Chris Nunn and Karen King set the winning pace at the 12th annual NW Fat Ass 50 Km Run. Chris turned in a 5:42 and Karen a 6:06 on a day with tough running conditions. Heavy rain, wind and even hail all added to the challenge of the course.

On good weather days, the FA course affords exceptional views of Mt. Rainier, Seattle and all the Puget Sound area. No views this year.

23 participants ran the 50 Km, while a record 90 runners did the one loop 25 Km. The number of 25 Km runners almost doubled from last year. The NW was truly represented, with runners from Washington, Oregon, British Columbia and even Alaska. An impressive turnout for such a non-event, which has no entry, no aid, no awards and no wimps. Fat Ass 50's started years ago in California and spread across the country. Many have said, only ultrarunners would think to gather for a 50 Km as a way to start a new year and a chance to shed any Holiday over-indulgencies.

The NW Fat Ass is unique with its use of discarded Christmas Ornaments as trail markings. Each year a number of runners gather the week before to decorate the trail. To many the trail marking is as much fun as the race itself. This year's trail markings were the best ever!

Thanks to all the volunteers who marked and cleared trail making 2003 a record year.

Ron Nicholl, RD

***Click on images to enlarge***

ALL PHOTOS BY RON NICHOLL