In the Beginning

The Hungerford Games began, really, like everything else worthwhile: on accident.

One summer day, our cross country team went a little further than they had planned, reached the end of the road, and saw a tiny two-track leading down into the woods.  What else could they do but explore it?

The path wound deeper and deeper into nowhere, with each twist or turn bringing a new surprise.  Thirteen miles later, they were home.  Exhausted and exhilarated, they reported on a new perfect running trail.  That route was only the very beginning.

What they had discovered was Hungerford Park--a beautiful section of the immense and immaculate Manistee National Forest.  Over the next three years, we explored the area's trails and sub-trails, and we're still discovering new routes.

Hungerford is a runner's paradise; whatever you want to find, you can find it.  The footing is various: gravel, packed dirt, sand, and grass.  The terrain is diverse: flat routes; long and gradual hills; steep, sharp climbs; and long, grueling, never-ending monsters.  Trees offer protection from even the most intense rain and winds, and they fill the air with the dense and invigorating oxygen that you can only find in a forest.

In the fall, however, the area transforms into something even more indescribably wonderful.  The colors begin to creep in as we get back to school, and by the end of September they've burst into bloom.  Oranges, yellows, reds, purples--all intense and wild and utterly resplendent.

It has always been our dream to share this ineffable land with the outside world--to bring in others who could appreciate a perfect little patch of running paradise.  This year, we proudly present The Hungerford Games.  Our goal is to host the world's perfect trail races.  We hope you can be a part of the experience.