To successfully complete my ultra marathon, I will need to have all the right tools. This means investing in the right gear for the job.
Gadgets and Gizmos
I recently purchased a pair of trail running shoes to replace my old beat up road shoes. While I was perusing the Running Room, I came across a bunch of neat doodads that would come in handy during my ultra. It got me thinking about all the gear that I will need for race day.
There are tons of really cool running paraphernalia out there. However, a lot of it is tailored to a certain type of running (track, trail, road etc.). Before I start adding to cart, I want to make sure I am making the right selections for this race in particular. A lengthy trail run with potential for blistering heat, snowy mountain tops, shifty wildlife and countless other unknown variables…
Support from Sinister
Before signing up for Sinister 7, I pored over the Racer Info Package. All of my questions about the race, many of which I didn’t even know I had, were answered on this webpage. A few examples include suggested accommodations in the area, the agenda for the race weekend and a run down of the aide stations.
There will be a whole other post related to the crazy logistics involved with Sinister 7. With three distances (50k, 100k, 100 mile), a mix of solo runners and relay teams, and a maximum time allowance of 30 hours for the 100 milers, the organizers certainly have their hands full. Stay tuned for that post!
After my trip to the Running Room, I went back to consult the gear section of the Racer Info Package. Not surprisingly, there were a bunch of great suggestions.
Suggested Gear
The info package includes the following gear:
- Headlamp (after 8:00pm)
- Full water bottles or hydration pack to carry 2L of fluid
- Wind/water resistant jacket
- Toque or warm hat
- Sun hat
- Whistle (for alerting others)
- Space blanket (shelter)
- Bear spray or bear banger (IF you know how to use it)
These recommendations are all very logical, but would I have actually thought of these things? Absolutely not.
Okay maybe I would have remembered the water. However, the potential for cold weather conditions in mid July did not enter my mind, nor did the concept of potentially getting stuck out there if something goes sideways. A frightening notion, but hence the reason for the preparedness!
Also, no clue what a bear banger is… sounds like an après ski cocktail.
Gearing Up
Reviewing the info package has given me a good reminder of the must haves. Now time to dive into some research and gather more intel on the best options available. I am sure it will take some trial and error, but in the end, I will be as ultra prepared as possible!
