March 2016

END-SURE Course Update

RD Tim Bauer has been posting updates to our Facebook wall:

Everyone will enjoy the wooden bridge crossing! No ice or water on the trail. Plenty of packed sand and winged wildlife.

Posted by Timothy Bauer on Thursday, March 17, 2016

Part of the scenic beauty of the North Country Trail in the Sheyenne National Grasslands.

Posted by Timothy Bauer on Friday, March 11, 2016

One of the many cattle gates that runners will encounter. These gates will be opend so you can run through them. Watch your space as the gate passage can be a bit narrow.

Posted by Timothy Bauer on Friday, March 11, 2016

The North Country Trail from State Highway 27 to the west Trail head is in excellent condition. Be aware that this is...

Posted by Timothy Bauer on Friday, March 11, 2016

Earlier: John Lesteberg (@jlestos) was out in the sandhills the other day and sent us some photos. Thanks John!

END-WET: 2016 Guest Swimmer!

We are excited to announce our guest swimmer.  We had great nominations from you all and we’re proud that Jeff Utsch has accepted the invitation to join us in June to take on the Mighty Red River of the North.  In typical fashion, I will now list some of the unique things that we learned about Jeff:

  • 13-14 year old US National Record 800m Freestyle
  • US National Team Member
  • Selected for 1987 World University Games
  • Finalist World Championship Trials 1986
  • NCAA All-American
  • PAC-10 Champion
  • Top 10 World Ranking
  • Multiple Finalist US Senior Nationals
  • Olympic Trial Qualifier 1984, 1988, 1992
  • Captain University of Arizona Swim Team
  • Masters fastest time in the world (age group)
  • Masters World Records (400 and 800m Free Relays)
  • Masters Worlds Bronze Medal
  • Open Water Marathon Swimmer
  • Former Head Coach Ventana Canyon Swim Team
  • Tactical Swim Instructor to Naval Special Warfare (SEAL, SWCC, Support) 21 years
  • Training and Technique Clinics to swim teams, triathlete groups, etc. around country

I also have it on good authority that he is a nice guy and a family man.  Swimming accomplishments are fantastic, but being kind and good to your family also goes a long way.  We are excited to welcome Jeff to North Dakota and ask that the rest of you ENDracers welcome him as well.

Cheers!

ENDracing team