February 2011 - Pre Race discussion here

Craig - 50 MILER START TIME IS 7:00A A.M. (Friday, 25 February 2011 21:19)

FYI if you thought the start time time for the 50 was 6:00 A.M.

NOTE that the start time for the 50 is 7:00 AM. I did know until this evening when told by Charley at the pre-race. Have a good run all.

EricT (Friday, 25 February 2011 15:48)

How/When (or will) will we get our drop bags back after the race?

I was planning on using a backpack that I'd like to get back if possible.

Laura (Friday, 25 February 2011 09:19)

That's great Graham! Yes, we have to be a little crazy to do any ultra, but it's fun and so different than road running. Congrats on moving forward and doing it. You won't regret it. This will be a fun group of people out there. Best of luck to you and a safe run :)Enjoy!!!

Graham (Friday, 25 February 2011 08:54)

I just signed up late last night for the 50M (my first 50M). Initially given the forecast rain, cold, and wind I wasn't going to enter. Then I read this blog with all you crazy people coming from far and wide to run whatever the weather and I signed up. Thanks for inspiring me to give it a go! And best of luck to everyone. See you out there on the trails (or roads :-)).

Craig (Thursday, 24 February 2011 23:38)

Is there late registration at the pre-race meeting on Friday?

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 24 February 2011 20:20)

If you plan on going to the Sports Park on Friday and are going to be in Coto until Sunday, you will have to go to the guard gate Saturday because we are limited to a two day pass.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 24 February 2011 19:49)

packet pickup is either at the pre race dinner or saturday morning before the race at the start finish line

hector (Thursday, 24 February 2011 19:04)

is there a packet pickup, or is it going to be givin at the site.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 24 February 2011 18:34)

We will have tarps both under and covering the drop bags.

Jenny (Thursday, 24 February 2011 17:24)

Will the aid station/drop bag areas be covered?
And, will the bags be in bib # order so that they are easy to access?
Covered or not, a good idea is to put your stuff in large ziploc bags inside your actual drop bag. It helps both organize your stuff and keep it dry.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 24 February 2011 17:14)

Fortunately, we have had clear weather all this week and rain isnt forcast until Friday night. The trails are pretty dry, and since they are sandy they tend to drain well except for low spots. Unless we get really heavy rain I think the trails will be in good shape and it is unlikely we will have to move to the road.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 24 February 2011 17:14)

Fortunately, we have had clear weather all this week and rain isnt forcast until Friday night. The trails are pretty dry, and since they are sandy they tend to drain well except for low spots. Unless we get really heavy rain I think the trails will be in good shape and it is unlikely we will have to move to the road.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 24 February 2011 17:12)

Sophie, nothing other than minimal aid at the turnaround for the 1/2 and full marathon - but keep in mind, it is only 1.5 miles from the Hawthorne aid station, so you will go three miles between aid or 1/2 mile further for just that leg than all other aid stations.

Sophie (Thursday, 24 February 2011 14:16)

Is there an Aid Station at the Marathon/Half Turnaround?

Ben Hian (Thursday, 24 February 2011 12:24)

Thanks Charlie, I appreciate it. I guess worst case scenario we could start on the trails and switch to the road if it gets really bad and then back to the trails if it clears up... Still hoping for sunshine and clear skies though.

Charlie (Thursday, 24 February 2011 12:12)

Just heard from the association that controls the trails. Although we'll be giving them a security deposit because they think we could possibly damage the trails, we will run the trails.

Ben Hian (Thursday, 24 February 2011 10:26)

Charlie and Rob- If the race is moved to the roads, when would we know? Is it possible that the race would be run on the roads when the weather is the worst and back on the trails when it is not as bad? Of course my first option is to run all on trails, but then again I am still hoping for sunshine and clear skies....

Philip (Thursday, 24 February 2011 01:09)

I ran 13.1 on the course last week and it rained for a mile or two. Expect to see some low spots with water in it. Sand bags are used in some hilly areas to control run-off. Don't step in front of them on down hill runs or behind them on uphill runs as water and gravel pool up here. I personally wouldn't call it mud, it is more like sandy gravel. Hope this helps.

EricT (Wednesday, 23 February 2011 22:00)

I'd also love to hear shoe and/or gator recommendations. I was originally planning on just wearing racing flats, but wondering if my trail shoes would be better in case of the rain.

Did I mention I'm a SoCal Weather Wimp?

EricT (Wednesday, 23 February 2011 21:51)

So what's everyone wearing? Would a wool shirt under a rain jacket be appropriate or too much. I'm a SoCal native/wimp who normally just stays inside if it's too foggy out, let alone rainy! Looking forward to "tuffing" it out, but not sure what attire would be best.

Buddy Jones (Wednesday, 23 February 2011 21:03)

I did 50 miles on the course right after a rain. I actually ran about 5 miles or so in the rain. The trail was squishy and soft, but only a few sections were muddy and those were short. Of course that may change if we see heavy rain for a long period. I am still planning on wearing trail shoes with minimal tread.

Ben Hian (Wednesday, 23 February 2011 20:19)

I ran the 50k on the course and muddy, soft and squishy is what I am expecting. I have been following the weather and looks like it is going to be cold and rainy!

John K (Wednesday, 23 February 2011 18:48)

A question for anyone who has ran this course before:

How firm/soft do you think the trail will be if it rains? Please share your experience/thoughts. I've never run this route before and am picturing muddy soft trails if it rains.

Charlie Alewine (Wednesday, 23 February 2011 11:13)

Yes, all those foods will be available at the aid stations, except PB&J sandwiches, which will only be available at the start/finish area. We'll also ahve chips, cookies and bananas at all aid stations.

Comfort Food (Wednesday, 23 February 2011 01:15)

May I inquire if the extensive selection of food available at the start/finish aid station might include any of the following:
1. Pretzels
2. Potatoes (with or without salt)
3. PB&J Sandwich bites
4. Fig newtons
I shall supply in my drop bag if not (at least enough for me)
Thanks

David Thull (Tuesday, 22 February 2011 17:31)

No problem. It was kind of a last min thing. Thanks for the fast reply. See you out there on Saturday/Sunday.

Charlie Alewine (Tuesday, 22 February 2011 11:48)

David, Sorry but we can't take any more RVs, as the association won't allow it. Your crew will need to take a van. Hope that will work for you.

David Thull (Tuesday, 22 February 2011 10:30)

My crew will be showing up after the run starts on Saturday around noon. They were thinking about taking a RV to the race. Do you think there will still be room to park out there or should they just take a van instead?

Looking forward to running my second 100 miler this Saturday.

charliealewineracing (Monday, 21 February 2011 19:36)

For any of you that haven't done so yet, please check out the race packet at the top of the page for all pertinent info about the races. We're still getting questions about things that are on it. Thanks.

Rob Cowan (Saturday, 19 February 2011 22:49)

You can check in either at the pre-race meeting or Saturday morning before the race. The pre-race dinner will be Friday just outside of Coto - see the latest updates page for more information.

Laura (Saturday, 19 February 2011 07:44)

I am assuming that pre-race checkin will take place at the pasta dinner and briefing...or do we still need to come to Coto on Friday for checkin and packet pick-up?

Ron (Friday, 18 February 2011 19:03)

Excellent!!! I am looking forward to the whole weekend, Thanks Charlie!

Charlie Alewine (Friday, 18 February 2011 18:47)

You betcha!! Rain or shine!

Ron (Friday, 18 February 2011 17:53)

Can I assume these races will happen rain or shine?

Philip (Friday, 18 February 2011 16:34)

Please open/download the updated race packet on the right hand column. Also, please visit the "latest news" tab http://www.rockyroadruns.com/latest-news/ regarding the pasta dinner details.

Laura (Friday, 18 February 2011 16:15)

Any word on the pasta dinner and briefing for Friday night? We're a week out and we need to make plans...just wondering as the race info said "details coming later". Do we know if there is a dinner and where?

Rob Cowan (Tuesday, 15 February 2011 19:59)

No limit for the marathon or half.. ok, limit is 12 hours :-)

emily lyles (Tuesday, 15 February 2011 18:13)

just curious but is there a time limit on the half marathon? i am quite slow (my PR for a half was only 2:30) but this course looks amazing and i'd love to experience an endurance event like this!

Rob Cowan (Tuesday, 15 February 2011 10:44)

We just found out that due to another event at the Sports Park that we will have limited RV parking. Please send me an e-mail at robcowan@aol.com if you are planning on bringing an RV and we will do our best to accommodate everyone. Stay tuned for more details.

Ben Hian (Sunday, 13 February 2011 18:43)

Thanks Philip. I am really hoping for nice sunny weather.

Philip (Sunday, 13 February 2011 17:31)

You gave me a great idea Ben, I just added a weather widget to the website to better prepare everyone for the big day.

Ben Hian (Saturday, 12 February 2011 20:24)

I love the countdown timer! Does anybody know what the weather is supposed to do on race day?

Eric T (Thursday, 10 February 2011 12:39)

Thanks for the input folks. I'll probably just play it by ear. During my split training day, I was surprised at how good I felt in the evening. I actually dropped 45 sec per mile off of my a.m. run time.

But, during the four hour break, I used a foam roller, took an ice bath, elevated my legs, slept and ate. Not sure I'd be able to get all that in in an hour break. May bring the roller though.

Ben Hian (Thursday, 10 February 2011 10:22)

Hi Eric T. I have run many 100s and I fully agree with Laura. Everybody is different but I know for myself if I stop moving, my muscles immediately start to stiffen. I also believe there is something mental that occurs when you stop during a race. Your mind starts to believe it is over and your body acts accordingly. I have heard the quote "avoid the chair" many times form Ultrarunners.

Laura (Thursday, 10 February 2011 08:54)

It may work for you but if I layed down for that long I would be stiff as a board and would not want to get up and move again. I have done four 50's and even sitting in a chair to change socks and eat a bit made it diffucult to resume the race. It would help with sleep deprivation but I would not think it would be good for your muscles...any other opinions on this or am I wrong???

Eric T (Wednesday, 09 February 2011 16:08)

I am so looking forward to this event. I've needed a "break" like this for a while.

I just had a few questions:

If I read correctly, we'll be able to leave drop bags at any of the aid stations - how/when will they get there?

I also noticed several people bringing RVs, do we need to make special requests to do that?

Lastly, this will be my first 100. I've done two 50s, but this will be my first go at the century. What are the logistics and/or insights into taking an hour or so break/nap after the first 50? One of my training days included a long run in the morning, a four hour break, then a long run in the evening. It worked out surprisingly well and was considering something similar on race day.

Thanks all, Feb. 26 can't get here fast enough.

Joselito (Jose) San Gabriel (Tuesday, 08 February 2011 15:01)

Two plus weeks to go, everyone! I am excited, and I know you all are, as well!

Kylie, thanks for the offer! I just sent you an e-mail. :)

Kylie (Thursday, 03 February 2011 18:27)

Anyone need a pacer?? I am pretty sure I am going to be there as I have a friend racing, but he is covered. So I am thinking of volunteering, or pacing if anyone wants company! Just send me an email: kyillee <at> gmail <dot> com.

I am considering making this my first 100 in 2012... so impressed with all of you ready now :)

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 03 February 2011 18:10)

Yes, you are required to have a headlamp at night, so if you plan on needing more than 11 hours you should bring some. You can have a drop bag at any aid station.

Divya (Wednesday, 02 February 2011 23:03)

Will I need a headlamp? How many drop stations are there for warmer shirts etc? Thanks! Getting very excited!

Charlie Alewine (Wednesday, 02 February 2011 14:18)

Attn 100 Milers!! For those of you doing the 100 Mile run, when you park your RVs, trailers, trucks and autos in the parking lot close to the trail head, do not park close to the trail head itself, as that's where our start/finish area will be this year, or you'll be required to move when I get there to section off the HQ area late Friday afternoon on Feb 25th. As you come into the dirt parking lot, go all the way to the back left area. Only 100 Mile runners are allowed to park in this area. There is another dirt parking lot for all other runners, as well as plenty of street parking. Thanks! Charlie

Charlie Alewine (Tuesday, 01 February 2011 23:05)

There will be Hammer gels at the aid stations.

Divya (Tuesday, 01 February 2011 21:48)

Will there be gels at the aid stations? Or should i carry my own? Thanks!

Rob Cowan (Tuesday, 25 January 2011 12:38)

The Heed flavors will be lemon-lime and strawberry for the race.

Rob Cowan (Tuesday, 25 January 2011 12:37)

John, you should be able to get in the Sports Park anytime Friday morning on.

John Blaylock (Tuesday, 25 January 2011 07:58)

Hi Rob,
Ginny and I will be driving in with our camper tlr. from Co. and it is hard to estimate the driving time this time of year. Do you know what time on Fri. we can get into the parking area? We would rather be in the back of the lot rather than in front. Better for sleeping during the night.
Thanks,
John

Rob Cowan (Monday, 24 January 2011 12:27)

Laura, I would do some night runs if you think you might have trouble staying awake. I know the only way I stay awake that long is when I'm running :-).

Laura (Monday, 24 January 2011 09:00)

Hi divya,
You think you're intimidated? This will be my first 100. The minute I registered I thought "are you out of your mind"??? I must say though, this is something I want and have wanted it for a long time, and hopefully I have enough grit within me to pull it off. My biggest concern is staying awake for that many hours. I am one to be drooling on the couch at 9pm, plus the fact that I am almost 60! I have four 50's under my belt and have run 66 before. Do you guys think I can do this??? Any suggestions?

Rob Cowan (Wednesday, 19 January 2011)

Divya, I only ran marathons before my first 50-miler and did fine. With 8 50ks under your belt you are more than ready to step up!

divya (Tuesday, 18 January 2011 21:14)

thanks juDE!

juDE ULtra (Tuesday, 18 January 2011 20:55)

@divya - dont get caught up with the numbers... your heart and grit determines whether or not you finish... you'll know when you're ready, because you'll WANT it.

cheers... goOD LUck.

divya (Tuesday, 18 January 2011 20:03)

hi, this would be my 1st 50 miler. longest distance i have run is 50k (8 times), longest time on feet 8 hours. would love to give the 50 miler a try, but intimidated by the distance. last 50k run was 1/16. any thoughts please? thanks!

Rob Cowan (Tuesday, 18 January 2011 18:14)

Donna, as we get closer to the race let me know if you are still looking for a place to stay, and I'll see what I can do.

Donna (Monday, 17 January 2011 09:38)

I am going out on a limb here. I am wanting to stay at race site but don't have a camper and Rob noted it may get cool. Anyone have a bed in their camper they would be willing to rent/lease? I am willing to pay for whatever. It would just make my life more convenient. thanks

juDE ULtra (Saturday, 15 January 2011 09:43)

cheers, i found a friend to help out :)

juDE ULtra (Wednesday, 12 January 2011 01:17)

......
allo... Looking for anyone heading into the race from Laguna Beach area? (hoping to catch a ride with someone :)
....

John Hockett (Tuesday, 11 January 2011 07:53)

Hey Ben, I never had any issue mixing flavors of heed, but I had issues with the mixture if its made to strong or weak.

Ben Hian (Tuesday, 11 January 2011 05:43)

Thanks Rob. Do you know what flavor? I would like to get some before the race to use in training to get my system used to it.

Rob Cowan (Tuesday, 11 January 2011 00:52)

We will have Heed as Hammer is our major sponsor for the race.

Ben Hian (Monday, 10 January 2011 20:24)

Thanks for putting on the preview 50k this weekend. It is going to be a fun 100 miles! I am curious what hydration fluid you will be serving at the aid stations.Thanks.

Rob Cowan (Monday, 10 January 2011 13:36)

Claire - if you look in the Race Packet, there is a section that lists local hotels. I will try and get a pacer page up on the website soon.

Claire Heid (Monday, 10 January 2011)

Is anyone looking to be a pacer? Also, what are hotels in the area that would be good to stay at? Thanks.

-Claire

Charlie Alewine (Monday, 10 January 2011 13:17)

Joselito - I'm not sure where you heard that, but it's just a rumor! There's no limit on the number of entrants for the 100 Mile race, or any of the other races for that matter. We expect 100+ runners for the 100 Mile race.

Joselito San Gabriel (Sunday, 09 January 2011 23:15)

I heard that there is a limit of 50 entrants for the 100-miler. Is this true or an unfounded rumor? I just signed up tonight for the 100-miler. Thank you and see you next month!

Jose

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 06 January 2011 12:52)

David - I ran 50 before my first 100 and did fine, so if you've done 66 in 12 hours you are good. No problem for the RV parking. See you in February.

David (Wednesday, 05 January 2011 16:50)

About to send in my application for the 100. 2 questions: 1) I just completed a 66 mile run in 12 hours on a flat course, that is my longest run to date, is that enough or should I have a few more longer than 50 runs before my first 100? 2) Can I reserve a spot for my RV Friday eve before the race for me and my crew?

Rob Cowan (Saturday, 01 January 2011 22:40)

Regarding Western States, they changed the rules this year and now have a list of qualifying races. Even though some runners used the race last year to qualify for the 2011 race, we did not get on the list so we apologize to those who were planning on using the Rocky Road as a qualifier. We will do our best to get on the list next year.

Michael (Friday, 31 December 2010 22:40)

Sent in my entry for the 100- mile. Please reserve space for our RV It's a 31-foot motorhome. Thanks so very much! Happy New Year!

Donna (Thursday, 23 December 2010 19:31)

I am considering having a pacer and am curious if anyone is interested??!!!
@ Stacy-you need to go to dirtygirlgaiters.com and check out the attractive cool gaiters.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 23 December 2010 10:16)

I've been living in Coto for 12 years and have yet to see a mountain lion, so I wouldn't worry too much Stacy. I I run the trails almost everyday.

stacey costa (Tuesday, 21 December 2010 17:26)

Okay, this is a city girl concern but I noticed that there are mountain lions in the area. Should I carry a whistle, pepper spray, cat treats, etc. for my safety? I won't have a pacer and, at 5'1" and 110 lbs,, would make a good midnight snack for a hungry critter. Of course, for this race, I will refrain from wearing my beef jerky skirt....

Rob Cowan (Tuesday, 21 December 2010 09:16)

Pacers are allowed after mile 45 starting the fourth leg.

david thull (Tuesday, 21 December 2010 03:06)

are we allowed to have a pacer run with us, and if so what mile can they start pacing us?

John H (Saturday, 18 December 2010 23:44)

I'm in for the 100 please put me down for RV parking Friday night I have a small 19ft RV.Thanks looking forward to it.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 16 December 2010 17:04)

A few new items - the Relay Team information is now posted on a separate page on the website. Also, male/female winners of the 50 and 100-mile races will receive a pair of Montrail running shoes as well as the nice Rocky Road trophies!

Jean-Jacques (Monday, 13 December 2010 22:29)

Confirm my Friday night RV parking. Thanks!

Rob Cowan (Friday, 10 December 2010 13:47)

We will reserve RV parking in the main parking lot for 100-mile runners - I will see if I can arrange for 50-mile runners to be able to park nearby.

Justin W (Friday, 10 December 2010 13:35)

Rob, I also plan to bring an RV. I do plan to be there over night on Friday.

John K. (Thursday, 09 December 2010 21:51)

Rob, regarding RVs, can I bring a 36ft motorhome? Im mailing my registration for the 50 mile race this week.

Rob Cowan (Wednesday, 08 December 2010 16:58)

It is confirmed that the Rocky Road 50K will be held on January 8th. Also, the course elevation profile is posted on the course map page.

Rob Cowan (Wednesday, 08 December 2010 09:31)

We plan to hold a 50K Race on the course in early January. Look for more details soon.

As far as gators, probably not needed.

Jeff Coon (Tuesday, 07 December 2010 20:56)

I would like to run the course prior to the race. Any chance a training run could be set up? Alternatively, is there access to the public? Thanks.

stacey costa (Tuesday, 07 December 2010 18:16)

For those that have run on this trail before, would you recommend Gators? You know, those ugly things that go over your shoes to keep debris out of your socks...

Rob Cowan (Monday, 29 November 2010)

The Sports Park will be available Friday night for anyone who wishes to park their RV/car - no tents, though... Please let us know if you plan on parking overnite Friday

Stacey costa (Sunday, 28 November 2010 16:25)

This will be my 2nd 100 miler. I've also done a 50 miler and a 100k. Really looking forward to seeing something other than the Vegas desert.

Rob (Saturday, 27 November 2010 21:27)

Awesome Stacy! Is this your first 100?

stacey costa (Saturday, 27 November 2010 08:33)

Never you mind, Rob, never you mind. I'm moments away from slapping a stamp on my application for the 100 miler! Woohoo! Will opt to stay at a nearby hotel. Look forward to meeting you later this winter.

Rob (Tuesday, 23 November 2010 18:38)

Stacy,
Pretty sure it won't be a problem but will get you a firm answer next week.

stacey costa (Tuesday, 23 November 2010 15:10)

Rob - Seriously contemplating the 100 miler. A lot depends on whether or not I can park my small 22 foot RV in the parking area on Friday night. Have you received any feedback from the association as to whether or not this would be acceptable?

Jean-Jacques (Tuesday, 23 November 2010)

Thanks, Rob!
Glad to see Charlie plans on joining us!
Had fun running with him at Boulder.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 18 November 2010 13:23)

Jean-Jacques, glad you are coming out again. I will make sure we have access to the parking area Friday night.

Jean-Jacques (Wednesday, 17 November 2010 12:20)

Have sent in my entry, but don't see my name on list, yet.
For Michael and Rob: I spent Friday night (2010 race) in the Start/Finish parking area with my PU camper, having no problem with guards issuing me a permit for same as I entered the gate.
Hope same will be true in 2011.

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 11 November 2010 11:44)

Michael,

I'll see if I can arrange to have the parking area for the race available Friday night

Rob Cowan (Thursday, 11 November 2010 11:43)

David - aid stations are 2.5 miles apart for the whole race - I don't plan on carrying any water.

david thull (Thursday, 11 November 2010 09:38)

how far apart are the aid stations? they look pretty close on the map. just trying to figure out if i should bring my back pack or my hand held for water.

Michael (Monday, 08 November 2010 08:17)

I would really appreciate having that option. We haven't yet decided whether we will fly, drive or take our motorhome. Any info. regarding staying in the area Friday night with our RV would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Rob Cowan (Friday, 05 November 2010 15:54)

Course map and Race Instruction are now up on the website.

Rob Cowan (Wednesday, 03 November 2010 16:00)

Michael,

Yes you will be able to park at the start/finish aread during the race. Let me know if you want to stay in the RV Friday night and I will check with the Coto association to see if that is possible.

Rob

Rob

Michael (Tuesday, 02 November 2010 22:28)

Would I be allowed to park my motorhome at the start/finish area for my crew?

Andrew (Monday, 01 November 2010 09:24)

Great! I've done some 50k races and have run 50 miles as a
training run. I'll resgister soon. Thanks!

Rob Cowan (Friday, 29 October 2010 12:20)

Although recommended, you do not have to complete a 50-miler to enter the 100-mile race.

Rob Cowan (Friday, 29 October 2010 12:19)

Each loop for the 50 and 100-miler is 15 miles. The 50-miler will have a 5-mile out and back at the end, and the 100-mile will have a 10-mile out and back. Hope this helps, we will have a full course description up soon.

Andrew (Thursday, 28 October 2010 23:38)

Do you need to do a 50 miler to qualify for the 100?

david thull (Thursday, 28 October 2010 18:24)

How long is the loop for the 100 miler?

Rob Cowan (Tuesday, 26 October 2010 17:52)

Hi Donna - do you need a pacer or do you want to be one?

Donna (Sunday, 24 October 2010 20:25)

Is there anyone lookin' to be a pacer?

Rob Cowan (Wednesday, 06 October 2010 17:09)

Race details are being finalized, let me know if you have any questions. This is a good forum to air them.