Planning to race

This is a brief article I wrote for the Training Bible newsletter for May. It is something that I believe is a key to any successful race and a requirement for any athlete of any level!


A race plan is a written document that describes in detail all things you are going to do on your race day. You have invested time, money, and lots of effort to ensure that your body and mind are ready for race day, now take the time to write your execution plan. More than just a simple checklist, the race plan is a key ingredient of any successful race. Think of the race plan as a road map for your race that guides you throughout your day. There are several key components to a race plan, and typically the longer your race is, the more detail is needed. So, grab your pen or pencil and begin to write. Yes, write it down because if it’s on paper, you will be more likely to follow it.

1.Write down the WHENs? When will you wake-up, arrive to race site, and warm-up

2.Write down the WHATs? What will you eat for breakfast, what will you wear to race in, what will be in your transition/special needs bags, what will you do if things go wrong, i.e. flat tire, bonk

3.Write down the WHEREs? Where is the packet pickup, where is the bike check-in, where do I leave my gear bags race morning, where will I eat during race week, etc.

4.Pacing – Know your target HR, watts, or pace for each split and stick to them!! Break down your race into parts, and then decide what your watts/pace/HR will be for each part.

5.Race nutrition – What will your nutrition plan be? Be specific, breaking down your intake by the hour.

There you have it, five keys to solid race plan. Write it down, stick to it, and you’ll have a successful race day. In addition to a race plan, it might help you to create a checklist or a “to do” list before arriving to your race site. This may include packing lists, daily schedules or places you need to be prior to starting the race. With proper planning and attention to detail, you can make your race experience run smoothly. Happy training!

SJI