History & Organization
The Lost Lake Breath of Life Run began as a simple idea—a desire to make a big impact for those living with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) in Alaska. With few fundraisers dedicated to CF in the state, we wanted to create an event as bold and expansive as Alaska itself. Knowing the Seward community’s love for running, a trail race felt like the perfect fit. But where should it take place? The answer was obvious—Lost Lake.
This 16-mile U.S. Forest Service trail starts at Primrose Campground, winds through stunning alpine landscapes, and finishes near Bear Creek, just outside Seward. We had the perfect location. Now, we needed to make the race special.
Most races offer the usual—t-shirts and medals—but we aimed for something deeper. We wanted runners to feel the heart behind this event, to understand that every mile they covered helped fuel the fight to cure Cystic Fibrosis. This wasn’t just a race; it was a movement.
The Lost Lake Run kicks off with the traditional “Carbo Feed” the evening before race day. It’s a chance for runners to gather, swap strategies, and fuel up while picking up their race bibs. The next morning, last-minute check-ins take place before runners are shuttled 12 miles to the starting line. The energy builds until the starting horn sounds, and runners take off into the wild.
Roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes later, the fastest runners begin crossing the finish line—just in time for the celebratory barbecue. It’s a moment to relax, share stories, and cheer on the incoming finishers. Later in the day, awards are presented to top finishers in various age categories, closing out the event with well-earned recognition.
When the Lost Lake Breath of Life Run first hit the trails in 1992, it saw just 55 participants. Today, the race reaches its 750-runner capacity almost instantly—selling out in just over five minutes in 2016. It has become one of Alaska’s most sought-after mountain races, drawing runners from near and far.
More importantly, the impact has been immense. Since its inception, the Lost Lake Run has raised over $2 million for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, bringing hope and critical funding to those living with this challenging disease.
Every runner. Every step. Every dollar. Together, we run for a cure.
The Founder
Marsha Vincent is the race’s founder. Marsha is the mother of four children, two of which have Cystic Fibrosis. She is the reason this race is what it is. As the Chairperson of the race, Marsha made sure that every year the race is better than the last. Marsha is quick to point out, however, that this race would not have lasted if not for the dedication and support of all the generous sponsors, race volunteers and runners.
Expanding The Management Team
Over first 15 years, Marsha raised over $600,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, a nonprofit donor-supported organization this is seeking the means to cure and control Cystic Fibrosis (CF) and to improve the quality of life for those with the disease.
After 15 years of tireless commitment, Marsha has decided to seek additional support for running this annual event. In an effort to expand the organization and create an entity that could exist far into the future, as well as possibly expanding the type of fund raising activities for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the organization of the Lost Lake Run has been converted from a volunteer organization to a formal non-profit corporation. Marsha remains involved in the planning of the event and it is our goal as an organization to strive to maintain the quality and character of the Lost Lake Run that she has created.
The Board of Directors
Lost Lake Run, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to raising money to benefit people with Cystic Fibrosis. The Lost Lake Run’s Board of Directors are as follows:
- Patrick Simpson, President
- Gary Green, Director Emeritus
- Sabrina Walker, Secretary
- Pamela Ellis, Treasurer
- Flip Foldagar, Director
- Kelly Simpson, Director
- Mike Hanscam, Director
- Nicholas Pulice, Director
- Christina Schlegel, Director
- Deanna Whitcomb, Director
