Craig Thornley, the co-founder and race director of the Waldo 100K, has been named Assistant Race Director of the Western States 100 and will assume the position of Race Director upon the retirement of current RD Greg Soderlund after the 2013 race.
“Craig will be heavily involved in the race for the next year and a half,” Western States Board President John Trent said, “which should assure a smooth and orderly transition.”
Trent noted that a nationwide search turned up several highly qualified candidates. “We had a really strong slate of candidates. Ultimately, Craig’s enthusiasm, experience, and commitment carried the day.”
Thornley, 48, who currently lives in Eugene, Oregon, grew up a few miles from the Western States finish line in Cool, California. He has completed more than 60 ultras, including eight finishes at Western States.