The race offered a challenging course of approximately 6.6 miles across rugged, technical terrain.

Runners tackled roughly 1,400 feet of climbing, with the route utilizing well-known trails at the local Zindel Park in McElhattan. There were over 300 participants this year, ranging in age from 8 to 73.

This year’s top male finisher, Michael Busada, of Linden, Pa, who won with an impressive time of 51 minutes and 33 seconds. Katie Sick was close behind as the top female, with a time of 61 minutes and 52 seconds.

“Fire on the Rocks is such a great race! It’s tough in the best way, with about 1,600 feet of climbing packed into a 10K. But what really makes it memorable is the atmosphere. You’ve got leprechauns cheering for you out on the course and hot cocoa, cinnamon buns, and a fire pit waiting at the finish. Craig does an amazing job creating events that challenge runners while also making them feel like part of a community,” said Kristin Milford, who completed her second Fire on the Rocks race.

PHOTO PROVIDED Two supporters dressed up in themed attire to cheer on participants in the 6th Annual Fire on the Rocks 10K held this weekend.

The race started out in brisk weather, with high winds howling through the trees, and ended in sunshine. The tremendous achievement of participants and fans was celebrated with freshly homemade sticky buns, hot cocoa and New Trail brews.

Race director Craig Fleming stated, “I love this race! It’s a fun course and the race brings new trail runners each year. It’s an awesome kick off to the race season!”

Eileen Gibbons quipped, “I love Fire on the Rocks! It was my first trail race two years ago, and it’s where I fell in love with the sport and community. The PA Trail Dog races are really family oriented and it’s amazing to watch the sport rise in the youth, and see a lot of families run together!”

Grayson Scanlon, 10, of Bellefonte completed his first Fire on the Rocks with mom, Chelsea Scanlon.

“I had so much fun, and especially the sticky buns at the end,” Grayson said.

PHOTO PROVIDED Grayson Scanlon, 10, of Bellefonte nears the finish line during his first time participating in Fire on the Rocks.

Grayson has competed in Little Loggers, a free kids trail race hosted by the PA Trail Dogs, but he was excited to try the longer distance and is excited to return as a Little Logger this June.

The Fire on the Rocks 10K continues to be a highlight of the spring trail racing calendar, drawing athletes and volunteers alike from across the region and contributing to the vibrant outdoor sporting culture in the Lock Haven area.

It was the first in the PA Trail Dog series, with the notorious Hyner 25K/50K coming up in a few weeks.

While this race has a waiting list almost as long as the number of participants, runners can visit patraildogs.com to explore other fantastic options.