Have you been running with a stroller for a while and think you might be ready to try a race? I LOVE racing with the buggy and have notched up a fair bit of experience now, so here are my top tips.
- Start small
Drop down a distance from your usual racing predilection – if you normally run 10ks then stick to a 5k to begin with; if you’re a half marathon fan, then try a 10k. Lower your time expectations too. If it’s your first buggy race, then simply finishing is a good goal to have (think about it: not many people out there have done any sort of race pushing another human being). If you’re the competitive sort (hello there!) then remember: you are racing future-you-also-pushing-a-pram and NOT past-you-who-ran-X-amazing-time.
- Do your research
Not every race is suitable for a buggy. Avoid trails, steep hills and anything likely to be exposed to the wind. A nice flat road route is a good place to start. Favour smaller, local races where you won’t be starting in a huge crush.
- Ask permission
It’s usually easy to find the “contact us” link on a race website. Drop the organisers a quick email to ask if you’re allowed to run with a pushchair. Just common courtesy really.
- Recce the course
If you live near enough, checking out the course in advance can be useful. Are there any pinch points? Sandy or gravelly surfaces? Barriers, cobblestones or other obstacles? Knowing what to expect out on the course will help you feel more confident and have an enjoyable (and safe) race.
- Pack wisely
All the usual race-day gear for you (perhaps an extra layer – or gloves – as you’ll be slower than usual) and make sure you pin your race number so that it can be seen over the top of the buggy (do not, however, pin it to the pushchair! I’ve seen this. It needs to be on your chest, especially if it contains the timing chip).
Take a few toys and snacks for your child (whatever you run with normally) plus something to bribe/reward them with. Blanket / sun shade / raincover depending on the weather forecast. Nappy/diaper bag if you’re still at that stage.
Get yours and your kid’s name printed on the front & back of your T-shirt for extra fun (Decathlon stores do this very cheaply). If you’re driving to the race, put a bicycle pump and a few basic tools in the car so you can fix any last-minute mechanical issues.
- Communicate with your co-pilot
All but the smallest babies will know instinctively that something is different on race day. They’ll sense your nerves and certainly recognise that you’re not running your usual route. Being surrounded by lots and lots of other runners might be disconcerting for your little passenger (and there’ll be plenty of people peeking into the stroller to coo at them), so make sure you explain what’s going to happen, even if you think he or she is too little to understand.
Slightly older toddlers might surprise you with their willingness to adapt to a non-stop outing at a faster pace… and may quickly become pushchair racing enthusiasts!
- Start carefully
If the organisers have asked you to start in a particular spot, then make sure you respect that. If not, then be realistic about your pace and position yourself accordingly. You may need to be further forward than you think, as it is harder for you to dodge round slower runners than it is for faster runners to overtake you.
The start is by far the trickiest part. Trying to get into a rhythm while stopping the buggy from rolling into anyone’s ankles is not easy! But being forced to hold back in the first couple of kilometres will pay dividends later on, so don’t get frustrated. The field will soon spread out and you’ll have plenty of space to run your own race.
- Shout loudly
It is very likely you’ll need to do some overtaking (especially if the race organisers have asked you to start at the back) so be prepared to shout clearly, e.g. “buggy passing on your right” to warn others as you approach. Without fail, I’ve found people happy to scooch out of my way and usually give me a cheer of encouragement too.
You’ll also need to warn those behind you if you’re about to slow down over an obstacle (bumpy bridge, high kerb etc) that won’t hinder the stroller-free. Make sure you keep enough breath to yell your thanks afterwards too!
- Take a buddy
If you’re the sort to push yourself hard and need a bit of recovery time, then go along with your other half or a good friend so that they can scoop your little passenger out of the pram for some attention at the end, while you get your breath back. Having someone else there to take photographs, pack up the gear and drive you home can also be a huge blessing.
- Go for it!
Running races with a buggy is awesome awesome AWESOME fun. You will not believe how many cheers and shouts you will get. People are so impressed to see runners (especially mums) pushing their babies! Smile, wave and soak up the atmosphere. If you’ve ever felt great crossing the finish line at a race, be prepared as you’re about to feel AT LEAST three times as good as that, I guarantee it!
Have fun… and let me know how you get on.
