Race to the Stones is more than just a race – it’s an epic journey across ancient trails, packed with stunning views, great people, and that unbeatable finish-line feeling at Avebury Stones. It’s the kind of event you’ll talk about long after it’s over.
With the exceptionally hot conditions experienced last year, we want to outline the additional steps we will take if similar weather occurs again to ensure the safety of everyone out on the Ridgeway.
These measures will include:
- An additional water stop in between each regular pit stop
- Extra water available at pit stops for dunking hats, buffs, etc. as well as crushed ice during the hottest part of the day
- Extra sun cream at every pit stop
Alongside these measures, it’s important that you, as a participant, take care to look after yourself in the hot weather.
Here are five top tips for staying cool out there.
1. Stay Hydrated
In addition to our regular pit stops, if conditions are extremeley hot we will add extra water stops along the route – one in between each pit stop. Some of these may be unmanned, but all will have sufficient water supplies for every participant to refill their bottles. We recommend you consider carrying an extra water source on top of what you already planned to carry.
Remember, just as important as staying hydrated is not over-hydrating, which can cause hyponatraemia in extreme cases. Drink when you feel thirsty, and make sure you are taking in adequate sodium in the form of electrolyte tablets from our nutrition partner High5 (available at pitstops) or simply eating some salty food.
2. Dress Appropriately
For some people, the hot weather will mean a sleeveless vest to keep cool is ideal. For others, covering skin with a T-shirt or long sleeve is preferable. The important thing is to think carefully about what works best for you to stay comfortable as the temperature soars. Don’t just wear what you’ve been wearing in training without thinking about it – a bit of careful consideration could make all the difference.
A simple hat can be a game-changing bit of kit in tough weather, keeping your head covered and preventing sunstroke during the hottest part of the day. It’s also ideal for dunking in water at pit stops to stay cool. And whilst we’re on the subject…
3. Get Soaked
We’ll have buckets of water at every pit stop, and crushed ice at some of them during the hottest parts of the day. Buffs (worn around the head, neck, or wrist), bandanas, and hats are all ideal for dunking in the cold water to help keep you cool.
4. Ask for Help
If you’re feeling unwell or think you might need help, don’t be afraid to ask for it. We’ll have medical support from Trailmed at pitstops and roaming vehicles out on the route. Just call the number on your bib or speak to a Threshold crew member.
5. Take Your Time
Whether you’re a frontrunner chasing the course record or a back-of-the-pack walker, the hot weather will mean you’ll need to move slower than you might have planned to. Expect your usual easy pace to feel a little harder, and adjust accordingly to ensure you don’t overheat. Take your time in pits stops to replenish your supplies and make sure you have everything you need before you head out onto the trail again.
