1973 Nike-OTC Storm the Butte

Environmental controversy enveloped this race.

Environmentalists feared damage to the ecosystem of Spencer’s Butte from the hundreds of runners ascending and descending the Butte.

The race was changed the next year to become the Butte to Butte race, from Spencer’s Butte to Skinner’s Butte.

In 1973, runners responded to environmental concerns by joining forces and repairing the hiking trails and any other possible damage shortly after the race.

I participated in this environmental restoration project.