Over Hill, Over Dale...It's LHF!

"Over hill, over dale, through bush, through briar, over park, over pale, through blood, through fire, I do wander everywhere..."

It's official...the 30th annual Living History Farms Off-Road Race, to be held next weekend—November 22nd, received its 7,500th entrant this weekend and registration is now closed! Widely considered the "largest cross-country race in North America" and featured favorably in both Runner's World and RunningTimes magazines, this 7-mile classic is an awesome way to end the racing season, as well as stock up on more than enough running stories to last the entire winter long. And just so you understand that I am not kidding around, you literally must be ready to climb fences, wade through creeks and streams, avoid farm animals of all types, and claw your way to the top of mud-filled gullies along with thousands of other runners of likewise questionable senses. Sounds like a fun race, eh?

Well, apparently there were more than a few runners with said questionable senses at last year's event (6,882 to be exact) so race organizers have wisely decided to implement a 7,500 participant limit on the race this year. That will inevitably make for a crowded start line, however with race chip timing also making a debut I'm sure we'll all have a safe and speedy race out there.

If you were lucky enough like me to have signed up for the madness early, just prepare yourself: get there early, don't wear anything you wouldn't want ruined, and double-knot those shoelaces. (A hockey helmet and some shin guards may be warranted, too.) But above all, enjoy yourself for the ride of your life.

Still unsure what this LHF-hype is all about? See the KCCI video from the 2007 race. Steve Bobenhouse, fellow race director and a friend of mine, does a wonderful job here explaining the unique qualities of the race and what runners should expect to find come race day.

Oh, and be sure to check back here soon after the race for my racing report and photos/video of the event. Yes, I will attempt this year to carry a camera with to hopefully document some of the action along the way. See you out there!!