I ran into issues during the marathon, and being dehydrated probably contributed to them. Despite stopping at each aid station that offered water, I still felt completely drained towards the end of the race. I think it was that I did not drink enough at these aid stations. I only was drinking one cup of water before continuing on, not thinking that I needed more to get me through the next 3 miles. Despite it being so cold outside, it is important to stay hydrated thoroughly. I wish that I had taken an electrolyte capsule like I usually do in hot weather. The aid stations all offer cold water, as well as a hot drink of some sort called elderflower. I think this is made from some sort of plant that grows in Scandinavia. I only tried it once and did not like it, so ignored it the rest of the races. As far as food goes, I had a Stinger waffle before and during the race, and during the marathon, consumed two Kind granola bars. During the half marathon, I only had 1 stinger during the race but made sure to stop and drink a full cup of water at each available station, which were spaced out every three miles. I felt properly fueled during the half marathon and was able to run a much smarter race with results that were like night and day compared to the previous days race. I wish that I had been able to take my usual gels, but these would have frozen for sure. Maybe leaving them in an insulated bag at a drop station could have allowed me to use them.
Polar Circle Marathon | Running the Polar Circle | Gear | Nutrition