Runner Prep
Although the Javelina Jundred is easy logistically speaking (full aid stations every 5 miles, crew every 15 miles) and has considerable less elevation gain and loss when compared to other races, the course and race conditions should not be taken for granted! We have had only a 49% finishing rate each of the past two years. Let’s go through some aspects of the race that should be specifically trained for:

Heat: The race is in the desert and regardless of the time of year, it can get hot in the day. Arizona typically has very low humidity, so your sweat will evaporate very quickly. Remember to hydrate even if it seems you are not sweating very much! There is absolutely no shade or tree cover anywhere on the course. Temperatures have reached into the mid-nineties in past years and does take a huge toll on runners who are unprepared. Train in the heat if you can. If you cannot, set up a plan to keep cool.

Desert Terrain: The Javelina course exemplifies desert trail running. There is a mix of absolutely beautiful gravel topped single track trail, dirt jeep roads, rocks, cacti, washes and sand. There are at least two miles of very rocky terrain per loop on the course. Prepare for this by training on rocky trails whenever you can. You will also be running through several miles of sandy washes. Some areas are not too deep, but other spots will slow you down! I would suggest training on sandy washes or beaches close to home and see how your pace and feet hold up. Ask yourself if you think you may need to wear gaiters and whether you feel comfortable moving through the sand. If at all possible, get to the desert and run on the rockiest and sandiest trails you can find!

Going out too fast: Many runners who end up dropping out of our race note that they went way too fast early on. To keep yourself at an easy pace early in the race, I suggest walking the uphill sections on the first loop (unless you are a front runner). This will keep you from going too fast and save your energy for later in the race. The last half of the first loop will be downhill on mostly smooth trail and jeep road so you can make up the time. You will most likely still be ahead of your goal pace even if you walk significant portions of the first loop. I wouldn’t waste energy trying to run the uphills in the first few miles of rocky terrain!

Lighting: Although we will have a full moon, make sure you know when it will be dark and when the moon will rise. A full moon overhead will allow you to see well enough to run without a light, but please be prepared just in case!