JFK 50-Miler Takeaways:
- Saw another GRT, with a challenge-spec carabiner & reflector setup on a 10L Bullet, OG status confirmed by the Count ZFG patch. (I ran with a 10L Bullet myself for the middle portion of the race, switching between that and a Salomon 12 Set at the first and last crew access points.)
- Aid station food was a bit boring. Potato chips, store-brand Oreos, pretzels, bananas, repeat. A bit of variety on top of that base and especially at the sponsored stations (“Miracle at Mile 34”, “Mile 38 Special”, etc.) but part of the awesomeness of ultramarathons is eating all of the horrible junk food (personal accomplishment #2 on the day: ate thirty (30) Oreos!) that is made suddenly and magically delicious after about mile 30. (Pickles & a PB&J & sugar cookies & a banana & a steaming cup of bouillon & peanut M&Ms…) If the spread’s going to be chosen purely for maximum glucose & electrolyte delivery per unit cost, I’d prefer salt tablets and shots of sugar water. I’m like a cow crossed with a hummingbird.
- It ended up being warm enough that VFFs would have been A-Ok. Probably better, in fact. Not much blistering, but I’m on track to lose both big toenails, and a couple of the little guys aren’t looking too good, either.
- If I had a reason to, it would have been totally doable in a suit. Given the wind and sleet at the end, it might even have been more comfortable, on the whole…
- Leg day Friday made the last ten/fifteen miles significantly less comfortable than they could have been.
Don Norum 