Race: #RUNtheATL
Runner: Matt Anthony
Race Date: 07/10/2022
Location: Atlanta, GA
Results: n/a
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/7446989563
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- The unknown! The race instructions are given out only minutes before the race so course and final mileage are unknown until then.
- The course is roughly following the Atlanta Beltline (https://beltline.org/) a project to turn a ~25 mile loop of rail lines around Atlanta into a giant loop around the city – every year, more of the path is complete.
- The challenge. It’s damn hot in Atlanta in July and the course (sometimes) includes grassy fields, abandoned apartment complexes, active rail lines, water-filled tunnels, etc.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
I mean, it’s really hot, but for endurance runners the sucky parts are features, right?
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
It’s not sanctioned so if you get asked, you say, I’m just out for a run. The swag is a painted railroad spike.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I do almost all my running early in the morning so I’m a wimp about direct sunlight, especially in the summer. Although I lucked out with lots of clouds, I still felt good about handling the heat.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Pack everything you need. Or not. You pass tons of convenience stores, restaurants, etc.!
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
More sun training.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Lots of flat, straight courses.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Yes, in an urban kind of way.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
No, just the distance and conditions.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very organized especially considering it’s not “official”.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Always some speed demons – podium this year was all women!
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, hit the site: http://www.runtheatl.com/
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
One, cookies, water, chips.
Weather and typical race conditions
Hot and humid, pray for rain. Muddy.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
I wore a vest, others did not.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
There were not any but it would be very easy to “intercept” your runner along the course.
How’s the Swag?
Railroad spike, painted.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 of 5