Sangre de Cristo Ultras 100 Mile Race Report – Kat P

Race: Human Potential Sangre de Cristo Ultras 100 Mile

Runner: Kat P

Race Date: 09/21/2019

Location: Westcliff, CO

Results: Finished in 35 hours 19 minutes

Strava Activity Link: https://strava.app.link/NrOV8EKWg0

sangre de cristo 100 mile ultra race report
Photo Credit: Diane Pisano

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

The amazing community
Camping the night before
Views and most of the trail

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

Cattle guard crossing 8 times
Few aid stations were very lacking (most notably the turn around point)

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

It’s unmarked because John fell off a 4-wheeler the year before and couldn’t mark it, so it stayed that way.

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

I pushed past wanting to stop.
I enjoyed having the opportunity to run, chat, walk, and just support all the fellow runners.

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

CALORIES, I know we all know that, but it’s hard when stations don’t have anything appealing. I will be stashing more things I like in my drop bag.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

Stashing more things in my drop bag.
Taking the time to fix something that is bothering you early on.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Very technical in sections
Lots of small rocks and roots
Stay on the rainbow trail (which is mostly unmarked)

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

YES. Music pass is breath taking, views are in multiple points, and the Aspen groves are picture worthy.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

Yes, it’s technical, has lots of gain and loss, and route finding.

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

Well run race.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

Not the point of this race series. There were fast runners, but it’s more about being one community out there.

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.

Small field, although expecting to expand next year.

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

Standard.

Weather and typical race conditions

Blue bird days, lead to cold, but not unbearable, or unexpected nights.

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

No.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

No.

How’s the Swag?

Amazing, unicorns and rainbows (literally).

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

8

sangre de cristo 100 mile race report
Photo Credit: Diane Pisano

Looking for a coach to help you prepare for your first ultra? Check out our coaches to find the right fit for you!