Sunday, June 28 – Hot & Humid
Twenty-five brave participants faced challenging conditions, including dense undergrowth, thick brush, stinging nettles, wild rose thorns, and ever-present honeysuckle. Several walking trails are starting to disappear from a lack of use, which made navigation a true challenge.
Participants had the opportunity to observe a wide variety of wildlife and birds. Notably, a giant water bug—nicknamed a “toe-biter”—was documented by Boy Scout Troop 307!
We were excited to welcome several first-time participants to the event.
Volunteers included Matt Bond, Hunter Johnson, and Mike Allen—thank you for your help. A special thank you to Vickie Sullivan and Dan Klepper for assistance with control pickup; your support was greatly appreciated. Dan Klepper also got his revenge on Control #47, which had eluded him for 35 minutes during the race—he went back afterward and successfully retrieved it!
Kudos to Steve Barnhart, the “macho man”, who cleared the entire course in an impressive time of 3 hours and 10 minutes, finding all 19 controls—without water on the course.
Despite the tough terrain and conditions, everyone had a great time, and the event was a big success.
We were also honored to have Rachael Vonderhaar, Preble County Commissioner, stop by during the event to see the action firsthand.