Race: American River 50 Mile
Runner: Chris B
Race Date: 04/06/2019
Location: Folsom, CA
Results: https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=57086#id1431352
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/2270574642
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
The spectators.
The aid station food.
The course.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
I can’t think of anything, really.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
50 miles runner had to be shuttled to the start line 90 minutes before 6am (no parking allowed). That means my fiancee and I had to wake up at 2am to eat breakfast and catch the shuttled at 4am. Thankfully we were able to nap on the bus.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
The course is so beautiful. The first part is on a bike trail following the American River and covered with trees (so green!). The second part follows the shore of Folsom Lake where the water is very green and inviting (it was hot in the afternoon and I wanted to go for a swim).
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Train for rolling hills. The trail section was very tough. The constant succession of steep uphill followed by steep downhill was very tiring.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Don’t just train for hills. Hill repeats is a must. Rolling hills are highly recommended.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Pace yourself. The first part is quite deceiving: save your strength for the trail portion of the race.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
It is beautiful.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Yes. The trail portion ends in a steep 3 miles uphill section that leads to the Auburn staging area. I had to fight hard to keep moving.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very well organized and run. Start happened flawlessly, aid stations were stocked with plenty of food, staffers were helpful and the course was very well marked.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Yes! The first runner finished in 6 hours 20 minutes.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Register quickly as hotels offer deals for early birds. Fiancee and I stayed at Lake Natoma Inn and the service was outstanding
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Pickle juice, soda (it was a cupless race – every runner gets a collapsible one at check-in), PB&J, Boiled potatoes. Fully stocked aid stations!
Weather and typical race conditions
Very cool in the morning and overcast. Cloud cover burned off around noon. The temperature was in the low 80s in some areas.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
Other than a strong pair of legs, nothing special is needed.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Spectators were everywhere on the paved section, high-fiving and cheering, super friendly.
How’s the Swag?
Finishers get a custom jacket.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 out of 5. Seriously.
