Race Report: My First 50k

Or, “The Bluff Course is Actually Shaped Like a Cherry”

I could say all the normal things about my first 50k, like how intense, dramatic, or world-changing this half-day race had turned out to be. Or, how the training worked, the diet held up, the equipment was well-planned. Instead, with tongue firmly in cheek, I would like to describe how the first 50k in fact closely mirrors another important milestone in life – the loss of virginity.

You see, like my 50k race, the voyage into maturity also required a great deal of training and experimentation. It’s not like reading a book can quite prepare you for everything that you might experience or encounter. Much like the 50k, the journey into adulthood required research, planning, coaching, and a good deal of strategy and luck. Here are some of the things that I found were similar – or very different – between the two events.

First – equal focus for both events (for first-timers) is placed on the equipment. It’s not the shoes, it’s the runner. I get that. But, tell that to a first timer & you are likely to be quickly dismissed as unsupportive. Of course equipment is key, the rookie is apt to exclaim. Now I know, it has more to do with what you do with it that really matters.

Second – both first times seemed rediculously long! I mean, I struggled for a long time – on the course – and then it was over before I knew it. I’m sure the second time will show dramatically different results, assuming the comparison is valid. The times are only relevant if that is your goal, I know now. If just enjoying the day is what you’re after, then you’re set! Note: I did not see any runners smoking after the race.

Third – the aid stations and rest-stops were a lot of fun. Granted, there were no ice-luges, keg-stands, or funnels to do at the race, but when I approached aid station #5 and asked for a beer…well, let’s just say that it was in the realm of possibility. It was like a progressive dorm party, and therefore very similar.

Fourth – I definitely made some wrong turns. No more needs to be said about that.

Fifth – the event provided a meaningful and lasting memory for me to look back on. I enjoyed myself and only suffered minor bumps and bruising. Road rash was kept to a minimum (thanks to proper planning and practice!).

However – the biggest DIFFERENCE between the two events was definitely this: There wasn’t a lankey, closely-cropped Englishman handing me a towel and shaking my hand at the finish line. I mean, we all have to admit – that would be pretty weird. But, maybe each of us had our own Mr. Bimble patting us on the back, smiling, and telling us to come back next year. Although in my case, it would have been several years later.