Elroy Tunnel-Trails Half Marathon (13.1 miles)

 The half marathon is unique in that it uses three different bike trails and features a fascinating tunnel.  The race begins in the charming village of Hustler, Wisconsin. All runners will board buses at the Elroy City (Schultz) Park at 8:00 a.m. and head to Hustler, arriving there at about 8:30.  Bathroom facilities and bag & tag will be available there.  The race will start at 9:00. Shortly after the start of the race, the runners will enter the peaceful and secluded Juneau County Omaha Trail and head south towards Elroy for about 10 miles.  Runners will pass through the tunnel after about three miles of the run.  The tunnel was built in 1876 and is 875 feet long!  There is a gradual incline up to the tunnel and a gradual decline afterwards.  Some lighting will be added if necessary to help ensure safety, but the runners should use precaution and good judgment while running in the tunnel.  Upon entering Elroy, the course will take a short wind through Kimball Avenue and then a one-mile trek on County PP.  There, the runners will take the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail into Elroy, pick up the 400 Trail, and enter the Elroy City Park for the finish line.  Runners need to understand that they will encounter some bicycle traffic along the way and good judgment will be necessary.  Water and sports drink will be provided at regular intervals (1 – 2 miles) and cookies/energy bars will be provided during the last three miles.  Check out http://www.elroybiketrails.org/trails.htm for trail information and maps.