About the Finlayson Arm 28/50/100 km
The Finlayson Arm Ultra 50km / 100k, is a technical trail system that can stretch over 10,000 ft in total elevation. The mix of steep ascents, descents, and rugged terrain is surrounded by coastal views as well as old-growth forest. Running the Finlayson 50km begins at Goldstream campground then loop around Munn rd and back. The race was designed and created by Coastline Endurance Running.
Running the Finlayson Arm 50Km?
My experience running the Finlayson Arm Ultra 50km distance run was one I will always remember. After years of competing in half and full distance Ironman competitions. I thought I would give ultra-distance trail running a try. I have an appreciation for long-distance and the long grind. Running the Finlayson Arm 50km was different for me because it was solely focused on the run. Not to mention over 10,000 ft in total elevation.
The Run
From Goldstream Park to Munn Rd and back was steller in its beauty. The run took me 9hr and 45min in total time and believe me it wasn't all running. Much of those crazy hills was a walk part strategy but also there was no other choice. I perform like a diesel engine and not so much a Formula One. I never doubted myself that I couldn't finish it but I had pegged myself to complete the whole race between 10-12 hr.
When you run the Finlayson Arm you will experience endless views of the Saanich Inlet, Bamberton and a giant glimpse of Saltspring Island. You may never know what type of weather so be prepared. My run I experienced full sun with a chance of cloud, perfect weather for a run like that.
The paths are very technical and footing can be a challenge. The paths are filled with winding tree roots, loose rocks and for that time of year soft dusty soil. Make sure you have a really good tread on the bottom of those shoes.
The longest stretch of trail will be from Rowntree Rd to Ross Durrance Lake Rd. There are aid stations but make sure you have enough water and fuel to get you to the end.
Aid stations are plenty but make sure you are prepared. For novices bring a camelback and a couple for hydration/ minerals. I'll post a list of what I brought with me for you to review. Just remember everyone is different and it's good to test for yourself what's best for you.
A Coach or not a Coach?
Not once did I think I could prepare for running the Finlayson Arm Ultra 50km on my own. I knew I needed help as this was not only my first Ultra distance but also it was pegged to be one of the most technical ultra distances on the roster. Once again I looked to Nick Patenaude for help with the training. Below is a glance at one of my training weeks. I began my training near the end of May giving me four months of training.
My Training for the Finlayson Arm 50km
Training for the Finlayson arm 50km was all hills. Relentless up and down, crazy intervals and course run on the trail. I got used to this training very quickly and looked forward to my long-distance trail runs on the Finlayson trail. I'm glad to have had the chance to run the trail in different portions for a few reasons.
The main reason was that It wasn't as foreign to me on race day. I was worried about what would happen if I got lost and about the technical parts. Doing this gave me confidence but it also gave me a good idea of timing and strategy. I feel this was a luxury as the trail was in my back yard. If you live on the Island I would incorporate it into your training. For those not nearby don't worry the trail is very well marked and the volunteer crew is amazing.
The Hills
Yes, the Finlayson Arm felt like one giant hill on a treadmill. In some cases, my hands were on my knees pumping away as I climbed. This is where my respect for many Ultra Mountain Trail runners became truer than ever. I'm a family man that shares one car. Getting out to Finlayson was a challenge so my coach took advantage of Mount Douglas Park. The Mountain was close, technical and had just the right amount assent and decent. The intervals up and down this hill improved my diesel engine and in fact, I felt more like a Tesla Cyber truck on the road than a Ford F150. The training boosted my overall pace road running on the flats. This increase in speed made me happy.
The Long Weekend Run
Training triathlon I mostly hit the road and every once and awhile hit the trail. I looked forward to the long weekend run. I already mentioned how it was great preparing me for race day but I didn't mention yet how great it was for healing and my soul. My long day was usually on Saturdays at the end of the workweek. I was working at the Ministry of Social Service at the time. This was a stressful job and being out in nature changed all of that. It was a reset for me and a place of peaceful solitude. I felt like I vibrated on a whole other level and felt closer to the rhythm of nature. I ran unplugged, brought enough water and fuel and never looked back.
Healing and rejuvenation and now I have to be out on the trail. I crave it. Some people call it nature bathing, I recommend it to everyone.
Mix It Up
My coach mixed it up for me. I used cycling and spin class to keep in tune and get the necessary build I needed. Plus like triathlon training, It wasn't always running making it better on my body creating less of a chance for injury.
My Gear and Fuel List
Merrell Men's Agility Trail Running
Ultraspire Astral Camel pack / Hydration / FrontRunners
Tailwinds Endurance Hydration / Found at FrontRunners Vic
Nathen sport Flask for minerals / Found at FrontRunners x2
Cran Razz Clif Bloks
Final Words
There is no excuse for those who live on the Island not to run this race. It is in our backyard and it's the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with running an Ultra trail. Words of wisdom: get a coach, be prepared and have fun. If you would like to pick my brain feel free to contact me via Instagram by clicking the link below. Now, go enjoy running the Finlayson Arm 50km. For a list of other races click here.
A post shared by David Mackenzie-Kong (@davidjkong) on Jan 2, 2020 at 9:54am PST