Racing Strategies

Now that your warm-up is done and the gun is about to go, remember the cardinal rule of racing: DON'T GO OUT TOO FAST!

1.   "Too fast" is faster than YOU should go. You will feel your best in the opening minutes of the race, regardless of the distance. Adrenalin, the rush of racers, an audience, you don?t want to be last. They are all highly motivating to a fast start, however you can use up a lot of precious energy you can?t get back but wish you had, late in the race. Ideal pacing causes you to negative split, which in a nutshell means that you will run the second half faster than the first half.
2.   If you are racing a half-marathon and up you should be carrying nutrition with you. This can be some combination of gels, bars or fluids. Remember to not only carry them but to use them as well. Starting 1 hour into the race you should begin taking in your chosen nutrition, depending on your size, every 15 minutes but not more than every 1/2 hour.
3.   Many racers have gotten in the habit of carrying fluid on board. This is helpful as you may drink at will as opposed to waiting for a water stop. If you like a fluid replacement other than water, carry it in empty film canisters which are small and fit nicely in fanny packs. You can then mix up your drink whenever it is needed.
4.   Just before water stops, take a gel then walk through and drink.
5.   Moving through water stops should be done with respect for others. Yell out what it is that you are looking for and a volunteer will ensure you have it. If it is on both sides of the road walk or run through the middle after getting your nutrition. If it is on one side only, walk or run on the opposite side.
6.   To drink from a paper cup on the run, pinch the cup into a v and drink from the tip.
7.   Etiquette dictates the middle of the road is for slower runners and walkers and that faster racers will pass on the outsides of the pack. Remembering this will keep you from being run over by someone faster. If you are competing with a group, DO NOT string yourselves across the road, but rather break up into smaller groups so others can get by. If you are passing others let them know by yelling out "on your left" or right, whichever applies.
8.   Encourage at least one other runner.
9.   If someone looks like they are in medical distress get them help.
10.   Thank AT LEAST one volunteer.