Jim Ramacier, will join two other 2004 USATF 100K team members representing their home state of Minnesota for the US at the 2004 World Cup 100K in the Netherlands on September 11, 2004. Ramacier, (40) from White Bear Lake, MN enjoys competing against top runners in USATF championship races and has selected the road 100K as a specialty clocking a 7:58 PR at the hilly and demanding 2003 Edmund Fitzgerald 100K in Duluth, MN. "You get to compete and learn from the best. Taking part in a well organized championship race gives you the opportunity to reach your full potential." As he enters the masters division, the talented Ramacier will be doubly competitive in ultra competition.

About competition in national and world ultra championships, Ramacier says that he, "learned to compete at a championship level, remain focused and be well trained. There is a lot of tough competition; and a runner needs to be ready to race hard." In advising future 100K runners Ramicier counsels, "Train Hard. Come to the race well prepared and have fun. It is a great experience; enjoy the moment. A runner will gain great knowledge of ultrarunning from other experienced athletes in these races. I realize I have a long ways to go in perfecting my ultradistance racing.

The 2005 IAU 100K World Cup Under the Patronage of the IAAF will be held in Lake Saroma Japan on June 26, 2005. Ramacier hopes to qualify for the 2005 race by running well in Winschoten. To be considered for the 2005 USATF 100K team, runners must be current USATF members and meet qualifying standards. Qualifying standards for the 2005 team and other 2004 team member profiles are published on the MUT website at http://www.usatf.org/groups/MountainUltraTrail/