Stick a fork in us. El Scorcho Dos is over and done. Nice work, amigos.
Results are located here.
Dark. Steamy. Hot. Sweaty. What it is El Scorcho? Check out El Scorcho discussion board at Runners World.
Official race photos will be online at Cowtown Camera Girl's site by July 27, 2008. Click on "proofing" and look for the link to El Scorcho.
You know you want it.
The brain-child of Ryan "GandaMan" Valdez and Jason "Jballs" Costantino, El Scorcho is a ridiculously foolish endurance run that takes place at midnight in Fort Worth, Texas in the middle of the summer. Because we're so nice, we give you a choice--run 25 km or 50 km. That's 15.53499 miles or 31.06999 miles. We like to think of the two distances as La Scorchita and El Scorcho. But really, it's up to you. Both of them take a certain fortitude. Or stupidity. You make the call.
When is El Scorcho?
The hottest part of the year. July. We apologize for last year's mild 80 degree temps. Hopefully, a heat wave will roll into town and drive the mercury up this year. Cause we want you to get your money's worth. If you plan to be out there awhile, you should know that the run starts at midnight and ends at 7 a.m. If you want your race time to be official, you've got to finish by then. Fear not, our less than speedy friends! The run takes place in a city park, and runners who haven't finished by 7 a.m. may keep running. We may even leave out some tequila for you. But most support will be packed up at that time.
Where is El Scorcho?
Trinity Park, Fort Worth, Texas. The course is located on a 3.1 mile loop. The course is a mix of crushed limestone, asphalt, the occasional concrete sidewalk, a couple of foot-bridges, and a basketball court. About half the course is lit at night by streetlamp, but as last year's entrants can attest, the lights don't always work, and it can get awfully dark at some parts. But hey--what do you expect? It's a midnight run. Bring a headlamp, a flashlight, or night goggles if you're worried.
Why run El Scorcho?
Because it strokes our egos to have a bunch of crazies come out and run our race. Because a marathon is only the beginning. Because toenails are overrated. Because pain is enlightening.
What kind of bling do El Scorcho runners get?
Technical shirts will be given to all participants. 25 km and 50 km finishers will receive finisher's medals. 50 km finishers will also get something special. Last year, it was a commemorative El Scorcho sheriff's star. Not sure what it'll be this year. But you'll like it. Or you won't. Either way, you'll have an endurance run under your belt.
What's the point of El Scorcho?
Besides the complete lack of utility? Charity. All proceeds from El Scorcho benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The Team in Training folks will be out again in full force to encourage the runners throughout the night.
Can I run El Scorcho as part of a relay team?
Nope. Our permit limits the number of runners we can have in the park after hours, so we're limiting this one to runners doing the whole shebang. Bummed? Then buck up and go for the full race. You'll thank us. Probably.
What if I want to sponsor El Scorcho?
Smart move. Last year, El Scorcho was featured in the Fort Worth Star Telegram, the Dallas Morning News, the Houston Chronicle, Ultrarunning Magazine, Runner-Triathlete News, and various websites and online message boards. You'll get great exposure. Customers and clients will flock to your establishment. It's a win-win for everyone involved. Send us an e-mail at elscorchorun@gmail.com for more info about sponsorship opportunities.
Is there a training group/program for El Scorcho?
If there ain't, there oughta be. Our flagship sponsor, Fort Worth Running Company, is sure to have something going on this. FWRunCo's owners, James"Six Pack" Newsom and Coach Jim "J-Money" Newsom are two stone-cold running geniuses who can get you in El Scorcho shape. Stop by their store, buy a bunch of stuff, and chat with them. You'll be glad that you did.
What if I want to volunteer at El Scorcho?
Nice. We like volunteers. And we need them. We're actively seeking folks who want to spend the wee hours of the morning cheering the runners and manning the aid stations. Send Coach Jim an e-mail if you're able and willing. We appreciate it, and the runners will as well.
Where can I read more about El Scorcho and how you guys are putting on an ultramarathon?
Check out the El Scorcho UltraBlog for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of El Scorcho.
Vaya con Dios, amigos.