Results/Photos

Date: Sept. 20, 2025 Participant: Doug Gruenbacher #770 Race: 2025 Pikes Peak Ascent Half Marathon Distance: 13.1 miles Weather: Chilly start. Heavy winds (tail/cross wind). Sunny at the finish.

Significant Time Improvement and Steady Effort in High Altitude Doug Gruenbacher demonstrated a notable performance in the 2025 Pikes Peak Ascent, completing the race in 4:40:51, which marked a substantial improvement from his previous time of 5:06:24 in 2024. This achievement shaved off 25 minutes and 33 seconds from his earlier race time. His average pace of 21:01 min/mile showed consistency across the challenging course that started at an elevation of 6,000 feet and finished at 14,000 feet. Doug's ascent performance was particularly commendable as he started in 1488th and climbed steadily through the ranks, finishing in 775th overall. Despite the significant elevation gains, particularly during the last three miles, his performance in the O50-54 division saw him finish 47th, compared to 42nd the previous year, which highlights potential areas to work on. Keeping up the training intensity could improve his position in future races.