Originally Posted by
Viva
Don't go crazy on that downhill start from Downtown. Take it easy on the first 5 miles or so of pavement.
Once you find your groove, go with it- you'll know exactly what pace is appropriate at any given moment. DO NOT try and hold back if you're feeling good on the long downhills. That can cause you to adopt a weird stride and you may end up tweaking something. Don't go gangbusters either.
By now you know what works for you. Stick with your routine. don't try anything new. Period. There will be a lot of weird shit served at the aid stations, especially at night. Eat prudently. Best to stick with what you know works, but expect to get sick of your normal food and drink after 15 or 20 hours. Chicken soup is usually safe for most people. Mix in some extra salt if you're cramping a little.
^^^Unless you totally blow up. Then, when you finally crawl into the next aid station, tell the aid station captain or chief medical person exactly what's going on with you and that you intend to finish. Then do exactly what they tell you to. Some of those guys have been there for over 20 years and they know their shit.
When you leave the aid stations, thank everyone on the way out.
Avoid the chair. There's absolutely no reason to ever sit during Leadville, unless you just have to change socks following that river crossing at Twin Lakes. You're there to run, not sit. Once you sit, it will cost you time and your legs will fell like caca when you get up.
Likewise, avoid lingering at aid stations. Fill your bottles (or cameltoe), grab some food, pinch the cute girls on the butt (I liked to give hugs- seriously, try it. When they ask you if there's anything else you need, ask for a hug. Just don't get an erection because you don't want to interrupt the blood supply to your legs) and get back out on the trail. This can be hard at places like MayQueen, where they have this ridiculously long tent with heaters and benches. Very cozy when it's in the 30s outside and you're sweaty and dressed in shorts. Get what you need and get the fuck out.
If you're hurting, no more than 2 ibuprofin every 4 hours.
Eat some home-made cookies at the Hope Pass aid station. Stop and take in the view from there; easily the most beautiful section of the race. Don't forget to pet the llamas either.
Redundancy. Keep things you may need in several drop bags. Anticipate where you might need gloves, a pullover, etc. Keep extra flashlights and batteries in every drop bag you'll hit during the night section.
Will you have a crew. Make sure that they have a camera and that they use it. There'll be some great memories and chances for some great shots.
HAVE FUN!!!
