After months of dedicated training, planning, and anticipation, Kackar by UTMB® race day is finally here! This is the culmination of your hard work, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Kaçkar Mountains. While your physical preparation is done, executing a smart trail running race strategy on the day is crucial for success and enjoyment. This guide provides essential Kackar by UTMB tips and mountain ultra race advice, covering everything from your morning routine to crossing that finish line, helping you navigate the challenges and maximize your chances of finishing Kackar UTMB® with a smile.
The Morning Of: Calm Routine, Final Checks
- Wake Up Early: Allow ample time for your routine without rushing. Stick to the breakfast you practiced during training – nothing new!
- Gear Ready: Have your race kit laid out from the night before. Do one final check of your pack, ensuring all mandatory gear is present and functional.
- Weather Check & Layers: Check the latest forecast for Ayder and the higher elevations (if possible). Make final decisions on your starting layers, keeping extra options accessible in your pack. Remember, mountain weather changes fast; it’s better to carry a slightly heavier pack with options than to be caught unprepared. Even here in Rize (as of late March), we know conditions can vary greatly between the coast and the high mountains, especially come September.
- Body Prep: Apply anti-chafing balm generously to known problem areas. Put on sunscreen, even if it looks cloudy. Tape feet if needed.
- Hydrate: Sip water or electrolyte drink calmly.
- Travel to Start: If staying outside Ayder, allow plenty of travel time. Factor in potential traffic or delays. Arrive near the start area with enough time to use restrooms, do final prep, but not so early you get cold or overly anxious.
At the Start Line: Controlled Excitement
- Find Your Zone: Soak in the incredible atmosphere – the energy, the music, the mountains! But try to stay calm and focused. Deep breaths can help manage nerves.
- Positioning: Seed yourself appropriately in the start corral based on your realistic expected pace. Faster runners towards the front, mid-pack in the middle, and those planning a steadier pace or expecting a longer day towards the back. This prevents getting swept up in an initial surge or causing bottlenecks.
- Final Systems Check: Start your GPS watch just before the gun. Ensure your headlamp is accessible if starting in darkness or expecting a long day/night.
- THE GOLDEN RULE: START SLOW! This is the single most important piece of mountain ultra race advice. The adrenaline is high, but going out too fast, especially on initial climbs, is a recipe for late-race disaster. Let others sprint off; run your race from the first step. It’s a long day.
Executing Your Race Plan: Strategy on the Trails
- Pacing – The Art of Mountain Running:
- Hike the Steeps: Don’t be afraid to power hike steep climbs efficiently right from the start. It conserves crucial energy compared to trying to run everything. Use poles effectively if you trained with them.
- Run the Runnables: Run comfortably on flats and gentle inclines/declines, maintaining a sustainable effort level.
- Control the Descents: Especially early on, avoid bombing downhills recklessly. This trashes your quads. Focus on smooth, controlled descending.
- Fueling and Hydration – Consistency is Key:
- Stick to YOUR Plan: Execute the nutrition and hydration strategy you practiced in training.
- Start Early: Begin taking in fluids and calories within the first 30-60 minutes.
- Be Consistent: Set watch reminders if needed. Sip fluids regularly. Consume calories steadily (e.g., every 30-45 minutes). Don’t wait until you’re thirsty or hungry.
- Navigating Technical Terrain:
- Focus: Pay attention to foot placement on rocky or rooty sections. Look ahead on the trail, not just at your feet.
- Adapt: Slow down slightly on highly technical parts to avoid falls, which cost time and energy and risk injury.
Mastering Aid Stations: Refuel and Recharge
- Be Efficient: Know what you need (fluids, specific foods) before you arrive. Have your bottles/flasks ready for refilling.
- Refuel Systematically: Drink some fluids, grab your planned food items (from your pack or the table), refill bottles/bladder.
- Troubleshoot: Take a moment to address any issues – empty a shoe, adjust gear, grab some extra food if feeling low.
- Thank Volunteers: A smile and a “Teşekkür ederim!” (Thank you!) go a long way!
- Don’t Linger Unnecessarily: Get what you need and get moving, especially if time is tight. But don’t rush critical refueling or addressing a problem.
The Mental Battle: Winning Between the Ears
Mountain ultras are as much a mental challenge as a physical one.
- Chunk It: Break the race down into manageable segments – typically aid station to aid station. Focus only on reaching the next milestone.
- Stay Positive: You will have low points. Acknowledge them, but don’t dwell. Remind yourself why you’re here. Think about your training. Focus on solutions (e.g., “I feel low, maybe I need more calories”).
- Use Mantras: Simple positive phrases repeated can help push through tough spots.
- Enjoy the Moment: Look around! You’re running in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Appreciate the scenery, the experience, the camaraderie with other runners.
- Control the Controllables: You can’t control the weather or the steepness of the next climb, but you can control your effort, your nutrition, your hydration, and your attitude. Focus on those.
Handling Adversity: Problem Solving on the Fly
- Fatigue/Low Energy: Usually means you need more calories. Try to get some fuel in, even if you don’t feel like it. Slow down briefly if needed.
- Stomach Issues: Slow down fueling rate, switch to blander options (water, simple crackers), let your stomach settle. Walking can help.
- Aches & Pains: Assess minor pains. Is it something manageable or a potential injury? Adjust pace or technique if needed. Use aid station medical staff if concerned.
- Weather Changes: Use the gear you carried! Add/remove layers proactively before you get too cold or too hot.
Night Running Considerations (74K / late 39K)
- Headlamp Power: Ensure you have sufficient battery life and your backup is ready. Use the appropriate brightness setting.
- Stay Alert: Focus sharpens when visibility decreases. Pay extra attention to course markings and footing.
- Pacing: It often feels slower at night. Stick to your perceived effort. Running with others can help maintain focus and morale.
Approaching the Finish: Savor the Achievement
- The Final Push: As you get closer, draw energy from the finish line proximity. But don’t totally empty the tank too soon if there’s still a tricky section left.
- Enjoy It: Smile, high-five spectators, soak in the atmosphere of Ayder Plateau welcoming you back. You’ve earned this moment!
- Cross the Line: Celebrate! Whatever your time, finishing a race like Kackar by UTMB® is a huge accomplishment.
Post-Race: Recovery Begins
- Keep Moving Gently: Walk around a bit initially.
- Warmth & Dry Clothes: Change into dry, warm clothes as soon as possible to prevent getting chilled.
- Refuel & Rehydrate: Get some fluids and easily digestible food (protein and carbs) within 30-60 minutes. The race organization usually provides post-race refreshments.
- Rest & Elevate: Put your feet up! Gentle stretching or foam rolling can wait until later or the next day.
Conclusion:
Kackar by UTMB® race day is your chance to shine after dedicated preparation. Combine your training with smart trail running race strategy, consistent execution of your nutrition and hydration plan, and a positive mental attitude. Embrace the challenge, use these Kackar by UTMB tips, manage the highs and lows, and above all, enjoy the incredible journey through the Kaçkar Mountains. Finishing Kackar UTMB® is a testament to your resilience and spirit – go get it!