Race day checklist
28-03-2009, 04:17 PM, (This post was last modified: 17-11-2012, 11:02 PM by El Gordo.)
#1
Race day checklist
Note: I'm indebted to Tom Roper for reminding me about this message / list, which I had totally forgotten about. I have added a couple of things.
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For almost every race I do, I make a checklist. And each time I do it, I wonder why I haven't saved my previous one, so that I could just refer to it. So this time, I'll publish it, and invite additions and comments, so that we can produce a definitive list that may help others too, especially those new to the game.

No list is ever going to be right for everyone. I always wear lycra undershorts, for instance, to stop chafing. Other will slap on Vaseline. Some people run with a camera, others take one but leave it in the car. Same with a phone. I would never run with a jacket, but some people do. I'll include all, and you decide. Also, it's a given that the race distance makes a difference to what's needed. I wouldn't usually use gels for distances below half marathons for instance.

I'll keep editing this message to reflect additions / comments.

For the race:
  • cap
  • shirt
  • shorts / leggings
  • lycra undershorts
  • socks
  • running shoes
  • jacket
  • sports bra (SP)
  • Championchip
  • race number
  • safety pins
  • watch
  • HRM strap
  • sunglasses
  • contact lenses
  • nipple plasters
  • gels
  • elasticated belt (waist and/or arm) for gels / phone etc
  • in-race hydration
  • hydration belt / backpack
  • Compeed or similar for blisters
  • Vaseline / petroleum jelly
  • knee support /calf bandage
  • insoles / orthotics
  • wrist / sweatband
  • sun block
  • medication / inhaler

  • camera
  • phone
  • money / credit card
To check in if possible:
  • fleece
  • towel
  • fluid
  • snack
  • car / house key (depending on security)

To leave in the car:
  • race instructions
  • duct tape or similar
  • notebook
  • pen
  • glasses
  • contact lens case / solution
  • tracksuit bottoms or similar
  • change of shoes / socks / teeshirt
Other:
  • old shirt / bin bag for the start (dispose)
  • label for gear bag
Day before the race
  • Check weather forecast
  • Decide what to wear - check it's clean / available
  • Stretch
  • Keep hydrated
  • Eat wisely
  • Charge up camera / phone / GPS watch etc
  • Pin number on shirt
  • Lay out kit
  • Check Google Maps for directions and driving time
  • Think about race strategy
  • Read / watch / listen to something inspirational
  • Aim for early night
What have I missed?
El Gordo

Great things are done when men and mountains meet.
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28-03-2009, 09:12 PM,
#2
Race day checklist
Phew! Looks pretty comprehensive. Have you deliberately omitted an iPod as a political statement? Wink

What's the duct tape for? Eek
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28-03-2009, 09:49 PM,
#3
Race day checklist
marathondan Wrote:Have you deliberately omitted an iPod as a political statement? Wink

Yes!

Duct tape -- I don't use it myself but some people swear by it as an anti-blister measure. Yep, they tape their feet. Can also be used to tape aggravating seams in shoes I hear, plus used to strengthen plastic marathon 'gear bags'. But it will remain an optional item for me.

Added - label for gear bag
El Gordo

Great things are done when men and mountains meet.
Reply
29-03-2009, 08:30 PM,
#4
Race day checklist
sports bra.

I swear by 'em.:o
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29-03-2009, 08:49 PM,
#5
Race day checklist
Seafront Plodder Wrote:sports bra.

I swear by 'em.:o

Cheers SP -- list duly updated.
El Gordo

Great things are done when men and mountains meet.
Reply
19-04-2009, 11:46 AM,
#6
Race day checklist
A great service to running humanity, El Gordo. I once turned up to the Isle of Wight marathon without my shorts.
χαιρέτε νικὠμεν
Next race(s): 
In the lap of the gods




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20-04-2009, 01:03 AM,
#7
Race day checklist
You're a man of rare breeding and unquestionable taste, Tom, with or without shorts. Not everyone was able to grasp the value of my list so quickly.
El Gordo

Great things are done when men and mountains meet.
Reply
22-04-2009, 03:18 PM,
#8
Race day checklist
One thought though. Variable from individual to individual, but being one of the very many asthmatic runners (why? does running predispose to asthma, or is it t'other way round), my inhaler is on my list and is something I have forgotten before now.
So a line for one's medication, according to taste and prescription?
χαιρέτε νικὠμεν
Next race(s): 
In the lap of the gods




Reply
22-04-2009, 03:24 PM,
#9
Race day checklist
tomroper Wrote:One thought though. Variable from individual to individual, but being one of the very many asthmatic runners (why? does running predispose to asthma, or is it t'other way round), my inhaler is on my list and is something I have forgotten before now.
So a line for one's medication, according to taste and prescription?

Good one, thanks. Will now add.
El Gordo

Great things are done when men and mountains meet.
Reply


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