Maine

“What aspects did you like the most? The atmosphere and overall energy of a small “home town” race. Everyone learns your name kind of feel and you really feel like they are rooting for you to succeed. You can really feel the heart and soul that is put into this race for the organizers and volunteers. The smooth transitions in and out of aid stations. Everyone at the aid stations were full of experienced trail ultra runners. They knew how to keep you moving, what questions to ask, and to help you think and manage your race. Not to mention that the aid stations were well stocked with great variety and perfect placement. The trail variety. You get some good New England technical (rooty/rocky) for about half the course and ATV gravel roads for the other. It breaks it up nicely so you never really get bored of one or the other.”

Race: Riverlands 100

Runner: Bucky Love

Race Date: 5/8/2021

Location: Androscoggin Riverlands State Park, Turner, Maine

Results: 26hrs 56mins

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/5268417648

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

1. The atmosphere and overall energy of a small “home town” race. Everyone learns your name kind of feel and you really feel like they are rooting for you to succeed. You can really feel the heart and soul that is put into this race for the organizers and volunteers.
2. The smooth transitions in and out of aid stations. Everyone at the aid stations were full of experienced trail ultra runners. They knew how to keep you moving, what questions to ask, and to help you think and manage your race. Not to mention that the aid stations were well stocked with great variety and perfect placement.
3. The trail variety. You get some good New England technical (rooty/rocky) for about half the course and ATV gravel roads for the other. It breaks it up nicely so you never really get bored of one or the other.

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

If you don’t like repeating the same out and back 12 1/2 miles for 100 miles then this race isn’t for you. There is also not much flat to speak of. There isn’t any real challenging climbs, but lots of slight up or down grades.

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

The last mule in the barn award. The last finisher that makes the 32 hour cut off gets a race engraved mule mug with a local Maine ginger beer and Maine vodka to make a “Maine Mule”.

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

I was able to enjoy the experience and keep a smile on my face. I finished feeling strong and had no real times of absolute misery that so often come with running a 100.

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

Bring a bright headlamp or waist belt. Light that trail up like Las Vegas. There are so many roots and rocks that if you want to “run” during the night hours you will want to be able to see where you are going. The best runners had 800 lumen or higher waist belts and head lamps too.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

To bring a better head lamp so I can push more during the last lap at night. I saved too much for the last lap and didn’t push because I changed my goal from a sub 24 hour to “I don’t care, I can walk the last lap and still finish on time. I am going to enjoy myself”.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Lots of roots, rocks, and small climbs that add up over time.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

I think it is a pretty course. Not any real spanning views or high mountain views, but you get a nice forest run, and some views of the river along the way.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

I think it is a tough course given the nature of New England type single tracks for 1/2 the course and the consistent ups and downs. The course record held by Mark Hammond is in the mid 17 hours which I think speaks to it being a difficult course. I don’t think this is a course anyone would set out to achieve a PR on.

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

I felt that the organization was top notch and a smooth operation. They didn’t appear to run out of any needs at the aid stations, answered questions asked, had a well-marked course, and good instructions and information before. This is the 4th year running the event and as a runner I couldn’t tell that anything was amiss or missing.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

The field is small and no real “big” names came out this year. It is a small field and under 60 starters this year.

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.

I think registering early is best. The race did fill up and at one point the race director had a wait list as long as the max amount of entrants. They end up taking everyone off the waitlist, due to cancelations over the course of the prior months, but the race is getting more known each year. The field will always be limited and small because of limitations set by the state park. Traveling and hotels shouldn’t be an issue, as you could get a hotel within 20 mins of the start easy. If you want to camp at the local camp ground (Martin Stream Campground, Turner ME) down the road where the pre-race dinner and post-race get together are held then you want to reserve that far in advance as they sell out of space almost quicker then the race filling it it self.

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

I would say it was pretty standard assortment of hot and cold foods with a variety of savory and sweet. They fresh grill bacon, eggs, pancakes, grilled cheese, quesadillas, and more throughout the event. They offered great homemade soups and broths with options for vegetarians as well. I saw one runner with a diabetic concerns and they helped identify foods safe for his consumption, which I thought was very cool.

Weather and typical race conditions

The weather was perfect on my race day. Average temp in the fifties, cloudy the first day, but no rain. Sunny in the morning. Not too cold at night, for me. I wore the same shorts and long sleeve shirt the entire event and never once considered putting on my jacket. I rolled up my sleeves on and off. However, I know that if they event had not been canceled last year there would have been freezing temperatures and a big snow storm the day before and during the race. This is an early May run, the weather can truly be anything so come prepared for all conditions. It is also good even it if is warm to have cold weather clothing in a drop back as it is not uncommon for early May temps to drop below freezing at night.

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

I would say just a really good headlamp or light belt or both, as I mentioned above you will want to see the trail the best you can.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

No, not really. Spectators are only really allowed at the start/finish area and they discourage anyone for hanging out at the middle or other end aid stations due to space limitations. You will see the runner 3 times between at the aid station, but it can be 4-8 hours between sightings. Best to encourage your friends to volunteer at an aid station.

How’s the Swag?

Average swag – shirts, bumper sticker, finishers buckle, and an option to buy a finishers sweatshirt if you finish.

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

Personally, I give the race 5 stars out of 5. I cannot imagine myself enjoying a 100 miles more. It isn’t the prettiest race, the fastest race, or the most challenging race, but the good nature, high energy small town feel is hard to beat in my book. For full disclosure this is a “friends” race for me. I am part of the running group that hosts the event and I spent a lot of time before helping set up the race, it means something special to me personally, but I also believe that feeling carries over to anyone who signs up.

“Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race: Maine is unpredictable in the spring. We had snow on the course up until three weeks ago, the snow created mud and standing water in many areas so you will have wet feet all day. It’s important to have proper layers ready to go throughout the race as temps the last two years have ranged from the high 60s during the day (hot by Maine standards) to 30 at night.”

Race: Riverlands 100

Runner: Brian E

Race Date: 05/11/2019

Location: Androscoggin State Park – Turner, Maine

Results: 28:47

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/2363087355

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

1. It’s very close to home!
2. Great organizers, volunteers, fellow racers, and spectators. It’s a smaller event and feels very intimate.
3. The course is beautiful and challenging with a 32-hour cutoff. So if you can gut it out you’ll probably finish.

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

This is a tough question because so many of the things that make this race great also make you hate it after 70 miles. The extremely rough terrain and temperature swings slowly tear you apart.

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

Not necessarily weird but good to know. The RDs changed the course this year for the better I believe. Last year it was a 5 lap, 20 mile out and back along rough ATV trails… this year it became a 4 lap 25 mile out and back along some of the ATV trail and around 12 miles of single track. The singletrack adds a bit of elevation, rock scrambles, and loamy runnable sections. There is also a 5 person relay option that utilizes the same ATV only course from last year.

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

• I ran this with my friend and fellow RunRunner, Susan, and it was her first 100 miler so that made this race extra special. I feel like we did well being patient early in the race, running what we could and hiking what we should.
• The most memorable part for me was late in the race…We talked about wanting to be under 30 hours and were on pace for it. With around 6 miles to go, I realized that if we hustled we could break 29 hours. We dug deep and found one more gear to bring it in with style!

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Maine is unpredictable in the spring. We had snow on the course up until three weeks ago, the snow created mud and standing water in many areas so you will have wet feet all day. It’s important to have proper layers ready to go throughout the race as temps the last two years have ranged from the high 60s during the day (hot by Maine standards) to 30 at night.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

It’s gorgeous. You’ll have views from higher up and along the river, the sunrises and sunset were spectacular this year. You can expect to see and hear all kinds of wildlife as the day goes on. We heard loons, coyotes, owls and more.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

This race ain’t for wimps. Seventy 100 mile solo racers signed up and around sixty started Saturday morning. I believe 26 runners finished. Between the rugged terrain and temperature swings bringing on hypothermia at night, this race chews up and spits out runners.

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

This was the race’s third year but it feels very well run. The RDs and volunteers are seasoned trail runners and do a great job.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

This year seemed to attract some legit competition. Mark Hammond made the trip and won the race. A handful of people broke 24 hours.

Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.

It did sell out this year so I would sign up early if you want to give it a try. Hotels are located about 20 minutes away in the town of Auburn and there is a very accommodating campground about 10 minutes away (this guy loves the racers!)

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

Standard fare

Weather and typical race conditions

Early May in Maine is a crap shoot. Both years I’ve run this race it was hot during the day and freezing at night. It’s been raining for weeks here this year but somehow we managed two nice days in a row for the race. It can be beautiful or a nightmare!

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

Nothing special. Moisture-wicking layers are key.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Definitely! Spectators are allowed to hike, bike, and horseback ride into the course which has trailheads at the start/finish and the turnaround point.

How’s the Swag?

Limited but good. My two buckles are my prized possessions. You get a sticker, a t-shirt, some local candies, etc. Hoodies and shirts are available for purchase I believe.

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

This race was my first 100 last year and this year’s race was the most challenging I’ve run. It’s put on by a local club that I’ve been becoming more involved with so I may be biased. If you like a solid test of your mental and physical grit you should give Riverlands 100 a try.

“Lessons you learned that will help you next time around: Learn to use your headlamp before the race! Don’t pack so much – it was overwhelming coming back to my car (4 laps of 25) because although I was organized I could’ve been better organized.”

Race: Riverlands 100

Runner: Susan H

Race Date: 05/11/2019

Location: Androscoggin State Park, Turner, Maine

Results: 2nd female/18 out of 26/28:47 /33 DNF

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/athlete/training

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

1. Loved the single track
2. Loved that I was able to see my friends who were running the relay at the same time I was running solo
3. Loved that I was running with someone for my 1st 100 – especially this course – it wasn’t very big so you are running often alone.

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

ATV trails – really rocky – stubbed my toes way too much!

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

That I finished! I felt good most of the time – was really concerned about past GI issues – but really concentrated on fueling. Aid station and RD’s were all very encouraging.

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

Use your headlamp before the race.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

Learn to use your headlamp before the race!
Don’t pack so much – it was overwhelming coming back to my car (4 laps of 25) because although I was organized I could’ve been better organized.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Lots of rocks and roots – lots of rolling hills, not so many epic climbs, but over the course of 4 laps – the elevation was at least 10,000 ft.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

It is pretty- mostly different types of “forest” that you go thru. Some views of the river and a couple views when you’re on top of a ledge.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

Yes – the ATV trails are tough.

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

Yes – RD’s and volunteers were great.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

It’s starting to become. Lots of folks from Canada, a few from West Coast, majority from New England.

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.

Just sign up – it did fill up this year – so you probably have until March/April to get in.

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

Pretty standard fare – I had told a volunteer ahead of time that I was GF and he made sure there were GF options – that was great.

Weather and typical race conditions

Perfect weather – although Saturday was a bit warm – but that’s relative because it just hasn’t’ been warm at all here – probably high 50’s and low 40’s at night. Lots of puddles on the course because it has been such a rainy spring and it had rained on Friday.

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

Nope – good headlamps.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

No – only time you can see the runners is at the Start/Finish – which you do go to every lap.

How’s the Swag?

Yypical – t-shirt/buckle/sticker – race is inexpensive though – and that’s better than swag. There is a pre-race dinner which is included in the price as well as a post-race awards dinner which is included.

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

4 – But I have nothing really to compare it to – as this was my first 100. It’s not a big race as I said, so for your first – it may be better to do one that has more people.