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On June 21, 2008 a freak lightning storm passed through the Central Coast and a lightning strike in Big Sur sparked the fire that came to be known as the Basin Complex fire.  The total acreage burned to date is 138,220 and the fire is only 72% contained, with complete containment predicted for the end of July. Over 1,400 structures have been threatened, with 26 residences and 32 other buildings destroyed.  Nearly 2,000 firefighters from all over the country have come to Big Sur to fight this fire.  The cost to date exceeds $67 million. One of the homes lost belonged to Big Sur Marathon founder Bill Burleigh; several of our Board members live and work in Big Sur, including the manager of the popular River Inn.

While the forest will regrow and homes be rebuilt, the fire's devastating effect on the environment, wildlife and residents of this tiny, rugged community is already apparent.  Big Sur is a tourism based economy, and a two week closure of Highway 1 has cost them dearly. Additionally, the potential for mud slides during the rainy season is a major threat that must be dealt with now.  Many past participants of our events have called and emailed to see if they can help in any way.  If you would like to donate to the community of Big Sur, please click HERE for more information.  We, and the Big Sur community, thank you for your consideration. 

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If you plan on running or walking our Big Sur Half Marathon on Monterey Bay on November 9, 2008, register soon! Our numbers are substantially ahead of last year's and we will sell out at 5,500. Also, the price increases on September 1st. This gently rolling, scenic Half Marathon is held on the Monterey Bay coastline and rivals our marathon events in organization, execution and course beauty. For more information and to register, click HERE. 

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