One of the reasons that the Barkley Marathons has endured despite only 15 people ever finishing in its 38 year history, is because its adherents view the Park it is held in as sacred land. The originators of the event know practically every square inch of the Frozen Head State Park. And I mean to the extent that they can argue minute details ad nauseum. Things you and I would never even care to notice.
Even Ron Moore, just a young 7-year Barkley acolyte, knows the park better than you know your own neighborhood. His Barkley friends spend a lot of time in the park, always adhering to the rules of the Tennessee Park system and Lazarus Lake's rules concerning the Barkley.
It is never a sure thing that the park will continue. For years it has been desired by many people longing for the coal underneath. The Barkley Marathons have attracted much interest in the park. In turn, more and more people have become active in trying to preserve not just Frozen Head, but all open park land.
The Barkley Family, to a man (counting all genders in the original sense!) are strict environmentalists. No one can enjoy their chosen hobby (or job in the case of some) without the beautiful acres they need to continue it.
Spouse The Better also came along to see wildflowers. My mishap and Ron's too-early exit from the race, means she didn't see as many as she wanted to.
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