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MIDWAY — There are hundreds of different races held in Utah each year, many with unique themes and challenges. To stand out in such a crowded field, Erik Gillilan decided to make his new race the most grueling of them all.
“I’ve always wanted to organize a race,” Gillilan said. “The goal was to create the hardest race in Utah to complete. I actually wouldn't have minded if only one or two people could finish.”
So Gillilan came up with the Envis Race, combining a traditional 10K race with a series of intense exercises like pushups, situps, burpees and body squats.
“But after talking with some ultrarunners, I realized my first concept was too intense, especially for a first-year race,” Gillilan said.
Rather than scrap the whole idea, Gillilan simply adjusted the race requirements so that competitors could better enjoy the experience. Once this new format was settled, Gillilan began ironing out the details of what he now dubs, "More than just a 10K.”
The Envis Race still includes exercises like pushups, situps, burpees and body squats, but fewer are required at each stop. Runners are welcome to compete solo or as part of a two-person team.
“The idea of these exercise stops is to help incorporate more of a full body exercise,” he said. “I’m extremely passionate about exercise and fitness, and believe it greatly benefits your quality of life.”
To ensure that contestants are taken care of throughout the race, aid stations will be available at each exercise stop. And at the finish line, everyone will receive a T-shirt and medal. Additional medals will be given to the top three finishers.
“While we encourage everyone to give it their best, it's also a time for people to come out and have fun,” Gillilan said. “A huge bonus is that the course is absolutely beautiful, given it's located at Soldier Hollow. I can't think of many better places to enjoy some exercise.”
Details
- Date: Aug. 26. Race starts at 6 p.m.
- Location: Soldier Hollow in Midway
- Entry fee: $35 for solo runners and $60 for teams
- Register at the Envis Race website
