Race: Vashon 50k
Runner: Nick Keenan
Race Date: 06/04/2022
Location: Vashon WA
Results: 4:47:11
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/7255657546/overview
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- Beautiful trails, challenging but not overly technical.
- Well supported and great community feel.
- Three-loop course, so great for pushing the pace and finishing strong.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Small field, can get stretched out, and with many turns on the course, you can’t see runners close to you.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Not weird, but there’s an unofficial aid station that’s there every year with watermelon, water and other goodies.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Knowing the course, you can push the pace to the right level. Varying terrain and short climbs make for constant challenges.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
- Three ~ten-mile loops, use a drop-bag at the start for quick aid-station times. It’s spectator friendly, with a kid-friendly spot halfway through the loop, and about 1.5 miles by car or bike from the start.
- There’s a 10 mile race the same day, starting an hour after the 50k. Very little overlap of runners.
- Generally easy to pass runners, so don’t go out too fast.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
On the flatter and straight spots on the course — keep your effort level under control, especially the last two miles going into the start/finish area.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
It’s three ~ten mile loops.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Pretty course, tall pines, forested pond, no views of water or mountains though.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Some roots and rocks in spots, can be muddy depending on recent rainfall. A little road running, and two (x3) road crossings.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Well organized. Aid station volunteers are veteran ultra runners who take good care of you. RD is super nice and an active ultra runner.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Not usually.
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.
Ferry boat from Tacoma, Southworth or Fauntleroy West Seattle. Camping available, some small lodging options.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Standard stuff.
Weather and typical race conditions
Early June in the coastal PNW – usually cool at the start and getting warmer later in the day.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes, see earlier comment.
How’s the Swag?
Unique finisher award, shirts available for purchase.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
Four stars, always fun.
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