Broken Arrow Skyrace 52k Race Report – Georgia Porter

Race: Broken Arrow Skyrace 52k

Runner: Coach Georgia Porter

Race Date: 06/18/2022

Location: Tahoe, California

Results: 3rd Place Female, 19th Overall

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

This race is EPIC in every way. Some of the highlights are the gorgeous scenery, the high level of competition and the amazing staff/volunteers

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

I can’t think of a single thing I didn’t enjoy about this race.

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

A weird/awesome thing about this race is the section called “Stairway to Heaven.” There is a ladder runners climb up to get past a steep rocky section and it’s followed by a set of stairs carved out of the snow. At the top of the stairs is the high point of the race.

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

The 52k (more like a 49k as the race distance varies on the year/snow) is two 25k loops. I made sure to be very patient the first loops and I enjoyed looking around at the incredible views of forests and alpine lakes. That patience paid off and I was able to run a strong second loop. More importantly, it made the race so enjoyable!

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

There are several very steep climbs that require power hiking. I typically don’t practice power hiking and it showed! Runners training for this race should consider practicing power hiking on steep terrain.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

I got a little caught up in the competition heading into the second lap and didn’t stop to drink some mid-race coke like I normally do. A few miles later I paid for it and started bonking. Fortunately I was able to drink some coke at the next aid station and I felt better within a few miles.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Broken Arrow is a steep course! There are plenty of steep inclines and declines. There are also plenty of technical sections.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

This is one of the most beautiful courses I’ve ever run. 10/10 would recommend!

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

This course is difficult in terms of elevation and altitude, it’s all above 6,000ft.

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

Broken Arrow is one of the most well organized events I’ve ever participated in. Communication is frequent and clear, the course was well staffed and easy to follow and the finish line is a party!

Competition – Is there a strong field?

There’s excellent competition in every event at Broken Arrow.

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 is simple and straight forward on the website.

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

Aid stations have typical fare. This year the race partnered with Spring Energy and these gels were available.

Weather and typical race conditions

Weather conditions are never predictable in the mountains. This year (2022) is was in the 40s with a little snow at the top, perfect for racing!

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

Many runners ran with trekking poles. I didn’t but they were encouraged by the race director.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Given the terrain this race wasn’t incredibly spectator friendly. For the 52k friends and family can easily see their runner start, see them at the halfway point and see them finish.

How’s the Swag?

The swag is amazing!!! For the 52k there was a Broken Arrow Salomon backpack, a Broken Arrow hat, a commemorative cup, a trail cup, a Salomon hydro flask, and plenty of great fuel and snacks. Very impressed.

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

10/10 for this race!!!

Georgia is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about her or to work with her, check out her coach profile.