This weekend is my first tri of the year, the Black Bear Sprint in the Poconos! Am I prepared? Uhh I wouldn’t say I feel super confident in the training I’ve done (only been swimming twice and biking outside once!) but I’m going to make the best of the race and think of it as a long workout to help get me ready for the NYC Tri later this summer.
If you’ve never done an out-of-town race, there is actually a lot to think about and plan ahead of time. If you’re considering traveling for a race, read on for my tips!
Here’s a shot from a recent out-of-town race:
I love doing an out-of-town race, it’s a great way to see a new city and expand your horizons. I’ve been doing races in New York City for years and just recently started traveling for races. It gets you on a new course in a totally new environment; it’s the perfect way to keep things fresh and interesting.
With an out-of-town race come some challenges. You should be prepared before your actual race weekend to ensure you have everything ready to go. When doing a race in your neighborhood everything is your normal routine, but when you’re going out of state to race there is much more to consider.
Book Your Hotel: Do this far in advance! As soon as your buy your entry to the race, book your room. Races can bring in thousands of out-of-towners and rooms will go quickly. Do your best to book a room near the starting line to avoid parking issues and taxis the morning of the race.
Make Dinner Reservations: I love a good whole-wheat pasta meal before a big race and there is nothing worse that driving around aimlessly looking for an Italian restaurant with space for you (again, tons of people might be in town for the race, filling up restaurants). Do some research, find a quality spot and make reservations prior to the weekend. If you have a certain meal you like before a race, ensure the restaurant can make it and can take you at a reasonable hour.
Pack Your Bag Early: If you’re leaving for a race weekend early Saturday morning, do not pack your bag late Friday night! You might realize you’re missing key items and should be buy all your essentials before leaving town. Try to pack a few days in advance to give yourself time to pick up any missing items.
Bring Your Own Food: If you eat the same protein bar before every race, make sure to buy this at home and bring it with you. You may not know where the sporting goods stores are and might be left empty handed the morning of the race.
Make a Plan: After the race, know where you are going and how you’ll find your group. In an unfamiliar city, you’re going to want to know exactly where to go after you cross the finish line. It’s helpful if you run with your cell phone but for some races this is impossible (like triathlons) so make sure you know your group meeting spot.
Brunch Far From the Finish: If you’re like me, an indulgent brunch is a must after finishing a race. Often times small cities hosting races will have long waits for brunch the morning of a race, not used to such crowds. I like to do a little research and find a unique and under-the-radar brunch spot further out from town (ideally on the way back home).
Hopefully this summer you can get out of town and try a race in a city you’ve never been. Make sure to prepare and enjoy the trip!
