Introducing the XTERRA Pocono Series

Yet another region has joined the national family of XTERRA Trail Runs. The XTERRA Pocono Trail Run Series is new in 2011, and the first race of the series is the Big Pocono Trail Run, set for this Saturday (May 7) at Tannersville, Pa.

The inaugural Pocono Series will feature five races in Northeast Pennsylvania, all along the picturesque Pocono Mountains.

"The trails in the Pocono region of Pennsylvania offer a variety of challenges, as this is a mountainous region," Pocono Series director Reginald Thomas said. "Our trails are unique, running through glacial formations with hills, boulders, rhododendron tunnels, single track, grass roads, streams with native trout, and forest floors painted pink with wild teaberries. One course has a 600-foot high cliff with a 50-mile view on a clear day."

In addition, several of the races will feature river crossings, and trails that run alongside serene lakes.

The five races in the series will each offer something different, with courses ranging in length from 5 kilometers to 21 kilometers. The 2011 Pocono Series season will run from May 7 through July 9, so the weather should be ideal for running - although Thomas notes that "July can be another story with much warmer temps."

Thomas said he started the XTERRA Pocono Series because of the growing interest in trail running in the area. He said he competed across the state in the XTERRA Philly Series in the past, and knew there would be an appeal to runners in the Pocono region.

"Many runners have expressed fatigue and boredom with road racing over the same courses," he said. "They are looking for the next challenge and XTERRA Trail Runs will test your fitness, endurance, and skills. As I learned (in the Philly Series), road racing times do not translate into a good trail time. Each race and course proves to be a different challenge."

The Pocono Series has already secured a volunteer staff of military personnel, so Reginald said runners are assured of safety and support.

What's more, proceeds from the XTERRA Pocono Series will benefit Wendy's Wonderful Kids, which is a local children's adoption service.

For more information on the XTERRA Pocono Series, or to register for races, please visit www.wilkesbarreracing.com or www.xterratrailrun.com.

Photo: www.wilkesbarreracing.com

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