Race: Double Dipsea
Runner: Mimi P
Race Date: 06/15/2019
Location: Stinson Beach, CA
Results: 3:32:48 Official Time
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/2453025627
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- The setting for Double Dipsea is beautiful! The Pacific Ocean on one side, eucalyptus-scented Muir woods on the other.
- History – My husband, his sister and I have done the race together now four times.
- Iconic Race – The 50th running of the Double Dipsea was something we just couldn’t pass up!
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
This race is so hard, but, see 3 bests above …
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Definitely the handicapping system is weird! Your actual time, and your handicap time are two entirely-different things! I don’t really understand it all.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
This was by FAR my best outcome at this race!! Kudos to coach Tyler Sprague!! My first year, my time was just shy of 4:45. The second year, I DNF’d – #broken toe; year 3 I was pretty proud of my 4:06 time! I blew it out of the water this year after being coached for the first time in my life! I really couldn’t even believe it was happening, but when I reached the turn around at Mill Valley in 1:42, 18 minutes ahead of last year’s time, I knew I was in for a big PR! My actual time finish of 3:32 was almost 15 minutes ahead of what I had hoped and dreamed might be my time!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
This is not a race for the timid. It’s hard. No question. If you don’t want to get your ass kicked, sign up for a different race!
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Trust my coach! 🙂
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
It’s not really about the race, but there’s a LOT of poison oak along the trail! Wear as much coverage as you can bear on your legs if you react to poison oak. Change clothes. Wash your clothes. Use Tru-Tech (I think I spelled that correctly) to wash off afterwards!
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Gorgeous!!! The Pacific Ocean. Muir Woods. Stinson Beach.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Very!! At least I think so!! 4500′ of elevation gain and loss (closer to 4,100 by my Garmin) in 13.7 miles. It’ll definitely get your attention and keep your quads and calves in high alert for a few days afterwards.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very well run and organized. Brazen Racing does a great job!
Competition – Is there a strong field?
I’m probably not the best person to say. I “think” so. Alex Varner was a top finisher this year.
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.
Registration is limited to a couple of days, and I believe it sells out quickly, but if you get in once, you’re golden! We stay with family in the Bay Area, so I can’t offer much comment on other logistics.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Great aid stations. #cocacola Great volunteers, and almost always a few fun fans out on the course offering encouragement just where you need it most. One year, a trail angel on Cardiac with much-needed water on a hot day!!
Weather and typical race conditions
No typical — it’s the Bay Area. Nice and cool, foggy and even a little rain this year with a high in low 60’s probably. Some years it’s hot and sunny and smokin hot!
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
Gators. Poison Oak scrub for afterwards. Hydration vest and a little fuel on board for in between aid stations if you need it to get up one of the hills or sets of stairs.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
It’s a lot of single track, but there are some road crossings, and the trails are all open to the public.
How’s the Swag?
Good stuff! Again, Brazen Racing does a great job. Nice finisher’s medals and a patch. The tech shirts come in mens’ and womens’ sizes and cuts. They’re a little gaudy usually, but a gaudy you’re very proud to wear! 🙂
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
10 out of 10
