How to Run an OCR, Part 2: During the Race

Part 2: During the Race

Read Part 1: Before the Race 

Trust Your Training
You've put in hours of training to get ready for this. You will be nervous, but don't mistake those butterflies for a sign that you shouldn't or can't complete the race. Get out there and have a great time.

Respect the Course

• If you haven't trained like you should have, then this is not the time to decide to go all out. If your typical pace per mile is 12 minutes, this isn't the time to start running 8 minute miles. 
• If you are not a swimmer, use the life vest provided or take the penalty to skip the water obstacle. 
• Be sure to follow the course markers and don't throw trash down. If there aren't any trash bins, tuck the trash (another good reason to wear snug clothing). 

Respect Other Racers

• Please pay attention on the course. In my last race, as I was climbing onto the monkey bars, a man moved from his lane into my lane, nearly knocking me backwards off the ladder. He apologized, and I know he felt bad. No hard feelings toward him, I know I've been guilty of doing the same thing. 
• If you are on a narrow trail, remember that people might want to pass, so keep to the side if you are moving slowly. 
• When approaching a runner from behind, give warning before passing, "I'm on your left." 
• If you see someone struggling to get over a wall, give them a boost. If someone gives you a boost, return the favor for someone else on the next wall. (You can even climb the wall and run back around to boost your helper over.)

Slow and Steady on Obstacles
You should be making the most progress during the running portion of the race. Don't try to make up time on the obstacles (unless it's a barb wire crawl, tire flips or wading through water). Most obstacles will require careful placement of hands and feet, concentration, and relaxation. As you approach each obstacle:

• Look. How are others completing it-- what seems to work/not work? Find a path through/over that is less crowded AND less muddy. 
• Stop. If the obstacle requires your grip-- such as monkey bars or even the rope climb, you want your hands as dry as possible. (Don't rub them on your wet clothes. Yes, I've done this, not thinking.) Grab a handful of dry dirt to rub on your hands. This will help prevent you from slipping. Take a deep breath and work through the obstacle. Pay attention to every place you're putting your hands and feet, especially if this is a wall or obstacle of any height. I've never fallen but have had a near miss.

Read Part 3 here.