Steve Fealtman Memorial Awesum Possum Lake Trail Adventure 2024

Short review

Join friends and family for a scenic 4 mile run/walk/hike at Opossum Lake!  You'll be amazed at this little gem in the middle of Cumberland County and glad you tackled this well-loved and scenic course.

The Friends of Opossum Lake (F.O.L.C) is honored to host this event in honor of Steve Fealtman.  Steve  was a proud US Marine who served from 1981-1985.  He continued to serve his community by dedicating his time and serving on the board of F.O.L.C. for 10 years. He was an active outdoorsman who loved kayaking, hiking, biking, running and hunting  He spent countless hours enjoying nature and wildlife on the trails and water of Opossum Lake. He also donated many hours of time working alongside volunteers on the Anglers Access Trail that surrounds the lake.
 
 In April 2019, Steve Fealtman suffered a fatal heart attack while training for a half marathon. His family, friends, comrades, and community know that Steve had always dreamed of organizing a run or hiking event around the lake.  So, in his honor, we have organized this event to help achieve his dream.  

The race is a 4 mile counterclockwise loop around the lake.  The terrain includes grassy fields, pavement, rocks, roots, and mud.  And since it's March there could be snow!  Participants will see the lake, perhaps some wildlife, and take in fabulous views of the lake.  The defining view is from the top of the epic "Fealtman Hill" at mile 3 where you can leave your mark and sign a banner signaling you were here for Steve's first Opossum Lake running event!

The official trail name is the Anglers Access Trail with an additional out and back on Mt. Zion Road.  Feel free to check the area out beforehand or find reviews on AllTrails.com, the PA Fish and Boat commission site, or find a local to give you a tour!  

For the fleet of feet or competitive folks we will have awards for the top male and female runners.  Awards will go 2 deep for the following categories:  12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 plus.  This race is chip timed.

Please note the 3 registration categories: General, Youth (12 and under), and Military (Military= Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, Retired, Veteran, and/or Dependent).

Other Important details:

Dress for the weather.  There is limited shelter at the lake so you will be outside the entire time you are here.  Wear good shoes as the terrain is mixed.  Please leave your pets at home.  Parking is limited at the lake itself but additional parking is close (within walking distance).  Snacks and refreshments will be provided and we encourage participants to stick around and learn a bit about the lake and enjoy the community that Steve loved so much.

All proceeds go to the Friends of Opossum Lake Conservancy.  F.O.L.C. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that is committed to restoring and preserving the lake through working collaboratively with other friends and supporters and with Community, Township, County, and Commonwealth stakeholders.  They do a fantastic job of keeping Opossum Lake alive and running for all to enjoy.

T-shirts-  If you sign up before August 10th you'll get an official, unique Awesome Possum T-shirt.  We promise you'll love it...what's not to love about a shirt with the word "Possum" on it?!   

Location:  There is no address to use for GPS.  However, if you use "Opossum Lake Park" on Google it will come up.  The park entrance is on Opossum Lake Road, near Easy road.  There are quite a few ways to get to the lake, none of them on a straight road.  

Packet Pickup:  To save time on Saturday morning we will have a packet pickup at the main pavilion at the lake on Friday, August 27th from 4pm-7pm.  You can get your race bib, check out the course, and talk to some nice people!