The Chimera is a beast from Greek mythology. According to Homer it is part goat, part lion, and part serpent. The
question remains, which is the Chimera - the ultra-runner or the mountain?
The 2009 Chimera 100 races had to be called off six hours into the race when the weather deteriorated rapidly, eventually raining over 9 inches at the highest point in the race, and destroying three aid stations on the ridge.
The day was saved by the volunteers who stayed at their positions until the last of the runners were off the Mountain. The last volunteers, Chris Diaz, Jean Ho, and Bruce arrived at the race finish line after 1:00 AM. This year the Chimera won... Chimera II (the revenge of the ultrarunner) will take place in the fall of 2010.
The 2010 Chimera Races will take place on a more difficult but more interesting course. Rather than 9 miles of single track the runners will travel 50 miles on single track before rejoining the Main Divide (if the forest service approves the 'hard' course). Stay tuned!