Athletes and canines competed in an evening race through the winding trails of the Machickanee Forest on Oct. 10.
The Golden Pines Trail Run took place with headlamp-wearing contestants meeting at 6790 Timberline Road, Abrams.
More than 100 people registered for the race, which included a 7K and 11K distance for people to run, walk or hike. There was also a canicross division for people to participate with their dog.
At 5 p.m., the signal was given and contestants, both upright and on all fours, sprinted off through the autumn leaves.
Organizing this first-ever race was a partnership between Golden Made Events and the Machickanee Cross Country Ski Club.
“This is a one-of-a-kind race for the area,” said Allie Thut-Connelly, owner of the event management company. “It’s an amazing chance to enjoy the gorgeous colors, just as the sun sets — all with your dog.”
Contestants had no problem running on the neatly groomed hiking trails and rest areas.
“We are very thankful for these beautiful trails provided by the Machickanee Cross Country Ski Club,” Thut-Connelly said.
The club maintains more than eight miles of trails in the Oconto County Forest.
“Our members dedicate hundreds of hours each year to maintain and improve the trails, and they have been doing so for 42 years,” said Bonnie MacSwain, the club’s president.
The race drew competitors from far and near.
Brian and Tamara Vannarsdall, of Indiana, and their daughter, Erika, brought three dogs to the race.
“This is Stormy’s first time in canicross,” Brian Vannarsdall said. “The other two dogs, Simon and Sunny, have done these many times before.”
Brian Knapp, of Suamico, enjoys running in the woodlands.
“I often run at Reforestation Camp near my home,” Knapp said. “This is my first time in the Machickanee, and the hardwoods here are absolutely amazing.”
WINNERS
• Canicross 7K Run/Hike division: Katherine Hanson, Green Bay, first; Nathan Boettcher, De Pere, second; Selena Sherman, Oconto, third place.
• Canicross 11K Run/Hike division: Erika Newman, Green Bay, first; Natalie Pelkey, Kimberly, second; Christine Cavis, Gillett, third.
• Trail Run/Hike 7K division: Andy Molski, Stevens Point, first; John Mckenzie, Oneida, second; Andy Wolf, Oconto Falls, third.
• Trail Run/Hike 11K division: Brian Knapp, Suamico, first place; Ben Fitzgerald, Baileys Harbor, second; Chris Schmitz, Fish Creek, third.
