Indiana 100 – Dave S

Race: Indiana 100

Runner: Dave

Date: 4/29/17

Location: Albion, IN

Results – 19:10:35 , 2nd place overall

3 Bests – what aspects of the race did you like the most

  1. The Chain O’ Lakes state park was surprisingly beautiful.
  2. The course was incredibly well marked. I actually don’t think it would be possible to go off course. There are permanent trail markers, in addition to ribbon blocking alternate paths and reflective flags throughout.
  3. The aid was exceptional, and easy on crew.

 

Not so much – aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

The weather is typically bad this time of year in Indiana, and didn’t disappoint this year. We had a wild storm almost stop the event, and a number of runners ended up dropping from hypothermia. Also, with just a little water large sections of the course become covered in a super slippery mud, almost making running impossible. I found all of this to add to the adventure of a loop course, but some may not enjoy it!

 

Weird factor – what’s the weirdest thing about this race

I saw deer, foxes, turkeys, and tons of other wild animals on the course!

20 Miles in and still looking fresh

Highlights of your race – what did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular

While I had things go badly leading up to and during the race, I made the right choices and executed well on race day with what I had to work with. In the end I turned what could have been a DNF or bad race into my best 100 mile performance yet!

 

Lessons for others – share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner

See my post my mantra for more on this!

 

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Be prepared for mud, wet, and cold!

40 miles in and wet and cold!

Aesthetics – is it a pretty course

For some reason I wasn’t expecting this course to be pretty, but it was amazingly beautiful!

 

Difficulty – is it a tough course

Compared to other 100’s this is on the easier end of the spectrum due to only around 10k feet of elevation gain and great aid and crew access, but the weather and mud make it challenging.

 

Organized and well run – did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?

This was one of the most organized and well run ultra events I’ve been to!

72 miles in and running strong

Competition – is there a strong field?

There can be, but not always. It’s a newer (this was the 5th year) and lesser known 100, so doesn’t always draw top talent.

 

Spectators – is this a friendly course for your friends

Most aid stations are easily accessible and have plenty of cover for both runners and their crew/spectators.

 

Awards –

Belt buckles for all and plaques for the winners

Showing off the hardware!

The Overall Score – how many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it

5/5

I’d highly recommend this race!

In the Moment in Indiana

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