Upload / Capture
This was my 5th 50 mile race and 8th ultra race. I've seen some REALLY well organized events. This was not one of them. Fortunately, I came prepared with everything I needed for the full distance, so the lack of preparation did not impact my race. I ran a 31 minute PR. The course is flat and fast. I had a group of four first-time ultra runners with me and they all said the course was challenging. It offered a generous 12:45:00 cutoff. A great option for Midwest first-time 50 milers!
I'm grateful for a quick race to use all my winter heat training. I will not be returning to this event. I believe there are other races better suited to what I need during an ultra.
The trail at Sleepy Hollow State Park is gorgeous. The 50 mile course was 3.5 loops and included shaded forest areas, a small island, single track, double track, and some full-sun meadow sections. On a very hot and sunny day, the meadow sections were noticeably more difficult, especially for the second and third loops. The trails had some technical sections with roots and a few very steep short hills. That offered enough challenge for new ultra runners without impacting a quick finish time for experienced ultra runners.
The aid stations were every 3-4 miles, making it super easy to access water and fuel. Nutrition on course was typical grab-and-go ultra foods, Huma gels, and Tailwind. They had ice buckets with towels aid each aid station. The RDs apologized after the race, but they ran out of water at a few aid stations and ice was infrequent on the final loop. With the 15.5 mile loops, it was easy to have crew right at the start line for refilling needs. I only carried a Naked belt and two bottles and never felt like I needed more capacity.
Another cool part of this race is that the start/finish line is at a really nice beach. For any of the race distances, the park entrance fee will include access to the lake. It was a very busy day for camping and day visitors. Finding a shaded spot for crew to wait was a challenge for them. In terms of finish line destinations, this was a win.
There was food for runners at the end, but they limited each runner to two hot dogs or one burger. That was an unfortunate decision because it was the only hot food available. By the time the final 50 mile finishers were done, there was not enough food left. Having more options and vegetarian options available would have increased my rating of the race.
Login to your account to leave a comment.
We Want to Give it to You!
