14th Explore Your Limits 5/10k
3/3/18 at 9:00a.m.
It’s not just the runners that have to deal with challenges.
We have just returned from marking and clearing the Explore Park trails for the race tomorrow. Due to the severe windy weather over the last 24 hours there are many down trees along the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) and access to the Explore Park, from the BRP, is currently closed.
In addition, our race headquarters did not have power when we got to the park. If power is not restored by tomorrow morning, due to fire code, we will not be able to use any indoor space. I’d suggest packing a few extra layers so that you can stay warm while we get the results calculated and finalized for the awards ceremonies.
Inclement Weather Plan
This race will be held regardless of weather.
Right now the Parkway is closed due to trees that have fallen from the the high winds. Please familiarize yourself with the back way into the park (I suggest taking a look at google maps):
Here is a direct link to the BRP’s real-time road closure webpage – https://www.nps.gov/maps/full.html?mapId=e212fcb5-4ff9-4787-bbe4-3d40cc0d0daa#9/36.8390/-80.6506
Alternate directions to the Explore Park;
Take I-581 towards Downtown Roanoke. Take the Elm Exit. From the North take a RIGHT on Elm or From the SOUTH take a LEFT. Pass the hospital and take a LEFT at 2nd light onto Jefferson Street. Once on Jefferson take a LEFT at the 4th light onto Walnut Ave. Follow Route 116: After crossing the bridge take a LEFT on Piedmont, then a quick Right on Riverland. After 1.5 miles take a LEFT, off of Route 116, on to Rutrough Road (we will try to have a sign/ARROW here to direct you at this tricky turn. We have had many signs taken from this location so we will not guarantee the sign will stay there). Take Rutrough approximately 4 miles to a sign for the park on your LEFT. Enter Park and park in one of the 3 main lots. Do not park along side the road or in the grass.
There have been over 20 hours of trail work removing downed trees, sticks, limbs, and leaves in preparation for this race.
Race Day Info;
Packet Pickup, Check-in, and Race Registration – 7:15-8:45
There will be a Race Briefing at 8:40 in front of the Visitors Center.
See you in the morning,
Josh and Gina Gilbert