The Super Marathon Race Report

Race: The Super Marathon

Runner: Jorge Pereira

Race Date: 6/27/2021

Location: Snoqualmie Pass, WA

Results: https://runsignup.com/superfastmarathon/results#resultSetId-260300;perpage:5000

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/5539438314/overview

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

Gentle downhill, organization very well prepared for the heat, amazing volunteers, nice views.

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

The heat!!! The downhill can be hard on the quads too.

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

There’s a 2.8 mile tunnel that’s not “weird” but kinda cool.

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

I managed the heat well, which is what I was most worried about. This was also in big time due to the great job of the organizers and volunteers having aid stations every 2 miles.

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

Definitely go for a training run on this course before. The downhill is nice but can be tough on the quads, it was for me. If it’s as hot as it was this year, I’d recommend the obvious: slow down, drink plenty, etc. I thought quite hard before the race about what equipment to bring with me: a belt, handheld bottle, or a hydration pack. Belt doesn’t carry as much water as the pack, and hand held doesn’t hold as much water and it’s a bit of a pita to carry. I personally like pack better because that’s what I am used to, so ended up with that, despite the extra weight. I am glad I did as some of the miles, especially in the last 10k, got pretty rough for me with the heat. I drank all 32 ounces I carried, plus a cup or two at every station.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

Running so long in the heat was a bit of an unknown to me, so now I know a bit what to expect for next time.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

Yes.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

I don’t think so, but it can be tough on the quads due to downhill, and it was very tough this time due to heat.

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

Super well organized.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

I was just happy to finish, did not even look at my time until I got back in the car.

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

Water and electrolytes in all stations. At least one station had ice and gels.

Weather and typical race conditions

Hot!!

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

In my case, I wore my trail vest (ultimate direction 4.0). I was looking for something smaller and lighter but they were all sold out. I should have looked with more advance! It worked well for me, and I liked the extra insurance due to the unknown.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

No. There’s an 18.5 mile point but otherwise it’s mostly through a trail in the mountains with limited access.

How’s the Swag?

Good.

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

5/5