2008 - Year 6 - Capilano Canyon Mardigras Night Run

There were several firsts at the 6th annual Mardi Gras version of the Capilano Canyon Night Run. First first, it was an absolutely gorgeous evening. While there were a few rain drops as we assembled at the start, they soon gave way to clear skies, stars and perfect running temperatures. Second, try as I might I could not find anyone to claim a Purple Heart award. I don't think we've ever had no boo-boos in this run. Third, a new game was invented during the pool party segment of this event. Not sure if it should be called Aussie Rules Monkey Bars or Ultimate Fighting above the Pool?

As always, several runners created their own custom routes through the dark trails of North Vancouver. Ryan C and his trusty hound Shazam did a long loop of the Cap Canyon. I suspect Danielle and Ryan M ducked into the woods for some belated Valentine's Day action, as I sure didn't see them out along the course. Kristie and Marie did an out-and back before the canyon, but at least they checked in with me.

It was very foggy in the Capilano Canyon itself... so foggy some runners had to turn their headlamps off to see. (Hint from an experienced night runner: take your lamp off your head and hold it near your waist just like the low beams on your car.)

From our perspective at Aid Station Adams, it was very cool to see the approaching headlamps bobbing like fireflies in the clear night. Young Erik tried to scare the crap out of everyone who approached the comfort stop. Everyone who ran the full route was greeted with decadent chocolate chip cookies, chips and pretzels... at least until 7:45 when we had to shut it down to make the finish line on time.

The hot tub was working and so was the water slide for the pool party this year. Ran started a game of murder ball and was also the first to take a direct hit. Csaba won the game of WWE wrestling on the ropes high above the pool and I was the poor loser. (My neck is still sore, dude!) Pitty the poor teenagers who had to deal with endorphin-charged adults in the hot tub and water slide!

By 10:00 pm, appetites were in the red zone and a fabulous pot luck feast was waiting. So much great food! Ellie, Jessica and Bill told us running adventure stories and won some nice prizes for sharing thanks to Kintec Footlabs and Trail Runner Magazine.

Preliminary results are posted below. Please email us your missing times, mispelled names etc. Photos of the event can be uploaded to Flickr, added to the CFA Flickr group and tagged with CapilanoCanyonNightRunMardigras, CapilanoCanyonNightRunMardigras2008 CapilanoCanyonNightRun and ClubFatAssEvents. They will automatically be added to this slideshow.

Sibylle and Ean
Hosts of the Capilano Canyon Night Run

PS Yes, there were more finishers than starters. Bryce Adams worked the aid station and ran in to the finish with his sister!