Santa Cruz Island Eco-Extreme Trail Half Marathon
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Santa Cruz Island Eco-Extreme Trail Half Marathon
The Santa Cruz Island Eco-Extreme Trail Half Marathon is a timed trail race held on Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park at Prisoners Harbor, Ventura, California. The event is organized by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Upper Ojai Team, sanctioned by USA Track & Field, and all proceeds support search and rescue charities.
The course is a rugged island route of roughly half marathon distance, with total elevation gain listed at about 1,919 feet. Runners begin at the red barn area and enter a 2.5 mile oak canyon that rises about 155 feet and includes five creek crossings; two crossings are reported at about 20 to 40 feet wide and 4 to 12 inches deep. The central section includes a sustained climb described as roughly three quarters of a mile with steep pitch and major elevation gain, ridge running of about 2.8 miles, and a long downhill return to the central valley and the finish meadow above Prisoners Harbor.
Logistics noted by the organizer include boat transport to and from the island as part of the entry fee, five aid stations with water and medical staff, race timing, a finisher medal and shirt, and a post-race meal and festival at the day use area. The course and services operate under National Park Service permits and may change due to permit or operational requirements. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.