What to bring on a Ultra Run?

I am new to Ultra Marathons and I was wondering if anyone could tell me what I should carry on the run? I am planning on running a 54 mile race OCT 25 in Hawaii. I am use to the weather here and have been training. I just would like to know what people usually carry with them on these long races. Thanks for the help!

Well, clydesdalerunner -- I'm sorry no one has responded. Maybe all the experienced ultra runners on the forum are out running :-) I'm not as well qualified to answer for ultra lengths, but I'm sure it depends on the length, how many aid stations, if you can drop off supplies (gels, socks, first aid stuff; different for everybody) at any aid stations, expected weather, what you personally have needed in training, etc. That's probably obvious. Anyway, on the topic of planning or what to bring, take a look at The Plain 100 where there are no aid stations!
http://www.backcountryrunner.com/trail-races/plain-100-mile-endurance-run/

Thanks backcountryrunner for your reply. There were a few lookers, but no responders. It's all good and thanks for the website.

CDR

Here's my things to do/bring list http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IWY0et9NukE/SUCRTrI5aCI/AAAAAAAABOk/NNnUXfHzf00/s1600-h/Ultra_List001.jpg

Number one: Water or sports drink. You can get by without other things, but dehydrate too much and your race is finished.

Of course a selection of gels, energy blocs, and a tiny amount of solid food, if the race is unsupported. A couple of band-aids for blisters (tough guys take the safety pin out of their running bib and pop them). A hat and maybe a small tube of sunbock. A small towel or a bandana is always prudent.

I generally go extremely light in a supported race, and will have nothing but what I list above. In cold weather, of course the list would include such things as gloves, knit hat, a windbreaker, and maybe even a neck warmer.

I run with a backpack which covers my main supplies and bigger items, but I also run with a more easily accessible pack around my waist (see my profile pic). In a recent 40 miler I got through...

* 1 litre water
* 2.5 litre sports / electrolyte drink
* 3 or 4 gels
* Cup of coffee
* 2 chocolate muesli bars
* 2 oat cookie blocks ( www.powercookies.com/node/7 )... I'm near the bottom of the page, the guy on the red bike haha

I think the key is to experiment on your long runs and get used to what your body can handle. If you can't handle as many calories as you need then you can (over time) train your body to take in more. Learn to handle both liquids & food, most people don't run straight after eating a lot of solids so for some it is an acquired art! Practice makes perfect though - most of all have fun! Cheers J.

Oh yeah, also first aid kit, survival blanket and a whistle! Just in case. I haven't had to use any of that stuff yet though haha ;-)