Cascade Crest 100 Race Report – Anson Fatland

In this race report, runner Anson Fatland shares his experience running the Cascade Crest 100 and the cardiac needles. Read on for his tips!

Race: Cascade Crest 100

Runner: Anson Fatland

Race Date: 8/28/2021

Location: Easton, WA

Results: 82/152

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/5874602667

cardiac crest cardiac needles advice

3 Bests – What aspects of the Cascade Crest 100 did you like the most?

It’s a classic! It’s super friendly! And it’s gorgeous!

Not so much – What aspects of the Cascade Crest 100 didn’t do it for you?

Not one thing.

Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about the Cascade Crest 100?

Nothing weird, it’s a classic!

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

We had a re-route this year because of closed access to some private lands, so we did an OAB from Hyak to Tacoma Pass then the regular course from Hyak to Easton. I was able to run a lot of the course in training ahead of race day so felt good knowing what was coming. I managed my nutrition well and took care of any niggles as they came up instead of just riding them out.

Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the Cascade Crest Endurance Run to help the next runner

I don’t know that I have any pro-tips, especially from the back of the pack. Try to run the course as much as you can in your training, especially the Cascade Crest cardiac needles. You’ll be on 85+ mile legs by then. The Pacific Coast Trail is hillier than you may realize so plan for that, too. And there is no shame in walking early in the race, as well as later in the race. It really doesn’t start until you get to Hyak.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

I didn’t realize how hard it was going to be (for me) to run the last 10-ish miles. My legs didn’t want to move quickly because I was tired. I power-walked as much as I could, even the downhill parts.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the Cascade Crest 100

The Cascade Crest Cardiac Needles are the real deal. Prepare for them and run them ahead of time if you can.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

Yep, gorgeous from start to finish.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

Yep.

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

Excellent all around, from pre-race communications to day of to after, it’s a top-notch event.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

Seems like it. Lots of strong runners.

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.

Nope. Just win a spot via lottery. And the 9am start time almost makes it a leisurely morning if you’re coming up from Seattle.

Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?

Terrific aid stations. Lots to choose from. Fresh huckleberry pancakes at No Name Ridge in the morning!

Weather and typical race conditions

We had great weather. 70’s and clear during the day, 50’s and a gajillion stars at night.

Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?

Nothing special. I picked up poles at Lake Kachess for the last 30 miles.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Kind of? Stampede Pass is off-the-charts for fun and the vibe. A great place to see your runner. Hyak is great, too. Maybe Lake Kachess after that but it’s probably middle of the night by then.

How’s the Swag?

It’s a buckle!

The Overall Score – How many stars do you give the Cascade Crest 100 and do you recommend that others run it?

13/10.

Get more tips on the Cascade Crest 100 from our race intel page!