Race: McDowell Mountain Frenzy

Runner: Coach Georgia Porter

Race Date: 12/03/2022

Location: Phoenix, Arizona

Results: 1st Female, CR

3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?

I like that this race had a bit of everything in it. There were fast, flowy trails that tested speed, rocky, technical trails that tested skill, and a gnarly, steep (seriously, it’s insanely steep) climb that tested strength. I also loved the setting. McDowell Mountain Park has some beautiful desert running. I also really liked how the race was set up to come through the start/finish at mile 42 before heading out for the final 8 miles. It made things fun for runners and for spectators.

Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

It’s always hard for me to find something I don’t like about an Aravaipa race. There was one confusing spot on the trail that could have used a bit more signage. But other than that, it was super well marked.

Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?

This year was funky because it rained a ton for the second half of the day! It doesn’t often rain for that long in the desert so the trails got crazy wet and muddy. I felt like I was on a cross country course the final 8 mile loop.

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

I really enjoyed the layout of the course. It was nice to start on the flowy trails to ease into the race. It was also fun to work into the more technical trails and to start climbing when the legs were tired of running flat.

Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner

As with most 50+ mile races, there was a huge benefit to going out at a controlled and conservative effort. Because the trails at the beginning are so flowy, it can be easy to start running too fast. Resist the urge! You want your legs fresh for the climb up Thompson Mountain.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

I had a rough first 16 miles with stomach cramps and GI issues. I didn’t feel fresh and I was definitely concerned that I was going to have a really bad day. But things turned around! I learned that things can turn around and that you don’t have to feel great to have a great performance.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

The climb up Thompson Peak is incredibly steep. I’m talking 30% grade in spots. It’s difficult to climb and it’s difficult to descend. It’s also paved. Getting in some specific training to make sure your legs can handle it is ideal!

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

If you like beautiful desert running, this race is for you! The race starts right before sunrise so the first hour is absolutely stunning.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

Is a 50 mile race ever easy?! There were aspects of this course that made it “easy” in comparison to other 50 milers, and aspects that added difficulty.

This race is at 2,000ft so there’s no high altitude. The trails are mostly very runnable with nothing too technical. However, because the trails are so runnable, it can beat you up pretty quickly if you’re running hard! The climb up Thompson also adds plenty of difficulty to the course.

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

As with all Aravaipa events, this race was very well run. The race director Scott Traer does a fantastic job of organizing, playing MC, and keeping the stoke high.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

This year the race offered a year Salomon sponsorship as the prize for the first male and first female. This brought out some good competition and hopefully, the race will continue to build on this momentum!

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.

It’s easy to register for this race via the Aravaipa website or Ultra Sign-Up. It’s near Phoenix so lodging is also very easy to find.

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

There was a typical “runner buffet” at the aid stations. The volunteers are always so amazing!

Weather and typical race conditions

Typically weather is great. 50s and 60s for temps with clear skies. This year it was cloudy and it rained later in the day.

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

No special gear needed for this one.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Spectators can hang out at the start/finish and watch runners start, see them come through at mile 42, and watch them finish.

How’s the Swag?

The swag included a race shirt with awesome Aravaipa artwork and a sticker.

The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?

Two enthusiastic thumbs up!

Georgia Porter is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about her or to work with her, check out her coach profile.