About the Austin Rattler Run
The Austin Rattler Run Races are part of the Leadville Race Series, which is renowned for its challenging and prestigious trail running events. It takes place in Austin, Texas, specifically at Reveille Peak Ranch. The races take place on November 4th, 2023.
The Austin Rattler Run Races offer participants the option to select from various distances, including 10, 20, and 31 miles. These races echo the spirit of the iconic Leadville Trail 100 Run in Colorado, drawing athletes from around the globe to push their limits in endurance sports. Racers can expect a seamlessly organized event featuring scenic trails, demanding climbs, and a supportive community of fellow runners.
Course Information and Navigation
Download the course GPX file to stay on track during the race. You can add the route to your COROS watch directly from the app.
The 10-mile looped course showcases diverse terrains that test runners' abilities while providing picturesque vistas of the Texas Hill Country. The course consists of 60% single track and 40% jeep roads, and it will be
easily navigable with prominent pink signs displaying black arrows and pink flagging.
- 31M Runners will do 3 loops
- 20M Runners will do 2 loops
- 10M Runners will do 1 loop
Notable climbs start around miles 1.60, 6.50, and 8.
Pacing Strategies
Creating a successful pacing strategy for a challenging race like the Austin Rattler involves careful planning and understanding your own abilities. Below are suggested pacing strategies tailored for each distance.
- Start Smart: Begin the race at a controlled pace, avoiding the urge to sprint at the start.
- Strategic Pacing: Break the race into manageable segments, maintaining a steady pace and conserving energy. Use downhill stretches wisely, but avoid burning out early.
- Strong Finish: Around halfway, consider increasing pace strategically. Conserve energy for a powerful finish, giving your best effort in the last stretch with confidence.
Loop(s) & Distance | COROS Intensity Zones | Description |
Loop 1: 10-mile (16km) | Threshold | Threshold is an intensity that puts you in a sustained, uncomfortable feeling, but could be maintained for an hour if well controlled. Aim for slightly slower than threshold as you run this 10mi loop! |
Loop 2: 20-mile (32km) | Aerobic Power | Aerobic Power is an intensity that is moderate and slightly more challenging than a conversational pace. In this zone you will notice it becomes more challenging to maintain a conversation and you need to take more deep breaths. In the 20 mile race you will want to start easy and progress to this effort. |
Loop 3: 31-mile (50km) | Aerobic Endurance | This intensity reflects your conversational pace that you can sustain for several hours. A slow, controlled pace becomes crucial at this distance to be able to maintain it for the duration of the race. |
COROS Education: Effort Pace accurately reflects your internal exertion translated into external metrics such as pace, ideal for trail running sessions.
Course map for Austin Rattler Run.
Race Day Tips
Below you will find race day tips from our COROS Coaches:
- Course Familiarity is Key: Study the racecourse in advance. Familiarize yourself with the terrains, elevation changes, and potential challenging spots. Knowing the course will boost your confidence and help you plan your race strategy effectively.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and fuel consistently during the race. You can use your watch to set an alert of when to eat. Make sure you pack energy gels, bars, or snacks that you've trained with!
- Mind Your Pacing: Avoid starting too fast. Stick to your planned pace and don't get caught up in the excitement, especially in the begining of the race.
- Know the Aid Stations: Familiarize yourself with the locations of of aid stations along the course. Plan your hydration and refueling stops accordingly. Thank the volunteers – they are there to support you!
- Stay Flexible: Be ready to adjust your race plan if needed. Weather, unexpected physical sensations, or other factors might require you to adapt. Listen to your body and make decisions accordingly.
Leadville 100 Miler Qualification
The 2023 Austin Rattler event serves as a qualifying race for the 2024 Leadville Trail 100 Run. How to qualify for the Leadville 100 Miler:
- Earn one of the 50 qualifying coins available at Austin Rattler. Half of the coins will be given based on performance, and the rest will be awarded through a lottery.
- Earn a coin through one of the other series' races.
- Enter the lottery from December 1st, 2023 until December 15th, 2023.
The Austin Rattler Run Races capture the essence of trail running: challenging terrains, unwavering camaraderie, and personal triumphs. More than a race, it's an experience that tests physical and mental limits, leaving runners with lasting memories of scenic trails and resilient spirits. Racing is a celebration of human endurance and the boundless possibilities found on the trails. If you have any inquiries about the race or your training, feel free to contact the COROS Coaches at coach@coros.com. COROS extends its best wishes to all participants for an enjoyable and successful race day!