Race: Stories Ultra
Runner: Diane P
Race Date: 02/08/2020
Location: Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Results: tied for 3rd in the 15 hr race
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
The venue was beautiful. Volunteers were so friendly and helpful. Race director was there to hand out everyone’s medal and give a hug.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I think I paced myself well. I talked to lots of people which I really enjoyed and built a snowman! I think my fueling was ok with the help of crew and pacer.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The race consisted of 4 loops that had to completed in order. You could do them as many times as possible in the time allotted. There was a 30 hr, 15 hr and 6 hr you could sign up for. The course was well marked with ribbons denoting the loop you were to be running. The weirdest one was the longest and last of the 4. It was a wonky figure 8.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
It was a very pretty course especially with a foot of snow the day before and race day was total blue sky.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not too terribly difficult. Not a lot of elevation gain in any of the loops. The loops were in increasing length.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
It was the 3rd year for this race. It was well run but there are a few things they know they need to make better.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
These races are for anyone who wants to see what they can accomplish for themselves. There are always some strong runners but it is about reaching your own potential. There are no awards for 1st, 2nd or 3rd. The series is aptly named Human Potential Running Series.
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.
Some of the races fill up quickly and then there is a wait list. Many of the races are equipped for camping.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Many of the aid station captains are given standard fare such as bacon, pancakes, quesadillas, candy, cookies, salty snacks, ramen, water. But as always there are some different things brought by the captains. Hot soups, chili, sticky rice, etc. It is fun to see what there is.
Weather and typical race conditions
There was a foot of snow the day before so the first loops consisted of breaking trail after the trail markers had been out the day before. But race day was about 45 and sunny. That’s Colorado for you!
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Many runners used traction. It was more needed as the night got colder for the 30 hr runners.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
There was only one aid station at the start/finish because all loops started and finished there.
How’s the Swag?
The medals are all hand made wooden medals designed by the race director and maker of the medals. The T-shirt is nice and this race we got a dry bag.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
I would give this race 5 stars for this year. One year it was really muddy and another it was 5 degrees! It is a winter ultra!
