G'Day to all you lucky runners, we had another MAGIC weekend in Fish Camp, I did anyway! The course change didn't upset too many runners, as though I care. We had a real wet winter and the storms screwed the trail up royally. Hundreds of trees down.

The weatherman did his job; my pet grizzly was seen on the trail and the river crossings were not too bad. Obviously, I had to listen to a couple of complaints about the trail markings, always get a couple of d**kheads! All in all, the hard work paid off and everyone got home safe. I did hear a couple of runners decided to visit Sugar Pine - Which is NOT on the course map! Also heard a runner was seen getting a ride during the race. That will not happen again...right! My many helpers did well and the aid stations worked out fine, just wouldn't happen without them. Green Meadows was happy to see us again, as they do, and all is back to normal in Fish Camp. My bills have been paid; if there is anyone who owed money for their accomodations, please call me. All the money goes to the Outdoor School Programs; they really help the local kids to understand the wilderness. Plus it ain't a bad place to hold the run.

The ninety plus starters enjoyed the brisk start at just after 7 bells. The leaders did the first 11k loop in 49 minutes, that my friend, is fast. It so happens they continued that pace for the second loop, always staying within SHADOW distance...that has a ring to it! Oswoldo Lopez managed to slip past Butch Wilson on the final switchbacks and they came into sight together. A draw may have been a better finish, cos Butch did help Oswaldo during the race by offering his water. (Oswaldo must learn to carry his own next time!) Glen Redpath had a nice day on the trails, third place finish he was happy with. The aid station people at the big trees were betting he would catch the leaders.

28 year-old Kelly Cronin, a local who works in Yosemite Natl. Park, was happy with her performance, coming in 9th overall and first female. Colleen Dulin came in second only 93 seconds in front of Mova Rieden, both enjoyed the magic. All the age group winners were happy with their awards. My long time running mate Rob McNair graced us with his presence for the 16th time at Shadow. He then ran a marathon the next day in San Diego! By the way good luck to all running WS, especially Soft Lips, I will be up there supporting the race as usual. Must thank Janine, Rebecca, and me mate Frank, I now have no ribbon plucking...say that 10 times fast! The awrds and raffle were a hoot, hope you all got something special, no returns...The clocks were a big hit this year! Patagonia and Montrail always donate goodies for the race, we need and greatly appreciate their support. Again, we must thank the many helpers, Karen does a magic job at the finish line, maybe some help next year.

That's ye lot from me for another year, hope we can do it again on June 3rd, `06. Wow, another year older. Much love and keep ye head up and smile.

Big Baz XXXX
bazhawley@sti.net