Are you ready for race day?
It’s getting close to race day and the nerves are starting to kick in! Most of your hard work will be in the bag by now and in order to maximise your performance it’s important to take care of the little things that are going to make a big difference! Here are some checklist items to tick off and help you along your way.
Hydration is important
Even for a 10K you should be well hydrated ahead of the event and before the start of the race! Even in the cooler climate, it’s important to have a hydration plan in place. Drink little and often before and during the race to ensure you are hydrated!
Plan ahead
Make sure you’ve planned your journey to and from the event. There is usually an early start on race day, so make sure you get there on time ready to #RunGorseinon. Remember to plan your journey away from the event too!
No number, no result!
Remember to collect your race pack from the info point. It may be obvious, but make sure you don’t rush on the day and leave it too late to collect yours! Race pack collection is available on Saturday (the day before the event) between 10am-2pm from race HQ at Penyrheol and on the morning of the event. If you live local, it may well be worth getting yours before race day to avoid any long queues and any extra stress before you start the race.
Race day kit ready?
Have you tried and tested your race day kit? You do not want to be trying new kit out on the day. If there is any running race day rule it’s stick to what you know and don’t try anything new!! Don’t fall into the trap of saving it until the race day or you may find it’s uncomfortable and not worn in properly. Comfort is key when running a 10K so test your kit out before the race day and make sure everything fits comfortably. You also need to prepare for all weather conditions! You don’t want to be too warm or cold during your run so have several options out to choose from and judge it on the morning of the race.
Fuel pre, during and post run
Have you planned your nutrition and hydration for the days leading up to and the morning of the run? If you have used gels on your longer runs, continue to do as you’ve done in your training, but don’t try anything you’re not used to. It’s useful to bring a snack to replenish your glycogen stores post-race too. A quick protein bar or recovery shake will do the trick.
Ensure you are well prepared leading up to race day and have planned well. Enjoy the build-up and embrace the experience, but don’t forget that checklist! Running a 10K is an incredible experience and you want to make sure you have everything in place to enjoy it.
Good luck!