Naresh Kumar ran the Foothills Trail 77 Mile Ultra a couple of weeks ago. He said it was the second hardest race he has ever competed in (and he’s done some nasty ones).
So I asked him for some helpful tips for anyone that might be brave enough to tackle the FHT-77 Miler.
Naresh’s 10 Helpful Tips for the Foothills Trail 77 Miler:
- Review the FHT site info for instructions, directions, aid drop locations, etc. before attempting the BEAST
- FHT Trail map and trail guide is a must, hiking GPS would be an added advantage
- Ensure you are self sufficient before starting the Laurel Valley section
- Don’t get lost and if you do, don’t panic. Trace back to the nearest trail blazer and start over
- Ensure to carry enough batteries and GOOD headlamp
- Respect wildlife, stay cautious!
- A trail runners heaven, very beautiful trail, enjoy it, every bit of it unless you are trying to set a speed record
- Crew is a must, at most accessible aid points in case things turn sour. Don’t try to do this solo
- Be stealthy to avoid nosy park rangers
- Above all, understand the fact that you are going to be F$%&ED but at the end BMF Wallet is well worth it
Foothills Trail 77 Mile Finisher’s Wallet (NSFW)
Definitely a trail runners paradise. It’s a very pretty course yet one of the toughest to tackle mainly due to the wilderness area and for the elevation. I will be happy to give more details to anyone who wants to attempt this adventure run.