Dungeon Rock Racing

New for 2011 -2012 TEAM REGISTRATION

2011-10-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

We are rapidly approaching the 2011 - 2012 season! Race schedules are up for the Granites State series and the WMAC series.

New this year for DRR will be Team Registration on RunReg.com. More details to follow soon.

Horse Hill Conditions - Bill Morse

2011-02-17T06:35:00.000-08:00

Late this afternoon [Wednesday] I snowshoed the Beaver Brook course with Steve Wolfe and Mike Wade. The overall conditions are very much like Horse Hill. About 85% of the new course is on single track with a good mix of up and down terrain. The snow is plenty deep to likely withstand the next two days of warmer temps. especially because the temps are also supposed to be below freezing the next two nights in the Hollis, NH area, and it's all "woods" running. The course measures around 3.3 miles. Steve's GPS lost signal a few times....so came out to 2.85, but estimated up should be a "longish" 5K. I used standard cleats and they worked fine, but I'm bringing my "deeps" in case the snow softens up on Sat.

Thanks to Steve's advocating for a better course with Mike A., this year's course is a tremendous improvement!!!! Should be fun!

Bill

Award Ceremony Re-scheduled

2011-01-25T09:33:00.000-08:00

The award ceromony previously scheduled Jan. 26th at 7pm has been re-scheduled due to the looming weather forecast. The new date and time is Wednesday, February 9th at 7pm at the Salem Senior Center.
And since I forgot to post before... DRR is being honored amoungst other awardees by the City of Salem and Parks and Recreation for our work with the Snowshoe Classic. (Thanks Eileen)
d

Snow Snow Snow....

2010-12-28T08:03:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone survived the snow! The first race of the season (Beaver Brook) is this weekend. Olde Salem Green Classic is just around the corner.
Classic in the Gazette:
http://www.wickedlocal.com/salem/fun/entertainment/x719360506/Register-for-Salems-Snowshoe-Classic

Break in your snowshoes while you can - Wednesday nights 6 pm: Lynn Woods, Great Woods entrance (by golf course). Bring a headlamp…

Winter Training

2010-12-15T07:02:00.000-08:00

YMCA Endurance Sports Series (YESS)
What: Lecture and Social Gathering for Endurance Sport Athletes.

Speaker/Topic: Chris Dunn “Cold Weather Training” (Chris is founder of Acidotic Racing, the Granite State Snowshoe Series, proponent of the Northeast Snowshoe Federation and heads the Southern Maine Medical Center cardiac rehabilitation program)

When: Tuesday, January 11, 7:00 pm.
Where: Salem Mass YMCA, 1 Sewall St., Salem, MA 01970
Cost: Free and open to the public.
Information: Contact Beth Schultz, (978) 740-9622

Snow Flurries...

2010-12-14T07:56:00.000-08:00

Dungeon Rock Racing is now two years old and heading into our third snowshoeing season. So what does that mean?

A lot has changed since our first season in 2009 as our numbers grew from a modest 6 members to well over 28, and assisted making the 1st Olde Salem Greens Race a huge success (thanks Eileen!) Our neighbors to the north lead by Chris Dunn continue to lead the way in supporting growth in the sport of snowshoeing.

Through Acidotic Racing Chris has introduced the sport to hundreds of “newbees” eager to blow out their lungs and legs on 5 – 10K courses. In addition Chris has also formed the Northeast Snowshoe Federation (NSF) http://www.nesnowshoefederation.org/ in an effort to unify the various organizations that have been consistent in running snowshoe race series, or have had significant membership across New England such as Western Mass Athletic Club http://www.runwmac.com/snowshoes/default.html , Acidotic http://hstrial-cdunn9.homestead.com/ and DRR.

This year DRR will be active in the snowshoe “closed” team. By this I mean that only individuals who have raced for DRR in either of the past two seasons may race for DRR this season. This requirement is for various reasons, all good I assure you. We feel the team grew a little too fast too soon this past season which warrants a little more leadership from the Captains. I will make every attempt to have an updated roster by January 1st.

A few of the race series offer team scoring and DRR needs to uphold our word not to “cherry pick” and sign folks up at events to benefit our overall team standing. In the future we will consider a more formal membership registration process (no fees). In the event an individual was not an active DRR member in 2009 or 2010 and attempts to or registers as “DRR” or completes a race and states affiliation to “DRR” Race Directors may be contacted and urged to pull the results of the offending participant. Any further action will be at the discretion of Race Directors.

You are always more than welcome to approach race directors on your own behalf however, I ask that no DRR members other than the Captains speak “on the behalf” of DRR. That is unless this authority is granted unanimously by the Captains. If a member of DRR who has registered as a team DRR racer and has issues with a race and feels DRR should voice an opinion or concern e.g. wishes to file a protest pertaining to but not limited to course marking, course timing, posted distance, directions, etc. or results I ask that you register your complaint in writing to me, Dan Cooper at cooper_3377@msn.com. Failure to follow this guidance will be considered a mutinous action and the offending party will be subject to suspension from the team and keel hauling (stem to stern).

I will make every effort to respond and take action if there appears to be merit to the complaint. Observations, comments, or suggestions that concern the safety immediate of any participant or spectator are encouraged and should be made freely.

DRR in 2011 is looking to be a low maintenance, easy going, and fun team. No whining allowed on this ship.

Think snow, race hard, wish your fellow racers the best of luck whether you are passing or being passed and always display the good sportsmanship DRR stands for.

With regard,

DRR Captains

Wearing the Orange and Black…
I was remiss last season in getting shirts to those that had requested them. If you would like a DRR shirt the cost is $25 dollars. I will accept orders from December 20th – January 7th. For obvious reasons I ask that you send any funds until you have contacted me first at cooper_3377@msn.com

Group training:

Please contact me at cooper_3377@msn.com if you'd like me to post a regular "training session" i.e. Wednesday nights in the woods...

Snowshoe support groups:

Although DRR is temporarilly "closed" to new members that should not stop anyone from asking questions. I'd be more than happy to field questions from any other North Shore club (or individual) that would like to know more about snowshoe racing. Again, I can be reached at cooper_3377@msn.com

Feel Good Farm Race Photos

2010-01-17T07:51:00.000-08:00

Very tough race yesterday. Here are some excellent photos of the race. Check them out:

Photos by Kristen Kozlosky.

Photos by Scott Mason.

Dan S

Ready for Saturday?

2010-01-06T18:10:00.001-08:00

GSSS RACE #1

2010-01-02T12:37:00.000-08:00

One down...

The weather couldn't have been better, the trail conditions were awesome!
Beaver Brook was a great event. The DRR crew was joined by several "first time" snowshoe racers representing DRR, Wicked, Team Comp and GAC including Chip Bott, Billy "the abominable snowman" Shea, Ed Mullvey, Cheryl Mullvey, Gail Gordan, Dan Barrett, Paula Finestone, Greg E., Kevin Curry, and Christen J.(apologies if I missed anyone). Congrats to all the first timers, enjoy the pain.

Results are posted on Cool Running and there were some incredible photos taken by Scott Mason that are available to view (and purchase) at Scott Mason Photo.

NEXT UP:
Old SALEM GREENE SNOWSHOE CLASSIC, Salem Greene, Salem MA. Saturday, January 9th.

2010

2010-01-01T16:15:00.001-08:00

Wouldn't you know it the 2010 season is already here! Last week brought several inches of snow to New England and the first WMAC race was held at Woodford VT. The Granite State Series kicks off tomorrow at Beaver Brook NH where several DRR racers will toe the line in our second year.
Last year we made tons of new friends and sent several team members to Nationals. So far this year we have gained a few new rules? Not quite as exciting as a trip to Mt. Hood but who doesn't like rules.

Let’s just say that the new rules are our “Ibuprofen” prescribed to deal with the aches and pains that we are bound to encounter as we enter our sophomore year as a team. The updated 2010 Team Membership Rulz have been posted.

With the formalities out of the way here is to 2010 and a great season! Best of luck to all!

DRR gets in a little pre-season cross country training...

2009-09-29T18:33:00.000-07:00

2010 WMAC DION Snowshoe Series posted

2009-09-19T08:06:00.000-07:00

The Western Mass Athletic Club DION Series has announced its 2010 snowshoe racing schedule. Please visit WMAC for all the details.

2010 Granite State Snowshoe Series racing schedule Announced

2009-09-18T06:18:00.000-07:00

The Granite State Snowshoe Series has announced its 2010 snowshoe racing schedule. The series features eight races including the *NEW* Granite State Snowshoe Championship at Great Glen Outdoor Center in Gorham, NH. Please visit Acidotic Racing.com for all the details.

2009 Parting Words...

2009-03-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

The recent rains and warm weather (50ish), and the first day of spring bring our season to a close. There is a lot that could be said about this season. I am going to try to put down a few words so we can get on with SUMMER!!! If I inadvertently leave anyone out, any detail, anything at all, feel free to post comments and “edit” my note.

Dungeon Rock Racing (DRR) surpassed the expectations of many; evolving from a group of friends from Lynn, Salem, and Dracut that pulled together to carpool to races in far off lands (New Hampshire). DRR developed into a team capable of taking second place against a dozen teams in the Granite State Snowshoe Series, a team that sent five competitors to the Snowshoe Nationals in Mt. Hood Oregon. I think it goes without saying; we had a great first season.

Thanks go out to Chris Dunn for coordinating not only several outstanding venues but for encouraging the friendly competition between DRR and his own Acidotic Racing. Chris pulled together several outstanding races; even racing a few himself (finishing quite well). Above all Chris continues to set a great example of leadership as a part of Acidotic Racing, in the field of adventure athletes, and in a growing sport of snowshoeing. Thanks Chris!

Also to thank is our superb leader Admiral Bill Morse. He shies away from praise but if it wasn’t for Bill many of us would not know just how fun snowshoe racing is (thanks, I think). DRR as many of you know is not a club with dues, elected positions, or by laws. Bill’s title of Admiral is in keeping with the DRR legend. This is not an “official” title it is however, one that was given for his constant encouragement for all regardless of ability, unbiased support, and his experience and skill as an all around athlete. Trying the sport out for the first time was made much easier with Bill around; he not only provided encouragement he also generously loaned out much of his own equipment. At one point in the season through Bill’s efforts we had over 20 folks show up (Salem Greene) for a trial snowshoe/workout. Thanks Bill, and yes you can drive next year if you prefer.

Our take for Season:
First Masters, Men (Several Races)
First Overall, Female (Pooh Hill)
3 Pairs of Katoola snowshoes
2 Pairs of Katoola Micro Spikes
Cases upon cases of Redhook
Various other items such as hats and T-shirts
And most importantly a whole lot of great memories.

So for all of you that joined our merry band this season thanks much! Look for word about the 2010 season in November 2009.

Hope to see you all next year!

Fair Winds and Following Seas
DC

DRR Inaugural Season photos available…

2009-03-19T08:20:00.000-07:00

Hey all,
Thanks for a great first season! I just set up a "shutterfly" account for all the photos I collected this season. (CLICK HERE) If you have additional photos please send them my way (cooper_3377@msn.com)

Season wrap-up still to come (I'm still thawing out...)
Think Sun
DC

Ah.. Seattle

2009-03-10T08:34:00.000-07:00

After several hours of white-knuckle driving we made it to Seattle safe and sound. Last night the DRR National crew went out to cap off what has been a stellar season. Keep an eye out, I'll be pulling together an "'09 Season" video in the next few weeks. Oh, if you won something at one of snowshoe races (age group, beer, snowshoes, etc..) please send me an email (cooper_3377@msn.com) and let me know what you picked up so I can tally our "booty" for the season.

Think Sun
DC

The morning after.....

2009-03-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

A great finale for a great season; 7am (PST) for some reason we are all up, packed, and looking for next adventure. Which could be dealing with the additional 4 inches of snow that fell last night enough already!!
DRR made out considerably better than the “circus tent”. After taking stock of our plunder from the raffle following the race (the fun part) we walked away with:
One pair of Katoola snowshoes,
One pair of Katoola micro-spikes,
One set of Tubbs hiking poles,
One Katoola carrying bag,
One limited edition (7 in the world…) blue DION hat, and
Tons of GREAT memories!
We are off to Seattle; I’ll post pictures and updates as we continue our travels out west.

Think Sun
DC

DRR at Mount Hood: Day 2 - Race Day 3/8/09

2009-03-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

Bill, Dan, Jay, Steph, and Patrick's excellent adventure continues...........
DRR had the game plan, a day to get familiar with the course and conditions, a fuel loading team meal (jelly sticks and Hostess Snowballs on hold until after the race), a good nights rest, DRR was going to make its mark. Then there's Mother Nature.......Race morning had surprised us with another 10 inches of snow on top of the 4-5 inches the day before, and still snowing. Seven miles from the race at the base of Mount Hood, mostly uphill, and we had a team minivan. Race day start event, put on the tire chains. Dan, this wasn't supposed to be this hard. With a race time of 11am for the Womens' and 11:45 for the men, we thought we had plenty of time. An hour later the chains were still being adjusted and the seven miles were going to be at 30mph and under. We could snowshoe faster than that. A little rushed to get out, DRR was on the move, its time to get racin'. As soon as we hit the road, the sun came out. Maybe the day was going to be good after all. But similar to New England, the Mt. Hood locals have a saying for the region, "if you don't like the weather, wait a minute". Sound familiar? The day would be a constant of a cycle of sun, dark skies-snow showers, sun, snow showers, repeat.

The race start at Mt. Hood Snow Park had 15-inches of new snow and we would find the course was nothing like it was the day before. And the circus tent set up the day before for sponsors, officials and awards had collapsed under the weight of the heavy snow. There would be no passing zones outside the single track pack unless you wanted to get buried deep in snow, the only pass would be if the racer blocking your path would step aside when you shouted out "track". On top of this, the bad weather in the morning delayed the early races, that were already perhaps packed too close together. Each race (5 scheduled) would find the fastest of the next trying to pass-by the slower of the previous. This would be a challenging day. The winner of the first race (Citizen's) would turn in a time of 40 min plus for a 5k. The 10k was going to be a long race.

Steph was off first with the National Women condenders. The sun was out Steph had a smile a mile wide (hmmmmm the next Chrissie Wellington?). The gun went off and so was the field in a fury of snowshoe kicked snow. Steph would finish stong, just missing the podium with a 4th place finish in the 40-44 age division. She's our star!

Next up the mensn Nationals. A field that boast some of the fastest trail and snowshoe runners from Colorado, Minesota, New York, and host state Oregon. Of course Massachusetts would have a strong showing with the likes of Dave Dunham (2-time National Champ.), and the strong DRR Captains group. The start was reminiscent of an Ironman swim, only the water was in the form of snow, as around 100 of the best snowshoe racers from around the country (and Canada), went from a 20-person wide start down to a double track within 50 yards. The gun went off and vision was completely diminished as snow was being kicked 10-ft into the air, racer's snowshoes were colliding together, near collisions almost throwing racers to the mat, shoulders bumping........it was a triathlon-esque start. The double track turned into a single track as the first 200-ft hill ascent at a 15 percent grade hit, reducing the race to a winter hike log jam. Once into the woods the racers would start to open up, spread out, and step up the pace. The first loop would find Jay and Patrick, stride for stride, and Bill and Dan not far behind. The 500ft. climb on the second loop would spread things out. Then, the sun disappeared and the heavy snows returned. Jay kept up a great pace, screaming down the descented, and placing first among the DRR racers. Jay with Metallica running through his head, was all business today and kick some serious butt. Patrick finished 4 places back as the distance caught up to some tired legs. Bill and Dan then finished a few places back. Overall final results were not posted by the awards, but I know we all finished well within the all-star field.

The sun came out, then was replaced with snow, then sun and snow as the closing ceremonies concluded, out in the open, because the tent, as I noted earlier was under a foot of snow looking like relief map you'd find in a museum. The scenery on this race was fabulous, the race a great memory, an event to check off the bucket list.

Time for Snow Balls.......and Jelly sticks. And Yes Denise, we had lots of comments on the DRR race gear. Dan's National Jackets (first picture of this blog entry) were better than anything USSSA could offer. Thanks Dan for pulling together the Jackets and the DRR website/blog, and thanks Bill for the race jerseys and guidance. What a fantastic first season for DRR.

DRR Reaches Mt Hood - Day 1 Training for Nationals (3/07/09)

2009-03-07T16:07:00.001-08:00

The DRR National Team wasted no time in setting out for a training run on the Mt Hood Nationals Course 12 hours after landing in Oregon. The forecasted weather of partial sunshine stepped aside as a weather front kept the temps down and snow/sleet falling (all day) and wind blowing. There are feet and feet of snow here, and with the snowy skies, no view yet of the 11,240 ft Mount Hood located right out our front door.

The DRR Nationals (Admiral Bill, Captains Dan, Jay, Steph and Patrick) were joined on the trip by the potential 70-79 year old champ from MA, Richie Busa. The training run on the race course was reminiscent of a trip to New Hampshire's white mountains. The race starts at approx elevation 4,500 and topping out at 5,000-ft.. Sort of like running around the Alpine Garden area above Tuckerman's Ravine. And the weather wasn't far from the White's either. The wind drove sleet into our faces like mirco needles as we started in the open fields at the base. The open course immediately hits an uphill climb that "Just sucks the wind right out of you at this elevation" as Captain Dan put it (see picture as Dan Steph make there way up). But as soon as the first hill was crested, the course makes is way into the trees for some of the most picturesque views, even in the snow and sleet. The trail continued gradually up hill, with a few dips to keep you off balance to the mid point of the loop, then motored downhill. The snow is soft and deep, one step off the course and your up to your waist. Jay is loving this course.

Can life be any better than this? A great crew, great location, and a fab time. The down hill terrain back was worth a few Yeti yells (right Jay!). We made our way back to the start, feeling pretty good until we thought about that uphill climb we were going to have to do twice tomorrow. Its a 2 loop course for the 10k, and the second loop is going to hurt tomorrow 3/8/09.

Steph will start first tomorrow as the Women's race kicks off at 11:00am with the DRR boys setting out at 11:45am. We're still not sure if there will be any juice left to enter the afternoon Team race. Back to back heart pounding 10k races? Why not! For now, its time to sample some of those west coast micro-brews, and making some sacrifices to the Mt Hood gods for some better weather on race day. We'll keep you posted on the race and results.

(DRR is a Wicked-Comprehensive-Lynn Woods, snowshoeing family)

Location: Government Camp OR.

2009-03-07T11:28:00.000-08:00

Made it safe and sound! The flight(s) went smoothly for all. We arrived at the condo just after 11pm (PST). After familiarizing ourselves with the condo like a bunch of nervous cats we all settled in for the night. We awoke to snow!!!! With 5-14 inches predicted we had to make the request trip to the gas station for tire chains (no salt, no sand, no plows??). We just finished a lovely grill cheese lunch prepared by head chef Patrick Smith. Off to the first photo shoot and race check-in...

On our way...

2009-03-06T08:44:00.000-08:00

It has finally begun to set in. As I write this entry we have 1 day 22 hours to go!! I think my bags are packed, steph is all set, patrick already forgot something, jay is bringing the kitchen sink, and bill as usual, will probably be waiting for all of us at the airport.

Thanks for all the well wishes.

Know that we will try our hardest, laugh the loudest, and above all represent New England to the best of our ability. Fortunately we will be in good company with a few seasoned vets from Vermont, Western Ma, and even a few New Yorkers (I know it isn't New England, but it is close..)

I will post updates as often as possible.

Think Snow (west coast only please)

DC

Get ready to RUMBLE!

2009-02-24T19:27:00.001-08:00

With Kingman farm behind us (good job btw) DRR has one last major hurdle this season NATIONALS! We better hear some noise from the East Coast as we battle it out with the nation’s best! We ship out on the 6th and the big race is on the 8th.
Our intrepid Nationals Team will keep everyone updated via this blog; after all I know you all want to know what Portland Oregon’s airport is like... So stay tuned, I will post as often as possible.
Thanks for a great season (wrap up to follow soon).
dc

Kingman Farm, the end is near...

2009-02-17T18:18:00.000-08:00

We have reached the end of the 6 race Granite State Snowshoe series. DRR is currently running second against the home team Acidotic Racing (their 1,834 points to our 1,394 points). Unfortunately Kingman has been sold out for several weeks. With that said we are bringing a strong contingent to pose one final challenge against the home team.
Win, place, or show we have had a great season with a couple masters wins (Patrick Smith), overall women's win (Crystal Anthony), two members winning snowshoes (~$260-ish worth of gear), and almost everyone taking home beer at one race or another. I think we have all gotten the best out of the season. For those of you that have raced this season and were unable to get into Kingman please send us good vibes Saturday around 6pm.
If you have registered and are looking to carpool to Kingman, we will be meeting at 4:15pm at the Park-n-ride lot just off exit 57 (95N). Exit to the right towards Newburyport, then take first left (immediate left) into the lot. We will be by the main structure in the lot. Bring your headlight (be sure to test it prior...), and a change of clothes. If you are planning on carpooling and running late PLEASE call me, I don’t want us to leave anyone to drive by themselves (508)934-6665.
The race director is hosting an awards ceremony following the race at the town hall (race site). Several of us plan on staying for ceremony and then stopping for dinner somewhere near Portsmouth on the way back.

Think Snow

Dan C.

Horse Hill update. I take full responsibility for the 2000 and 2004 presidential election miscounts

2009-02-15T17:36:00.000-08:00

My apologies to those I failed to count, I was relying on photo's however the official results are in. While we did not best our NH hosts and rival team Acidotic in points we did bring 16, yes 16 snowshoer's to Horse Hill. Nice work everyone. You can tell we are nearing the end of the season when we are all standing the dirt/gravel parking lot with snowshoes. Sal G. make sure you stay in the frame next time!
One more to go in the Granite State series. Jay Curry sent out a message about Kingman Farm please let either Jay or myself know if you have registered.

14 at Horse Hill!

2009-02-14T18:27:00.000-08:00

I may have miscounted but I believe we brought 14 smiling faces to Horse Hill today. We had awsome performances by first time snowshoe racers Danny Chick, and Christen Johnson. The ranks were also reinforced by Team Touchette, and Matt Garceau who had all but sworn off racing after Frosty's Dash last Sunday. It was great to see everyone today Nice Work. More to come when the results are posted.

Frosty's "fun for the whole family"

2009-02-09T06:30:00.000-08:00

From Bill Morse:
A taste of springtime warmth welcomed 11 intrepid Dungeon Rock Snowshoe Racers to the 4th Frosty's Dash for a Cure in Atkinson, NH on Sunday. Although the late "January thaw" had indeed softened the snowmobile-groomed trail, this did not deter the team, about half of whom were "first timers", from scoring 2nd place out of 17 teams. More than 200 folks registered for the race with about 140 running/racing and others walking for the Cystic Fibrosis cause. Special congratulations and kudos go out to our DRR neophites to the racing circuit including: Matt "triathlon/clydesdale" Garceau, Eric "ok that was tough" Finney, Steve "can't wait to beat Billy Shea" Touchette, Deb "we missed Liz today" Touchette, Kathey "this was very humbling Bill, but I still hate winter" Moskal and Shannon/Aubrey "we can't believe that Dad thinks this is fun" Gray. And thanks to our loyal veterans Dan "hell yeah I'm wearing shorts today" Scotina, and Art "finally I got my own DRR singlet" Gray. Thanks to all! Let it Snow--(sorry Kathey!)

It is official...

2009-02-09T06:19:00.000-08:00

The official list is out DRR is shipping 5 of our crew mates to the USSSA Nationals at Mt. Hood OR.

Our trustee Shellback racer Bill Morse will lead the Wog DRR National team of Stephanie Cooper, Patrick Smith, Jay Curry, and Dan Cooper to Mt. Hood to take on the Nations toughest snowshoer’s in a 2 lap 10k race.

While the competition may be fierce i.e. the best in the country. I have much confidence in our merry band of pirates from Eastern Mass. I know that win, place, or show we will keep our heads held high, have as much fun as possible, and represent DRR and the sport of snowshoeing to the best of our ability!

What I had I gave, what I kept was lost forever!
Unknown

Frosty's Dash for the Cure

2009-02-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

DRR brings several first time snowshoe racers to Frosty's. Update to follow shortly...
Dan

Sidehiller an all around success for DRR

2009-02-07T18:54:00.000-08:00

This morning Jay, Dan, Patrick, Steph, Bill, Sal, Chris Smith, and our prisoner Rich Busa headed to Center Sandwich NH for the USSSA qualifier. Temps were in the mid 20's, perfect for racing in shorts (we forgot ours). The course was challenging with trails that were 25% groomed and 75% hell.
Points for the day have yet to be awarded in the Granite State Series. Acidotic had a strong showing with Chris Dunn lining up to show us just how fast he really is (pretty darn fast) with seven racers however, I am certain DRR held our ground in the point series today.
"Official" results have not been finalized but the buzz is that everyone who signed up for the USSSA Nationals from DRR has qualified for the March 8th event in Mt. Hood, Oregon!!! Congrats to all who attended today, more news to follow when the official word gets out.

Dan C.

Sunday the 8th - Frosty's Dash...

2009-02-02T07:15:00.001-08:00

Hey all,
Dungeon Rock is looking for racers at this race. Its close, its cheap, and when was the last time you tried something for the first time?

From Bill Morse:
Hey all, There is also another snowshoe race next Sunday, closer by at the Atkinson Resort and Country Club in Atkinson, NH, just a few miles from Haverhill, MA and Salem, NH. Check it out at www.frostysdash.org. This race is also part of the Granite State Snowshoe Series. There will be loaner snowshoes at this race or if you want borrow a pair of my loaner Dion snowshoes just let me know-- bmorseruns@yahoo.com The race course at the Atkinson Resort is entirely on snowmobile-groomed trails on the golf course. It's a 5K. Bill

Cobble Photos...

2009-02-01T18:44:00.003-08:00

Sidehiller!!!

2009-02-01T18:43:00.001-08:00

Hey all,

DRR and company will be heading up to Center Sandwich (directions at bottom of blog) Saturday morning for Sidehiller, race #3 in the Granite State Snowshoe Series (also a regional USSSA National qualifier race) . A few of us will be carpooling from the Merrimack River Trial head parking lot (directions at bottom of blog). We will meet in the parking lot at 7:30am. I would encourage everyone who is interested in trying out snowshoeing to give Sidehiller a try. The race is followed by complementary soup and bread at the Center Sandwich General Store.

If you are interested in carpooling and have not already contacted me please send a message by this Thursday to cooper_3377@msn.com so we can make travel plans.
Hope to see a lot of fresh faces at the race!
Think Snow!
DC

Thoughts Of A First Time Snowshoe Racer

2009-02-01T12:50:00.000-08:00

Congrats to all the DRR members on another strong performance at the Cobble Mountain race yesterday. Great weather, good competition and a tough course made for a fun time. I posted my thoughts about the race here. I'll see all of you next week at Frosty's

Later, Dan S.

Cobble Update from Jay Curry

2009-01-31T19:30:00.000-08:00

Hello all!
Well, another good day of snow shoe racing by DRR. Eileen,Steph,Dan,Bill, Stu, Sal, Art, Patrick, were joined by DRR's first time snow shoe racers Liza, Dan S.,Richie, and Mike D. The temps were perfect in the 20's with no wind. The course was mostly on groomed cross country trails, but with all of the snow they have it still made for a tough run on this course. There was a lot of climbing in the first 4k or so. The single track back country snow shoeing which had 2 sections was tight single track with snow around knee deep on either side. This made for some tough running trying to negotiate the turns. Coming off of Cobble Mtn was very challenging due to the un groomed snow and tight turns. Although we were missing Crystal and Chris, we still managed to get to podium spots with the master men. Congrats to Patrick and Mike D for a stellar performance!! Just about everyone walked away with a prize at the end. The big winner was Art Gray, who won a brand new pair of snow shoes that are valued over 200$! Way to go Art, not bad for a free race. Next up is the qualifier for snow shoe nationals at Sidehiller. This race is on Feb 7th. Info on the race can be found on www.acidoticracing.com . The team competition was tough, DRR was 2nd again with 12 racers. Acidotic was 1st with 20plus runners. Oh well, A good time was still had by all!!
See some of you tomorrow at the Stew Chase in Lynn.
Jay

Cobble Mountain this Saturday

2009-01-27T12:24:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

DRR and company will be heading up to Gunstock ski area (directions at bottom of blog) Saturday morning for race #2 in the Granite State Snowshoe Series. A few of us will be carpooling from the Merrimack River Trial head parking lot (directions at bottom of blog). We will meet at the lot at 7:30am. I would encourage everyone who is interested in trying out snowshoeing to give Cobble Mountain a try. Acidotic (host team) puts on a great race, with well marked courses, tons of swag, and a great raffle to boot. Plus as snowshoe races go Gunstock NH is a relatively short drive.

2010 New England Championship in the works

2009-01-23T04:46:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week Bill Morse mentioned that Chris Dunn of Acidotic Racing was attempting to pull together a "New England Championship" Snowshoe race. After poling DRR members I offered DRR's support to Chris in his endeavor.

The following was Chris's reply:

Thank you very much for offering to help with the development of the New England Snowshoe Championships. Next month I'll meet with the folks at Great Glen Trails at the foot of Mt. Washington to discuss holding the event there in March of 2010. I have also discussed the concept with Ed Alibozek of the WMAC and have asked for his support. He is completely behind the concept but his only reservation was the location and the potential travel burden for folks in western MA. I have told him that we will make a commitment to the 2010 location for two years at which time we will consider other host sites. I have assured him that in 2012 we will consider a location in either VT or western MA. I have also told him that I will forgo my sponsorship agreement with Kahtoola and invite DION snowshoes to be the exclusive snowshoe sponsor of the event. I haven't mentioned that one to Kahtoola yet, but the WMAC/DION support is perhaps more important in the long run.

You, your DRR teammates, and Bill have already done more to promote snowshoe racing than any single group. It's because of you folks that we had 16 snowshoers at Pooh Hill. Let's do this, if you're interested in helping here's what you can do;

* Continue to support snowshoe racing in New England by bringing at least one new person to each race you do (that's actually our own goal!)
* Continue to show up to the GSSS in big numbers because it provides incredible motivation for us
* Help me promote snowshoe racing in southern New England where there is seemingly very little interest (or perhaps knowledge of the sport) and a
tremendous amount of opportunity for growth (CT & RI)

RACE acidotic;
Chris J. Dunn
acidotic RACING, LLC

1/25/09

2009-01-22T19:18:00.000-08:00

Hey All,
Weather permitting a few of us will be meeting up at the Merrimack River Trail Head for a little training run this Sunday at 9am. (This is also the spot where we will be meeting to car pool for Cobble Mountain). The parking lot is just off Exit 45 on I 93. Check out the map link at the bottom of the site....

Winter Wonderland at Old Salem Green/Salem Woods

2009-01-18T17:32:00.001-08:00

This morning several snowshoer's desended upon the Old Salem Green for a little snow fun. Patrick Smith, Chris Smith (no relation??), and Jay Curry lead a group of 18 snowshoer's through several miles of fairways and wooded trails. Following the snowshoe festivities particiapnts were treated to an awsome breakfast curtisey of Crystal and Eileen.

Think Snow!

In The News

2009-01-13T19:46:00.000-08:00

Pooh Hill Scramble Race Report

2009-01-13T06:22:00.000-08:00

Team Dungeon Rock Racing was well represented this past weekend at the Pooh Hill 8.5K Scramble, race #1 on the Granite State Snowshoe Race Series. Ten shoers from DRR made the trek to East Madison, NH where the race was held at King Pine & Purity Spring Resort. Trail conditions were ideal for a fast race with sunny skies and a “chilly” 5 degrees. This would be a barn burner!

The race course started on wide, groomed trails before it dropped down to and across a section on Purity Lake. A short section of up and down single track brought the racers to the 4K mark and the most difficult part of the course, the climb up Pooh Hill. This reduced everyone, including race winner Jim Johnson of CMS, to a power hike to the summit. The descent down Pooh Hill was more of a bush-whack through ungroomed backcountry trails. Once back out on the groomed access road it was smooth sailing to the finish. The only obstacle that remained was a final climb around the 8K mark. Race director Chris Dunn is a cruel man!

Team DRR looked strong in their inaugural race placing three shoers in the top ten. Christopher Smith was 3rd overall followed closely by teammate Crystal Anthony, 4th overall and 1st female. Way to go Crystal! Patrick Smith of DRR finished 10th overall and was 1st master. He’s not getting older, he’s getting better! Despite the strong performances of Christopher, Crystal, Patrick and team members Eileen, Art, Bill, Dan, Dave, Jay and Sal, DRR could not hold off Team Acidotic Racing and finished a close second in the Team category. Acidotic Racing had 16 racers toe the starting line and that was too much for the 10 member team of DRR to overcome. (All racers earn points in the team competition). Still, it was a great start to the snowshoe racing season and the future looks bright for this upstart team.

2009-01-11T13:41:00.000-08:00