Dick Collins Firetrails

The Dick Collins Firetrails returns to Castro Valley, California on September 26th, celebrating the rich history of ultramarathon racing in the Bay Area. This year's event offers three compelling races for runners: the challenging Bay Ridge 100k, the iconic Firetrails 50 Miler, and the Golden Hills Marathon. Participants can register through [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132080](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132080), where they will find detailed information on distances, fees, and cutoff times.
Dick Collins Firetrails takes place in Castro Valley, California, offering a scenic course through Lake Chabot Regional Park. The terrain is varied but generally firm with slightly soft trails that offer both challenge and beauty to runners. Each race starts early: the Bay Ridge 100k begins at 5am from Lake Chabot Regional Park's entrance; the Firetrails 50 Miler starts a little later, at 6 am near Lake Chabot Marina in Cove Picnic Area; while the Golden Hills Marathon kicks off at 7 am and ends back at the park. These early hours allow runners to experience the serene beauty of Castro Valley as dawn breaks over the hills.
First introduced by Dick Collins himself, this event has grown into a tradition that honors the legacy of ultrarunning pioneers in California. The Firetrails course itself is steeped in history; it winds through trails that were once part of Ann Trason's training grounds and showcases her mentorship under Dick Collins. Today’s runners follow in these footsteps, engaging with a community dedicated to excellence and endurance on the roads around Castro Valley.
The route for each race includes significant elevation changes but maintains mostly flat stretches throughout its length. Aid stations are strategically placed along the way, providing essential hydration and nutrition to participants as they navigate through Castro Valley's challenging terrain. The course conditions, while firm and slightly soft underfoot, allow runners to push their limits without undue fatigue.
In September in Castro Valley, temperatures typically range between 14.2°C at dawn and a peak of around 23°C during the day, with an average wind speed of 9.5 km/h blowing from various directions throughout the course. Humidity levels hover around 78%, making it essential for runners to stay hydrated despite minimal rainfall expected on race morning.
The Dick Collins Firetrails offers three distinct distances: the grueling Bay Ridge 100k, the historic and challenging Firetrails 50 Miler, and the scenic Golden Hills Marathon. Each distance is carefully designed to cater to different levels of endurance running experience in Castro Valley.

For logistics, participants can register for their chosen race at [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132080](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132080). The Bay Ridge 100k is priced at $245.00, the Firetrails 50 Miler costs $220.00, and entry to the Golden Hills Marathon will set you back $125.00. Bib pick-up details are available on the website for each race.
Bib pickup locations vary by event but generally take place at Lake Chabot Regional Park in Castro Valley, California. All participants should bring a photo ID and proof of registration to collect their bibs before the start time. The Bay Ridge 100k begins at the entrance to Lake Chabot Regional Park on Lake Chabot Road; for Firetrails 50 Miler and Golden Hills Marathon, runners can park near the Cove Picnic Area within the park.
The Dick Collins Firetrails in Castro Valley is an event that embodies the spirit of endurance running. Whether you're tackling the Bay Ridge 100k or participating in one of the other distances on September 26th, it offers a unique opportunity to run through historical and beautiful trails around Lake Chabot Regional Park.