In 1982, Leadville's primary employer, Climax Mine, shut its doors and ceased operations. 3,000+ miners were instantly unemployed, devastating the town. Overnight, Lake County had the highest unemployment in the nation. In searching for ways to save the struggling community, the Leadville Trail 100 running race was born. Beginning in 1983 with 45 runners racing an epic 100 mile trek through the rugged Rocky Mountain terrain, the Leadville Race Series has now expanded w...