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Five ways to help you conquer a Castle Race from Castle Race Series Ambassador and Multiple Race Winner Erica Byram

Erica discusses five ways to conquer a Castle Race Series event! She goes into more detail about Castle Howard, but these tips are extremely useful for all our events!

1. Sighting during the swim…

The Swim at Castle Howard is marked out with brightly coloured buoys, so it’s easy to follow. As well as lots of safely Kayaks there if you need them.  Make sure you’re lifting your head up to sight these buoys every 6-10 strokes, to make sure you’re on the shortest line. It’s easy to weave off course if you lose concentration, especially due to the poor visibility in the water.

2. Fuelling on the bike…

Have a look at the bike course profile/elevation before your race. This way you can decide tactically when, at which point/distance on course, to take on your energy gels and fuel. Pick the flat sections of the course as this will be the easiest points to do this and conserve the most energy.

3. Emergency Gel…

Always carry with you an extra energy gel that you think you need. These races are tough and often take longer than other events of the same distance due to the tough hill sections! So, take this into account and take with you an extra energy gel, or your nutrition of choice. Carry it with you or place it next to your bike or run shoes to pick up after the swim and bike.

4. Bring a pair of trail shoes as a back-up…

The Run course is my favourite aspect as it takes in every part of the stunning Castle Howard grounds. I have been lucky enough that when I have raced here it was bone dry underfoot, so Carbon Race shoes were perfect for this course.  However, I will definitely be packing a pair of trail shoes on standby in case the ground is wet.

5. Enjoy it! Take in the views and the atmosphere…

The Castle Series offers us the unique opportunity to race our hearts out in amazing surrounds! So take it all in, enjoy every minute, encourage the athletes around you, and most of all, enjoy that finish line feeling! You’ve earnt it!

We are thrilled that Erica will be joining us this season at Castle Howard! Why not join her and Race Your Way this summer!

Book today!