Here are several resources for boating in the Asheville area:

The Asheville Area Boating Beta Page – A Web site with summaries of local and regional trips, with an emphasis on whitewater. Links to water gauges.

“Paddling Asheville and Southern Appalachia,” by Betsy Mayers – Basic information about flatwater paddling in the region.

The French Broad River Map and Guide – A map featuring mileage, access points, and major roads on the North Carolina section of the French Broad. Printed on waterproof, tearproof paper.

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Mark Lundblad, nationally recognized ultra runner and former Shut In race winner, is coaching a full group of committed runners, training for this beastly 17.8-mile trail race. The event, to be held Nov. 4, will be sponsored by Black Dome.

This time-honored trail race is the “one” that everyone knows about in Western N.C. and one that is notoriously difficult to get into. Lundblad’s group will train every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at different locations (floating castle schedule) and special speakers will appear on the dates listed below. If you are interested in the program, hearing a particular speaker or following up on a specific topic that they will cover contact Jonathan Poston: (828) 768-6262, mindlynxx@hotmail.com or http://www.ncracetraining.com.

Speakers

Aug. 23 – Gary Curran, M.D., speaks on OTD meds (anit-inflammatories, etc.) and supplements (glucosamine, etc.) and how they help or hurt performance.

Sept. 27 – Barbara Galloway speaks on beginning Shut In race strategies.

Jonathan Poston from ncracetraining.com will conduct a marathon training program –including workouts, nutrition and speakers – covering all aspects of preparation for the tenth anniversary of this daunting off-road marathon. Participants will receive guaranteed marathon entries along with extensive coaching services. Space is limited, so contact Jonathan Poston: (828) 768.6262, mindlynxx@hotmail.com or http://www.ncracetraining.com.

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Want to receive early notification of the 2007 application process for the Black Mountain Marathon or the grueling 40-mile Mt. Mitchell Challenge, to be held February 24th, 2007?

Sign up for the Black Dome monthly e-newsletter at http://www.blackdome.com by September 1st, 2006.

More race information can be found at http://www.blackmountainmarathon.com

Coming August 26

This was my very first 10k a couple of years ago. And they’re right, you will get wet!! Judging by the heat this summer, you’ll be glad.

Pick up some hill training before you head out. This race is a lot of fun!!

Check it out…

MitchellRaces.com

Posted by Alex Cole, Black Dome Mountain Sports

What’s up with FiveTen’s new line of approach shoes? Are they strictly approach shoes? Low hikers? Free-riders?

All of the above, says one of our lead climbers, Ross Prince.

(more…)