3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Scenery. Living in the PNW we become accustomed to the deep forests and soaring Cascades, as well as the lakes and rain and the mud. Changing that for the barren, arid beauty of a desert sunrise and the harsh unforgiving sun and sand can be a welcome change.
Well organized. Aravaipa have their game locked down, their events are always well run, they don’t have the fanfare or larger gatherings but they are pleasing in their simplicity and organization.
Runnable. The entirety of the race is runnable, usually on smooth and fairly wide trails, the miles fly by and that’s always kind of nice.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
There was only one screw up and that was a volunteer giving guidance to people that the next aid station was 6 miles away when it was in fact 10 miles away. I don’t begrudge volunteers because on the whole they are awesome humans and runners themselves, giving their time to enable us, but this was slightly irritating.
The terrain turns rocky for a fair number of miles through the middle of the race, my feet got pretty badly beat up and bruised, shoes with a rock plate are advised.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
I don’t know if you would put this down as weird but certainly something that required more consideration than in the PNW. It isn’t unusual during an ultra race for nature to call, whether its #1 or #2 the lack of trees, bushes and shrubs and generally flat and open plains mean that stepping off the trail isn’t quite as straightforward as it might be in other races.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
The highlight of my race, which generally was a rather tough grind coming off a grueling week of work that had me in Vegas at a conference, was that I finally feel that I am maturing as a racer. Acknowledging early on that it wasn’t going to be a PR performance, or even anything close, and quickly seeing that there was no spring in my step or freshness to my legs, I settled in to knock down the miles and my mental game stay calm and relaxed throughout. It was really pleasing.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
It can and does get warm, the sun is strong, a hat, glasses and sun cream are strongly advised.
As above, a shoe with a rock plate, is recommended.
Note the aid station spacing, that 10 mile gap is exactly when the temps start to climb and many people ran out of water (I saw this last year doing the 50 mile version too). Be prepared.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The course should be considered fairly fast and is a great course for someone doing their first 50K or 50M distance, runnable and smooth for long stretches.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
If you like the desert mystique, then yes, very.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not at all, elevation change is minimal and the climbs are hills not mountains, the trails are hard packed and quite fast. It isn’t technical.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Yes, very well run, Aravaipa have their game on lock.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
You can get beer and a bloody mary at most of the aid stations, if you’re into that sort of thing.
Weather and typical race conditions
Dry and cool to start, can get warm during the race and touch 70+ degrees even in late November/early December. There isn’t any shade.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
3.5/5 – It isn’t going to blow your socks off but it is well run, easy to get registered for and run and doesn’t contain any hidden challenges.
Javelina 100 Mile Finalist Stephanie G. shares her tips for how you can succeed at the race, too! Read on for what she loved and how she prepared for this memorable run.
“I love knowing what the weather will likely be like, it takes so much of the stress out of planning. It’s hot, but it’s consistent. Beautiful desert trails – and many opportunities to enjoy them, being a loop course. I’m generally a solo runner, but I like the fact that you see people all day and night going through the same experience. And one more – the organization is so great. Everything from the number pick up, to morning parking, to the aid stations, to the layout of the start/finish area is seamless and efficient. The volunteers at the aid stations are fantastic.”
3 Bests – What aspects of the Javelina 100 Mile did you like the most?
I love knowing what the weather will likely be like, it takes so much of the stress out of planning. It’s hot, but it’s consistent.
Beautiful desert trails – and many opportunities to enjoy them, being a loop course.
I’m generally a solo runner, but I like the fact that you see people all day and night going through the same experience.
And one more – the organization is so great. Everything from the number pick up, to morning parking, to the aid stations, to the layout of the start/finish area is seamless and efficient. The volunteers at the aid stations are fantastic.
Not so much – Aspects of the Javelina 100 Mile that didn’t do it for you
I’ve read a lot of post-race complaints about being blinded by headlamps from other runners. This didn’t bother me at all, but I guess this was a negative for some. Maybe something to be prepared for if signing up.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about the Javelina 100 Mile?
The party atmosphere is probably the most unique thing. It’s around Halloween, so many people dress up (though still the minority), and it’s incredible what people choose to wear while running 100k or 100 miles. I can’t imagine keeping most of it on for more than 5 miles, yet you see them loop after loop carrying shields or wearing wigs or in full on princess dresses with crowns.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
This was my second 100 mile race and I really enjoyed not being as terrified about it as my first, which led to less anxious running. I feel like I went out reasonably, handled the heat well (lots of ice!), and made it through the daytime in decent shape. I loved how runnable the course was and that the miles flew by compared to races with more climbing, which was a nice mental boost.
Aid station goodies and smiles!
As a finalist in the Javelina 100 Mile, what tips do you have for other runners?
You don’t need a headlamp at the beginning unless you’re up front (I would guess). Enough people have them and you’re moving slow enough that it’s not hard to see for the ~15 minutes it’s dark.
Most runners have crews that set up canopies or tents around headquarters for their supplies, but the open drop bag area works well too.
It gets hot! The last two years have been about 95 degrees. Use ice everywhere you can and take advantage of the ice sponges.
And then, people say, it gets cold. I guess that depends on where you’re from, but it stayed in the 60s throughout the night and I never needed to put on a layer.
If you’re like me, this will be the most you have ever actually run. Almost everything is gradual and runnable. Be prepared to use your running muscles a lot!
As a Javelina 100 Mile finalist, what tips do you have for yourself next time around?
I’m always learning what works best for me in terms of eating and drinking. It seems I don’t get tired of applesauce or sour patch kids (but that’s about it).
I can do 100 miles without a pacer
I need a better mental/physical plan for working through the inevitable low point(s). Working on this!
Sitting really doesn’t feel any better than moving – and sometimes it feels worse. Just because you feel crappy sitting doesn’t mean you should keep doing it and hope your legs feel better. They probably won’t. Just get up and make progress.
What tips do you have about the Javelina 100 Mile course?
5 loops! It never felt boring because they were alternating directions and at different times of day. Once it’s dark you can’t see that you’ve run past a particular cactus 4 times already anyway.
No real rolling – the course climbs for ~10 miles, descends for ~10 miles, climbs for ~10 miles, descends for ~10 miles the entire time.
Because you’re going past the same aid stations the entire time, you can be sure of the distance between all of them and know that it never changes (even when you wish they were closer). There’s no worry about the next aid station being a mile past where you thought it was going to be.
Even with so many runners out there it never felt crowded after the first 20 minutes.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Very pretty. You can see for miles, which was a nice change from being surrounded by trees all the time (not that trees aren’t lovely too).
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
I think 100 miles is tough no matter what. All about your strengths and how hard you push yourself.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very well run.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
It seems strong most years.
Logistics – Does the Javelina 100 Mile 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.
The race hotel booked up early. I don’t think the race itself sold out.
Running through headquarters every 20 miles
Aid Stations
Four aid stations which were very well stocked with just about anything you could imagine (they even took requests in the weeks leading up to the race).
Weather and typical race conditions
Sunny! And warm.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner to be a Javelina 100 Mile finalist?
I really like arm sleeves so that I can fill them with ice. I also had a gallon ziplock in my pack that I filled halfway with ice a few times during the hottest part of the day. I think it helped keep my core cool, and melted down my back. I never wear hats – but I can’t imagine doing this race without one to keep the sun off my face.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
It’s very friendly if they want to hang out at headquarters and see you every ~20 miles.
How’s the Swag?
Great! This year a very nice Rabbit shirt, a soft sided cooler, and of course, a buckle for finishing.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give the Javelina 100 Mile and do you recommend that others run it?
5 stars – definitely recommend it if you don’t mind the heat.
Check out more runner reviews of the Javelina Jundred (going back to 2017):
In this Javelina 100k race report, runner Bala S. gives you an honest review of the annual Halloween run – including what made it fun, what gear to take, and what you should know about the course!
“What’s the weirdest thing about this race? The costumes. The race is supposed to be this big costume party out in the desert, and it certainly is one. I was amazed at how many people ran the entire race in costume. And not just a tech shirt that looks like a tuxedo. We had Fred Flintstone with his flintmobile, a butterfly with wings a full 5 feet across, and a Captain America with his shield – a 7lb metal shield no less and many many more!”
What is a race report?
At Team RunRun, we know that working towards a race is a great motivation for running. However, not all running events are created equal. Our athletes report back on their experiences so that you can figure out which race is right for you. Read on for an honest runner review of the Javelina Jundred 100k!
Report on Your 3 Bests – What aspects of the Javelina 100k race did you like the most?
There is so much I liked about the race, it’s hard to pick the top 3. But here’s an attempt.
What I liked best about Javelina was the race atmosphere. From the moment I showed up to volunteer at packet pickup, to the moment I finally left race HQ with my drop bags, it was absolutely electric, I could feel the energy in the air. The organizers, the runners, the volunteers – it felt like one big happy, crazy family.
I loved that this is a looped race and the maximum distance between aid stations was only 6.5 miles. It really comforted me that I had access to my drop bags twice in every loop. This being my first 100k distance, I had no idea what to expect, and I had my bags stuffed with my (figurative) blankies. Washing machine style loops also meant that we kept running into runners on different loops coming from the opposite direction so I never felt alone at any time. There was plenty of solo time, but never a lonely time.
Amazingly well stocked aid stations. They had everything I could have wanted and more. The ice was plentiful to keep everyone chilled through the day. The hot broth and ramen kept us warmed through the night. And the pizza, hot dogs and burgers at the finish line were a fitting end to a long day of noshing.
Report on the Worst – What aspects of the Javelina 100k race didn’t do it for you?
I can’t think of one thing about this race that bothered me, I cannot fault anything really. It was the best peopled, best organized, best provisioned, best swag race I’ve run so far.
Report on the Weird – What’s the weirdest thing about the Javelina 100k?
The costumes. The race is supposed to be this big costume party out in the desert, and it certainly is one. I was amazed at how many people ran the entire race in costume. And not just a tech shirt that looks like a tuxedo. We had Fred Flintstone with his flintmobile, a butterfly with wings a full 5 feet across, and a Captain America with his shield – a 7lb metal shield no less and many many more!
Jackass Junction – the aid station at the midway point of each loop – it can get weird at night. They have a full on disco setup with disco ball and lights and the works, and mucho freely flowing booze. And things can, shall we say, get pretty loopy! So much so, it seemed there weren’t enough volunteers in the aid station tent to deal with the runners sometimes.
Race report highlights – What did you do well and enjoy about your Javelina 100k in particular?
I was thrilled with how well I dealt with the heat, I expected to feel it much more than I did. It got hot for sure, but all my heat management tricks worked really well. No nausea, no over heating, I continued to eat, drink and move well, It all just worked!
I changed shoes for each lap. The strategy worked out great: I started each loop with my feet feeling re-energized, and I finished with zero blisters.
I ended up pacing myself pretty well as well. I remember being so amazed at my splits in loop 3 and sort of cackling to myself – OMG OMG, the training’s working, the training’s working!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the Javelina 100k to help the next runner
Javelina 100km is NOT flat! Yes it does not have WSER’eque elevation changes, but it’s by no means flat. It is full of rollers, some very rocky, be prepared. By loop 3, it all feels uphill anyway.
It will get HOT. There is no shade on the course, prepare accordingly. Ice bandana, ice in your pockets, ice in arm sleeves – whatever it takes to stay cool. A large brimmed hat and sunglasses can make all the difference.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around in the Javelina 100k
Do not dawdle at the aid stations! Plan your strategy for each aid station and get out of there as quickly as you can. Cumulatively, I think I ended up spending more than an hour and a half at the various aid stations.
Organize your drop bags better. When you are really tired and disoriented, digging through that drop bag for that one small thing will seem herculean.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the Javelina 100k
I will repeat, Javelina is not flat. But it’s also very runnable. The runnable course and the heat – it can be a bad combination which ended the race for many this weekend.
Aesthetics – Is the Javelina 100k a pretty course?
It’s the desert. If you like deserts, it’s gorgeous. We lucked out with a thunderstorm a few days ago. It settled the dust some and the desert was carpeted in green. In places, it felt like being in a park.
Difficulty – Is the Javelina 100k a tough course?
It can be if you are not prepared for it. While the course is not hilly, it is also not flat by any means. It can feel very runnable, and combined with how hot it can get, it can be a very tough course. Javelina has a very high DNF rate, this combination catches many by surprise.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
The race is amazingly well organized, definitely a well-oiled machine.
Competition – Is there a strong field at the Javelina Jundred?
There were about 600+ 100 mile runners and 250+ 100k runners. The race has been growing each year. Even with as many runners, it did not feel crowded. Ok, the start is crowded and it can get backed up a bit in the first 1/2 mile or so, but after that, you can be as alone or as social as you want to be.
Logistics – Does the Javelina 100k race 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.
For some reason I angsted about the logistics for this race a lot. And all was for nothing. The 100k race filled up this year, there were still spots open for the 100 miler.
There are plenty of hotels within 30-40 mins driving distance of race HQ, parking was not an issue the morning of the race (at least not 1.5 hours before race start). It’s a 1/4ish mile walk to the start.
It’s best to drop off drop bags the day before, less to stress about the morning of the race. The remote drop bag does need to be dropped off by 5:45 am sharp on race day. You carry and place your HQ drop bag yourself, so you have the luxury of a larger bag at HQ. People had duffles, coolers, whatever they needed.
This is an amazingly well supported race over all.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
The aid stations had pretty much everything you expect at ultra aid stations. My first ultra so I was very pleasantly surprised with all that was there. Bean and avocado tortilla rolls, pb&j, boiled potatoes, usual sweet stuff, Pringles, ramen, hamburgers, pizza, hot dogs, coffee, hot cocoa and so much more. Oh and dates! There’s so much at the aid stations that it’s very tempting to hang out and feast there. This was a hard learned lesson for me.
There are 4 aid stations per loop, you have access to your drop bags at the start each loop and the halfway point. The max distance between aid is 6.5 miles, so no need to carry much on you at all.
Weather and typical race conditions
It’s hot! The week before it was projected to be a high of a balmy 77, by race day it went up to a high of 89 I think. The feels like on the course may have been 95 since there is zero shade on the course. It’s almost always hot here. This is a desert, and the temperature can drop by tens of degrees once the sun goes down, so be prepared with appropriate layers.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the Javelina 100k race?
My gear choices worked perfectly for me. I was so thrilled! The most important choices would be to stay cool. I wore a biking shirt, not only were the pockets in the back were invaluable for stashing trash, extra bottle etc., but the form fitting shirt also stayed wet longer, keeping me cool through the day. Arm sleeves worked really well too, I wore mine for the entire race. To stay warm at the start, and later on to wet and stay cool, and for warmth again once the sun went down.
An ice bandana – critical. I looked up how to make one online, and the tutorial I saw had a slightly different design. Instead of a big triangular pocket to fill with ice, it recommended creating a pocket in the middle of a bandana with some chamois. The chamois stays wet longer than cotton and also insulates the ice a bit from melting too fast. I hand-sewed this literally the day before leaving for Phoenix. It was a lifesaver. My ice lasted the entire distance between aid stations, and I never got too hot. I also looped the bandana around a vest strap so it didn’t feel like it was strangling me.
The trail is pretty rocky for a few miles in one section. Plan your shoe choice accordingly. The sand on the trail was actually a welcome relief as a slightly softer surface to run on.
You will probably want to get soaked with ice water at various aid stations. Protect your electronics.
And don’t forget your hat and sunglasses.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
No spectators allowed on the course. But they can hang out at headquarters and meet you at the start/finish of each loop. And pacers are allowed for later loops.
How’s the Swag?
Pretty sweet swag. This year we got a good sized drop bag cooler, stickers, a custom buff, and a really nice Rabbit shirt. And I shouldn’t forget the all important finishers buckle!
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
Oh 5 stars for sure. If you can manage the heat, I highly recommend this race.
Check out more runner reviews of the Javelina 100 (going back to 2017):
In this Javelina 100 Mile Race Report, runner Delaney H gives her honest review of the annual Halloween run in Fountain Hills, AZ. That includes tips for how to stay cool in the desert, gear she wished she had, and the low-down on rattlesnakes.
“Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner: Ice in a bandana and in the arm sleeves is helpful. Stay wet during the day. The volunteers are amazing, let them help you out with the ice. I will get a better headlamp. Lots of people saw rattlesnakes on course. I feel like I want as much light as possible so I don’t accidentally encounter one!”
3 Bests – What aspects of the Javelina 100 Mile race did you like the most?
The energy! This race is a party from beginning to end!
The desert is beautiful!
There are lots of people on the course and in camp, so you’re never alone long and is super well supported.
Not so much – Aspects of the Javelina 100 Mile race that didn’t do it for you
I actually didn’t mind so much, but it’s pretty hot during the day and it caused a lot of DNFs.
Rattlesnakes on the course!
More ports-potties would’ve been nice.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about the Javelina 100 Mile?
Everything about this race is weird in the best possible way! Runners are in costume, volunteers are dressed up, aid stations offer beer and shots and pumpkin pie and pizza…it’s awesome!
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
It was hot but I actually liked it and I was able to manage the heat well. The course is runnable. I was able to maintain a fairly steady pace throughout and was able to run well right up to the end.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the Javelina 100 Mile race to help the next runner
Ice in a bandana and in the arm sleeves is helpful. Stay wet during the day. The volunteers are amazing, let them help you out with the ice.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
I will get a better headlamp. Lots of people saw rattlesnakes on course. I feel like I want as much light as possible so I don’t accidentally encounter one!
Most important course-specific knowledge to know about the Javelina 100 Mile trail
It’s ok to take it easy during the hot part of the day. If you save a little something, the night cools down and you can really cruise!
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
It’s SO beautiful! I love the forest and the mountains, but this scenery was absolutely magical!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
The course itself is not tough. There’s a rocky stretch that will slow you down, but it’s only a couple miles long. The heat is really what makes it tricky.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Unbelievably well run. There were something like 800 runners and everything moved like clockwork. The RD was amazing. Every time a runner came through, she was cheering them on.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Lots of strong runners. The course is known for being a fast one if you can beat the heat.
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 Javelina 100 Mile race happen.
It’s not a cheap race, but it’s well worth the money. I stayed at the host hotel the first night, then moved to tent city the night before the race. The accommodations are fantastic in both spots.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Jackass Junction after dark is something every runner should experience! The volunteers at every aid station were wonderful. The normal goodies were offered (chips, coke, potatoes, pickles, gummies, etc.) plus pumpkin pie, and shots.
Weather and typical race conditions
Hot during the day, cooler at night.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
A bandana for ice is helpful. A wide-brimmed hat is also a key piece of equipment.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Spectators/crew can hang at Jeadquarters. This is a loop course, so spectators can see their runner every 20 miles.
How’s the Swag?
Great! This year there was a cooler bag with sticker pack, t-shirt, and a buff. The expo also has an assortment of goodies for sale.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give the Javelina 100 Mile race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 out of 5 stars! I’m already planning for next year!
Check out more runner reviews of the Javelina 100 (going back to 2017):
Summary: Across The Years is a fixed-time, multiday running event held over the New Year. Runners have 24, 48, 72 hours or 6 days to cover as much distance as possible and are free to walk, stop, eat and sleep whenever they want. The 6 day race starts on 12/28 and the “shorter” races start the following days, with the option to start on different days. Each race starts and ends at 9am and thereafter the course changes direction every four hours (at 1:00 PM, 5:00 PM, etc.).
The race is held at Camelback Ranch – Glendale, located in Phoenix, Arizona, the spring training facilities for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago White Sox. The route is a USATF certified 1689.5 meter (1.0498 mile) loop consisting of 85% dirt paths and 15% asphalt/concrete. The track averages 10-20 feet in width, with a minimum width of 8 feet. The facility is only a few miles away from the Westgate City Center, home of the University of Phoenix stadium, shopping, and other attractions.
Lessons Learned from Race Reports
You won’t need a light to navigate the course at night, but you might want one when going through your stuff.
Not surprising – there is very little shade on the course and even cooler temps still feel hot in the AZ sun
Gaiters recommended since it’s mainly a dirt track
Once the sun goes down, don’t be surprised if your pace picks up with cooler temps
Bring warm clothes for the cool nights, especially if you’re walking
Know how to take care of blisters and other foot care – lots of mentions of hot spots, blisters, blister care in the med tent, etc.
Bring changes of shoes, especially ones with toe box room to account for swelling, and changes of clothing for day and night
Focus on keeping core temperature down in the day time heat to be able to fuel
Take the time to rest and cool off if needed. Lots of runners take rest breaks, thinking they are done, then they have a few hours rest and are ready to get going again, running better than pre-rest
Some runners have designated times they’ll rest, like the heat of the day, or 3-4 hours at night
For runners doing any event over 24 hours, most rested at some point and ate solid foods, and some had a plan on when they rested, others rested on a whim. Lots of runners pointed out afterwards that they wished they had planned their rest rather than waiting until they were too broken to continue.
While road shoes work, consider having trail shoes on hand in case your feet feel like they’re getting beat up
Elevation
Minimal and the course will seem flat and fast at first, but the small bumps along the way will seem bigger as the race progresses.
Total aid stations: 2 per lap, one fully stocked at the start/finish (basically every mile), and one halfway through the loop with water and electrolytes
What’s available: Fully stocked aid station 24 hours a day at the start/finish. The race will prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day in addition to having many of the traditional staple items like peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, bean roll-ups, cookies, candies, coffee, soda and sports drinks. There will also be snack items offered on different days at various times like M & M pancakes, French toast sticks, quesadillas, grilled cheese sandwiches, fruit smoothies, sushi and late-night spring rolls. Breakfast is served in two stages, early in the morning (pre-dawn) with pancakes or French toast sticks, then again around 10 am with some type of an egg or tofu item (except for the first day). Lunch is usually a type of sandwich or wrap or chili or hot dog. Dinners have consisted of items like lasagna, tamales, pizza or burritos.
Crew access
Yes, at the start/finish. The race staging area is a 170,000 square foot grassy field where runners can set up tables, tents, and personal items for the race. An additional dirt lot on the south side of the course is available for runners to park their cars, trucks, campers, or RV’s along the course for quick access during the race.
Summary: Located in McDowell Mountain Regional Park in Fountain Hills, AZ, the 50 miler is one of several races going on in the park, along with running in the City of Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve. 50 Mile runners will run the 50k loop plus a lollipop and out and back section, and while much of the race is on runnable, non-technical trail, the steep climb up and down Thompson Peak will have runners yearning for flatter ground again. Other distances offered include 50k, 25k, 10m, and 5m.
Lessons Learned from Race Reports
Remember the park charges a $7 park entry fee per vehicle
Cupless event – come prepared
With several races going on at once, make sure you know which ribbon color marks the course you should be on (50M = white)
It will be cold at the start of the race, especially before the sun comes up, so plan accordingly for what you wear pre-race and to start
Single track trail is very runnable in many sections of the course
Easy to go out fast with the beginning part of the race being relatively easy, rolling, runnable trail
Exposed trail – it will get warm and bring sunscreen! There is no shade!
The descent from Bell Pass (~mile 28) is more technical switchbacks until you hit Thompson Peak Road, which is ~ 1 mile
The climb up to Thompson Peak is very steep, both up and down, and the hardest part of an otherwise very runnable, non-technical course
Be ready for one last little hill before getting to the start/finish aid station heading into mile 42
Bring enough water at all times between aid, especially the 10.5 mile section without aid, as weather can change fast and get hot very quickly, even if it starts out cloudy.
Elevation
Total gain/loss: 4495/4495
Total climbs: 3 major (700ft from ~25-28.5, 1000ft from ~5-16, 1600ft from ~30-32.5), ~7 minor of 100-200ft
Longest climb: 1000ft/11 miles (from miles ~5-16)
Steepest climb: 1600/2.5 miles (from miles ~30-32.5)
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Super chill vibe.
Sunny t-shirt weather in Jan.!!
Well oiled machine: course markings, aid stations, volunteers. These guys just know how to put on solid events.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
It is loopy! Lots o’ signage at each intersection due to different distances and design of race, ya really gotta read and make sure you are heading the right direction.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
The sun was out! Arizona is a great place to get a break from the PNW gray blahs.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
The way the race is set up they allowed drop bags for 52K runners and you pass one drop bag multiple times. It makes it so you do not have to carry much if you do not want to. Be prepared for sand, a few decent stretches of it.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Loopy, sandy, and rocky.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Did I mention it was sunny?? I think Javelina course was prettier. This was one was nice, killer sunrises!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
It is very runnable elevation change wise and for many it could be a great place to PR.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
This organization just has their stuff nailed down. Well oiled machine.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Not sure, those folks were all waaay ahead of me! 😀 It did not seem to have a wide spread competitive field.
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.
Logistically easy. The race was not full. We flew into Phoenix and stayed in a hotel in Goodyear, AZ about 15 min away from start line. It is a really easy and quick weekend race-cation for sure!
Aid Stations
Awesome. Well stocked. Cupless.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Not spectator friendly really. It is a loop. If some one is running the 100 miler family and friends can hang out at the finish/start line where runners will come through a few times. As a 52k runner, I came through there at mile 20.
How’s the Swag?
Got a great cotton shirt that actually fits a woman’s body! Dude! Finisher glass was fun too.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 stars yo! Yes I do recommend it. I would run it again.
Summary: Black Canyon 100k is a desert run with a mostly downhill course for the first half and rollers over the second half, as it’s point to point on the non-motorized Black Canyon Trail, featuring a mixture of single track trail with some very rocky, technical sections, jeep roads, and pieces of an old stagecoach route. Distances include 100k and 60k.
Race Details
Lessons Learned from Race Reports
Shuttle bus to the start since it’s point to point – have your plans for getting to the start set up well ahead of time
Stay up to date on any changes, as 2017 saw a last minute course change due to river flooding, so the course was changed to an out and back course, a very significant change for runners and crew
Tough to get in a rhythm with the snaking nature of a lot of the course. If the course is muddy, it’s hard to find a comfortable running rhythm.
Be prepared for anything with this race, as past years’ weather has been both very hot and very wet and cold, both making DNFs all the more likely.
Make sure you have gear for both hot and cold temperatures.
You’re running in the desert without cover, so bring whatever you can and use the aid station resources to make things easier on yourself.
Be conservative on the technical sections in the beginning, especially since these might feel easier because of the gradual downhill, as it will help save your legs for the latter miles.
Single track starts pretty early in the race, so it helps to be closer to the front if you’re really looking to be competitive.
The race is a tale of 2 halves, with the first 50k losing about 2000 feet of elevation, and the second 50k being much more rolling
Very little shade on the course, if any, so completely exposed to elements, which can be tough in both hot and cold conditions
The combination of a more challenging second half of the course with hotter, exposed conditions (unless it’s an off year with rain and clouds), along with some technical, rocky terrain, makes this a deceivingly hard course.
Be sure to have your headlamp for the latter miles of the race
Several race reports indicating runners taking too little water from the aid station and running out between aid
If it’s hot, use the ice provided at aid stations
The rocky sections are full of loose rocks that roll all over the place, making foot placement quite difficult and causing falls and ankle rolls
Pee right before you get on the bus shuttle to the start, because it’s a long ride and everyone will have to pee the moment you get off
Rough course description:
First five miles have gentle rollers
Starts around a track, then 2 miles on paved road and one on dirt before connecting to single track trail.
Miles 5 – 13 are all downhill
Miles 13 – 16 are mostly flat, before going back downhill to mile 20
300ft climb from 20-21, then mostly flat or slightly down to 27 (this is where heat can typically set in)
Steep descent from 27 to 29.5, then rollers to 40
40-42 has the steepest climb of the day, gaining 659 ft
Downhill from 42 to 50, then another climb from 50-55 (about 600 ft over 5 miles)
Rolling for the next 3 miles, before going down to the finish
Elevation
Total gain/loss: 7,000/8,898
Ft/mile gain: 112.5
Total climbs: 2x700ft (~miles 40-42 and miles 50-55), 6×100-200ft climbs, countless rollers
Longest climb: ~700ft from miles 50-55
Steepest climb: ~700ft from miles 40-42 (several short, steep climbs throughout)
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
The late start. Lining up for an ultra start at 7am felt downright luxurious, compared to the usual pre-dawn starts
The rugged beauty of the desert
The mostly runnable course
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
The lack of mile markers at aid stations. We all know our watch can have some challenges and being able to confirm distances at aid stations is a very helpful tool.
The aid station volunteers were amazing, as most volunteers are, but they hadn’t been educated at all about where they were on the course or how far to the next aid station. I ran for final 8 miles with another racer who picked up a pacer who had been an aid station volunteer early in the race and she outlined how idiotic she felt when people asked for information and she just simply didn’t know.
THAT hill. There is really only one climb in this race but it will ruin your day and your race. The gradient is 20% (or more) and it is virtually impossible to even walk up or get down. It also utterly wrecks your calves on the way up and quads on the way down. I have climbed plenty of hills/mountains in my time but I have never encountered anything like this, it frankly felt stupid and poorly conceived to have it as part of the course. Rumour had it that including that climb was the only way to get the UTMB accreditation to award points; the race overall would have been better off climbing a different mountain or on a different route.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
It is a cupless event, as some events are these days, so they give you these bizarre floppy cups that you can use at each aid station and jam back into a pocket after. It was odd.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
The first 20-25 miles were great fun and I ran them quite well (I think). The day started with cloud cover which kept the temps controlled (until midday) and the rolling single track allowed for smooth easy running in the cool desert morning.
Having a pizza maker on site at the finish line with free pizza for all finishers was a nice perk.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Except for that one 7 mile ascent/descent it is an extremely runnable course, not very technical at all and if you’re looking at the 50km option – which doesn’t include THAT climb – then you could set a PB on this course.
Be ready for when the clouds do roll off late in the morning an the Arizona sun starts to work. This occurred during the longest stretch between aid station (10.6 miles) and flummoxed more than a few people who ran out of water. There is no shade on this course!
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
In a rugged, barren way. Yes, very beautiful
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not really, no. The overall elevation gain is minimal and as mentioned above there isn’t anything really technical to negotiate. That one climb will bust your legs up so you might finish feeling like you ran a tough course but upon reflection there isn’t much to it.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Overall yes, pretty well oiled. Aravaipa put on plenty of events and have most of it down pretty well.
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.
Registration in advance is advised but I did hear of people getting into the race a week before so it seems like there is some movement up until race day still. They partnered with a nearby hotel and resort, which was great, offering pretty steeply discounted rates, these were not all booked (oddly).
Aid Stations
The aid stations were stocked with the usual fair, nothing truly worthy of note. It was a nice touch though that they had sun cream and ample amounts of Vaseline at all aid stations.
The drawbacks, as mentioned above, was the lack of information provided at aid stations and lack of knowledge among volunteers. I also heard that one aid station ran out of water for a brief time, but I think that was quickly resolved.
Weather and typical race conditions
Weather in Phoenix in early December can be hard to predict. The day started cloudy and in the 50s with even a few brief rain drops, I think we all agree that is perfect running weather. However, by 11am it was up to 70 degrees and the sun was roasting everyone. There are no trees and there is no shade on the course so be prepared for multiple hours of running in 70+ degree weather with the sun beating down. Some days the clouds might stick around longer and keep a cap on temps but it is tough to know.
Awards
I will use this section to discuss swag, they opted for a beer glass rather than a medal; I liked that. Who needs another medal hanging in their closet when you can have a beer glass.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
I give this race 7/10 – I was mostly happy with the experience, except for the inclusion of that daft climb that ruined most people’s day.
Summary: The Coldwater Rumble is the fifth race in the Aravaipa Running – Desert Runner Trail Series, and features 6 races going on at the same time, from 4 miles to 100 miles. Taking place in the Estrella Mountain Regional Park, the race course features a wide variety of typical desert trail running surfaces including crushed granite single track, rocks, boulders, sandy washes, old jeep roads, and dry wash beds. Be prepared for a wide variety of conditions from very well defined trails, to more remote and sandy. See Course Photos for more details. The 52k course is a loop course, where the first loop is a 20 mile loop run clockwise, then runners go counter-clockwise on their next loop, which is a 12 mile loop within the original 20 mile loop.
Lessons Learned from Race Reports
Aid stations are Cupless
The park charges a $6 park entry fee per vehicle.
Because there are multiple races going on at the same time, know what color of sign to follow for your given race distance at trail turns and junctions
Be sure to check out the course photos – as the course is far from smooth, non-technical terrain, and includes loose rocks and deep sand
While it’s not a lot of elevation gain, the course is constantly going up and down
A very sandy section around miles 9-11.5
Nice descent heading into mile 20, the start/finish, but that means you have to go back up to start the 12 mile loop
Because the course if fully exposed, it gets hot during the day, even though it’s January. Being Arizona, it’s still dry and hot
Be aware of sunset and if you need to have a headlamp in a drop bag along the way, or at mile 20 where crew and the start/finish is
Final miles feel like they go on forever, especially because it’s such rolling terrain
Elevation
Total gain/loss: 2067/2067
Total climbs: 5 climbs of 200-400 ft each, countless 50-100 feet gains during more major climbs and interspersed throughout.
Longest climb: ~400 feet from miles 2.5-9, with some rollers in between
Steepest climb: Several 150-200 feet climbs within ~.5 miles throughout
In this Javelina Jundred first time race report, Stephen shares his experience running his first 100 mile event. Plus, he reviews the Javelina Jundred race so you know how to plan for your first experience with the 100 mile event!
“Everything in the desert wants to hurt you. I saw some of the nastiest falls – from trips and falls to people kicking cactus between their ankles. Plain and simple, the desert is not a friendly place. The heat and more so, the sun. I personally suck at hot races, but managed well here. It is so freaking dry that the water evaporates off of you SO FAST. At one point I told my crew I could hear the ice melting! I wore sun sleeves and calve sleeves and am glad I did. It saved my skin from getting burnt. The big key is if you wear sleeves – is to keep them wet, and that meant carrying more water. Which was extra weight.”
As a first time participant of the Javelina Jundred, my favorite things about it were:
The party aspect of the whole event. It really kept everything really fun and entertaining.
Getting to see two sunrises and one sunset, but if you are speedy Gonzalez like Matt Urbanski, you might only get to see one of each.
Because you do the loop multiple times –
You know exactly when you are:
Getting close to an aid station
Close to finishing a climb or descent
Getting near to the finish itself.
You can have a planned pace and easily check your pace throughout the race.
Plus, you actually get a firsthand glimpse into what is happening at the front of the race since they will come flying back by you (multiple times)!
What didn’t work for you about the Javelina Jundred?
Everything in the desert wants to hurt you. I saw some of the nastiest falls – from trips and falls to people kicking cactus between their ankles. Plain and simple, the desert is not a friendly place.
The heat and more so, the sun. I personally suck at hot races, but managed well here. It is so freaking dry that the water evaporates off of you SO FAST. At one point I told my crew I could hear the ice melting! I wore sun sleeves and calve sleeves and am glad I did. It saved my skin from getting burnt. The big key is if you wear sleeves – is to keep them wet, and that meant carrying more water. Which was extra weight.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the extra part of the first loop. I was very happy to know we were not going to have to run that section again. It was really rocky and not as nice of a trail.
Weirdest thing about the Javelina Jundred?
As a Javelina Jundred first timer, there was a lot to take in. There are some seriously impressive older folks that run this race, and some of them are not so shy with their bodies. I might have seen more skin than I would have particularly liked. Heck there were younger folks too that had no problems wearing nothing but a thong as their running outfit, and I can’t imagine how that person did even 20 miles wearing that.
What were your highlights of the race?
Since this was my first time running a 100 mile race, and I was a Javelina Jundred first-timer, I liked a lot:
Seeing the race develop, it was inspiring to see the leaders come back at me each time on the loops.
Running with my amazing pacers – Erik and Dan. I had a great time, and they provided the exact amount of motivation I needed to keep me going, without ever going back into the Demon cave.
Running a 100 miler for the first time and completing it.
Having my family not have to worry about logistics. They knew where to go each time, since it was the same!
Having the 100k folks catch me on the first loop, they started an hour after us, yet went flying by and were so dang impressive!
Ahhh, the finish!
Lessons from your first Javelina Jundred
I think I should have changed socks every loop. Since I only changed socks once, I got a little more chaffing on my feet than I would have liked.
I wore gaiters and they were worth every single bit of money I paid for them.
I would have liked to have a better ice bandana. Having never used one before, I kept having to adjust it multiple times to get it to sit right. My bandana wasn’t really set up for getting ice in a pocket, it was just a regular ole’ bandana. I also would get different amounts of ice each time, so it would ride on my neck different. I have some design ideas for improvement and will likely have an improved one if I run a hot race again.
Ice directly against the skin hurts. I put ice down my arm sleeves one time, and in about 2 minutes I was flinging it out. In hindsight, I needed some kind of a separating device or fabric to keep the ice off my skin in order to have ice on my arms like that. People who can keep ice directly on their arms are tougher than me, or are just more hardcore.
The other thing is that there are a TON of people that run this race. The first loop was extra dusty and dirty because the volume of people. I saw one guy wearing a dust mask for the first mile or so (didn’t realize why until 30 seconds into the start of the race). As the loops went on and folks finished and dropped, it got less busy. Nothing unmanageable from the trail and aid station perspective, so it wasn’t bad.
And mentally…
I wish I would have mentally pushed harder during the 4th and 5th loops. I think I walked a bit more than I would have liked, but at the time it seemed like my best option, and it is always easy to look back and think I could have done better. At the time, I remember thinking “when it sucks to run and it sucks to walk – you might as well run” and I would start to run for a few hundred steps and fall apart again. My feet really hurt by the end and that was my biggest issue by far.
Most Important Course specific knowledge about the Javelina Jundred?
Don’t go out too fast. They say it in the race briefing, and at the start briefing. I certainly did – although I did not overdo it. I purposely ran behind a veteran I recognized (Catra Corbett the Dirt Diva) and chatted her up for a solid 2 hours to help me relax and force me to go slower, since I knew she had tons of experience with this race, it paid off in dividends by not pushing too hard early.
Everyone will say it gets cold at night. If you are from Seattle – it DOES NOT GET COLD. It was like 65 degrees. I was still taking ice baths at 2 a.m. and the aid station people were asking me if I was okay. I told them I was from Seattle and they understood… It was sort of comical. I ran with an ultra light jacket for the last two loops, and only put it on once at the top aid station since I stayed there a bit too long, to where I got a bit chilled, but 5 minutes of running and it came right back off again.
Know that you are going to have chaffing somewhere. There is so much dust and fine dirt, it gets into everything. Take care of it quick and early. Don’t let it become a problem. I had chaffing in my nether regions that I didn’t take care of until it got painful, then I started putting lube on it every chance I got. It sucked, but eventually I got it under control and it wasn’t an issue.
Where People got Hurt:
The long climb on the first loop you do three times and by the third time it will seem really technical since it is so rocky. Additionally, that climb is the longest section at over 6 miles to the next aid station and that may not seem far, but with that climb, it was tough by the third time (the 5th loop). It is also the section where I saw the most people fall. As folks got tired and the feet don’t get picked up as high, the rocks turned into serious tripping hazards (and toe busters, and ankle twisters).
Keep your attention on the trail, and what I mean by this, is don’t turn your head around to look back and try to keep running. I saw more people trip or run into cactus this way. It is silly and an easy way to get hurt.
I found it comforting to know that if you do get hurt, the medics were really close. They had roaming medics, and medics at every aid station, and there was never a part where I felt in danger.
About Communication:
If you have Verizon, cell coverage is actually pretty good. My pacers could call my parents and let them know I was 20 minutes out from the finish and they could leave the campsites they were at and be there, without really having to guess too much. It was great. My pacer Dan had a garmin watch with an app that was something like a live track feature. It was really convenient since everyone on my crew knew exactly where I was at all times.
Is the Javelina Jundred a pretty course?
Yes this is a pretty course in a different way than I am used to. I am used to the typical northwest trails that are beautiful from the rocks, trees and alpine lakes. This race has none of that! However, what it does have, is different things that make it beautiful in its own way. You are in a sauce pan of mountains. Essentially there are mountains 360 degrees around you. There are huge cactus everywhere, and boy is there plenty of things that want to poke you. Seeing the sunrise twice and the sunset once was absolutely amazing and it added to the beauty of the course. It is also very wild. I saw at least 3 or 4 coyotes through the middle of the night which was really cool (I luckily didn’t come across any snakes or scorpions). Because it was so different from what I have grown accustomed to, I found the course to be quite pretty.
Is the Javelina Jundred difficult for a first time 100 mile event?
This is not an easy course for three reasons (they say this is a great beginner 100 miler, and I tend to agree mostly due to the atmosphere this race provides).
There is NOTHING easy about 100 miles. Period. I don’t care if it were bone flat, 100 miles is a long friggin distance!
The dry and hot nature of the race
Getting overheated and dehydrated is a serious potential issue.
You are in the sun for 12+ hours – there is absolutely NO shade ANYWHERE on the course.
Dirt and sand getting everywhere – shoes, socks, eyes, nose, nether region (not sure how that happened…)
Chaffage
Because dirt and sand get everywhere it is really easy to get dirt somewhere and start having it rub, then it turns into something serious. Plan to reapply lube every chance you get.
Is the Javelina Jundred organized and well run?
Very well run. Jamil Coury and Aravaipa running have got this race so well-greased, it was amazing, they had so much food, ice, water, drinks, aid station help, and folks partying it was fantastic!
I liked the half-way point aid station Jack ass junction – it was a hardcore party and the folks there were genuinely having fun but being super helpful!
Is the Javelina Jundred a competitive race?
Let me put it this way – this year the course record was broken. And last year’s record setter got second. It was awesome seeing that battle happen!
I on the other hand was far too back to really care about the competition aspect for myself so it didn’t matter to me. (Other than wanting to know how everyone on team RunRun did)
How hard is it to plan for your first time at the Javelina Jundred?
It is relatively easy to get to. Its about 45 minutes from the Phoenix airport
There are no hotels immediately close nearby, so me and my crew camped at the McDowell campground. (not the one at the race) This campground had hookups, and bathrooms. It was almost dead nuts in the center of the big loop.
There is camping at the HQ. The packet said nothing over 30 feet long for campers but there were huge 45 foot RV’s there so I am not sure what that was all about, but really that was the way to go if I were to do it again.
Last minute signups are pretty common for this race. There were no trail work requirements or prerequisites to run this race, which made things simple.
What are the aid stations like?
Great aid stations. One aid station had some Hoka One One elites there. (Hayden Hawk, Sage Canaday, and Jim Walmsley) That was neat since they are all really awesome guys and I got ramen noodles given to me by Sage on my last loop.
They really were efficient at the aid stations, if you wanted to get in and out, the aid workers were really good about helping folks out. If you wanted to chill and recover, they would help with that too.
Weather and typical race conditions
This is what I discussed earlier – it was HOT, and dry.
What gear do you recommend for a Javelina Jundred first time runner?
A vest is good here. A sock change is recommended every loop unless your feet are bullet proof. If you start getting blisters – take care of that stuff early since it will do nothing but get worse as you go along.
Is this a good course for spectators?
This is not a super spectator friendly course, but I am not really sure what 100 miler is… Your family and friends get to see you at the HQ and that is it. You start and end at the HQ, and you go through it at least 1 time each loop. This race makes sense if your crew has a tendency to get lost, or you want to make it easy on them.
Did you like the awards?
Everyone that finished the 100 mi got a nice brass buckle. If you go sub 24 hours, you get a bigger silver one.
-Side note – the 100k folks get one too.
How would you score your first time at the Javelina Jundred?
I give this race an 8.5 out of 10. It was right up my alley in terms of difficulty (from an overall difficulty due to 100 miles) and it was so different than what I had expected that I still had a really great time. The party atmosphere and seeing people dressed up in crazy costumes made the loops go by a little faster. Some even made me wonder “how the hell are they going to do 100 miles in that?” I really am not a huge fan of heat, and this race was no exception, but it was manageable with a good plan, and just staying cool. Seeing the race happen live was pretty cool and it was inspiring to see the top guys going so fast.
Check out more runner reviews of the Javelina Jundred (going back to 2017):
In this Javelina Jundred Course Review, coach and Team RunRun co-founder Matt Urbanski breaks down everything you need to know about running the Javelina 100 mile race:
“I put my head down and grinded this race out like a tough muther. I was not feeling tip-top coming in, I spent lap one clearing my sinuses and hacking up crap from my lungs – I eventually forced myself to stop coughing because I feared accidental vomiting from all the coughing as well as tired ab muscles. For my other two 100s this year (Rocky and Cascade Crest), I felt awesome for much of the race and was holding back. This time around, I found my comfort rhythm but I didn’t have that same “gliding on the trails, this is awesome feeling”.”
3 Bests – What aspects of the Javelina Jundred did you like the most?
Logistically simple. From signing up to planning travel and hotel, to planning race/crew logistics, this one is simple.
So many runners. I love having a big ultra event. Lots of people cheering, people pushing themselves, and people with a shared passion out there give it their best effort. It’s great to be in this kind of environment.
The race planners stoked my ego by seeding the top 10 men and women with special bib numbers. I was #5 and that actually had some impact on me. I was paying attention to my position the entire race and this little thing of giving me a special bib number made my race feel a bit more special.
Brother Jeff getting in the Halloween spirit. Everyone believes in unicorns at Javelina!
Not so much – Aspects of the Javelina Jundred that didn’t do it for you?
There wasn’t anything about the race itself that I didn’t really like. I knew the challenges I was signing up for – no shade and hot temps, so there is no complaining there. I was dealing with a sinus infection (not fun for racing), but that has nothing to do with the race. They put on a good event that lived up to my expectations.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about the Javelina Jundred?
Where to start?! Given that it’s Halloween weekend, there are costumes, aid stations are like parties, and we’re doing washing machine style loops, this race is filled with intentional weirdness. It is expected and appreciated that Aravaipa makes the effort to make this a fun and weird party in the desert!
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I put my head down and grinded this race out like a tough muther.
I was not feeling tip-top coming in, I spent lap one clearing my sinuses and hacking up crap from my lungs – I eventually forced myself to stop coughing because I feared accidental vomiting from all the coughing as well as tired ab muscles. For my other two 100s this year (Rocky and Cascade Crest), I felt awesome for much of the race and was holding back. This time around, I found my comfort rhythm but I didn’t have that same “gliding on the trails, this is awesome feeling”. The heat and relentless sun compounded things such that I had my hat and sunglasses on, I watched the ground, listened to my music, and I grinded all day long.
My second lap felt special.
I started with music on this lap (earlier than my usual given the grind) and I really went to a cool place mentally on this lap. It was light out, the race was spread out, but it wasn’t oppressively hot yet. My playlist was filled with songs that meant something to me. I was singing out loud (terrible sounds I’m sure and apologies to anyone that had to endure my singing). I felt filled with emotion. During one Mana song, I nearly cried (too dehydrated to actually cry). I yelled out loud “I love my life, I love my wife, I love my son” as I ran alone through the desert.
This time was special, and I hope I always remember this part of my Javelina experience. It’s true, I have an awesome life, I love that I can run for an entire day in the desert, and that I have people that love me. This race put it smack dab in front of my face – ultras are awesome like that.
I spent lap 5 with my brother Jeff.
I thrive when there is someone watching me when I am working hard; it drives me to work even harder. I loved getting to spend this time with Jeff and to dig down deep in his presence. We realized that with about 10 miles to go, we had a chance to go sub-15. I was way ahead of 5th and way behind 3rd, but we found a reason to push for home, and push we did. It hurt those final miles when I could have packed it in and shuffled to the finish, but I’m grateful and proud that we pushed hard all the way, and that I got to share it with my brother!
Grinding through – 2 laps complete as I lap a legend in the background
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the Javelina Jundred course to help the next runner
Ice water and sponges! I swear I was one of the only people at the buckets each time I came through. Get yourself completely soaked with that cold water! I often couldn’t talk due to being so shockingly cold from the ice water. I would almost always be hungry after doing this, giving me confidence that my core temps were being controlled. Core temp, core temp, core temp! Make this one of your top priorities. This is true in most ultras, this one in particular!
Practice doing this on training runs too when you can. Why? I ran nearly the entire race with wet shoes and socks. I’ve run lots of miles in my life in wet shoes and socks and I don’t care about that anymore. People rightfully fear blisters, they don’t like feeling soaked. Get used to it and control the core – the ice sponges at Javelina are where it’s at!
Also, I made a game time decision to not take a headlamp on lap one. It was dark for 10-15 minutes and I could see fine after that. That saved me wearing a headlamp for 3 hours of this race (I don’t like wearing headlamps)! I could have been fine without having runners with lights around me, but there are so many others with lights that it’s easy to go no light. Maybe a small handheld light if you don’t want to go completely sans light.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
I feel really good about how I ran the Javelina Jundred. If I were 100% healthy, I could have hung a little closer to the leaders. Also, took a longer stop after the first 20 miles. I didn’t realize they had the ice water/sponge set up and spent too much time trying to use my homemade cold towel set up with my crew. I could shave a few minutes from quicker aid station stops. Lastly, I would have one savory snack to look forward to. I wanted little samosas from Trader Joes, but they discontinued them. I am so sick of gels and bloks!
Brother Jeff helping with the ice towel and reloading supplies as I down some Gatorade
Most important things to know about the Javelina Jundred Course
The section from Coyote Camp to Jackass gets tougher and worse to run each time you go through it. It’s not a big hill compared to mountain ultra standards, but it will slow you down and it’ll likely slow you down more and more each time through. There are also a good deal of rocks in this section compared to the rest of the course. Not a big deal on laps 1 and 2. They’re likely to piss you off/mess with your mental game more and more as the race progresses.
You can run most of this course. Be ready to run. Don’t let yourself walk. Practice the slow shuffle. 13 minute miles are way faster over time than 19 minute miles. Figure out how to keep yourself running and be ready for lots of running.
Aesthetics – Is the Javelina Jundred a pretty course?
I really like the desert and find this race pretty. I often find myself feeling deep emotions when running in the desert environment and this time was no exception.
Difficulty – Is the Javelina Jundred a tough course?
100 miles is tough. I like loop courses and think it’s easier to mentally manage because I know what’s coming. It’s all runnable so that is tough but also easier? Your call. I worked my ass off in this race and it was anything but easy!
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
These guys have there game down! They put on a good race that went super smooth. They did a good job of making everyone feel special and welcome at their party.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Yeah! The top men and women are all sponsored runners that are big names in the sport.
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 Javelina Jundred happen.
Super easy. I don’t think the race sold out, hotels were easy to book, flights from Seattle were easy to Phoenix. The entire process was smooth and easy.
Were there aid stations throughout the course?
I didn’t stop to eat anything from any of the aid stations so I have a different view than most. They were helpful, they always refilled my bottle, and they had the ice water sponges that I used the entire race.
When the race was finished, I finally hit up the Jeadquarters aid station for a veggie burger and soup – excellent!
Weather and typical Javelina Jundred course conditions
Hot, 80-90, sunny with no shade, and dry. I’m sure there is some variation, but hot and sun are likely.
Gear – Did you need anything special for the Javelina Jundred course?
I wore the Nathan Vapor Krar belt, using one Salomon 0.5L soft flask for the entire race. This ensured I had plenty of fluids. I wore Salomon Exo short tights, Nike Wildhorse 3 shoes, and a compression shirt I picked up in Chamonix last year. Plus, I wore my Team RunRun hat and Bogota sunglasses. My kit was tested and worked well throughout. I ate Cliff Shot bloks and Gu gels during the race. At Jeadquarters every lap, I chugged some Gatorade and some coldbrew coffee. I wanted more salty food but didn’t have any options set up that enticed me during the race.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
The run through the camp at Jeadquarters every lap was great. I loved the 0.25 trip through camp to the turn around. There was cheering and it felt like a big check mark on my Javelina 5 loop checklist each time I came through. And though there were no spectators out on the loop, there were so many runners that it always felt like we were being cheered for.
What is the awards situation?
Top 3 get something unique. Finishers got buckles. I liked the waterproof swag bag we all received. This is one piece of race swag I’ll likely keep.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 out of 5. I’m happy with my performance, the race was well run, we had a great team presence and good time down in the desert, and I’m really happy to have had the opportunity to run this race.
Highlight of the awards – winning the team award with Jeff K, who placed 18th in 19:04 in his first 100 miler!
Check out more runner reviews of the Javelina Jundred (going back to 2017):
In this Javelina 100k Course race report, runner Stephanie breaks down her experience of the 100 kilometer Javelina Jundred event, including what you should know about staying cool and making the most of aid stations. Learn more about the course below!
“Lessons for others – For this race – ice, as mentioned. I had some in a ziploc in my pack against my back, in my arm sleeves and in my buff for most of the day. I think the most effective cooling was squeezing the ice sponges over my head though. I would do that multiple times at every aid station. This did mean my feet were wet almost all day, which I wasn’t expecting. It didn’t cause me any problems, but might be something to keep in mind.”
3 Bests – What aspects of the Javelina 100k did you like the most?
I loved being able to see all the other runners so often as they were coming at me from the other direction. Trying to spot Matt in his euro shirt (and everyone else I knew) gave me something to look forward to. The top two men in the 100 mile were also especially impressive to see throughout the race. They both looked so relaxed and were friendly and cheering each time I saw them.
The abundance of ice. I was nervous about the heat going in, but still didn’t realize quite how much I’d rely on the ice. It was readily available at all the aid stations, and so helpful.
The atmosphere was fun and I liked coming into the headquarters every loop. I couldn’t quite envision what it was going to look like with so much crew for so many runners. It seemed like it would be hard to find crew and bags, but they’ve obviously done this before and it was so simple and convenient. So smart to have such a big loop through camp to give easy access to crew for all runners.
Cooling down with the ice towel!
Not so much – Aspects of the Javelina 100k that didn’t do it for you
The 100 mile race, which had 600 runners, started an hour before the 100k and I started catching up to 100 milers around 5 miles into the race – so there was a lot of passing to do. It was only tricky in a few spots and for the most part people were very aware and it wasn’t a problem. It was just constant, though things thinned out a bit after the first loop.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about the Javelina 100k?
I’m just amazed at the people who can run in full costume. It was so hot. There is no way I wouldn’t have ditched a costume after the first loop.
The finish line was a little strange. It seems like they could have done more in announcing finishers. I was the 4th person to finish the 100k and it didn’t seem like anyone was paying attention, there was no way to get out of the finishers chute, and no one gave me a buckle (which I didn’t even realize I was supposed to get for the 100k until a few hours later).
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your 100k in particular?
I think I paced pretty well. I didn’t exactly follow the common wisdom to start slow because I wanted to take advantage of the coolest part of the day. With the 100k, I wasn’t really going to be out there long enough to get any of the cooler evening to run in, so I really only had a couple hours in the morning to take advantage. It ended up working well for me. Even though I obviously slowed through the day, I think it worked for the best, and I constantly moved up in placement throughout the day.
I had some stomach issues early on, but was able to solve them by paying attention to trying to stay cool. I took advantage of all the ice at every aid station and taking the time to do that allowed me to keep eating (well, mostly drinking) and moving at a reasonable pace.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the Javelina 100k course to help the next runner
For the Javelina 100k specifically – ice, as mentioned. I had some in a ziploc in my pack against my back, in my arm sleeves and in my buff for most of the day. I think the most effective cooling was squeezing the ice sponges over my head though. I would do that multiple times at every aid station. This did mean my feet were wet almost all day, which I wasn’t expecting. It didn’t cause me any problems, but might be something to keep in mind.
The aid stations can be a bit crazy because there are so many runners. I tried to get out of the busiest ones as soon as possible, both to avoid being overwhelmed, and sometimes to get ahead of large groups of runners to avoid having to pass them later.
I think my biggest worry, oddly, was getting a bunch of stuff in my shoes, because I read so many recommendations to wear gaiters. In my opinion, there was no need. My feet were fine all day. (It was also helpful when Matt asked me what would happen if I got stuff in my shoes, and I thought about it, and the answer was “nothing”.)
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
How great ice is, and that I can actually run 100k! There were no major hills, and I wasn’t quite sure how it would go not getting hiking “breaks”. A different kind of race than I’ve done for sure.
Happy to be finished!
Most important things to know about the Javelina 100k course:
My main takeaways:
You will pass a lot of people, no matter what your pace is. There are just so many people out there going both directions.
It is true when they say there is no shade.
No major climbs.
The first loop is longer that the others and the extra stretch includes what I thought was the least enjoyable part of the course (but it was also where I got stuck behind a lot of people, so that could have biased me), but you only have to do that part once.
The downhills are really fun to run.
I had read it was really rocky and sandy, but I didn’t find that the trail itself felt especially different than running in PNW.
Aesthetics – Is the Javelina 100k a pretty course?
It’s the desert! So depends on what you like. I enjoyed it. Although I also think anything the sun is shining on is beautiful.
Difficulty – Is the Javelina 100k a tough course?
There are no big climbs, so it is not tough that way. But that also means I felt compelled to actually run the whole thing, which is a different kind of challenge.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Super well run
Competition – Is there a strong field?
More for the 100 mile than the 100k
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.
Easy to get into, easy logistics since you pass headquarters so many times. Lots of hotel options within a 20-30 minute drive, or you can camp.
Are there aid stations throughout the Javelina 100k course?
4 every loop. I heard they had some unusual offerings (pumpkin pie and other things), but I never saw anything more than standard aid station food. Maybe the exotic treats came out at night. There were a lot of aid stations that didn’t have soda poured into cups so you had to ask for it. I think it was because the soda was attracting bees.
Weather and typical course conditions
I read that “average” was ~83 I think. But it sounds like high 80s/low 90s is actually more typical. It felt like 150 at times.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
I carried a ziploc with me from the start to put ice in to carry in my pack. I also carried sunscreen and chapstick all day, and never used it, but would probably still recommend it. Definitely put your phone in a waterproof case or ziploc bag if you take it with you so you can take advantage of all the ice water at the aid stations, without ruining your electronics. I carried two 500mL bottles from the start and that was enough for me.
I debated putting my bag with the drop bags at headquarters or with crew (because I thought it was going to be a little chaotic at headquarters). In reality, it’s not chaotic at all and having my bag either place would have worked just as well.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes, they can hang out at headquarters and see you every loop.
Even the awards were fun!
Awards
Top 3 male and female, plus other special awards
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
I’d give it a 5. Really well run, helpful volunteers, fun atmosphere.
Check out more runner reviews of the Javelina Jundred (going back to 2017):
Check out this race report to know what to expect from the Javelina Jundred – an annual Halloween ultra run in Arizona!
“It was dark at the Jackass Junction station on the reverse loop 4. It was after that I became intimately familiar with the rocky downhill section. I did a complete faceplant that hit so hard that it blew the top off my water bottle. My knee was bleeding from hitting the ground but after 5 minutes of walking I could start running again and made it back for the final loop 5. Going back out on loop 5, in almost the same spot going up, bam!! I faceplanted again.”
What to Expect from the Javelina Jundred – Race Report from Jeff K
Jeading out of Javelina Jeadquarters for another Jot Loop!
3 Bests – What aspects of the Javelina Jundred did you like the most?
The logistics of this race are easy – Running loops makes it easy for a lot of things including predicting your finish time. Start and finish line are the same place and close to to the main hotel. Practically everyone that was staying at the hotel was in the race so if you don’t get a car you can get a ride to/from. Crew doesn’t have to drive from point to point. You get the idea.
TRR and a bunch of other Seattle runners showed up. It was great camaraderie.
The “party in the desert” is like a Burning Man meets a tailgate party.
What should a runner expect not to like about the Javelina Jundred?
Heat – Once the sun is up it is really hot. Even on the non-race days, I was uncomfortable just standing in it.
Because it is loops and so many people It doesn’t feel like an adventure like Cascade Crest or a point to point.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing a runner should expect from the Javelina Jundred?
600 runners starting a 100 mile race seemed really large to me.
You wonder how someone could go 100 miles dressed in those costumes.
People are also doing weird stuff out there on the course like talking on their cell phones while running and playing tunes through speakers in their backpacks.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your 100 mile run in particular?
This was my first attempt at a 100 mile race. Overall, I was really happy with how it went.
The race began just as dawn was beginning to break. Based on a suggestion by my friend Ather H, we started a good distance back off the front. This was a great way at controlling the “going out too fast”. After the 2nd aid station at the 11 mile mark, I lost Ather because he was having some cactus thorns pulled out of his leg in medic tent (apparently the price you pay if you step off course to take a sunrise photo). I met another runner who had lived in Seattle and we ran together between the 2nd and 3rd aid station. Those two sections ended up being only time on the course that I ran with another person for any significant amount of time.
In the heat of the day, I got into a routine where at every aid station I would fill my pack with ice, full my hat with ice, and cool off with the ice water sponge. Loop 3 felt like the slowest part of the race.
Expect Faceplanting
It was dark at the Jackass Junction station on the reverse loop 4. It was after that I became intimately familiar with the rocky downhill section. I did a complete faceplant that hit so hard that it blew the top off my water bottle. My knee was bleeding from hitting the ground but after 5 minutes of walking I could start running again and made it back for the final loop 5. Going back out on loop 5, in almost the same spot going up, bam!! I faceplanted again. More pain from the fall, but after a while it just kind of got absorbed into general fatigue so was able to continue onward.
When I finally got to Jackass Junction for the final time at mile 90, it made me realize how much I just wanted to get off this freaking course with no more falls, and that motivated me to push to the finish.
Matt U was hanging around the finish line when I went through and we went over to the tables by the drop bags and hung out with Jeff U and others to watch the runners go through including Ather who came in at just after 20 hours. Around 3AM or so we were back at the hotel for some quick sleep, and then we went back out to the race to watch the awards and remaining finishers.
Since this was my first 100 miler, a bunch of people who had done 100 milers had told me things about what to expect…
Things I expected that did not happen:
Blisters upon blisters – my feet were totally fine, and no blisters or toenails falling off
Puking or other GI issues
Hallucinations – I did not see any flaming cactus, or talking coyotes. Closest thing was seeing Gordy Ainsley who looked a lot like Santa Claus
Things I expected that did happen:
Extreme fatigue – in the later miles my legs, knees, and shins were killing me
Dizziness – at one point during the heat when I was hiking a section, I could tell I wasn’t walking a straight line. Some other runners coming the other way must have noticed and asked me if I needed water or anything.
Loss of focus – I did entertain just giving up and accepting a much slower time to finish
What should the next runner know about the Javelina Jundred?
If this race is your first 100, knowing your pacing to sustain it is key.
Keep your core temp low. The aid stations in this race have plenty of ice , so use it.
Continue to re-applying body glide, or sunscreen when you go through the checkpoints. The conditions in this race are prime for a chafing and sunburn issues
What will you change for your next run at the Javelina Jundred?
I would find a pace runner next time for the last 20 miles. This would have been a huge help to stay focused.
Need to find a better nutrition strategy other than shot blocks and random stuff from the aid stations.
What should a runner know about the Javelina Jundred course?
You can make up good time when you are on the downhill sections. I started figuring this out in the later loops.
Aesthetics – Can we expect this to be a pretty race?
In the early morning and dusk. Yes. Otherwise, if you think heat is pretty, then also yes.
Difficulty – Can we expect this to be a tough race?
It is advertised as a great first time 100 mile. It has easy logistics and low vert. However, it has a really high DNF rate of around 40%.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Yes. Totally.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
It could vary. This year had a really strong front group and the course record was broken by 30 minutes.
Logistics – What should we expect about signing up for the Javelina Jundred?
Easy. No lottery. The field is large and there were spots open even a couple weeks before the start.
What can we expect about aid stations at the Javelina Jundred?
4 total including the main Start/Finish area. I thought this was perfect.
What can we expect about weather and course conditions?
The race director said there was one year in race history where it rained and created a bunch of mud. Most always, however, it will but sunny and 90 degree desert conditions during the day.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
For the first loop and the loops at night, you could get away with carrying 1 20oz Bottle. During the day you should take multiple bottles and a vest that can hold ice in the back.
Spectators – Is the Javelina Jundred a friendly course for your friends?
Yes. They would see you 5 times just hanging around the start/finish area
Are there fun awards?
Yes. There are a bunch of them for different categories. You get a silver belt buckle for sub 24
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give the Javelina Jundred race and do you recommend that others run it?
I’m just not a fan of desert running so I’d give it a 3.5 out of 5. That is just me and there are plenty of others out there who absolutely love it. I could see myself doing it again, but I don’t think I’d try to make it a focal point for the year.
Jeff and Matt won the Team Award for the fastest combined times!
Check out more runner reviews of the Javelina Jundred (going back to 2017):
Pre-race dinner with Jeff, Josh and Daisy, all in the 100k race
3 Bests – what aspects of the race did you like the most
Aravaipa put on another great race. They communicated the alternate course change well in advance and managed to run everything smoothly given the weather challenges. I have been pleased with both BC100k and Javalina.
The aid stations were well stocked throughout the race and the volunteers were super helpful.
The crew was solid! It was great seeing Matt, Julie, Paavo, Daisy and Josh at various points on the course.
Julie and Paavo crewing in the rain. Nothing stops us!
Not so much – aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
I know it was the alternate course (so this wouldn’t happen with the normal course), but I didn’t love the out and back on single track. It makes for a lot of getting off the trail, stopping, restarting, etc.
It was tough to get in a rhythm with the snaking nature of a lot of the course. There were very few parts, partially due to the mud, that allowed for smooth comfortable running.
I fell for the first time in a race! Not cool. What not to do – don’t be worried about how you’re going to pass someone on single track and then eat it 🙂
Weird factor – what’s the weirdest thing about this race
This race takes you to the middle of nowhere desert which can lead one to wonder, “who actually lives out here”.
We were definitely in the middle of nowhere!
Highlights of your race – what did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular
I was pleased that I was able to stay positive throughout the race. My energy was fairly low much earlier in the race than I expected, but I was able to maintain a similar level of hurt for a long period of time and just get through it.
Given the rain and muddy trails, I was worried my feet would get torn up during the race. Using my drop bags, I was able to change my socks multiple times as well as my shoes to avoid any blisters.
Lessons for others – share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Be prepared for anything with this race. Make sure you have gear for both hot and cold temperatures. Running in the desert without cover is always an adventure, so do yourself a favor and bring whatever you can to make things easier on yourself.
Don’t get too worked up about things you can’t control. The weather and the course change were not exactly optimal, but it’s helpful to just be able to roll with it without stressing too much.
Taking time to check on Paavo in the rain
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Don’t be in a hurry. I tucked into a group on one of the technical sections on the way out, and I think it saved me from myself. I was worried about going out too fast given the steady downhill on the front half, and this helped save my legs for the way back.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Single track starts pretty early in the race, so it helps to be closer to the front if you’re really looking to be competitive. With the alternate course, it would help to be closer to the front to ensure you don’t have to hop off the trail as much for those on their way back.
Aesthetics – is it a pretty course
It was cloudy and foggy for much of the race, but there were a few times when everything cleared up. Given the rain this winter, there was a lot of green with pretty views.
Mud, water, more mud, and more water
Difficulty – is it a tough course
There wasn’t much elevation change, so from that perspective the course wasn’t too tough. As previously mentioned, it wasn’t very easy to get into a groove and just bang out the miles.
Organized and well run – did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
I was very pleased with how well the race was run. It can’t be easy making the call to completely change the course and everything else with it. I was impressed with how Aravaipa communicated all of the changes and made everything happen.
Competition – is there a strong field?
I’m not exactly a front runner, so it’s hard for me to say. There were some solid times, particularly given the conditions, so it was a decently strong field. People wanted their WS100 golden tickets!
Still smiling despite the weather
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.
This is typically a point to point course, so you have to decide if you want a hotel near the start or finish. In this case it ended up being an out and back from the original start, so the idea of having our hotel near the original finish went out the window. In general, the race isn’t too far outside of Phoenix, so all in all it was pretty straightforward.
Aid Stations
The aid stations were well stocked. I’m wheat intolerant, and upon mentioning that they quickly offered to make me quesadillas with corn tortillas instead. They were roughly 5-7 miles apart, and the volunteers were great.
Weather and typical race conditions –
Last year it was really hot – this year it was really wet (and cold for me – 40’s the whole way).
Gear – did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
I know of a number of people that dropped due to the cold. I was super happy that I decided to bring multiple pairs of gloves, hats and arm sleeves. This saved me since I don’t own a wet weather running jacket.
Spectators – is this a friendly course for your friends
There were a handful of aid stations that allowed for crew. This isn’t a course that brings out the spectators throughout though.
Awards –
I got a buckle for the 100k finish as well as a drinking glass. The top finishers got their WS100 golden tickets.
The Overall Score – how many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it
This is a 5 out of 5 if for no other reason than the race directors. I have to believe there would have been smoother running and pretty views if it hadn’t been pouring the whole time.
Race: 
