Race: Coldwater Rumble 52k
Runner: Stacey N
Date: 1/20/2018
Location: Estrella Mountain Regional Park, Goodyear, AZ
Results: 6:59:11
Strava Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/1369698627
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- Super chill vibe.
- Sunny t-shirt weather in Jan.!!
- Well oiled machine: course markings, aid stations, volunteers. These guys just know how to put on solid events.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
It is loopy! Lots o’ signage at each intersection due to different distances and design of race, ya really gotta read and make sure you are heading the right direction.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
The sun was out! Arizona is a great place to get a break from the PNW gray blahs.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
The way the race is set up they allowed drop bags for 52K runners and you pass one drop bag multiple times. It makes it so you do not have to carry much if you do not want to. Be prepared for sand, a few decent stretches of it.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Loopy, sandy, and rocky.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Did I mention it was sunny?? I think Javelina course was prettier. This was one was nice, killer sunrises!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
It is very runnable elevation change wise and for many it could be a great place to PR.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
This organization just has their stuff nailed down. Well oiled machine.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Not sure, those folks were all waaay ahead of me! 😀 It did not seem to have a wide spread competitive field.
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.
Logistically easy. The race was not full. We flew into Phoenix and stayed in a hotel in Goodyear, AZ about 15 min away from start line. It is a really easy and quick weekend race-cation for sure!
Aid Stations
Awesome. Well stocked. Cupless.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Not spectator friendly really. It is a loop. If some one is running the 100 miler family and friends can hang out at the finish/start line where runners will come through a few times. As a 52k runner, I came through there at mile 20.
How’s the Swag?
Got a great cotton shirt that actually fits a woman’s body! Dude! Finisher glass was fun too.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 stars yo! Yes I do recommend it. I would run it again.