Are you looking to get more exercise and meet new people? Join the Keweenaw Ultra Marathon (KUM) club every Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Tech Trails for a relaxed, scenic, group run.
The KUM club welcomes anyone regardless of experience, and members are not required to compete in any races when they sign up for the club. The runs are slow-paced to allow people to converse with each other and take in the natural beauty of the Tech Trails, especially this time of year as the colors change.
Ellie Helman has been the secretary of the KUM club for two years and loves the mental and physical challenge of running. Not only does running push her body, but it also sharpens her mind. When asked why she likes to run, Ellie said, “Exercise has been really beneficial for my mental health, and achieving goals that I set for myself in running has been a huge confidence boost.” She enjoys the KUM club because she loves making connections with people who share similar hobbies and for the snacks provided by the club after the runs.
Another e-board member, Eden Traub, ran her first 50K over the summer. “It’s fun to push your body to the limits, and crossing the finish line is a great accomplishment,” Eden said when asked what she likes about ultra marathons.
On Saturday, Nov. 2, the club plans to host a 25K & 50K run. Registration is open now and will close on Oct. 31 at midnight. The 50K starts at 8 a.m., and the 25K starts at 9 a.m. at the Tech Trails Main Trailhead. Bib pick-ups will happen the morning of the race between 7 a.m. and 7:50 a.m. (for the 50K) and 8 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. (for the 25K).
It is recommended that runners bring their own beverages and snacks to rely on throughout the race as well. If you plan to sign up for the 50K, the KUM club reminds you that headlights are mandatory for the first 1.5 hours.
