MULLENS, W.Va. — Distance runners are invited to take part in the 26th annual Bear Hole Road Race, to be hosted by Twin Falls State Park near Mullens on July 18. The Road Race is named for Bear Hole Fork Road over which the race is held.  It will feature three events: 10-K runners’ race, 5-K non-competitive recreational walk and a 1-mile children’s fun run. 

Runners will follow a paved course full of turns as it meanders through the nearly 4,000-acre hemlock forest of the state park.  “This race is particularly challenging because it features a long downhill portion that becomes an uphill section after the turnaround point,” according to Joseph Swiney, Twin Falls Activities Coordinator. Runners in the 10-K race who rank in the first three places in their age categories will receive Bear Hole trophies. Winners of the children’s fun run will also be awarded trophies.

Registration will take place between 7:30 and 8:45 a.m. The 10-K race begins at 9 a.m.  A 5-K recreational walk will begin at 8:30 a.m.  Children (10 years of age and younger) may participate in a one-mile fun run. All race participants will be placed into categories based upon age. There will be a 14 and younger category, and then, starting at age 15, the categories will be in five year increments up to age 70 and older.

The registration fee for the 10-K run is $12.  Early registration fee before July 14 for the 10-K run is $10.  Registration for recreational walkers is $8 and $7 for the fun run.  All runners and walkers will receive a T-shirt.

For more information about the Bear Hole Road Race or to receive a registration form, please call Twin Falls Resort State Park at 304-294-4000 or go online, www.twinfallsresort.com.