FAQs

Q1. I'm new to trail running. What equipment is required?

A1. You must carry a container that holds at least 500 ml of fluid throughout the race. This is a minimum, though, and we strongly urge people to carry more than the minimum. Unless you are a highly trained athlete with much experience, you will not find 500 ml sufficient to get you from water-point to water-point on the course.

In terms of non-mandatory equipment, you might consider the following: (a) trail-specific running shoes, (b) a cap to keep the sun off (and morning glare out of your eyes), (c) sunscreen and sunglasses, (d) lubricant on your chafey bits, (e) lubricant in your socks, (e) short gaiters to keep the rocks and sand out of your shoes, (f) GPS device to record your distance and time, (g) electrolytes, blister pad (don't use plasters!), and some easily digested quick-burning food to get you through a few hours of running.

Q2. How important are trail shoes? Are road shoes okay?

A2. This comes down to personal preference. The terrain for these events will not be muddy - it will be a mixture of dirt, sand, and clay-type surfaces as you see in all the photos on this website. Rocks and pea gravel are common in WA. Some people prefer the extra protection under the sole of the foot and at the front of the toe box that trail shoes often provide (if you are running on and around gum nuts and sharp rocks). Trail shoes often have more aggressive tread patterns with grippy bottoms. The more minimalist trail shoes are excellent at enhancing your proprioception (feeling of where your feet are in space). But it takes time and experience to get used to them.

Q3. What level of fitness is required?

You should feel able to jog continuously on flat ground for the distance of event you are entering. Of course, these events aren't flat! So, we do expect many people will have to walk the steeper uphills and some of the steep downhills, too. Several events have 2 waves that include"self-seeding," so if you feel you're a slower runner, you should start in the first wave. We are doing this so more people finish closer to the same time. We encourage a supportive running atmosphere, where faster runners are at the finish line to cheer on other racers crossing the line. An essential feature of this system is that slower runners also support the fast runners coming past them by moving out of the way as soon as it is safe to do so.

Q4. If I can't pick up my race package (which includes my bib) at Mainpeak or The Running Centre before the event, can I get it on the day?

A4. Of course! As noted on the event pages, there is always a race day pickup just before the race briefing. But don't be late. We can't hold up 149 other people, so if you're late arriving, you might be late starting.

Q5. What kind of hydration systems do people use?

A5. Like shoes, this is also quite personal. You need to try out systems that include hand-held bottles, waist belts, and hydration backpacks with a bladder in them. Some people complain of sweaty hands or awkwardness holding a bottle, some find waist belts irritate their stomachs, some complain of hot backs and chafing with a pack. Ask around and test things out. You don't want to find out at a 2 hour race that you hate what you're using! There is no "right" answer for this one. Whatever you try, ensure it's good quality. Many complaints come down to a person buying shonky equipment or not knowing how to fit it properly on their body.

Q6. Is there transport such as a bus to take me to the event?

A6. This has been addressed on an event-by-event basis. We have not provided a charter to any events thus far due to minimal interest. Updates are always provided via the website (on each individual race page) and via email. Transport costs would not be included in the cost of entry.

Q7. I am registered for an event but now I can't compete because .... What are my options?

A7. As indicated on the Race Waiver you read (naturally) when you signed up... For individuals registered in the Complete Series of 5 summer races: There will be a 60% refund of entry fees if written notification is received before 15 December 2011. There will be no refund after 1 January 2012 for any reason including rescheduling or cancellation due to any natural disaster or Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) trail closure. Entries may be transferable to another individual in exceptional circumstances, at the sole discretion of the Race Series Director.

For individuals registered in any single race: There will be a 50% refund of entry fees if written notification is received within a specified time before the event. Typically that's no less than 15 days before an event (i.e., by Saturday 11:59 PM two weeks prior to race day). There will be no refund after that date for any reason including rescheduling or cancellation due to any natural disaster or Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) trail closure. Entries may be transferable to another individual in exceptional circumstances, at the sole discretion of the Race Series Director.

But... we need and love our volunteers, so race entry fees are refunded in full if you can volunteer on the day.

Q8. So, to follow on A7, can I give my bib to a mate or sell it?

A8. Absolutely not. Sorry, your bib is attached to your identity and this is a safety issue. If we find out you let someone else run on your bib, please don't expect to be allowed to enter another PTS event.

Q9. I have another question not covered here. What should I do?

A9. Email bernadette@perthtrailseries.com so I can add it to the list. Thanks!