What were your impressions before and during the race? Did anything surprise you?
Tema – I thought there was great energy before the race – the volunteers were very helpful and the bib pick-up process was extremely well-run.
John – All the email communications from UTMB were very professional and slick (even more than Ironman). That said, those glossy communications did not accurately convey how technical (read: rocky) the trails were, nor the amount of bouldering and rappelling that would be entailed.
Tema – We were very surprised by how technical and challenging it was. We didn’t feel we could run for much of the course because it was too rocky. I even had the benefit of John warning me how technical it was (the 50K was Saturday and the 25K was on Sunday). We definitely should have taken it more seriously when the race director referred to the “Cliffs of Despair” in the athlete briefing.
How did the race unfold for you?
Tema – I felt great leaving the start line. It was easy road running, and I was enjoying the race vibe. That shifted abruptly to an extreme uphill on very rocky terrain. It was a shock. I felt defeated and after only 3 miles I had to have a talk with myself and recommit to the race. As it continued, I realized I would be hiking on rocks for miles and miles. I was able to run on more flat terrain from mile 6.5 to 7 and 10 to 11. Other than those short sections it was hiking over rocks or traversing boulders. I was very happy to have my hiking poles for both ascending and descending. The descents were so steep I needed careful footing and support to keep from falling.
John – I felt great at the start (same as Tema). That initial climb was a monster, but by the time my (back of the pack) group got there it was a traffic jam. It reminded me of those pictures of Mt. Everest where everyone is queued up to hit the summit. Once we got to the top of the ridge though the group broke up and I was able to run on the trails. That turned out to be one of the only sections of the course where I could run. I felt like I was sticking to my race plan – nutrition and hydration were good, but the heat eventually must have gotten to me. Around halfway I started to cramp up. I even had a couple bouts where I couldn’t move. That was a fight the rest of the way.
It was probably around miles 15-20 I realized I was going to be hiking most of the way rather than running. I wished I had hiking poles (and knew how to use them). They would have helped on those descents and the seemingly vertical climbing.
What would you share with someone who’s thinking about the race?
Tema – First and foremost, know you are going to be on rocks and boulders for most of the race. Don’t do this race if you have a fear of heights either. I would not do this race without poles. Be prepared to hike!
John – Everything Tema said. Given the pace, you are going to be longer on the trail between aid stations, so carry more liquids and fueling that you would normally think you’ll need.
I would also recommend heat acclimatization to prepare. The race was in mid-May and was much warmer and more humid than any of my training runs. No doubt that was a major cause of my cramping problems.
Would you run this course again?
Tema – Honestly, no. I am glad I experienced a UTMB event and I’m proud I was able to finish. I prefer courses that are more runnable. I don’t need a bouldering and climbing challenge.
John – I’m not sure. Perhaps I did as best as I am able to on this course, but I’m stubborn so the feeling I have “unfinished business” might push me back there. And I hear they may have a 100K option next year….
P.S. from Tema – thank god I didn’t see any snakes. The race director warned us about them. Had I seen one I would have actually perished.
