racecations 101
By Kellysupergirl
"If you want to change your body, exercise.
If you want to change your life, become a runner."
ABOUT ME
KELLYSUPERGIRL
Hello! Welcome to my page.
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"Racecations" are essentially about destination races. It is a contrast to some who don't see why you should "exercise" on vacation and a good mix to those who consider fitness as a way of life.
I made this blog to help other runners who are considering to race overseas (particularly in Asia) and need more inputs before taking the leap.
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I am first and foremost a child of God, to whom I owe everything. I am a human resources process expert by profession and a fitness and health enthusiast by passion. Aside from running I also do weight lifting, kettlebell sport and yoga. I love 80's & 90's music, coffee and dogs.
WHERE HAVE I RACED?
Without any prior track or long distance running background, I joined my first fun run in 2010 where I walked almost the entire 3 kilometres. After joining more races and eventually hitting the podium several times, as well as finishing a few full marathons and an ultramarathon, I decided to look for a new playground-- the world, one country at a time.
6
(2019)
7
RACECATION TIPS
Research about your destination
Know first the cultural norms, the weather and the food choices. Aside from added knowledge this would manage your expectations on how to dress, act and talk to people. If possible, research about the history and do learn basics of their language. Food-wise, check for food which is suitable for your race preparation and personal preferences. You also have to keep your nutrition and body condition in check.
Plan your itinerary ahead
Consider the airline to take and what time you need to leave and arrive. Check if there a direct flight or if you need to make a stopover, as well as means of transportation in that area. You can choose to focus on the race itself or leave a few days for shopping and unwinding. You may also want to other places of interest during your trip since this is also a vacation.
Find an accommodation accessible to the starting line
This will be crucial to your mental and physical preparation for the race. I have booked hotels, guesthouses or AirBNB which are either close to the race venue or at least has a means of transportation going there (train, Grab, tuktuk, even by foot). The last thing you need is to panic on how to get to the race itself.
Make sure you have a budget for the racecation
Consider that this is a “racecation”, so you should have enough funds for your shopping and meals. Some establishments will accept credit cards but some areas will prefer getting paid in cash (example: markets and stalls . You don’t need to bring around too much especially when you are not sure what to buy yet.
Pick race clothing suitable for the weather
Yes, some races will provide free singlets but do check if these are suitable for you based on how you trained. Most of the time I wear my tri singlet since they have pockets where I can keep a water bottle and a phone, plus I have trained in them before so my body is more accustomed to it. On another note, it is easier to look for yourself in photos if you don’t look like everyone else.
Scout the race route ahead
While you may have already been provided with a map, you should be familiar with the starting line and the path you need to race on. Some races have mixed road and trail and some will have high or low elevations. Take photos ahead since you might not be able to take photos while running.
I want to hear from you!
WHERE HAVE I RACED?
Without any prior track or long distance running background, I joined my first fun run in 2010 where I walked almost the entire 3 kilometres. After joining more races and eventually hitting the podium several times, as well as finishing a few full marathons and an ultramarathon, I decided to look for a new playground-- the world, one country at a time.
8
(2020)