Race: Rocky Raccoon 100
Runner: Alan V
Race Date: 02/02/2019
Location: Huntsville State Park, TX
Result: 36th- in 22hr 19min
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/2121133949
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- It was pretty close to home. Last year I think I traveled out of state for all but one.
- The entire course is runnable and covered. You can run the whole thing, no big climbs or downhills.
- Seeing some familiar faces and the volunteers. Everyone was super nice and helped me out.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
- The entire course is runnable. You can outrun yourself early on and be walking a lot. It’s good and bad at the same time.
- The mud and roots. My feet took a beating from these two. I changed socks on every loop and they would be steaming like crazy. I also kicked roots and cursed.
- Humidity. It felt like it was about to rain most of the day and night. It did rain a few miles up the road. It only got up to 65 but I did sweat a whole lot. Some people where shivering uncontrollably at night when the temps dropped.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
It’s not rocky like the name says. Petition to change it to Rooty raccoon!
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Finishing…I’ve had trouble finishing a 100 so this one felt good. Also, I kept my stomach together the whole time.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Look out for roots and check the weather. There are some speedsters that usually show up so run at your pace.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Take it easier the first loop to finish better. Also, I changed my shoes the last loop which I shouldn’t have; my Nike kigers were doing so well all day with no issues but I wanted to have dry feet and that led to some nasty blisters.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
It’s fast and rooty. It’s four 25 mile loops so you’ll be able to see your crew a lot and get an idea of how far things are.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Yeah, but it all kinda looks the same.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Yes, most people get hurt by the roots and fall, and you can outrun yourself. There were a few huge mud puddles that were ankle deep.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Yup, Tejas Trails has their shit together and always puts on top notch events.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Yeah there are always a few speedsters every year. Usually the winner is around 12:30-14:00.
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.
Nope, you could sign up last minute and get a hotel with no problem.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Pretty standard stuff you’d expect.
Weather and typical race conditions
You can’t predict Texas weather. It could be hot or cold or both
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
Depending on the weather,
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
People mainly stay at the aid stations.
How’s the Swag?
The shirt is nice. The buckle is cool too.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5/5. I’ do it again.
