In it's 29th year, the 2010 Avalon 50 Mile Benefit Run had a total of 16 finishers between the ages of 60-78. Runners, as young as 20 to as old as 78 years of age participated this year, a majority of the ultra runners were returning participants. With some runners just starting to become part of the tradition and others 27th years deep in it already, it's no surprise that the avid support for this race brings a family feeling to the start line.

"The runners that you'll find at this run (Avalon 50 Miler), young and old, are like no runners you will find at any other race," said Mike Bone, Race Director of the Avalon 50 Mile Benefit Run & owner of Spectrum Sports Management.  "They are so friendly and kind to everyone from first-time ultra runners to volunteers at each aide station.  I truly enjoy managing this run because of the history that comes with it is so unique."

As a part of the run's history, Hal Winton, 78, has completed his 28th consecutive Avalon 50 Mile Benefit Run and plans to finish his 30th run in 2012.  Winton finished his 28th race this year with a time of 18:01:36, while fighting the affects of aging.  Winton has a pacemaker and takes an energy-sucking drug called Sotalol.

Winton is one of 16 runners over the age of 60, that has participated in this race; all 16 runners combine a total of 287 years of taking part in the Avalon 50 Mile Run, each with a unique story behind their desire for this race. 

The 2010 overall female and male finishers are: Zachary Landman at 06:30:25 and Maria Petzold at 07:52:55.

The 2011 race will be the 30th Annual Avalon 50 Mile Run, tentatively scheduled for Saturday, January 15, 2011. The race has been managed by Spectrum Sports Management for 9 years.

About Avalon 50 Mile Benefit Run: Date & Time- Saturday, January 16, 2010 5 a.m. (12-hour cutoff; course will be closed at 5 p.m. Location- Crescent & the Pier, Avalon, CA - Santa Catalina Island Co. Known as one of the country's most challenging and scenic 50-milers, with all proceeds from entry fees and sponsored mileage going to charity and used as a fundraiser for the Avalon Lion's Club. Recipients include: Avalon Hospital, Avalon High School scholarships, Catalina Conservancy and the Bill Putnam Health Care Fund. The course is a 50-mile out and back course on scenic fire roads from Avalon to the Isthmus and return; takes runners through island's interior, which is generally closed.  Race Records: Male- Peter Park 5:48 (2002), Female- Julie Arter 7:22:45 (2000). Age Group Awards: 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-Over.

For results or more information about this race, please visit our website.