Running on fire-hot trails – Medford News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News

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Running on fire-hot trails By Andy Atkinson Jul 23, 2009 12:00 AM A A Blistering heat made the hills seem even steeper Saturday for the 77 runners who entered the eighth annual Britt Woods Firehouse 10K Run in Jacksonville. The Firehouse Run uses a staggered, handicap starting system that pushes most of the speedsters to the back of the pack, forcing them to play catch-up. The course follows single-track trails that cross two bridges over Jackson Creek, with steep, grueling climbs and many switchbacks. "I should paint a target on my back," said Chuck Whitley before starting. "Those fast guys are going to be gunning for me." Starting with the first group, 57-year-old Suzanne Ray of Jacksonville didn't have to play catch-up, but she played good defense, winning for the second year in a row in 52:49. Nineteen-year-old Richard Zhu of Medford couldn't catch Ray but turned in the fastest time, breaking the course record in 39:03, finishing fifth overall. Reach freelance photographer/writer Andy Atkinson at [email protected]. Suzanne Ray crosses Jackson Creek on her way to winning the Britt Woods Firehouse 10K trail run Saturday through the Jacksonville Woodlands.