A sad day for New England trail runners

It has been an emotional week for many of us in the New England trail/ultra running community.  Earlier this week, we were shocked with the news that Chad Denning, a well-known and well-respected New Hampshire ultrarunner, unexpectedly died last Sunday.  He collapsed while hiking/running on the AT in New Hampshire.

 (Chad, offering Amy a high five during VT100)

Chad was a talented runner, finishing on the podium more often than not.  However, it was his personality and selflessness that will be missed.  Chad was one of the most enthusiastic and optimistic guys we have had the pleasure to know - he would give us a big hug, calm our nerves about an upcoming race, and always be able to make us laugh.  He and Brian shared many miles, as Chad often volunteered to pace Brian through the VT50 and VT100.  He lent us equipment for races - always wanting to help us do our best, and having an optimistic outlook on what we were capable of achieving.

(Chad offering congratulations to Brian after pacing him to the finish line at VT100)

It is hard to know what to write about Chad, so I'll just point to the numerous articles that capture much of what made Chad an awesome member of this community, and a good friend.  His presence and spirit will be missed.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and trail running buddies as they continue to cope with the shock and the loss of Chad.

(Chad and Brian sharing mile as Chad paces Brian at VT100)

http://www.outsideonline.com/news-from-the-field/Champion-of-Trail-Running-Dies-on-AT.html
http://www.vnews.com/home/13475153-95/well-regarded-endurance-athlete-dies-while-running-trail
http://trailrunnermag.com/people/news/1474-chad-denning-dies-on-appalachian-trail
http://www.actionhub.com/news/2014/09/11/extreme-athlete-chad-denning-dies-appalachian-trail/