Race: Redmond Reindeer Romp
Runner: Harmony C
Race Date: 12/01/2018
Location: Redmond, WA
Results: 2:00:07
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/1994945329
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- As a mostly road racer, running through a forest was a really nice change of scenery!
- Someone dressed as buddy the elf (the resemblance was uncanny)
- Great intro to trail racing. The course was beautiful, but not too technical or high elevation
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
- There’s a lot of out and back for the half marathon. I typically don’t mind this, but knowing I’d have to run some of the same hills later in the race messed with my head a bit
- Particularly hard to pass people during the first few miles
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Overall was a really fun race! Relaxed and supportive vibe.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Be sure to snag a spot in front before starting if you’re planning 10 min/mile pace or faster
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
So pretty! Lush trees at all times
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not too tough. Hills at miles 5-6 and 10-11 were hard for me though.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very organized! It’s fairly small and everyone seemed to understand where they needed to be. I really liked how relaxed the race was, yet it was still well-run.
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.
I signed up about a month prior. Didn’t seem too intense in terms of logistics, just showed up an hour prior to start time. We took a shuttle from the parking lot to the start, which was super straight forward and quick. Bib pick-up day-of was also very efficient. It did sell out a few weeks prior to the race.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
There are three aid stations: at mile 3, mile 6, and mile 8. Fuel stations had gatorade, Gu, and coke cola (this made me SO happy – coke cola is my favorite post-run drink).
Weather and typical race conditions
Weather was perfect for late fall in Seattle. Chilly, mostly clear with very light rain.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
I wished I had brought water with me, but I may have not been hydrated enough
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Sure! Some parts of the course are not wide enough for spectators, but a lot of parts are. It was really fun seeing random spectators on the course.
How’s the Swag?
None – there is a raffle for some treats and you can buy a shirt. I was grateful they added on the option to buy a shirt rather than adding the cost in for it.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
10 out of 10 if you’re looking to dip your toes into trail running!