How to prepare for race day

Many runners have goal races in October, and race day anxiety can be an issue for some. 

Here are three tips to help reduce pre-race stress:

1) Arrive at the starting area or shuttle bus area early.  If parking at the starting area arrive 90-60 minutes before the start. If parking at a shuttle bus area, arrive in time for one of the first few buses, don't risk missing the last bus.

2) Walk around the starting area.  Locate the baggage area, port-a-potties, and starting line.  Drop-off baggage early before the lines are long.  If there is a significant distance to walk to the starting line, adjust pre-race routine to include the time it may take to walk that distance.

3) Find a good spot to wait.  Find protection from the wind by waiting next to a tent, building, or something else that is blocking the wind.  Make sure there is a view of the port-a-potty lines, and plan for the length of the lines.

2011 Worcester Half Marathon Start Line