The rain could not dampen the spirits of runners in the second annual Vashon Island Ultramarathon & Trail Run on Saturday, June 18, which featured a record field and new course records as well.

Runners lined up at 8:30 a.m. for 10-mile and 50-kilometer trail runs from Paradise Ridge Park to Fisher Pond and back. Despite the wet conditions, more than 160 runners embarked on the run, and dozens of volunteers from the Island community came out to offer support.  

Justin Angle of Seattle won the 50k event in 3:56, setting a new course record. Islander Jarrod Swenson placed fifth and was the first of many “barefoot” runners. Canadian Melanie Bos took second overall and was the first female in the 50k with a new women’s course record. Bianca Perla was the first Island woman to finish the 50k with an impressive time of 6:14.

Justin Craig of West Seattle won the 10 miler in 1:08, also setting a new course record. Over 55 Islanders ran the 10 mile — led by Scott Healy and Aidan Cyra, finishing second and third respectively. Julie Jakoboski of La Cracenta, Calif. placed  fifth overall and was the first female in the 10 miler. Lana Protzeller was the first Island woman to finish the 10 miler, with a strong run in 1:29.

Race organizers Kevin Kim-Murphy and Bruce Cyra said they were thrilled with the turnout and the amazing spirit of the runners as they conquered the conditions and the course. When asked how about running his first ultramarathon, Islander Kevin Ross responded “It was great! This will be the first on many.”

The date for next year’s event will be announced shortly on the Vashon Ultra website at www.vashonultra.com.