A Sneak Peek at the New AFMDC Race—the Rogue 30K/10K

The next installment in Austin Fit Magazine’s Distance Challenge is close at hand. The races so far have been increasing your abilities and stretching your training to its limits. The new Rogue 30K promises to be the perfect stepping stone toward your ultimate goal: the Austin LiveStrong Marathon or, for those on the half track, the Austin Half Marathon. AFM asked Ruth England, Rogue founder/owner, for some inside information on what you can expect for this challenge.

Why should you run it?

If you’re gearing up for the Austin LiveStrong Marathon or Half Marathon, the Rogue 30K and 10K is the perfect place to put your preparation to the test. If you were a fan of the former RunTex 30K in Buda, this race will take you back to this beloved distance.

England’s Note: “We wanted to revive the 30K race because it is an excellent training run and tune-up for the Austin LiveStrong Marathon. Since the AFMDC is essentially set up to prepare you for the marathon, we felt that this final ‘test’ is an important piece [in your training].”

What should you expect?

This 18.6 mile course will be a break from the grind of downtown Austin streets, with gradual inclines and descents through Cedar Park. There are aid stations every two miles providing water, Gatorade, and sticks of Vaseline for those chafed bits. There will also be a Clif Shot Stop along with the Rogue Snack Island at Mile 12, which will be stocked with plenty of Gummi Bears, pretzels, chips, candy, P&J sandwiches, and fruit.

England’s Note: “The big new feature is the addition of the 10K distance to the race to support the half track of the AFMDC. That distance will be a perfect final test for the Austin Half Marathon as well as an opportunity for anyone else to run a fast 10K PR in cooler January temperatures. This race is the ultimate in training and transitioning from a half marathon to the full marathon and is an important step for all soon-to-be marathoners.“

What should you look for?

Look for the Austin LiveStrong Marathon pacers, who will be putting their skills to the test at this race; make sure to meet and join them as they practice pacing. Also note the clothing “drop spot” at mile 3 where you can shed your winter apparel (you can get it back at the clothing station at the finish line). The Clif Bar folks will be out on the course providing gels. And don’t miss this bonus: Each finisher will receive a pint glass to be used at the post-race party that afternoon at Rogue Running in Cedar Park (2800 East Whitestone Blvd.) or the following Thursday evening at Rogue Equipment near downtown Austin (500 San Marcos Street).

England’s Note: “We will provide “Sherpa Stops” at miles 4, 8, 12, and 16 so that runners can pick up fuel, drop off/change clothing, and enjoy some moral support from family and friends, all of which ensure a great race!”

Who benefits from this event?

You. This is a great chance to put in a crucial bit of work for the Austin LiveStrong Marathon and Half Marathon. The race will also raise money for two Cedar Park charities: the City of Cedar Park Parks and Recreation Department and Cedar Park Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association. In exchange for working a water stop at the event, eight clubs from Cedar Park High School will receive a cash donation and the ability to compete for the title of most enthusiastic club, which will be voted on by the runners at the finish line.

England’s Note: “This is a key opportunity to make final preparation for the Austin LiveStrong Marathon. Possible issues mirror those of marathon day as well; weather conditions cannot be controlled, and starting too fast will likely come back to bite you. I think that the course is easy but the distance has to be respected—there is no faking 18.6 miles.”

Are you ready to run?

This course has its share of turns, which will make the time fly by, especially for the 10K race. For the 30K, your first 14 miles are more straightforward, with variation to be found primarily in the last part of your run.

England’s Notes: “Train for the distance and check out the course map. The 30K race for me is all about practicing your marathon strategy. I would practice every part of my race day plan, from breakfast and the bathroom to fueling, clothing, and, most importantly, pace. If I were feeling good, I would pick up the pace during the last four miles to see what I’ve got!”