Ultra runners I have a question

[klindstrom]

I will be running my first ultra in a few weeks, a 50k. Is there anything you wish you had known going into your fist race? Or something you wish you had put in a drop bag? 

This will be a trail race and I am normally pretty good on the trail but I almost feel like I am forgetting something I will want to have. 

Thanks so much!!

[AAM2012]

I just did my first 50k and it was a trail run and had the best time! Here's what I had in my drop bags that I was happy to have:

-Vaseline (even shared this with some fellow runners)
-running glide
-pretzel's
-M&M's (for the last 10 miles)
-bananas x 2
-Change of socks (I didn't use them but am glad they were there)
-EFS
-extra shirt
-sunglasses

Basically, don't assume that the aid stations will have what you need (i.e. bananas) because at mine they were kind of light on the food and were running out of stuff.

Good luck to you, please come back and post a race report.

Edit: klindstrom I also wanted to mention some advice that I had gotten before my race which helped me:

1. If you feel even a slight hot spot on your feet (or any other body part) address it at the next aid station if possible. My feet started to have a hot spot but because it wasn't too bad I wasn't going to take the time to address it (with Vaseline) but am SOOO glad that I did by mile 20+.

2. Mentally prepare for your aid stations. Going into one try to know exactly what you are going to eat/drink or get from your grab bag and in what order. I did this and it got me in and out in an efficient manner.

3. Organize your bag in a way that makes sense. For example, I opened my EFS powder and put it in a sandwich bag so I didn't have to try and open it on the race course. I did this also for my snacks so I could just take it and go and carry it while I run.

4. Have fun. You will meet some amazingly nice people who will do nothing but encourage and motivate you.

[chw57]

There is no shame in walking when it gets really steep.
Coke is seriously the most magical thing EVER.
Don't forget to take in some salt somehow. I like potatoes dipped in salt, or potato chips (which oddly don't upset my stomach at all!)
Hokas or other super cushiony shoes will make your feet feel like heaven for quite a few miles (they're all I wear on trails now!)
ENJOY IT!

[biomaj5]

I'm bookmarking this, because I'm in the middle of making a training plan that starts tomorrow and ends with a 12hr ultra in late Oct (there's a tour de cure ride and a marathon in there too, along with... um... 10 other races. I have a problem, clearly). I hope to do 50 miles in the 12 hrs.

[thom]

I'm not qualified to give you advice, but best of luck to you! Please do report back.

[joenali]

I also would recommend potassium. I put mine in a little vial and just licked as needed. Same with salt.

[klindstrom]

Thanks Ladies! I am so excited for this race. I will be making up my list of things I need tonight!

[katinthehat]

My husband has done a 50K and said just go slow, go slower than you thought you ever needed to go, but go slow.