GROUNDHOG FALL 50K
Saturday, September 08, 2012 at 7:00 a.m.

The event's new sponsor, VFW Post 9044, welcomes you to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.
This is the 13th year for the Groundhog Fall 50K and we are looking forward again
to having a great time. The following instructions are important so please read them: 

 Friday Packet Pick-up and Spaghetti Dinner 

Packet Pick-up will begin at (to be announced) on Friday evening
between 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.  (See directions under Event Information.)

Please make us aware of any medical problems you may have that may create
a problem for you during the race and potentially require medical intervention.  
Any problems should be written on the back of your race number.
EMT personnel and an ambulance will be on the course during the event 
and responsive to medical emergencies as well as injuries.
Please let someone affiliated with the race or at a support station
know of any need that may arise requiring medical attention.
Support crews are trained to identify situations in which the 
runner's health may be seriously jeopardized.
Please be prepared for their intervention if you are in trouble.

Dinner will be at 6:00 P.M.  Spaghetti dinner tickets are included for participants and
in your race packet.  If you need extra tickets please note this on your entry form.

Last minute instructions for the race and time for questions will follow the dinner.

Punxsy Phil (our famous groundhog) will be on hand during the pre-race spaghetti
dinner.  Bring your camera for photo ops.

Saturday's Race

We will start the race at 7:00 A.M. sharp from downtown Punxsutawney, 
at the Community Center at 220 North Jefferson Street.  
All runners must check in by 6:45 A.M.
Come early for coffee and a good time.

There will be only a short time for packet pick-up race day morning from
 6:30 A.M. until 6:45 A.M.

   No head-set radios, please.  No pets, please.  No accompanying bicylists.

Course markings consist of white ground markings and signs.  American flags
will be used for major directional changes on the course.  It is a well
		     marked course and fairly easy to follow, but this is a trail run and it is
		     the responsibility of the runner to pay attention to the markings.

Aid Stations are manned with family, friends, community organizations,
 and VFW members.  These aid stations will have 
sports drinks, water, sodas, snacks, food, fruit, first aid supplies, EMT and moral support.

IMPORTANT:  PLEASE GO THROUGH SINGLE FILE TO MAKE SURE 
YOUR RACE NUMBER IS REGISTERED AT EACH STATION AND 
THE FINISH LINE!!!

Your crew is welcome on the course.  See Handlers' Map for access.  However, 
no pacing by vehicles is allowed.  Always proceed with caution around runners.

There are no bag drop points.  You won't need them.  Everything you 
need will be found at all the Support Stations.

The finish line will be at the Punxsutawney Community Center, same place as the start.  
There is plenty of free parking for your family and friends.

Showers are available at the Community Center at no cost.
Bring your own towel.

The time limit is 8 hours or until 3:00 P.M.

Pizza and drinks will be available immediately following the race. 
		    
Please don't litter the course.

Awards will be made at 1:00 P.M. at the finish line.  Stick around until then, 
shower up, and enjoy the pizza, the comaraderie, and 
pleasant Punxsy atmosphere. 

Have a wonderful and safe time on the trail.  We hope you enjoy 
the scenery and the great people of Punxsutanwey who make this race possible.

Race Caveats - PLEASE READ

DRINK LOTS OF WATER Anyone participating in the Groundhog Fall 5Ok endurance run should be aware of the potential dangers to life and limb in such an endeavor. A race of this type places tremendous demands on the body, even one in excellent physical condition. This course is tough due to variations of terrain, footing, humidity and temperature. One of the most serious risks in ultra sports is dehydration. Dehydration, combined with exertion and extremes of temperature, can lead to severe medical problems with even a fatal outcome. These medical problems include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and renal shut-down (complete shut-down of kidney function). Permanent damage to the brain, muscles and kidneys can occur. On a cool or damp day there is also a danger of hypothermia and the inability of the brain to think clearly in a rational manner.

Various orthopedic problems such as tendinitis, and knee and ankle strains are frequently encountered. Temporary paralysis of thigh muscles has been noted by many ultra participants. The problems noted above are only a short and incomplete list; there are innumerable other problems which may occur. One of the important factors in preparing oneself for any endurance event is to know your own capabilities and how your body feels under stress. You must be psychologically prepared (before the race) to drop out out if your body tells you that you are getting into serious trouble. Don't over-estimate your capabilites and don't place pride above your overall health. Because ultra marathoning may be seriously compro- mising to your health, remain aware of the potential serious dangers involved and let someone know if you need help.