Race: Sisters Skyline 50k
Runner: Jason Bremer
Race Date: 09/24/2022
Location: Sisters , OR
Results: 14th of 224, 11th male
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/7861405136/overview
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
This is a well-run race, in an absolutely beautiful setting, almost entirely on great single-track trails.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
I’m not a big fan of courses that require a shuttle to the start, but not a big deal.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
I wish there was something weird about this race. –Can’t think of anything.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
The first two-thirds of the race is up high near The Sisters and Broken Top. They’re great trails and I felt like I was in the flow for big parts of this. Interesting that almost all of the vertical gain is in the first 10 miles. Makes for an interesting course profile which I thought was fun.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
The 10-mile climb to start is pretty mellow, but make sure you don’t go out too fast. The trails aren’t too technical–makes for a potentially fast course when you consider the profile as well.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Is it possible I need to hold back more for the end of the race?! Yes.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The course profile is interesting in that almost all the gains happen in the first ten miles, followed by 22 miles of descending/flat. That sounds like a lot of descending but it’s pretty mellow so not something to watch out for. In fact, the last 12 miles are quite flat.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
The first two-thirds of the course is incredible. But the race needs to end in Sisters and for that reason the low-lands finish to the course isn’t nearly as beautiful as the first 20 miles. Definitely, in total, it’s a beautiful location worth doing for that reason.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
It’s relatively easy as far as 50k races go.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Race organizers had their act together! No complaints.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
There were some strong runner, but I wouldn’t say it was intensely competitive.
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.
There’s a ton of accommodations in Bend, which is 30 minutes away. There’s some but less up in Sisters. Given the early start, and the need to make the shuttle on time, it would definitely be preferable to stay the night in Sisters the night of the race.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Standard fare.
Weather and typical race conditions
September in Sisters is about as good as it gets, though it got pretty hot by mid-day.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Consider how you’re carrying your liquids, given 10 miles between the first couple aid stations.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
The course is almost impossible for spectators. Probably best to plan on seeing your crew at the finish only.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
Great race and I recommend it, 8/10.
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