This article focuses on choosing a trail race first appeared in ATRA’s fall 2023 quarterly newsletter Trail Times.
Not all trail runners race in events. Those who do race typically have some interest in competition. It might be to compete against the clock for time, to post a specific result, or tackle natural elements like terrain, distance, or weather.
Perhaps the choice may be as visceral as an inherent drive to compete against others. Whatever the reason(s), a variety of factors can contribute to why a certain race is chosen over another. Carefully consider each factor so that the end result leads to the best possible outcome.
Picking a trail race
Picking a race can be as simple as choosing a convenient date that works into a busy schedule making it all about timing. The timing can be affected by what a training program, or training cycle allows. It’s not a good idea to jump into a 10 mile race if your longest run to date is 2 miles. Likewise, running back-to-back weekend 50Ks is probably too ambitious. Work up to a distance that suits your training and ability and select a race accordingly.
There could be a desired location that is either in close proximity to where you live, or a place you want to visit and these factors could solidify your race selection. The profile, distance, or terrain of the event might also determine the choice. Sometimes reviews from past participants impact the decision, or the experience level of the race director and history of the event.
How the event responds to the environment (recycling, use of local products and vendors, carbon footprint , etc.), whether there is a welcoming vibe from diversity to inclusion can also affect the choice.
Custom trophies for race winners and a custom medal for all finishers can be an incentive.
Other influences could boil down to race amenities. This could include prizes or swag up for grabs, on-site day care, or a guaranteed once-in-a- lifetime experience like running in an area not open to the public except on race day.
Cost may be a consideration, not only that of the entry fee, but also what the spend total will be to include transportation and specific required gear. How well an event builds or enhances the trail running community may also be on the check list.
Most important, will the event deliver all that is promised and fulfill the entrant’s expectations. This final item will only be realized after the race is completed.
Pre-race meetings provide a final opportunity to ask questions of the RD.
Race planning
With a specific event chosen, the next step is to prepare. This requires both physical and mental training. Going it alone may be one approach, another is to amass a support crew. It might be time to get a coach to help map out a strategy and training plan. It’s also time to take stock of whether you will need pacers and aid station help and finding the right team to fulfill every position on your team. What is required will depend on the race in terms of distance, terrain, number and location of aid stations, and race regulations.
Use the same gear and nutrition on race day that was used in daily training. Research what is offered on course at aid stations and either train with like-products, or carry your own on race day. Spend time reviewing the course profile and terrain and train on like surfaces that offer comparable elevation gain/loss. Weather can also be a factor so be sure to train in inclement conditions to be prepared for whatever race day offers in terms of temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation.
Try to check out the start area and finish area sometime before the race (which could even be done the day before), and visualize yourself in the race. This will help with mental preparedness. As well, have a positive mental attitude with “can do” words and phrases that can become instrumental in a successful outcome throughout preparation and on race day.
Minutes before the race start at Moab Trail Marathon. Photo: Tayte Pollmann.
Race day
You’ve made it this far. Stand on the start line with confidence and know you are ready for whatever you might encounter. Give your best effort and smile at least once during the race. Smiling often eases nerves and supports the reason you run in the first place. It makes you happy.
After completing the event, take inventory of what you did well, and what you could improve upon in future training and racing. You may even plan your next race.
Check out ATRA’s comprehensive online race calendar and advanced search engine to find the race that fits you the best.
Another great spot on the internet to find a race and register is to check out ATRA corporate member UltraSignup website.
Editor’s note: For more tips on picking your first trail race, read the following article.
