Running novices, veterans, and everyone in between came out for the 38th Annual Georgetown to Idaho Springs Half Marathon (GTIS). The scenic race attracts runners of all shapes and sizes for its beautiful mountain vistas, rolling downhill course, and hopping post-race party.
This year’s event saw over 1,000 participants; although the temperatures started out cool when the gun went off, they quickly warmed up and provided a bit of a challenge for runners on the course. Thankfully the celebration at the Clear Creek football field in Idaho Springs had a host of cold drinks, food, and beer. Each participant received a finisher medal and tech t-shirt, and the top finishers and age groupers were awarded unique Gold Pan Trophies.
The men’s race saw a podium sweep from Team Runner’s Roost, with Alejandro Jimenez of Denver grabbing the win in 1:12:50. Coming in second was 36-year old Eric Greene in 1:15:51, and 35-year old Brian Runyon rounded out the top three in 1:16:28.
In the women’s race, reigning 2015 GTIS champion Malia Crouse defended her title with a first place finish in 1:19:57. 19-year old Lindsey Koch was second, and Rachel Viele of Vail crossed the line in third in 1:24:38.