BEDFORD COUNTY (WSLS10) - The Smith Mountain Lake YMCA is holding a first of its kind ultra 50K race along the lake's dam. Money raised will go toward eliminating hundreds of thousands of dollars the facility accrued in debt.
Some area residents told us Smith Mountain Lake attracts both those looking for rest and an adrenaline rush.
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"All of the celebrations going on at the lake for the 50th anniversary are fantastic," said local bicyclist Sarah McDonald. "A 50K along the Smith Mountains...'oh' that will be very challenging."
The SML YMCA is hosting a first of its kind ultra-trail race April 2nd. It's called the 'Dam 50K' and brings runners through the area's hilly terrain.
"One of the climbs in the race is going to be called the 'death climb' because it's straight up the mountain," said "Y" Branch Manager Lauren Acker.
So far, more than 60 people from all over the East Coast have registered for the 31-mile long run. And, others are partaking in the day's festival and several different races offered.
Acker, told us the goal is to raise $10,000. The money will help maintain current programs and offset the facility's debt of $1.7 million, which was accrued when the economy plummeted. At the time, many of those who pledged money were not able to follow through.
"As a non-profit we can't fulfill our mission without margin," said Acker. "We have had the mortgage drop significantly, but it's a work in progress."
The idea is to create an annual race bringing runners back.
"Once people get here they get to experience what it's like, not just the run," said Cindy Baldwin, who lives along the lake. "They'll spend the night and then it's 'let's go over here, let's go rent a boat'. Then, the next thing you know they're buying a boat and they're trying to find a place to live."
Acker added the thought is to tack on an additional mile each year.
If you're not quite ready to tackle a 50K around Smith Mountain Lake, there are other races on April 2nd. Starting at 10a.m. there is a 5K and at noon there is a one-mile family fun run. To find out how you can register, click here: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=34797.