The Canadian Death Race checklist

The 20th annual Canadian Death Race in Grande Cache, Alta. starts tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. MST for the relay, marathon distance, or ultra (125K with 5,000 metres of elevation gain). The course passes over three summits in the remote Canadian Rockies, and those who complete the race solo receive a 10-year belt buckle at the finish. Whether you’re organizing, volunteering, cheering, crewing, or racing, it’s important to be prepared.

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By now you’ve likely packed your drop bags, told your family where you’re going, and eaten every carb in the house. But for those who love lists, we’ve compiled the race’s essential information to help you have the best adventure this weekend. Here is what we recommend for The Canadian Death Race:

For your nerves

Fuel and hydrate well a few days before the event
Organize and pack your gear and drop bags and write your race number on them
Communicate goals or expectations with your crew if you have them
Look at the course profile (ideally this is not your first time doing so)
Read the runner’s manual and know the rules of the race
Be grateful you’re not an IPOS and able to race in the mountains with like minded people
Drink a beer
Remind yourself of the big picture–none of this really matters, and we are all just having fun

Required gear

Running in the mountains for long distances requires you to be prepared for any kind of weather or circumstance. Prepare for the worst and ensure you have the following:

The 10 (or 11) essentials
Whistle
Timing chip
Race number
Death Race Coin (assigned at registration)

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Optional gear

Your favourite snack
Motivational mantras
Crew and support vehicle

For leaving at home

Your trail running doggo
Any substance prohibited by WADA
Pacers
A negative attitude

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