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Why I Fear the Leatherman’s Loop 10k More Than ANY Other Long-Distance Race
I’m no stranger to long-distance races. I’ve run 15k’s, half-marathons, and even a couple of longer distance races till now. But there’s one race that fills me with an unparalleled sense of trepidation every time I think about it. It’s not the longest I’ve run, but in my mind, it’s definitely the most daunting. It’s the Leatherman’s Loop 10k trail race. You might wonder: how can a mere 10k race instill so much fear when I’ve run distances far greater than that?
Well, let me explain.
Leatherman’s Loop
Deep within the dense forests of New York, there lies a trail race that has become the stuff of legends among runners: the Leatherman’s Loop 10k. Unlike any ordinary race, this annual event beckons adventurers and thrill-seekers to embark on a journey through challenging terrains, mud pits, river crossings, and steep inclines. Named after the 19th-century vagabond known as the Leatherman, who made his famous loop journey between the Connecticut and Hudson rivers, the race is more than just a test of physical endurance; it’s a homage to the resilience of the human spirit. For those who dare, it does NOT promise a medal at the finish line but a transformative experience that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
