Lula Lake Land Trust announces the organization’s first ever race— the Lula Laker. This 19-mile independent race is designed for avid runners and mountain bikers with a trail course gaining 2,000 feet elevation through LLLT’s trail systems.
“Lula Lake has been dreaming of having our own race series for quite some time,” says Cody Roney, LLLT executive director. “Given the current state of the pandemic, we began to brainstorm new ways to fund raise and engage the local community through recreational opportunities.”
"This is when the idea of a socially distant race for both trail runners and mountain bikers started coming to life, organizers said. "Through in-depth research and conversations with race directors, LLLT made the decision to move forward with the Lula Laker, citing it fulfilled the recreation pillar of the mission."
“The Lula Laker is a great way for us to test the waters,” Ms. Roney said. “While giving our community the chance to enjoy our unique trail system and support a great cause.”
Organizers said, "This 19-mile Lula Laker course is within the famous trail systems maintained by LLLT. Divided between two days, runners will compete on Saturday, Oct. 24, while mountain bikers will compete on Sunday, Oct. 25 in this socially distant, independent race. But what makes this an independent race? Simple, LLLT has time slots for start times each day. Each participant is responsible for tracking their race time through the official Lula Lake Strava course or preferred GPS tracker of choice. The top three runners and top three mountain bikers will receive a one-of-a-kind prize package worthy of your Lula Laker efforts."
"During these uncertain times, our community is looking for a way to unify and find a reprieve,” adds Gaston Farmer, LLLT Community Outreach coordinator. “We believe the great outdoors and a little competitive spirit might offer a chance to find some relief. As a fellow mountain bike enthusiast and advocate for trails, the trail system generally explored only during our Open Gate Days will offer a tough challenge for both entry level and advanced competitors of the Lula Laker looking for something to accomplish."
"Like most organizations struggling with fundraising events in the time of COVID-19, Lula Lake Land Trust is no different," organizers said. "The Lula Laker requires a $50 donation as a registration fee to compete. One hundred percent of this fee goes directly back into LLLT’s trail work and conservation efforts. Sign-up and more details are available online at www.LulaLake.org/events."
The Lula Laker is sponsored by Elly, Southeastern Salvage Home Emporium, Audi Chattanooga, Village Volkswagen of Chattanooga, First Horizon and Chambliss. Prize packages are sponsored by The North Face, On the Road and Off and Handup Gloves.