Laudholm 5km Race at Wells National Estuarine Reserve

Today I did the Laudholm 5km Trail Run. This race is held at the National Estuarine Research Reserve in Wells Maine.

I forgot how beautiful the National Estuarine Reserve is. The  reserve is 2250 acres of rolling hills, woodlands, estuaries,  seven miles of trails, rivers, salt marshes and beaches along the southern Maine coast. The Wells Reserve is part of a system of 27 Reserves around the country. The Laudholm Farm campus serves as headquarters. The historic buildings have been renovated and restored to serve the education, and stewardship goals of the National Reserve.

The race was unique because it was an "off road" race.  Traditional races are on the street, but this race was through fields, woodlands and dirt roads. There was a small part of the race that was on asphalt.

The views were amazing! The 5 kilometre race started on a hill with distant views of Mt Agamenticus. From the hill we ran down a dirt road, an asphalt road and then a field. The race ended on top of the hill at historic Laudholm Farm.
My time was 21.15, not my best, but OK for running on trails. The picture to the left is the finish line. Ogunquit's elite runner Bobby Winn organized the race and kept time with help from Diana.

 










I came in 17th overall, and third place for my age group. The 5 kilometre race was also part of EcoSports day at the reserve. Sports by land, sea and sky with kayaking, mt biking, kite flying and yoga. Entertainment was provided by a reggae band on the Laudholm campus.

The Details:
Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve
at historic Laudholm Farm
Laudholm Farm Road
Wells,  Maine
The reserve is located off of Route One north, @ 6 miles north of Ogunquit Beach Inn
Telephone 207 646 1555
http://www.wellsreserve.org/
This 2250 acre reserve has over seven miles of trails, spectacular views and a visitor centre with exhibits and information.