Photo Race Report: Niagara Ultra 50 K

One of my favourite races is the Niagara Ultra 50 K. The route is scenic and along the Niagara River Trail. We start in Niagara-on-the-Lake and make the trek to the Niagara Falls. At the 25 K turnaround, we make the trek back to the start. 

The 50 K race began at 7 AM. I made it with a few minutes to spare (again). I seem to take a different route each time. I had to ask a few people walking that early in the morning as well as at the Petro Canada gas station. Fortunately, I was headed in the right direction and made it on time to pick up bib and hoodie. Kinsmen Scout Hall, 430 King St., Niagara on the Lake, ON L0S 1J0.

Minutes before the official start - receiving final instructions.

Leaving the Kinsmen Scout Hall:

Look at the scenic Niagara Parkway Trail!

Across the river is the USA:

There were uphill inclines. I walked them. Had to becareful on the roads since they were not closed to traffic nor were there police officers. There were race marshalls but they could not stop the traffic. While coming back, one race marshall stated we should run on the right hand side of the road - but this is with traffic - I found that dangerous so I ran against traffic.

For about 1/2 km, upward incline (rather steep);

Hydroelectricity Power Generator:

Fluid stations were every 5 K. As past years, I brought my 500 mL water bottle. Even though the starting weather was overcast and low teens, the sun made a third way into the race and it warmed up. For the final 20 K, I had my water bottle refilled - i.e., 2 L of water. The "gatorade" used in this race is called Heed. I enjoyed the gummy bears, pretzels, M&Ms, and oatmeal cookies. Only had 1 gel - did not taste good.

Now in Queenston. Making the trek to the Niagara Falls:

Customs and border crossing. The bridges were packed with cars.

Now at Niagara Falls:

Left falls is USA. Right falls is Canada.

Spent at least 15 minutes getting my photos taken with the Niagara Falls (Canadian). I appreciate everyone's willingess to take my photos.

Maid of the Mist:

 Lot so tourists at the falls.

This is cool!

The fun at the Niagara Falls ended as I now made the trek back to the start line. Uphill incline.

Sounvenir shop!

Description of the Niagara River Trail:

Niagara Botanical Gardens:

This is cool - Floral Clock!

This is my favourite part of the race - running 1/2 km downward decline.

Another view of USA

Almost there!

Minimal spectators along the route. Very much appreciate the handful of people who did cheer - they would drive to another location and cheer again.

Post-food was 2 slices of pizza. In St. Catherines, I stopped at a Harveys and treated myself to a combo. So tasty!

The Niagara Ultra is a small race, capped at 850 people for their half marathon, full marathon, 50 K, and 100 K. I always find it well organized. I also find the runners very pleasant as everyone is saying "Good job" to each other. This is the only ultra marathon I know which is run on asphalt.

Finisher's medal. Same design in previous years but the year is changed.

Looks my Bud is more tired than me! He's currently wearing the medal and having a nap.

Results:

* Gun Time = 6:46:18

* Chip Time = 6:46:09

* Age Category = 20 out of 21

* Gender = 87 out of 98

* Pace = 8:08/km