by
Sean Lunny, B Ed. [Kinesiology]
Adventure racing is not easy, and there are a lot of things that can go wrong,
and unfortunately for some people do. Follows these tips, and hopefully nothing
will go wrong during your next MOMAR.
#10
- Not wearing running shoes that fit, or wearing a pair you bought only the week
before. Too often I see people hobbling around with huge blisters after a race.
If your shoes are fitted properly, this shouldn't happen. If you're not sure how
a shoe should fit, make sure you get your shoes from a store that knows what it's
doing. If you have questions about the shoes you have, feel free to drop by a
Frontrunners store and they can tell you if your shoes are the right kind for
you.
#9
- Not knowing how to use a compass. There's lots of books and courses out there,
make sure you have it dialed in before you have to use it in a race.
#8
- Not pacing yourself. Through training, you should have a pretty good idea how
quick you can go. If you team is going too fast, let them know; otherwise, that
last half of the race may be a disaster.
#7
- Panicking when things go wrong. It's an adventure race, so things are almost
bound to go wrong at some point. Realize the race is long, figure out the problem
and get back in the race.
#6
- Following someone you think knows the way. They may know even less then you
do, so stick to your plan.
#5
- Being too slow in transitions. Too many teams spend way too much time changing
clothes and packing their bags in transition. Think about what you need before
you get there so you can just grab it and go. Also wear good clothes like a Helly
Hanson Lifa top that will dry quickly so you don't have to change clothes mid
way through the race.
#4
- Not eating and drinking enough. Know what you like to eat and drink while working
hard, and make sure you have enough to get you through the whole day!
#3
- Not looking at the map and having an organized plan of attack. As soon as you
receive your map come up with your (not the team beside you) own plan of attack.
Check for the areas where there are major direction changes or cross roads so
you can make sure you're going the right way.
#2
- Not being organized before you get to the race. An adventure race is not like
a 10km running race where as long as you show up with your shoes you will be okay.
There is a lot of gear to bring to a race, and a lot of gear you are required
to carry. Make sure you have a list with everything you're going to need for before,
during and after the race, and place it all in a container. This way you won't
be missing anything that may have come in very handy-like food!
#1
- Not saving enough energy for the after party! The MOMAR ones are legendary and
you don't want to miss out.
