The guide indicates completely self supported. There is mention of a support vehicle in the guide. There is mention of outhouse stations with minimal snacks.
Is the biggest concern that riders would completely rely on the aid stations for fuel so if it’s written as, no support, riders will bring more food for themselves?
If providing the snacks is expensive, has there been discussions about a sign up sheet for outside parties or riders to contribute to the snack stations?
My primary concern is the amount of food, water and gear needed on the ride. Carrying all of it will be a lot. Especially the water. with 200 miles, two or three full meals with protein will be needed. Have any food trucks or local charities been approached to provide a sand stop or other for purchase?
Hi Kristina, thanks for reaching out on the forum so that others may benefit from the discourse.
Self supported means that there is no guarantee from the race staff of any amenities along the race course, and riders need to be prepared for that by carrying their own water and food etc. This does not mean that you must haul a trailer with anything you could possibly imagine needing, but it does lean to encourage you to have support vehicle.
A support vehicle would be a personal vehicle belonging to you or someone you know that will have all the food, water, spare parts, tools, rain gear, spare bike, etc that you would like to bring but don't want to carry on your bicycle.
The Fireweed Race is paying for satellite outhouses to be placed in numerous pull-outs along the course, as well as at the start and finish lines. This is an absolute necessity as we cannot expect hundreds of people to defecate along the highways, in public and private areas.
We have our fundraising team fervently working on sponsorships from every local vender, and athletic snack company who is willing to give. Many businesses are not making donations at this time and we are working to provide what we can while staying within our budget and charging reasonable entry fees.
Every racer has a different taste, style and preference of caloric intake during an ultramarathon, and I have seen many solo athletes complete this race in around 10hrs without using a support vehicle, eating energy bars along the way and drinking only half a gallon of water. This is not in any way meant to encourage anyone else to attempt to do that, it is just meant to show that there are a wide variety of athletes who compete, and the right way to do it is up to you. You know your body best and should be prepared as such.
If ultramarathon athlete is not your style or speed, we have many other categories in addition to solo that will accommodate even the most casual of racers and also ensures that you will have at least one support vehicle being driven by the non-riding relay team member(s)