Race Report - 2017 Quest For The Crest 50K

No, it's not the ocean, it's clouds above the Black Mountains.

While I still consider myself a newbie in ultrarunning, I started looking for challenging races pretty soon after finishing my first trail race. Volcanoes in Nicaragua, mountains in the French alps, rugged North Georgia trails, the more elevation gain, the better. I enjoy a good climb and even better if that climb is rewarded with spectacular views. This has happened to me only a couple of times so far and the Quest For The Crest 50K was one such race that provided both the challenging climbs and the rewarding vistas.

Adventure Report - 2017 Smokies Challenge Adventure Run 70+ Miles (DNF)

Probably my favorite view and pic of the day.

It all started simple enough. I received a FB message from Jobie Williams in early April: "Hey, any interest in doing SCAR next month or so? Would be great Fat Dog 120 training, but it wouldn't be pretty." "Sure", I relied and the seed was planted. Fast forward three weeks, I was in the midst of the final stages of planning my SCRA attempt. Jobie had to bail due to other commitments, but I had convinced Jerry Abbott to join me, Thankfully, his wife graciously volunteered to shuttle and crew us during our adventure in the Smoky Mountains.