Due to the ongoing fire activity near the race course for our Beast of Big Creek event we’ve made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s event. We’re incredibly disappointed, and we’re sure you are as well.
Quick background info on the decision
We’ve been in close conversation with the Forest Service staff, Olympic Mountain Rescue, and our key volunteers to assess the situation as it has been developing over these past few weeks.
As of today the fire continues to grow and the weather forecast is offering no relief.
The forest service has closed the trails of the race course to clear underbrush and widen the trails and roads to act as potential fire barriers, there’s no clear indication if and when they are reopening the area.
Further we’re unable to access to trails to assess the condition and/or mark the course.
Over 160 people are working in the area to suppress the fire and prepare for all eventualities.
Our Reasons to Cancel this year’s Beast
We are taking precautionary action and want to protect you the runner, and our volunteers and staff.
We don’t feel adding additional stress to the infrastructure and staff of the area is helpful or welcome at this point.
By cancelling with a couple of weeks ahead of race day we’re hopefully able to minimize travel expenses for you.
What about your registration?
Due to the costs we already incurred in preparation of the event we cannot offer any refunds.
We are offering you all a 50% race credit for any future Rock Candy event, good for one year.
Any merch you pre-ordered we will send to the address you provided with your registration some time in August. If you need to update this address please get in touch.
Any camping registration will be fully credited towards next year’s event.
We’ll be in touch in August with further communication about details on your credits and next steps.
We’re here for you if you have any further questions and we cannot wait to welcome you next year to the incredible Mount Ellinor rising above the Hood Canal on the Olympic Peninsula.
