Headlands 50 & Marathon Course

[Pacific Coast Trail Runs]

Here's the course description for next weekend's event.

Attachments:

[Pacific Coast Trail Runs]

Here's the course map for Headlands 50 & Marathon.

Attachments:

[Mike Hedman]

Just to clarify, the 50 mile people will run the loop twice, will we run it clockwise then counterclockwise (as it says on the website), or in the same direction for both loops (as it says in todays mail)?

Same question for the 100 - will it be washing machine or laps?

My personal preference would be for the 50 to mimic as close as possible the actual experience of the 100 (since I'm using it as a training race).

Thanks,
Mike

[ultragirl]

yeah I noticed it will be ran both clockwise.I assumed anyway from the map.

[phantom]

So the Rodeo Valley/SCA/Coastal/Conzelman sections are out, eh?

[ultragirl]

yep

[Pacific Coast Trail Runs]

Yes, those sections are out - just as for races earlier this year in the Headlands, like Miwok, the course has to be rerouted because of the Conzelman Road closure/construction.

As for the loop directions, for the 50, both loops will be run clockwise in order to avoid confusion for the marathoners. For the hundred, you'll do washing machine loops.

[Not Happy]

There's preperation that goes into running ultra distances that are having to be revamped each time you throw out these last minute changes. Last minute course/date changes to your races are sending runners away from PCTR including myself.

[coachken]

Personally, I love the new course! With the new out and back section, it will be a great chance for runners to inspire each other on the trail. I only wish that we could go up and down Coastal instead of Wolf Ridge on Hill 88! I'm seriously hoping that Conzelman will be under construction for HH!!

One of the things I love about ultras and trail running is the uncertainty. It's exciting to toe the line, not knowing what the day will bring. You can train and plan for what you can control but the rest will happen as it may (whether we want it to or not!). Things happen; parks close, fires ravage courses, trails and roads need maintenance. Even Western States had a brand new section this year! Is it disappointing? Sure. There were some great views of the GG bridge on last years course, which was way different than the year before... Change is part of the game and it's one of the parts I love most! If I wanted stability, I would stick to road races. Instead, I want as much adversity as I can get. It only makes that finish line so much sweeter!!! The end result? S%^t happens. When it does, it's just another way for me to challenge myself!

"Not Happy"'s frustration is understandable. PCTR has been growing in a different direction since Wendell left. Things are different and those of us who were used to Wendell's touch at PCTR events do notice his absence. This is inevitable. So are the current growing pains that PCTR is experiencing. Most of the things that make PCTR races so dear to me are still there: Sarah is working overtime to bring us these events. She really loves what she does. I feel that love at every race. The courses are scenic, ass kicking and well marked. The volunteers are passionate and love being there. Aid stations always have more than enough with a massive variety (although, does anyone eat the gummi bears?!?!?). That pot of chili will be at the finish line. Sarah will be there to give the best finish line hug in the world!!! I'm always amazed at how many sweaty runners she hugs at the finish and how heartfelt and amazing each hug is!!!! Most importantly, we still have the same great folks out on the course. California has an amazing community of trail runners.

I'm not affiliated with PCTR. I'm a runner who loves the community involved. As a runner who loves PCTR, I'm disappointed to see anyone feel "sent away". I'm also disappointed to see them so upset that they feel the need to post from an anonymous "not happy" profile. I do feel that there are more constructive ways to deal with this issue. I'm sorry to hear that your months of hard training have been derailed. To be honest, it seems to me that if something so trivial as this minor course change would ruin your race before the gun even goes off, then your mental game isn't where it should be! Sounds like it's time to HTFU,Not Happy and hit the trails!!!! I really hope to see you out there in August!!!

All Day!
~Ken

[lmyles]

Nice video Ken. I guess after your video advice, the new course is "spot on"! Looking forward to the course either way.

[djm2150]

Hi guys,

Will the drop bags, in particular from Tennessee Valley, be brought back to the start area on a regular basis or only once at the end of the day? I ask because at some point on Saturday I'll probably be dropping a pair of prescription glasses that I'll need for the drive home. Should I plan to drive up to the TV aid station on my way out?

BTW, I'll be somewhere BOP but hopefully finish before dark!

Thanks,

Dan

[JJ]

I like gummy bears...

[katemojo]

Drop BAGS? I think the info on website for race is for old course. Will there be drop bags at Rodeo Valley?

[mweston]

I sure hope there will be drop bags, at least at TV. With this being a "training run," I will have minimal crew available.

[Pacific Coast Trail Runs]

Drop bag location is Tennesee Valley and Rodeo Beach. Drop bags will be transported to TV shortly before the start and will be brought back to the start/finish on the hour starting at 1400.

Actual frequency will depend on the number of runners finishing at any given time. It might be more or less frequent.

This is a departure from our previous years when drop bags were brought back only once at the end of the day and runners were instructed to pick them up themselves at Tennessee Valley. You may still do so, if this is more convenient for you or you can ask your crew to pick drop bags for you if you'd like them faster than every hour! Or you can hang out, mingle, and eat hot soup and chili!