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I signed up for the Autumn Squatch 20k wanting to do a fun fall race, knowing my fitness wasn't in a place to spend the time and money traveling to a larger race. Ultimately, I think it was an excellent choice and I liked the race a lot!
For starters, the local, hometown atmosphere was very relaxed. From bib-pickup on Friday to the start line, there were encouraging vibes. I loved the enthusiasm of the other runners and the volunteers! As the race neared, the crew explained that the race was to be run on a two-loop trail. Everyone would start at the same place and same time. The 10k runners would run the North Loop and finish. The 20k runners would run the North Loop, run through the finish line, and complete the South Loop before it spit them back at the same finish line from another direction. The 50k runners would do a combination of North and South loops. This sounded daunting as I hadn't done the full trail before, but once the field spread out, I didn't have any trouble finding course markings. I have been known to get lost on trail runs, so this was a relief to not get turned around!
The Rocks & Roots loops are excellently named. You can expect a technical, ruddy adventure. If it rains, this trail is KNOWN to flood (that's actually why I hadn't run the full thing before; it was always flooded when I was in town). That being said, it was quite dry for this race. There were 4-5 intentional stream crossings, however, but I really enjoyed them! It was warm enough that the shoe-soaking felt good.
Aside from the terrain, the course was quite flat compared to what I'm used to. My Garmin clocked roughly 800 feet of gain in the 13 miles (yeah, it's definitely not 12.4 miles, so be aware of that). It was really mild and even when there were hills, they were rolling and quite fun. Most of the trail is pretty narrow, but it's not single-track persay. I had no trouble passing people when needed. Some parts are out in fields but 90% of the trail goes through wooded areas. It also gives runners a lovely view of the Alum Creek Lake. The sunrise colors during November are picturesque and I had to remind myself I was not going to stop and take photos.
I believe I paid $45 (early registration) for this race. Considering that, the reusable cup, patch-style medal, and short-sleeved t-shirt were great values in addition to the race. I was aware of what I was signing up for however... a local race. If you are considering this race, don't go into it expecting world-class cheering (there's hardly any), aid stations (I think they barely noticed I was running by), or competition (I was running alone for 75% of the race, and no woman was anywhere near me). That is the chill atmosphere I expected, so I was pleased and overall enjoyed the experience. I would not run this as a major, A-tier race though. You won't have the inspiring course (it will get monotonous, especially if you do the 50k, I'd guess!), aid station support, cheering, or competition that make large races worth it.
For a fun family or friend event though, this is great. My family was able to see me multiple times because of the loop structure. The race didn't start until 8 a.m. either, which convinced them to get out of bed to watch me run.
The biggest qualm I had, honestly, was that there was no one dressed up as Sasquatch out on the course. I genuinely expected that. I dunno... would have been fun! Ha!
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