Race to Robie Creek Preview!

Mark your calendar, lace up your running shoes, and prepare for the excitement of the Race to Robie Creek®. With a rich history dating back to 1975, this iconic race has become one of the most popular and challenging events in the Northwest. The theme for this year's race is "Staying Alive," and participants are gearing up for an unforgettable experience.

This year's race is expected to be as competitive as ever, with notable runners to watch, such as Danielle Marquette, Amber Tooky, Morgan Arritola, and Fleet Feet Meridian's own Carli Corpus on the women's side. On the men’s side returning 2022 champ and local legend Jackson Brill will be toeing the line along with other previous winners and fast runners such as Gus Gibbs, Greg Montgomery, Dan Button, Josh McAdams, Nathaniel Souther, and Dwain Stucker. 

The 13.1-mile course is not for the faint of heart, with a challenging 2,072-foot ascent and a 1,732-foot descent. Starting at Fort Boise Park, runners will tackle Rocky Canyon on paved roads for the first few miles before switching to dirt roads as they wind through the mountains. The challenge reaches its peak at Aldape Summit, with an elevation of 4,797 feet, before a steep downhill section on gravel roads leads to the finish line at Robie Creek campground at an elevation of 3065 feet. Adding to the challenge, there is often snow at Aldape Summit, with the 2022 race featuring a windy snowstorm, and the 2023 race expected to have similar conditions. Many racers use micro spikes or nano spikes on their shoes to enhance traction on the snow, and Fleet Feet Meridian offers a great selection of Kahtoola spikes for those in need.

Above: John Foster (2022 Masters Overall Winner) leads a pack of runners up the final climb wearing Kahtoola nano spikes. Photo Credit: Sawtooth Photo Pros: https://www.sawtoothphotopros.com/p67675624 

But it's not just the elevation that makes this race unique. One of the highlights of the Race to Robie Creek® is the annual theme and costumes. In the past, participants have dressed up as superheroes, pirates, and embraced a "wild west" theme. The creativity and enthusiasm of the runners add to the festive atmosphere of the event, and you never know who you might encounter on the course!

Parking for the Race to Robie Creek® requires careful planning, with designated off-site parking areas and shuttle buses to the race finish area. Carpooling is encouraged to reduce the impact on the environment, and participants should be prepared for limited cell service in some areas. But once you're at the race, the spirit of camaraderie and community is palpable. Spectators line the course, cheering on the runners and providing much-needed motivation, and volunteers play a crucial role in making the event a success.

The Race to Robie Creek® is not only about the race itself, but also about giving back to the community. Proceeds from the race benefit local organizations such as the Treasure Valley YMCA, Girls on the Run, and the Military Reserve Park, making it a race with heart and purpose.

Registration for the Race to Robie Creek® is highly competitive, with limited slots filling up quickly. Many runners consider it a badge of honor to complete this challenging race, and securing a spot requires quick thinking and strategic planning. Registration typically opens several months before the race and sells out within minutes, adding to the thrill and excitement of being part of this legendary event.

So, get ready to embrace the "Staying Alive" theme, channel your inner creativity for your costume, and join the ranks of passionate runners at the Race to Robie Creek®. It's not just a race, but an unforgettable experience that will push you to your limits, inspire you with a sense of community, and create lasting memories. Are you up for the challenge? Whether you are running or cheering, come on out and we'll see you at the Race to Robie Creek®.