How a Strong Support Crew Can Make or Break Your Ultra Race

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Greetings Fellow Distance Junkies!

When it comes to ultra-endurance races, having a solid support crew can be as crucial as your training plan. Whether you’re tackling a 50-mile race or pushing the limits with a 200-miler like the Summit 200, a dedicated crew can be the difference between reaching the finish line or calling it quits.

I’ve been fortunate to have amazing crews in many of my races when I run with a crew. Jennifer and my parents have been amazing in keeping me moving and sane in the midst of ultra madness.

In our latest episode of The Run the Riot Podcast, we chatted with Niklas Steinbrunner, who recently won the Summit 200. Niklas shared how his “fill in, game time, borrowed” crew played a pivotal role in his success, offering both logistical support and emotional encouragement when he needed it most.

Why Your Crew Matters

During a race, your crew is your lifeline. They’re the ones handing you the right nutrition at the perfect moment, reminding you to stay hydrated, and encouraging you to keep moving when you feel like you’ve hit your limit. Niko’s crew, for example, knew exactly when to push him and when to let him rest, helping him navigate the challenging Colorado terrain.

But a great crew does more than just hand out snacks. They’re also there to help you stay mentally strong. At the Summit 200, Niko experienced extreme sleep deprivation, which led to intense hallucinations. His crew knew how to manage these tough moments, keeping him focused and grounded when his mind started to wander.

Building Your Dream Team

When selecting your crew, it’s essential to choose people who understand the demands of ultra-endurance racing. They need to be patient, adaptable, and in tune with your needs. Here are a few tips to build your ideal support team:

1. Experience Matters: If possible, include members who have crewed races or run these races before. Their experience will be invaluable in navigating race-day challenges.
2. Communication is Key: Ensure your crew knows your race plan, including your pacing, nutrition needs, and any medical concerns. Clear communication can prevent mistakes that could derail your race. I always try to have a time to sit down and walk through the entire race plan prior to race day.
3. Positivity: Your crew should be a source of positivity. Encouraging words can boost your spirits when the race gets tough, helping you push through the darkest moments.

A Lesson from Niko’s Journey

Niko’s story is a reminder of how crucial it is to have a crew that believes in you. During the Summit 200, when the race conditions were at their worst, his crew’s unwavering support kept him moving forward. As he said, “I wouldn’t have made it without them.”

For those of you preparing for your next big race, now is the time to start thinking about who will be in your corner. The right crew can help you achieve your goals, no matter how ambitious they are.

To hear more about Niklas’s experience and his tips for working with a support crew, check out our latest episode here.

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On the Journey!

David Theriot

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P.S. If you’re looking to run your first or furthest ultra or just looking to take your running to the next level, we’d love to chat with you about it! Click here to learn more!​

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