First 100-miler at Headlands...pacer, crew?

[matti]

Hello. I plan to sign up very soon for the Headlands 100, which will be my first 100-miler. I have a questions about pacers. What exactly is the purpose?

And, does any one know anyone that may be willing to crew for this dude from northern Wisconsin (me!). I'm probably traveling alone and I imagine it's pretty tough to do a 100-miler without a crew?

Any insight, thoughts, opinions are very much appreciated. Thanks!

Matt

[thr3ee]

I did Headlands last year as my first 100 without pacer or crew. I have never used either and personally wouldn't unless it was absolutely necessary. However, I recognize that both are a personal choice and many find them either helpful or necessary.

The point, though, is that I don't think there is anything to assume that Headlands would need a pacer or crew if you don't feel compelled to use one. The course is not particularly remote and the night portion consists of two 25-mile loops. You are unlikely to get REALLY lost, though if you try hard like I did you can get yourself some bonus miles (i.e. miss a turn). Basically, there is no need for a pacer from a course safety perspective so use one only if you feel the need for company to keep you motivated or awake.

Furthermore, the support as at all PCTR events, is great. The aid stations are well stocked and the volunteers (with the possible exception of me if I decide to volunteer this year) are all very knowledgeable and helpful. The long leg between aid (8.6mi) is on the first leg of each loop right after the Start/Finish AS where you will generally be at your freshest. Drop bags are reasonably accessible with the longest section between bag access just under 12mi. Basically, I would say a crew is necessary only if you have special needs at aid stations or are really pushing the envelope up front and don't want to waste time (unlikely in your first 100). Of course, if you do decide to go with a crew, every single aid station is accessible which many people see as a huge bonus.

I think Headlands is a great first 100 and you will have a blast. Without knowing your particular background, I would recommend getting plenty of hill running experience (it isn't horrible, but it is significant). Also, be prepared that it can be warm that time of year especially on the long out-and-back section on Bolinas Ridge.

[matti]

Steve, thanks! You've made me feel a little bit better about coming alone. Perfect! I really look forward to it. Thanks.

matt

[v7461558]

The main purpose of having a pacer is the competitor's safety. If the competitor is sure of his/her ability to stay safe, there is no need for a pacer.

[matti]

thanks!

[chrisoconnor]

I draw a distinction between there being a need for crew/pacer support and the value in crew/pacer support. They aren't mutually exclusive. Wendell and Sarah put on events that are professional and staffed by people who know what they're doing. If you're going to fly solo, then you've picked the right event in many ways. I think there's something particularly rewarding about doing something like this using only the race organization's support.

However....

On unfamiliar terrain in your first 100, you might feel the absence of crew or pacer pretty sharply. I find there are highs and lows in ultras and particularly in 100s. During a lull, a familiar face waiting for you in an aid station can be something to run to when nothing else might work. There are countless ways in which a crew can help a runner. (To be fair, I think there are as many ways they can work against you while intending just the opposite.)

I think it's a very cool thing to aspire to, and there are a few races in which I wish I'd done it. Knowing in advance you're going to do it, you should spend that much more time preparing a race strategy you can stick to even in your foggiest moments. And in a 100, there'll be some foggy moments.

[matti]

Thanks Chris!