XTERRA Runners Make Their Muddy Mark at Merrimack

(Andover, MA) - Kevin Tilton, 26, of North Conway, NH and Salem, MA native Sarah Thomson, 28, won their respective divisions at the XTERRA Merrimack River Trail Run 16k at The Wyndham Hotel on Saturday.

With a time of 57:46, Tilton crossed the finish line after 10 slippery, muddy miles. Coming in with the 11th fastest time ever, he won by 4:02 minutes ahead of Central Mass. Striders teammate James Pawlicki. Thomson came in 37th overall to win the women's race with her time of 1:18:11. Her win was only 2:45 minutes faster than Team Gloucester member Jenn Brooks.

After a dreary start to the day, the weather cleared up to give race directors Dave Dunham and Steve Peterson a great day for racing. "The morning started out cold, rainy, and windy. Once the race started, the wind died, the sun came out, and it was perfect" said Dunham.

Although the rain let up for the start of the race, it had already left its muddy mark on the event. The sloppy, mud-covered course caused hazardous conditions as 183 runners from 8 states and ranging in age from 16-78 tumbled their way over the slippery bridges and trails of "The Rivah."

For the 17th year in a row, Tom Speidel of Nutting Lake, MA ran to continue his streak as the only runner to compete every year since the race has been in operation.

Most athletes took the weather in stride; when asked about her experience, Robyn Metcalfe answered "Hey, you know, what's a little mud"?

After crossing the finish line, Kevin Yetman told XTERRA, "If you are ever looking for a trail race with a little adventure- that'll do it".

Tim VanOrden recently moved to New England to work on his new documentary about running and nutrition. After running the race he commented that New England trails were the best in the country. The races feel like a family gathering and everyone is really there to support each other.

XTERRA Merrimack River Trail Run was the first race in the XTERRA New England Trail Run Series with only two more chances for runners to earn points toward their series scores.

Complete results from Saturday's race are attached and more information can be found online at www.xterratrailrun.com. Media interested in photos from this event should contact emily@xterraplanet.com.

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