I have a question for you all.

[Marcia]

Congratulations on finishing Arrowhead...WOW!

Welcome to the Badwater Forum. Things have been pretty quiet here for a couple years, but it seems that this year, interest is stirring again. I would encourage you (and any other readers who are doing research in preparation for Death Valley) to post questions or topics of discussion. I think there are probably enough people lurking to get some discussion going. You just have to jump in and start. And, of course, I am not the ultimate authority, but I will try to give my two cents as well. 

[triguy49]

I am doing a solo on July 1st (my first) anyone else out there thinking about it?
runmikec

[mye2angelz]

I will be heading out there again this summer, but most likely after the big race.  Friday, July 16 is the day we are shooting for right now. 

[Marcia]

I'm making a note of both July 1 and July 16 as possible dates for people doing Solo Crossings. If it works out that John and I can be in the area, I'd love to drop in and see either/both of you on the course. Keep us posted of your plans, and speak up if either of you needs crew.

I'm excited to see some Solo activity again this year. Have fun with your planning!

[dougg]

Hi

I am tentatively planning to squeeze in a solo just before the actual race - perhaps the 8th - but I'm flexible at the moment. Possibly may be joined by 1 or more friends from Brazil also wanting to go solo. Any other interest out there?

Based on others experiences is it problematic trying to do a solo effort too close to the race in terms of crowds, hotel bookings etc. Advice appreciated.

cheers

doug

[Kamo99]

Marcia,

The site is quite helpful, and I certainly appreciate the resource.  The people I have talked to about a solo crossing all seem to be aware of the site, and recommend reading and using it. 

Aloha,

Kamo

[mye2angelz]

Doug.  As far as running before the race, (some will know better than I) I would not pick the week before the race.  Yes it will be much more difficult and probably more expensive to stay the week before.  Last year I ran the weekend after the race and everyone was cleared out of BW.  If you ran first week in July, you would probably be better off.  I am planning this year on starting on the Saturday morning after the race again.  The 17th.  But my dates are very flexible.  If there are a few runners who would like to seriously set a date....I could adjust. 

[Marcia]

Oh. Yeah. I would agree. The week before the race, there are people coming early to acclimate. Lodging is in high demand, and really, it's not fair to the people who want to come early for the Big Race, if they can't get the rooms they need. Much better if the Solo people pick a quieter time.
Lodging is in short supply anytime out there, so be sure you book your rooms very far in advance--like NOW!

[triguy49]

I have two crew members lined up and I am working on two more Will that be sufficient. Also have talked a fellow endurance athlete into doing the crossing with me hope to see some of you out there  July 1,2,3 update we have rooms booked and airline tickets bought Will be in Stovepipe Wells on June 30th

[Marcia]

Personally, I think a crew of four is ideal. Depends a lot on your style, and how much you are able to care for your own needs. I like to have two shifts of two. One person drives and the other one cares for the runner. However you do it, just make sure your driver has enough rest to function.

Good luck!