Today, Manuel Centeno completed his first training run in preparation for our Second Ultra Marathon across Nicaragua scheduled for November of 2009. The White Rock Challenge is a 31 mile marathon up White Rock Mountain located in the Boston Mountains of Arkansas. We were a little concerned that this annual run would be canceled due to the damage the recent ice storm brought to the area. But as luck would have it, they were able to clean up the trails just enough to continue with the marathon. Make no mistake, this is not a run for the faint of heart. It is rough terrain, and practically up hill the entire way. In fact, the banner marking the beginning of the race calls the mission before you the ‘Hills from Hell’. Thirty four other brave souls faced the mountain with him, though this is actually the second time Manuel has scaled these ‘Hills’. So at 9 in the morning they all began their mountain adventure, and 6 hours and 26 minutes later Manuel crossed the finish line.
I have to say, crewing for Manuel is always a pleasure, because even after running for over six hours straight, he still manages to have a smile on his face. Don’t miss the pics and video below. And remember, together we can save lives, one mile at a time….
Tags: Marathon, Nicaragua, running, water, white rock
