Race: Sugarloaf Marathon
Runner: Ben Curll
Race Date: 05/14/2023
Location: Eustis, ME
Results: 3:26:45
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/9070587780/overview
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Finally a breakthrough Marathon!
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Nothing – what a perfect day!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Go conservative the first 10k, as 7-10 are some hills, and then light it up last 16!
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Replicate effort from last time, maybe start a little faster to improve time, and hydrate better after 16
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
HUGE elevation drop last 16, so train running downhills, or your quads will be toasted!
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Extremely, runs right next to a river that gets runoff from the ski resort
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Can be if you aren’t trained to run downhills
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Yes, usually sub 230 winner, and top 100 are around 3 hours.
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.
Book lodging well ahead of reg opening, as it is a top 15 fastest course in the US, and a BQ course
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Every 2 miles, with porta johns peppered throughout. Gatorade/water available at every station, and gu at 9&17.
Weather and typical race conditions
Never know what you’ll get. have run this at high 20’s, and low 60’s.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Tons of scenic pulloffs for spectators.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
Hands down, a 10!