like to do this race again next year.
Rich Ryznar

Just wanted to let you know what a great time I had at the RR 100 last week. Many thanks to yourself and your crew for all the hard work that must go into planning and running an event like this. You guys have the friendliest, most helpful volunteers and aid station workers that I have found anywhere. From a runner's perspective it is really great to roll into an aid station and see the folks waiting to greet you, fill your bottle, offer food, etc., etc. And I've never seen a course better marked. There was never a moment when I had any doubt about the course routing. And the food was just awesome. It was the thought of pancakes and breakfast Sunday morning that helped get me to the finish line. Someone deserves special credit for the sound effects on certain portions of the course. The frogs were so vocal they were nearly deafening, and coyotes howling after dark always add a special element. Thanks again for a great event. I hope to make it back next year.
Don Ryan

Thanks again for a great race and congrats on another job well done.
Scott Eppelman

What an excellent report. Your gifts extend so wide and far, that is is hard to know when to stop thanking you. Thanks for the planning, the work, and now the invitation towards reflection. Good work and good words. One last thing, I just got a pretty lengthy note from Jorge Pacheco (in Spanish). He reflects warmly on the race, not because he won, but because he really enjoyed the people and the environment.
Matt Crownover

Thanks for all your help, great race organization, I´ll be back. Redemption.
Wendy Holdaway/Mexico City

Thanks for everything at the race.
Shawna Brown

I want to complement both of you for another EXCELLENTLY managed and conceived race. Each year you get the race closer to being a perfected system. It is absolutely essential that you do. RR100 is too big an affair involving too many people and too much money to run it off the tops of your heads. I think that having a designated drop bag retriever made aid station management much easier. Not once did I hear a runner grouse about not finding a bag. With no runners rummaging through the drop bag area, the place did not get cluttered making it progressively more difficult for runners to find their bags. Bags? Some brought virtual steamer chests. I wondered if certain runners were running away from home. Others seemed to have their trousseaus along. There were some big containers at 2/4. The food was great. Sammy Voltaggio and his kitchen crew did a marvelous job of feeding the runners and volunteers. The rigid canopies were a welcome note. While we had dry weather, it made everyone at 2/4 more secure and confident knowing that we could work out of the rain if we had to. While this year was not the worst in this category, the volume of rubbish strewn by runners was appalling. Too many contestants cannot differentiate between a trail run and an urban marathon. Not only did they litter the trail, they hurled trash into the woods beyond, making cleanup much more difficult. It would be lovely to find and DQ a couple perpetrators to serve as examples to other slobs and to validate the behavior of the many runners who carry their trash. We had a couple of people elect to drop out at 2/4. Each year runners run out of gas at the most isolated location on the course and spend a long time waiting for a ride out. This group isn't limited to neophytes. A couple years back, Ann Trason hung up her sneakers at 2/3. It might be a good idea to iterate to the runners, in pre-race literature, or in the pre-race talk, or in a note on the course map that if they must drop out, some places are better than others for that function. Thanks for another great race. I hope you and Joyce have the stamina for another. Best regards!
Larry Sbar

By the way, great race. As always, we had a great time. Next year we're coming up with a theme for our aid station. And I'm also going to have to bring my pom poms.
Genny Morrow

That is by far the best R.D. race rap-up I have ever read! Thanks for writing it and thanks for all the other things you did for the race. I still believe it's much easier to run a race than to put it on. Any distance, but especially a 100. Hope to see you next year,
Jim Stroup

I just wanted to say I really enjoyed myself at RR. The run was well organized from the minute I walked in pick up my packet and until after the run when I picked up my buckle. The whole event was first rate. Leonard helped me beyond the call of duty at the dam AS. REALLY like the quick turnaround with the results esp the splits. The only compliant I have was with the runners who left trash like crazy on the trail. Maybe a couple of garbage cans a little farther out from the AS would help??
Bob Combs/Warren, Ohio

2004

Great Job On Your First Year! Just a quick note of thanks now to you and your entire crew for an event that was close to perfection. (Too many alligators on the spillway!) I'll work up a report and some pics shortly.
Robert F. "23:48 First 100-Miler" Alexander

Greetings! Just wanted to say first, WHAT A GREAT RACE you put together. Everything was really well done. I used to help run aid station 1 for several years, and saw an incredible improvement with the subtle changes you made. All along the course I heard great feedback, especially the introduction of station 3. WELL DONE!! Thanks again for a great race.
Amy Adams

I want to thank you and your staff for a wonderful event. I had a great 50 mile and my friends Mike Smith and Walter Prescott went below 24 and got a PR on the 100. We plan to come back next year, since now I want a BUCKLE.
Andy Velazco,M.D. / GA

JOE - Thanks to you and all the volunteers for putting on another great race. I enjoyed the new 50 mile course.
Bob Beck

The course was marked incredibly well. The glow sticks at night were great for our mileage-diminished minds. The race had incredible food quality. Sandwiches, soup, coffee, potato slices, were always fresh. The aid station volunteers were gracious, knowledgeable, and all-around terrific. The water was great; it was bottled water. The aid station location at the end of the long out-and-back in the sticks was fantastic. The logistics of getting stuff there had to have been tough. The RD (Joe Prusaitis) was everywhere at once and always cheerful, despite having not slept for 40 hours. Again, enough can't be said about the volunteer staff of this event. It was great. My crew was terrific, also. Thanks, Vicki!
Ben Homes

Thanks again for an awesome race!! You made some great changes and I think everyone was happy with them.
Beth Simpson

Many thanks again for a great race, with lots of lifelong memories. Hope to see you again soon.
Beth Simpson

I wanted to express my congratulations and thanks for a great race organization this past weekend! The volunteers were fantastic and I saw them helping out the runners in every way possible. They were clearly "all out" for the runners and that made us feel good. The aid stations were stocked well and the special food like the soups were very good. The trails were very well marked and very easy to follow in the light or dark. The whole event was clearly very well organized from the runners viewpoint and this made it easier to run. I also appreciated the good food at the banquet Friday night. Awesome job Joe!!! See you next year for my "500 mile" jacket!
Bob Botto

Just wanted to thank you and all of your aid station personnel for a wonderfully run event. The weather you ordered was perfect too! I can usually come up with a suggestion or two for changes but nothing comes to mind. I hope you all enjoyed the weekend as much as I did. Thanks
cdaniels

I've run RR 2 times prior to this year and I have to commend you on the improvements you made to the overall race organization. The course markings were excellent, the addition of the aid station at the end of the second out and back was great, and the volunteers were friendly and helpful. The style of the belt buckle and the sweatshirt were also excellent additions. I plan on returning next year and look forward to competing once again in a first class event.
Dave Bursler

What a great event! Congrats to all participants and thanks to all volunteers for their "endurance" event. If I ever need anything organized, I'm gonna get Joe, Joyce, and Henry to do it.
Diana Heynen

First, let me say that you guys did an awesome job putting on the race this past weekend. It was my first 50M, an I couldn't have gotten better treatment. The aid stations especially were top flight!
Eric Stommel

I just wanted to say thanks to you and your crew for staging such a wonderful event. As an event director here in Sacramento, I know the time, dedication and effort that go in to putting these events on successfully. The aid stations were superb. The food was great and the volunteers could not have been more supportive! That is especially comforting when you are out there for hours upon hours. It was truly a great experience. Thanks again and I hope to see you in 2005!
Julie Fingar

Congratulations Joe/Joyce and all the other volunteers! This is a wonderful website with plenty of good info, particularly for the 1st timers at Rocky and the out of towners, which fits me to a tee.
Gary Glaser

Thank you very much for putting on an outstanding, extremely well run race. I was able to better my 100 time by 3.5 hours. The only barrier between me and my performance is my own training. I also wanted to express my appreciation for the excellent support I received at the aid stations. The volunteers were always cheerful, supportive and positive, and did whatever they could to provide individual attention and anticipate my logistical needs. I have three small recommendations regarding the race. 1. A few more glow sticks over the last 6 miles. Some of that section winds back and forth and it would help to have a few more at those switch back turns. 2. The red tape hanging from trees was great during the day and there was plenty of it. However, at night I couldn't see the tape until I came right up on it. Yellow might carry over more distance and thus reduce the need for more glow sticks. That's about it Joe. Thank you again and I will see you next year.
Rick George

This was my first Rocky. Thank you so very much. The quality of the people at this race speaks millions about what you do. Let this be only my first of many RR.
Jim Good

Just a short note to thank you, and all the volunteers, for your efforts in putting on the race this year. I don't know where you find the people willing to spend all day, and night, passing out water, making soup, hot chocolate, coffee and sandwiches. But the folks do a great job. I finished in a little over 26 hours, so I was hitting the aid stations all during the night. There were always people awake and ready to provide something - more awake than I was at some points. Please let them know their efforts are appreciated. I must comment that aid station #3 was a positive addition this year, especially in the later loops. In the middle of the night and early morning, the out and back can be pretty daunting- as well as taking forever at my speed. With aid station #3 as a break, mentally and physically, it was a big help. The buckle is very attractive, now I have to get a belt to put it on. The zip-neck sweat shirt is a unique item that I have never seen at other races, and I really like it. (I should have waited until this year to do my fifth, the Columbia zip-neck top is a nice item) Again, thanks to you and all the volunteers for putting on the race.
Jay Barry

I enjoyed the Rocky Raccoon 50/100 mile race. This was the first time I have done a 50 mile. I’ve wanted to do it at Sunmart but the 12 hour time limit had me concerned that I wouldn’t get it done in time. The 29 hour time limit you gave us for the 50 made the difference for me. I finished it in 11 hours 52 minutes because I was able to just relax and enjoy the run. I will be doing the 100 mile next year and plan to build up with the races you have scheduled like the Boerne 100k and others. Thanks………………….
Jim Richard / Houston

I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for such a great race. I loved every second of it, well almost every second. It was tough at times. It is amazing how much better you can feel after just a little bit of sleep and a few big meals. I already fill 100% better. I wanted to write and thank all the people that helped out and made the race an A++ race. I know that the workers at the aid stations deserve the belt buckles, hands down they did a wonderful job. I know that it is not easy and truely it takes alot to give up a weekend with no sleep, in the cold. My praise goes out to those people. Thank you for making RR posible. I know that I nor any other runner could have finished the race without your help. Thank you so much.
Justin Vorel

Thanks for the info and all the effort you and your staff put into this race. I am looking forward to joining you for this legendary event.
Kathy

Just wanted to send a great big Thank You ;-) For doing such a fabulous job taking over Rocky Raccoon... I love that race & always enjoy running and now it is so improved. Guess you can probably expect me back again next year. Warm regards,
Katy Cotton

Thanks for all your work at Rocky Raccoon. It was a great event and very well organized. I particularly like your tweaking of the course and aid station location. Thank you.
Lee Norris

Thanks again for another fun filled weekend. You sure know how to throw a darn good party! The buckles are the best! I've gotten several nice comments on it!
Letha Cruthirds

THANKS SO MUCH for a wonderful race this past weekend. My buddy and I ran the 50 mile run and enjoyed ourselves very much. I can only begin to imagine how much work you guys put into this race. It is appreciated. Thanks especially for getting our drop bags out to the 2/4 aid station even though we didn’t bring them to you until just before the start of the race. The weather couldn’t have been any better. The people at the aid stations were, without exception, some of the most friendly, helpful and gracious folks I have met. Thanks again.
Steve Maas

Just wanted to let you know I had a super time at your race for my first 50! Everything was better than I had imagined. I am looking forward to coming again next year and doing the 100. Keep on keepin' on,
David Martin

Y'ALL rock! Another first rate event! Max Harrington

I wanted to say "Thank you" again for putting on a great race! Really learned a lot from this one...
Gary Moroney

HI JOE FIRST I WANT TO THANK YOU FOR A GREAT EVENT THIS WAS MY FIRST 50 AND I HAD A VERY GOOD TIME THE AID STATIONS ARE PERFECT AND ALL THE OTHER RUNNERS ARE SO SUPPORTIVE IT IS TRULY A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE WHEN MY FEET QUIT HURTING I WILL PROBABLY START LOOKING TO NEXT YEAR
Peter Raybourn

Like so often in Europe, the most runners met the evening before. At the small cottage at the Huntsville State Park lake, there was a delicious meal at 6pm. There was salad, pasta and some pies for dessert. After this the runners could start strengthened at the next morning. At Saturday morning 6am 148 runners started for the 5x20 Miles loop. One hour later 58 for the 50-Miles. The 50-Miles ran the same course as the 100-Miles without a small back part. The course was on small wood and wander trails. Course of the rain, the days before the race, there was some lightly muddy parts. The wavy course around the lake was almost without any traffic. There was only three times street crossings. But with 28-55F there are not many people willing to have a barbecue, so that this streets of the park wasn't used much. At the evening there was coming up a small breeze of wind. Which made it much more cold. There was although a breakfast before the award ceremony on Sunday morning. There was dished up scrambled eggs, taccos and pancakes. So another nice and peaceful week ended.
Rainer Koch

You are so nice to ask how I am. In my parent's words, "she's alive" so I guess anything beyond that is gravy. I've been meaning to email you anyway, you just beat me to the punch. Seems like I'm always thanking you for something. It just never ends. You and Joyce and Henry are just too great. I really can't even put into words how grateful I am for all ya'll have done to get me to this next level of insanity that I am on and I mean that in a good way. Your encouragement and constant offer of support is just overwhelming. I could go on and on about the endless hours ya'll put it and I can't even fathom how much planning goes into a race like this. I hope you know it is appreciated by everyone more than words can express. I only hope to return the many favors someday. The volunteers and all the aid station folks were just incredible. You guys must hand pick the nicest people in the world to! do this. I always looked so forward to arriving at each aid station and always felt rejuvinated after I left. They were just awesome. Sammy, I don't know what you do for a living, but I hope it is food related...your cooking is out of this world. There are just too many people to thank, so thank you sooooooo much EVERYONE. Again I feel so blessed.
Linda Rust

Thanks for putting the race on. I really enjoyed the run. The volunteers were great. When I came into AS 2/4 on the last lap, I was having trouble with my light. I asked for batteries, but there were no AAA. One of the voluteers just handed his flashlight to me and told me just to keep it. I didn't catch his name, but that is just an example of what your volunteers would do to help people successfully complete the race. Thanks again.
Ryan Loehding

Thanks to you and your crew for the great race. Laura and I enjoyed ourselves! Best Regards,
Scott & Laura Weber

My quads were much more fried after Bandera than RR. My hamstrings, on the other hand, were pretty tight. Not a single blister on my toes, just the heels. I will forever swear by the Injinji toe socks. I never changed the initial pair of socks for 100 miles. Pretty cool, huh?
Shan Rooney

I want to thank you, your fellow race organizers, and all of the volunteers at the aid stations for a wonderful time! The course was absolutely beautiful, the weather cooperated well, and my body cooperated pretty well for most of the race. The aid stations were very well stocked with "necessities". I especially appreciated the boiled potatoes and salt, the luncheon meat with soft tortilla, chicken noodle soup, potato soup, coffee, hammergel, and gatorade. I was saved a few times by the gracious offering of "sorely" needed petroleum jelly. What impressed me the most about this race was the exceptional level of caring and attentiveness shown by each and every one of the volunteers(that even includes you, Joe!!!). The volunteers were efficient, very friendly, and really seemed interested in each of the runners' welfare. I cannot say enough good things about them. Thank You again for such wonderful picnics in the woods, and such beautiful scenery between them. Sincerely,
Shane Sampson

Thanks for coordinating a great day yesterday. The Rocky Raccoon was my first ultra. My left leg was partially numb and painful for half of the 50 miles I completed. But I did finish. And it was a respectable time I hope for a newcomer.
Simon Hoyle

I had a very good experience at the race! Thanks for your and your volunteers' efforts. The nurses were especially attentive. I only have two requests for improvements. First, I'm a vegetarian; small changes in the food would make more of it available to non-meat eaters. For instance, pasta without meat sauce and vegetable broth/soup. I LOVED the mac&cheese! Second, it would be good to have course marshalls at any road crossing. I mentioned to you at the race that I was startled at one of the intersections by a car that had to quickly stop to not hit me. This was on the third loop, so I was already getting spacey.
Mike Stabler

Congratulations on directing another top-shelf event.
Paul Sone

I appreciate your hard work and endeavors in making the Coon 100 a great run to participate in. You have brought the race to all time new levels. The comfortable start and finish area, the newly positioned aid stations, with very qualified volunteers. The aid food was second to none and only cause of Paulie as good as SD100. Mike Riggs and Henry did a great job on the course. No one but noone can equal Joyce! Special thanks to Chef Teresa of Colorado and Amy Stone for their good food, and Doug G for being on the spot. This race now has a fab reputation, and will only grow in size. Your efforts are amazing, you know what time it is! So Thank you mucho.
Sammy Voltaggio

I would like to thank Joe Prusaitis and the Hill Country Trail Runners for continuing the Rocky Racoon 100 after Mickey Rollins the former race director retired. Joe changed the belt buckles but kept the basic course. The aide stations were great and manned by wonderful volunteers. The only thing they wouldn't do is move the aide stations in closer because I swear all courses get longer after dark. It was colder than a well diggers butt and every aide station had a very tempting roaring fire. I believe their was a record turnout for both events . The pre and post race meals were great. I do know the amazing Grant Holdaway finished another 100. Thanks again Joe and good luck at Hardrock.
Matt Watts / Broomfield , Co

You have proven yourself a giant in taking on so many monumental efforts all for the love of the sport and seldom caring, or appearing to care for the glory that can go with it. I am grateful for all your efforts and ability to pull so many strings at once. Your leadership is above reproach, if there was a single cross word from you, I never saw it. You have handled every situation I observed, that could have escalated into something nasty, with a high degree of patience and tact and I am in awe of the fact that you can differentiate circumstances so well on the spur of the moment, even when sleep deprived. It is apparent to me that every runner in any of your races goes away knowing they did the best they could do that day, and that you supported that effort 100%. It is an honor and a privilege to work on your team, it is a cracker jack group, and you will be an inspiration to many for a long time to come. I foresee RR100 becoming a must do event for many when word gets out about the quality that was exemplified at this years event and expect to see a huge increase in your numbers next year. You have given every volunteer the same high degree of respect and honor as the runners and you definately have a solid core group of people, beginning with Joyce, Henry, and Sammy.
Wes Monteith

"What a great experience that was. The race was so organized and to my knowledge, nothing went wrong. All of the volunteers were so wonderful. It was very enjoyable!"
Marian and Neal Yasuda

GREAT RACE!! The changes you made really improved the course....much more enjoyable. Especially the out and back aid station that you added. And the buckles are great...glad to see the Raccoon playing less of a role on things.
Bill Nictakis

Just wanted to let you know, my friend from Mi Steve Maas and I felt you did a terrific job of directing this race. Once again thanks for getting our drop bags out to the aid station on race morning. The aid station attendents were so helpfull, you must be very proud of them. Once again THANKS FOR A TERRIFIC RACE
Ken Burns

I'd like thank the volunteers at RR100 a million times over. This has got to be a tough job because I realize that unlike MMT100 or other 100s, there are no shifts - the RR100 aid stations are open from the beginning of the race until the end - and that is such a L-O-N-G time! I really enjoyed seeing some of the older folks work the aid stations (in particular I am thinking about AS #1 and #2/4). They were very warm and kind-hearted. I enjoyed seeing familiar faces (Max and Wes) at #2/4 and thought the music at #3 was fantastic (I love the 80's!) The Christmas lights at #5 (Old 174) made me smile even when I didn't want to. All of the volunteers were great about checking with you about how you were feeling, pushing food and drinks on you, telling you what types of food they had available, and giving you medical supplies (e.g. vaseline) when you asked for them. I also liked the "changing tents" that were set up at some of the aid stations and I thought the water was outstanding (no more brown water!) I especially want to thank Michael, the nurse in the start/finish tent. He was very supportive about my decision to both go out again after mile 60 and to drop at mile 80. He had a very caring manner about him and I appreciated that very much. Thank you Joe and Joyce for organizing such a high quality event. I have always recommend RR100 to my ultra friends and I will be even more enthusiastic when doing so in the future. Thank you again so much!
Michele Burr/ North Potomac, MD

I'm back in central Illinois and feeling OK after my _FIRST_ 100 mile race! My time of 29:07 wasn't exactly impressive, but I'm happy. It was a real struggle the last 30 miles and I made it. Thanks for organizing such a great race. All of the volunteers were fantastic from morning to night to morning again. Couldn't have done it without their super support and encouragement. Next year more lube and a sub-24 finish!
Chris Migotsky/Mahomet, IL

I really enjoyed the RR100 and hopefully next year I'll get it completed.
David Johnson

Just wanted to thank you for the fine event you directed. This was my first time at RR, but from what I heard from the veterans, you began with a well run, popular race, and made significant improvements. And that’s not easy to do. Please pass along my gratitude to your volunteers, and especially the aid station folks. These were the best aid stations I have encountered anywhere. Helpful, friendly, attentive people, well stocked, I can’t say enough good things about them. Also, the food could not have been better. Kudos to the people who worked so hard to feed us so well. The whole course was very well marked and easy to follow. From the participant standpoint, the whole thing seemed to go like clockwork. Thanks again for the great job. I hope to make it again next year. Don Ryan

Joe, thanks again for you, your wife and the entire team for helping us and myself this weekend. I learned a great deal during and after they run. I look forward to next year.
Ed Dramberger

I crewed and paced the Holdaway group two years ago. This was my introduction to ultrarunning. Although I did not ever want to come back to Rocky Raccoon. I was not pleased with the passed events or the passed race director. Being a crew member you hear a lot of talking and see how a lot of things are handled. Grant Holdaway asked me to come and crew and pace him this year. (After he gave me the ultrarunning bug, 2 - 50 milers and a 2003 wasatch finish). As I saw how well Rocky was organized this year, and how well the runners were treated by your staff, I believe it is one of the class ultrarunning organizations. Although I prefer the mountains to run in, maybe one day I will visit Rocky and run it for myself. Hope to see you around. Rocky Raccoon 2004 was well done! Thanks. P.S. I talked with Grant Holdaway on Monday night. He did not see his doctor, but actually went to work for a few hours on Monday. The man is an inspiration to us all.
Mike Fitzsimmons

Thanks Joe. And thanks once again for a fabulous RR. I've heard nothing but very positive comments about it. Great work!
Lisa Stranc Bliss

Can't thank you enough for the great job you guys do at this RD thing. Super!!!!!!! I think my wife said it best "Wow, it is great to see how much Joe and Joyce genuinely care about how each runner is doing" Feedback:
1. The closeness of each aid station made the run very easy for newbies
2. Aid station volunteers all were very helpful...even in the COLD
3. I liked the aid stations all having tents (wind shelter and if it had rained..) good planning
4. Fires/ heaters at aid stations were life saving
5. Having a choice between hot soup (chicken romen or potatoe) at most aid stations was great. And spaghetti...wow great! (turkey sandwhichs would be the only thing I would suggest adding)
6. Course marking made it a brainless run..thanks I usually end up brainless
7. The litter on the course was disappointing...I picked up some gu packs and candy wrappers here and there, but the soup cups were all over. Sucks! Maybe stress to the starters what a crime that really is, and shoot anyone you see doing it????
8. Post race meal was super (and not too late for most folks to stay for! big plus compared to other races I've done.
9. Door prizes done fairly and fun, thanks!
10. Buckles are BEAUTIFUL! thanks
11. I love the uniqueness of the top awards. adds some class to the event.
Thanks againg for the whole big shi-bang. It feels great to finish a 100 again after so long. We look forward to seeing you on the trails soon!
Greg & Anne Loomis

Thanks again for working so hard to give us a great race.
Matt Crownover

I would like to add my deepest thank-you to all the volunteers and organizers of the race. Please excuse me if I don't use specific names because it was such a team effort. I would like to thank EVERYONE who stayed out extra so my runner Toks could experience the finish. To Duane, the guys at Farside (I'm sorry but I am bad w/ names, especially delerious...Mike and someone else) for helping Toks and I and for everyone at the finish welcoming us in. She really wanted to see that clock still there and I thank Joe for keeping it up. Getting her to the finish line was just as emotional for me, I think partly because it was such a long cold night but more importantly the caring displayed to give her the dream she wanted. This is why I am an ultrarunner!
Erik Moortgat

You and your volunteers put on a great event. Please make sure they understand how much their efforts were appreciated. Thanks Again,
Mike Smith/Indiana

Just a quick note to thank you for the great job you and all your volunteers did at this years Rocky Raccoon 100 mile Run. I got a PR for both the 50 mile and the 100 mile, despite the mud, tree roots, and the cold weather. The "Sub 24 Finisher" buckle is great. The Pre-race dinner was really good, and the aid stations were well stocked. I especially liked the mac and cheese, spaghetti, the hot soups, and the homemade nut breads (yum!) at aid station 2/4. Everybody was very supportive throughout the long cold night, and I really appreciated their help and encouragement. One girl even wiped my face when I slurped spaghetti over myself............. we were all treated very well. Thanks again for your great job!
Walt Prescott/New Hampshire

Wow! What a Race! Just a note to say how great was your race. It took lots of energy from you and your wife as well as the wonderful volunteers. From race checkin, the dinner before the race, the start, the race, the end, the breakfast, the awards. I have never seen it done better. How can any race top that. The lodge is a great asset, as are the volunteers. How do they do it! I didn't hear of a single problem. Well some wanted cheese at an aid station but is it possible to transport the HEB to each aid station? Reiner seemed to enjoy it also. He had quite a race and after the race seemed ready to do it again. It must be nice to be young and talented. His parents are also quite the athletes so apparently he chose his parents well. Thanks again for a great race. It was good to see you again. Only the best!
Don Winkley

Volunteers were fantastic. Please pass along my appreciation and thanks. I'm not sure how you do it any better than you did. This was my eighth start for the Rocky 100 and I think it was the best. Thank you for your dedication to this race (especially) as well as the others you direct.
Mark Buescher

I ran the race last week and really had a great time. Kerry Nino

Don't known where you find them all but the aid station people are first class. They really go beyond the call of duty to help the runners finish.
Phil Wright

Joe & Joyce and all the rest of a very fine group of volunteers - all of you put on a first class event, always ensuring the athlete's every need was met. It is the unselfish giving of your time and efforts that makes this challenge possible for me and other runners. Texas can be proud of the spirit and hospitality shown by all of you. Thank You.
Jay Yanovich

We enjoyed the 2004 Rocky Raccoon 100 mile run. Although I was only a handler/crew person, my runner Pat Young, thoroughly enjoyed her run and attendant fun time. Especially she thanks you, your co-race workers, and each and every person involved with the aid stations for their help and assistance. They were beyond helpful, actually caring for runners as if they were family or close friends. She unfortunately had low blood pressure induced dizziness in lap#4 and even though felt strong, she dropped out at mile 73. The nice people at station #2/4 drove her back to the start/finish. Thanks once again to all involved - well run race - nice job all, and thanks for caring.
Tom Chabot