Setting your pace, running your best race

by RunnerGurl X

Thanks to our contributing author, Cory Freedman, founder of the Toronto Women’s Run Series, for these great race tips! Set the pace with Cory and other RunnerGurlz at the August 28th 5k & 10k events, or the October 23rd 5k & 5-miler. And, registration is now open for the 2011 5k & half marathon (register early – these events sell out quickly)!

Whether you are a veteran racer or if this is your first foray into running, here are Cory’s top 10 race prep tips to follow before you take your place at the start line:

Top 10 Tips to help you prepare for your next race:

Don’t try anything new on race day. This includes clothing, food or changing any special routines you follow during training. Wait until after the race to try out the new top you bought at the expo – the last thing you need is to feel chafing along the route!
If possible, visit the race site in advance and run/drive parts of the route. Knowing the route will help alleviate some of the butterflies you might feel on race day.
Decide in advance where you are going to try to park and check in advance to see if the race offers a free baggage check.
If the event offers early kit pick-up, go and get it before race day. That way on race morning you have fewer details to detract from your concentration.
Know the location of the water stations. It is important to stay hydrated throughout the race so knowing where these are and how far apart they are will help you gauge whether you need to wear your fuel belt and carry your own water or power drinks.
Have a race goal. Visualize what a “perfect race” looks like, what a “good race” looks like and what a “I can live with that” race looks like. And remember – not matter what, every race is worth celebrating!
Bring a set of dry warm clothes to change into after the run. The trip home – or out to celebrate your achievement – will feel a lot better if you are comfortable.
Have a plan to celebrate your race success/achievement afterwards.
After the event, write down 2-3 things that you did well in the race and 2-3 things you want to work on for next time.
Sign up for your next race as soon as possible to keep the momentum going.

For many years, Cory Freedman envisioned the creation of a women’s running series in the Greater Toronto Area. Races for women organized by women. After many lengthy runs brainstorming with other committed “chick runners”, the concept of the Toronto Women’s Run Series was born – a race series where any woman, regardless of experience or talent, can participate and set the pace.

Cory believes work, fun, health, activity are all part of the same thing: an inspired life. She is a three-time Ironman Triathlon finisher, including the World Triathlon Championships in Hawaii, and has also completed more than a dozen marathons, multiple adventure races and mountain bike events at home and abroad. Check out http://www.towomensruns.com/for upcoming events.