Run Carlsbad Run!

By Michele Robertson

Local runners and triathletes Ron Haugen and Liz Cheli are hosting a running event in November on the Ocotillo Trail in Carlsbad. They hope to bring the community together, promote outdoor activity, and share the beauty of local trails with runners of all levels.

“We are the Race Directors of the event. A race director is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing all aspects of a trail running event. This includes designing the racecourse, securing permits, coordinating volunteers, ensuring participant safety, setting up aid stations, and managing race day logistics. They also handle communication with runners and stakeholders, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved,” Haugen said.

The Ocotillo Trail Endurance Challenge is located in the beautiful Southwestern Chihuahuan Desert, along the Ocotillo Trail near SENMC and the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park. The race will take place on Saturday, November 8, at 8 a.m.

“This race takes you through the canyon south of the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens on State Park and city land. Open to runners, hikers, ruckers, and walkers, you can participate in one of three challenges: 1-hour, 4-hour, or 8-hour challenge. Participants will have their selected time frame to complete as many 2-mile trail loops (out-and-back) as possible or desired,” said Haugen.

“Carlsbad Roadrunners will provide support, including one aid station at the halfway point (top of the hill at the 1-mile mark). If you have been wanting to attempt a longer distance or even complete an ultra, this event is for you! Bring your family and friends to support you as you complete the Ocotillo Trail Endurance Challenge,” he added.

Haugen and Cheli are not only the race directors but also members of a new and growing running club based in Carlsbad, the Carlsbad Roadrunners. The club is open to all levels of experience. While running is at the heart of what they do, they’re passionate about all kinds of outdoor activities—cycling, hiking, kayaking, swimming, and more.

“Our goal is to build an inclusive community of active people who want to connect, move, and explore together. We’re currently gathering feedback from those interested in regular group runs and planning monthly meetings to talk about upcoming events, training plans, and ways to get more people involved in the outdoors,” Haugen said.

“Everyone is welcome—no fees, no pressure, just a shared interest in being active. Find us on Facebook by searching ‘Carlsbad Roadrunners’ to stay up to date on meeting times, group activities, training plans, and local events,” he added.

Joining the running club can offer group runs, training plans, tips from experienced runners, encouragement, and help to stay motivated and consistent.

Interested participants are encouraged to start training now for the Ocotillo Trail Endurance Challenge. “Training early gives you plenty of time to build up gradually, get comfortable on trails, and avoid injury,” said Haugen.

“For a two-mile trail race with elevation and no prior experience, focus on walking and jogging a few times a week, gradually increasing your time on similar terrain. Include some hill walking or stair climbing to build strength and endurance. Aim to get comfortable moving on uneven ground and build up slowly to avoid injury,” he said.

“Don’t forget to stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun and heat as well,” encouraged Haugen.

“Benefits of running a trail race include improving physical fitness, building mental toughness, enjoying nature, reducing stress, and experiencing a sense of accomplishment. It also offers a chance to connect with others and challenge yourself in a fun and rewarding way,” Haugen said.

Carlsbad Roadrunners has a Facebook group; those interested are encouraged to follow the page for information, pictures, and videos of both the race and the trail itself. The organization is looking for sponsors to help cover race costs and provide prizes. To sponsor this race, reach out to the group on Facebook. All race proceeds will be donated to the Desert Willow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Carlsbad.

“We run to stay healthy, relieve stress, enjoy the outdoors, and feel a sense of accomplishment. We also run for the camaraderie—connecting with others, making friends, and being part of a supportive community. Fun events, races, and group runs make it even more enjoyable and motivating,” he said.

“We want to thank SENMC for providing the parking at the trailhead start and the City of Carlsbad for allowing us to use the trail,” Haugen added.

To register for this race, visit www.runsignup.com and search for the Ocotillo Trail Endurance Challenge.