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Your Race Day Checklist

Everything you need to feel calm and ready

Milo McCloud avatar
Written by Milo McCloud
Updated yesterday

Race day is here. All your training, all your prep – it comes down to this. To help things go smoothly, we have put together a simple checklist so you know you have everything sorted before you head to the start line.

This is not about perfection. It is just about being prepared so you can focus on doing your best.


What to Bring and Do

1. Running Shoes
Wear the pair you trained in. If you are using carbon shoes, make sure you have worn them on a few runs before. No surprises or new shoes today.

2. Clothing
Pick breathable, comfy gear that suits the weather. If it is cold, layer up. If it is hot, go light. Have your race bib pinned on or attached to a race belt.

3. Nutrition and Fluids
Pack any gels or snacks you plan to use during the race. If your race is longer than 10K, aim for a gel roughly every 45 to 60 minutes. Bring water or a sports drink if you are not relying on aid stations, and consider adding electrolytes if it is warm out.

4. Breakfast
Eat something light and familiar 2 to 3 hours before your start time. This might be a banana and peanut butter, toast with honey or a small bowl of oats. No new foods today.

5. Race Kit
Make sure you have your bib number, timing chip if you need one, and anything else your event requires. Pin it on early so you do not forget.

6. Tech
Charge your GPS watch, headphones or anything else you want to use. Set up pacing alerts or interval timers if that helps you stay on track.

7. Warm Up Extras
Bring things to keep you warm or help with mobility, like a light jacket, gloves or a mini foam roller. You can leave them with a friend or bag drop before you start.

8. Bonus Bits

  • Anti-chafe stick

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • A small towel or wipes

  • Spare socks

  • ID and some cash or card

  • Your phone and maybe a charger or battery pack


Quick Final Checks

Before you leave home:

  • Lay out your outfit and shoes

  • Have breakfast prepped or ready to grab

  • Double check your race bib and chip

  • Make sure everything is charged

  • Take a few deep breaths and go over your plan


You are ready

No matter the distance, just getting to the start line is something to be proud of. Stick to your pace, trust your training and enjoy the experience.

You have done the work. Edge has your back. Now go run your race.

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