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Racing Tips From Valley View Hospital:
by: Ben Peery, MD
Emergency Medicine/Valley View Hospital
24 Hours participant
Racing Tips
1. Bring plenty of dry socks, and multiple changes of clothing.
It is difficult to get dry between laps if you are attempting to
use the same clothes. We found it much easier last year to change
into new shirts and socks, and certainly helped us warm up faster.
2. Shower between laps. Again, warming up quickly is critical.
3. Don't linger at the timer tent between laps. Get warm, hydrated
and rested between laps, and do it quickly.
4. Bring hairdryers for drying out your boots between laps.
5. Get into a routine of hydrating and refueling between laps. Eat
and drink something substantial that will adequately replace the
protein and carbohydrates you burn through. Electrolyte drinks are
great. Gels, "goos" and bars are all excellent sources
of fuel. Bananas, peanut butter sandwiches and, light soups are also
good choices. Supplement with the same food or electrolyte drinks
that you trained with before the race. Make sure and "test" all
of the food/fluids you plan on ingesting during the race well in
advance of race day. Some of those supplements can cause gastrointestinal
distress when you first try them. You do not want to find that out
at 2 AM.
6. Watch for dehydration. Symptoms include cramping, nausea, dizziness.
These are also symptoms of high altitude sickness. Report severe
headache, vomiting, increasing shortness of breath or worsening cough
to the EMS staff immediately. There is EMS medical care available
at the base and at the top of the climb. Ask questions if you are
not sure of your symptoms.
7. Know your limits. Don't push yourself over the edge with a blistering
first lap and be worn out for the second. This is a long race. Remember
the tortoise and the hare.
8. Bring a camera. Completing this race is a great achievement and
should be captured in all of its glory.
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