Race: Zion 50k
Runner: Emily B
Race Date: 04/13/2019
Location: Virgin,UT
Results: 9:50
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
-Amazingly scenic
-Perfect weather
-Well thought out and organized race
-Well stocked and staffed aid stations
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
-Very exposed, especially the last third.
-Last 1.5 miles is along the highway
-Aid station 2 was not marked appropriately on the map and placed too close to aid station 3
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Composting toilet tents with sawdust.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I enjoyed the technical bit of trail getting on and off of the mesa
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Camp in the dispersed BLM campsites and avoid high priced resorts/hotels in the area
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Conserve energy on uphills and run downhills and flats. Lots of undulating slick rock and MTB trail.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Absolutely stunning. Highlight was watching the sun come up over the valley as we gained the mesa.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not particularly, with the exception of short technical climb/descent from the mesa.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
These people are pros, very well run!
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 take a lot of planning and organization due to relative remoteness and access to equipment.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Excellent overall! The best station was the first/third station at the top of the mesa. Lots or freshly cooked pancakes and eggs.
Weather and typical race conditions
Lots of exposure and desert sun but temps were mild.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
Gaiters and bandana to manage insane amounts or red dust.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
I wouldn’t say so, too remote. A few hardy supporters on bikes made it to the mesa.
How’s the Swag?
Choice of great medal or ceramic Zion ultra pint glass.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
