In order to ensure that in a few days time you have a medal in the bag, best you focus on packing that bag now...
Things to put in-
For the day:
- Your running shoes. More people have finished with them than without...
- ChampionChip - you will need this at registration, but fix it to your shoe now anyway. Such a small thing it is easy to forget it.
- Your socks - well run in, but not worn out
- Running vest and shorts - the ones you have run in for the last couple of months. Nothing new that is stiff and can cause chaffing.
- Sunscreen - You are going to spend a lot of time out there, whether you like it or not. So pack the sunscreen.
- Hat and sunglasses - if you are used to running with them, take them along. Old story of don't try anything new...
- BodyGlide, Loobit, Vaseline, or your favourite speed grease product - to prevent friction and burn.
- Lip balm - your own. Don't accept vaseline from the side of the road... if you need more detail why, just ask.
- Plasters - for toes, heels, blisters and nipples.
- Gloves - cheap disposable goodies for the start. It can be cool in the morning. These are also very useful snot absorbers.
- Old T-shirt - your oldest running T. It can be cool at the start, and you will be standing there for the best part of an hour. So this can keep you warm while you stand around as well as for the first few km's. Also guaranteed to make a local supporter very happy.
- Watch - the old tried and trusted time piece. With full battery power.
- Pacing chart or running plan. Your mind may not be able to do the maths.
- Gels - Jolt, Vooma, Gu, whatever you have been training on.
- Breakfast bar - pack one in for the start. It is a long time between leaving the hotel and the gun. A nibble while standing on the line will help.
- Meds - your myprodol, immodium, valoid, etc (not that I condone the use of any of this).
- Toilet paper. Don't bargain on the porta-loos being stocked. (Meds and toilet paper in a bank bag)
- Sense of humour and loads of energy - you're gonna need both!
Other things that are good to have:
- Your own pillow. For a good night's sleep before the race
- Alarm clock. Or two. You can't afford to oversleep on this one.
- 'Track your runner' - register for friends / family that want to know how ya' doin'. Supporters can SMS your race number to 38132 to get updates throughout the day on your progress.
Things for the finish:
- Towel
- Tracksuit
- Dry clothes
- Fresh socks
- Bag for the smellies
- Cash - for the boerrie rolls and pancakes (and beer)
- Pre-arrange a meeting place for friends and family. Nothing worse than traipsing around for hours looking for people. A sure way to ruin your entire day...
And a few things to do before you leave home:
- Cut your toenails. Don't leave this to the day before the race or your toes will be sensitive and susceptible to a beating
- Shave - whether it be your face, legs or armpits - again, sun, sweat and freshly shaved skin do not go well together. Don't leave this for the night before the race.
Good luck, and travel safe.
Regards,
Andrew
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