Race: Woolley Runs 50k
Runner: Shawn Bussert
Race Date: 02/16/2019
Location: Sedro-Woolley, WA
Results: https://www.nwenduranceevents.com/events/woolley/#results
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Usually a fast course (when not covered in frozen snow), and out and back.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Maybe too flat and this year the snow didn’t do it for me.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
First snow covered race for me. Happy to finish strong despite such a tough day.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
If one runs this race…pace yourself!
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Don’t try to race so hard when conditions are not as expected.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
This is a flat rails-to-trails not much to know about it.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
It is pretty farmland with Mountain View’s the whole way, even buffalo!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
It can be tough if you go out to fast. Definitely sub 4 for the fast guys and gals.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Northwest endurance events puts on great events. Well run and they take great care of you!
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Sometimes
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.
Never have a problem signing up.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Standard fair at the aid stations.
Weather and typical race conditions
It’s a crap shoot. I’ve ran it in rain, snow and 60 degrees!
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
Standard gear, pretty light with the amount of aid stations.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
It is! Plenty of cross roads they can see you at.
How’s the Swag?
Finish metal with a Woolley Mammoth on it or if you win, a plush toy Woolley.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
4 out of 5
Shawn Bussert is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with Coach Shawn, check out his coaching page.