The pre-race meeting was the one and only opportunity for all the runners and crews to be in one place altogether. Hosted by race director Chris Kostman , this action-packed, air conditioned, and on schedule extravaganza included:

A fifteen minute video presentation produced by Dan Dominy that included race highlights from 2003, Dean Karanazes' recent appearance on Outside Magazine's Ultimate Top Ten "Bad Boys of Sport" on Outdoor Life Network, and Pam Reed's appearance on the Late Show with David Letterman.

Dean and Pam receiving their 2003 plaques for placing 2nd and 1st overall, respectively.

A welcome to Death Valley National Park from park service permit manager Dave Rhinehart and Park Superintendent J.T. Reynolds.

Marshall Ulrich and Jack Denness received the first ever "Ten Time Finisher" awards.

The induction of Tom Crawford and Richard Benyon into the Badwater Hall of Fame in recognition of their efforts at creating and promoting the original race on the course in 1987 and for becoming the first athletes to complete a Double Badwater in 1989.

And everybody's favorite moment, bringing all 72 athletes onto the stage. Quite a sight!

The big race starts in the morning. Stay tuned!