Race: Habanero 100 (20k)
Runner: Lydia Schrandt
Race Date: 08/20/2022
Location: Cat Spring, Texas
Results: https://ultrasignup.com/live/live.htm?dtid=46073
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- The crazy challenge of the whole thing
- The stellar volunteers and well-stocked aid stations
- General tailgating race atmosphere
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
- The sand pits
- Not the most scenic course
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
It starts at noon in August in Texas, which generally means crazy heat and humidity. For my race, it was 88 with a heat index of 100, 66% humidity, and this was considered a rather cool day for this race’s standards.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I knew I wasn’t going to set any speed records given the heat, so I went out intentionally slow. Pretty much everyone was walking at some point or another, and I can almost always pass people while walking/hiking. It was slow, but I managed to place 3rd female in the 20k.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
This is a weirdly Texas challenge with distances ranging from 10k to 100 miles (including 100k and 100-mile relays). If you’re looking for a challenge that doesn’t involve any vert, give this one a try. The race is well organized, and you’re never more than 3 miles from an aid station.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
This is all about heat management. I had to slow down way more than I expected.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The course is a 10k loop that goes through several sand pits. Gaiters were a life saver to prevent it from getting in my shoes. The whole course is technically easy and runnable, but the extreme heat makes it a challenge.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
The course passes through 7IL Ranch an hour west of Houston. It’s pretty typical Texas countryside. Nothing spectacular. Honestly, it was too hot to worry much about the scenery 🙂
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not really. Several sandy areas, but relatively flat and not at all technical.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Yes, Trail Racing Over Texas puts on fantastic events with great volunteer support. This race was no exception.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Not especially. I imagine it’s more competitive at the 100-mile and 100k distances, but it’s not really a race where anyone’s going to PR.
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.
Very easy to register. It sometimes sells out, but usually only a week or two in advance.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
A full range of sodas, water, Gatorade, and snacks. They also have Powerade slushies, which are fantastic when it’s hot. There’s always plentiful ice and ice buckets with sponges for cooling off. There were two fully staffed aid stations on the course (a 10km loop) as well as one unmanned station with water and ice.
Weather and typical race conditions
Hot and humid. Expect a head index of over 100 at the starting line (and until after sundown for the longer distances).
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Gaiters to keep the sand out of your shoes.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
The start/finish line area is pretty lively with a bunch of people (including families) camping out for the weekend.
How’s the Swag?
Tri-blend shirt, nice medal, and a cool visor with led lights along the front of the brim
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
3.5/5 – Objectively, it’s not the prettiest or most fun race, but it does offer a unique challenge and an excellent community.
Want to get into trails but not sure where to start? Check out our coaches to see if we can help!