Dances with Dirt – Florida Style

By Tracey Cohen

The second annual Dances with Dirt Green Swamp will be held on February 13, 2010 at Withlacoochie River Park in Dade City, Florida. The course is the flattest of four Dances with Dirt events, but don’t be fooled. Expect the unexpected. Athletes will encounter roots, mud, wet and lots of “stupid spots”. Trails such as they are will be marked, but leave the iPod at home. Utilize all your senses to experience the infinite beauty of Florida’s Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve.

Palm trees, Spanish moss and cypress knees are only a few of the stunning flora that competitors can expect to adorn their journey. Race director/Running Fit owner, Randy Step advises runners to keep an eye and ear out for wild pigs and hogs. “They’re pretty harmless though unless mama happens to be around….” Wild turkeys, bald eagles, white tail deer and armadillos, described by Step as “cute, harmless little creatures about the size of a rabbit” may also be seen and heard on the trails.

Whether you choose to run the 50 Mile, 50K, Marathon, Half Marathon or 5 person, 50 Mile Relay, this is a unique opportunity to explore the Florida wilderness. Volunteers are welcome and needed and will receive great perks including free entry into a Running Fit event.

Ultramarathoners take heed! All who finish a 50 Mile or 50K race at each of the four Dances with Dirt events will earn a belt buckle and get to see some way cool places in the process!

For registration and more information on Dances with Dirt Green Swamp and the rest of the events in the series, please visit http://www.danceswithdirt.com/