BALLWIN, MO- The third edition of the of the 2024 Alpine Shop Trail Run Series took place last night with what turned out to be a pretty nice evening, avoiding the storms that rolled in just as the van rolled out! The course featured probably the toughest climb in the park, Dog Hill, and the fast northern fields for a 3.5 mile race that had everyone reaching for the brews from 4Hands Brewing Co. afterwards.
We saw a shakeup in the overall podium this week with the usual 1-2 punch of Steven Stallis (33) and Andy Rains (31), but Aaron Barber fell to 4th place this week with Mathew Francis (35) taking the 3rd place finish over a minute ahead.
Nikki Difani (41) also reclaimed her top spot this week in the Women’s race. Sloane Montgomery (24) made the move up to 2nd place and Leah Grither (13) took back her 3rd place spot in the podium.
Mike Barro had some calf tightness this week that sidelined him to leave the door open for Chris Bognar’s (53) first win of the season. Kevin Kozuszek (50) found himself in 2nd place again and Jeff Vanderlinden (61) rounded things out with 3rd.
Jen Ullery (51) took the top spot once again with Susan Richmond (63) and Jill Hollander (53) taking 2nd and 3rd again.
We will wrap up the series next week on 8/22 with the course reveal coming on Monday afternoon. We still have a handful of spots left to come join the fun for $35 cash or card. Online Registration will close on Wednesday night at 9pm to finalize rosters and we will have walk up spots available. Thank you again to our terrific sponsors, Optimal Performance Centers, 4Hands Brewing Co, Great Harvest of Kirkwood, The North Face, Terrain Magazine, and FITS Socks!
PHOTOS by Marcus Janzow Photography