Gels

[Sweder]

I agree with G-man re: training/ dependancy on gels. I've trained all year without gels - I didn't use any during the Almeria half, preferring a Red Bull shot to experiment with extreme caffeine. That worked pretty well, though obviously benefits are restricted to shorter races.

For longer races (half, full etc) I concur with MD and LR; start off with one (to get system used to digestion whilst running) then chip in at reguilar pre-planned intervals. Like hydration if you wait until you feel the need you're too late.

For the Connemara quest I plan to follow the advice laid out in Feet In The Clouds - jam sarnies, maybe even peanut butter & jam, at regular intervals. And perhaps a pot of tea or two