I just completed my first running event / race, the Ragnar Relay, and there are some things I learned as a n00b. But first, let me assure you all that I have lots of footage that I am going through and you will surely see an episode of RunThirty dedicated entirely to this event, so stay tuned. So for now, here’s a list of things you might consider bringing to a foot race.
- As much as I stand by Nike Free’s for building foot strength, they didn’t make the cut for LONG road races in regards to shin support. If you’re running on pavement for say more than 5 miles roughly, I recommend a shoe with more padding. The whole point of Nike Free’s is less padding to build foot strength, but this is for your regular shorter running routines. I ran over 17 miles in Nike Frees and after running that much on pavement, you need some padding. Even the Tarahumara run on dirt and trails in their tiny rubber flaps, they aren’t running on roads. I’ll be investing in some Newton’s.
- Bring some pain medication. I took some Advil and some Motrin at two different points which definitely helped me continue the race despite some pain.
- If it’s a relay where you are in and out of a van like I was, bring some plastic bags for trash. You will be eating and drinking a lot while in the car.
- Bring food. This is kind of a no brainer, but it’s worth mentioning.
- Bring energy gel packs. I downed one before my last leg at 3:30am and I had a serious boost of energy for the entire 8 miles
- Again, if it’s a relay, bring toiletries like toothbrush & floss, deodorant and a towel. They had showers ready for the participants and you seriously feel much better if you can squeeze in a shower before you have to run again.
- Bring a head lamp and a reflective vest for the night legs. They were required for our event.
- Bring an extra pair of shoes just in case and maybe even some extra running clothes, you never know.
- Pray. It works.
My friend Michael Stevens recommended I do a foot race and described the energy surrounding them as very enticing, encouraging, and a whole lot of fun. The Ragnar Relay was just like this, but throw in a sleep over party, a road trip, and sleeplessness and you have a relay race! I had EPIC fun.
Chevas – met you at the Ragnar. We ran the same legs. Now I know why I didn't see you on the third leg…since you started at 3:30…I didn't begin until 3:50. Bet you didn't get passed by about 8 of the elite athletes (uphill) like I did. Shameful, I tell you. Anyway, I forgot about your RunThirty pod cast until I uploaded pictures to my computer and saw one of myself with you in the background. Checked out your site. Lots of fun. Cheers! Lindsay
Now that you're not on the Ragnar anymore, thanks for dropping a line! But we finished, and that's what counts! I did really well my last leg, was probably my fastest. I was juiced up on adrenaline, motrin, a gel pack, and overall excitement, despite the butt crack early start time.
Is it possible to see some photos? Footage has been reviewed, I'm in the editing process now for the Ragnar episode.