Start in Ouray, run 10 miles uphill with an elevation gain of 5,300 feet to the top of Imogene Pass and then descend 7.1 miles to Telluride. It sounds crazy to many but tomorrow 1600 runners will mark one big item off their bucket list--the Imogene Pass Run. The miles have been logged; the hills have been climbed. Now all that remains is a big dinner with lots of carbs for fuel and a good night’s rest. Tomorrow marks the 44th Annual Imogene Pass Run, a 17. 1 mile running race from Ouray to Telluride over Imogene Pass.  With an elevation gain of over 5,000 feet and a top altitude of 13,120 feet, this run is not for the faint of heart.

The event has increased dramatically in size since its humble beginnings back in 1974. Where once it was an adventure run for a few pioneers, today the race is immensely popular and the number of registrants is restricted due to safety and logistical reasons. Nowadays, it is quite common for the race to sell out in less than an hour. The first lucky 1600 people get in. Those that don’t will most likely add it to their bucket list for the following year.

There are some veteran Imogene runners who have tackled this challenge multiple times. They will push themselves to their limit and attempt a faster time. There will also be the first timers who will be thrilled to cross the finish line, no matter what time the clock says.

All runners who cross the finish line, whether they break a record or take it slower, have one thing in common-a grin from ear to ear as crowds cheer them with a warm welcome to Telluride.  Their sense of pride and accomplishment in taking on the Imogene is evident and inspiring.