RUMFORD — The Black & White 2 Peak Challenge on Sunday, Sept. 25, will see runners taking on trails to Whitecap Mountain and Black Mountain, both in Rumford.

There will also be a 1 Peak Challenge up Black Mountain.

Last year, Mahoosuc Land Trust created trails connecting the two mountains, leading to the debut of the 8.7-mile 2 Peak Challenge: 2,750 feet of vertical gain and a 2,450-foot descent. It attracted 52 runners.

For the 2 Peak Challenge, the trail will ascend to the top of Whitecap Mountain and descend to the valley floor before beginning the climb to the summit of Black Mountain. The trail will circle the large communication tower at the top and descend down the Allagash ski trail, lead to the Chisholm Ski Club cross-country trails and finish under the bridge in front of the base lodge.

The 1 Peak Challenge leaves the base lodge at Black Mountain, climbs the Black & White hiking trail to the top of Black Mountain and returns via the Allagash ski trails and glades to the base lodge. It covers 4.2 miles with 1,440 feet of ascent and descent.

Registration begins at 7 a.m. in the Black Mountain Ski Resort base lodge. From there, transportation will be provided for a 25-minute ride to the starting point on East Andover Road. The race will begin at 9 a.m. sharp, just off the road at the trailhead. Water and facilities will be provided.

The trail will be well marked with white signs, and officials will be stationed at each intersection along the path. Water will be available in the valley and at the summit of Black Mountain, as well as at safety stations.

The entry fee for the 2 Peak Challenge is $55, or $60 the day of the race. Categories include overall fastest men and women, with winners in all age brackets.

The entry fee for the 1 Peak Challenge is $45, or $50 the day of the race.

Prizes will be given to the top three overall, and the winner in each age division.

Timing for the event will be provided by the Chisholm Ski Club and will have split times for all athletes along the way. Results will be posted and can be viewed shortly after the event at www.chisholmskiclub.org or skiblackmountain.com.

Additional activities will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in and around the base lodge, which will include live music and a barbecue on the deck.

The event is organized by the Chisholm Ski Club.

FMI: call Black Mountain at 364-8977 or visit the Black Mountain website at www.skiblackmountain.org.

bfarrin@sunmediagroup.net

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