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8 Replies Last post: Oct 16, 2007 8:15 AM by dg12002  
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ksweigh
2 posts since
Nov 23, 2007
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Sep 24, 2007 1:33 AM

how refilling camelbak during race

I've noticed quite a few runners using camelbak water pack these days, which can carry quite a bit of water. I was wondering, how do you refill these things in a race, like a marathon? do you refill them at water stations?

thanks,
running dry
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brianfie
316 posts since
Apr 6, 2001
1. Sep 24, 2007 4:41 AM in response to: ksweigh
Re: how refilling camelbak during race
I guess camels can cross the desert without stopping for water - isn't that the point of their humps?

-b
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merigayle
1,586 posts since
Aug 15, 2007
2. Sep 24, 2007 7:26 AM in response to: ksweigh
Re: how refilling camelbak during race
yes, you refill them at aid stations. I think mine would last for a whole marathon though, but at ultras, i stop an refill as needed. Its really not that complicated, you open it up, put it under the cooler spout and fill.
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92heelgrad
180 posts since
Oct 9, 2005
3. Sep 25, 2007 5:47 AM in response to: ksweigh
Re: how refilling camelbak during race
I am curious about why anyone would feel the need to carry one of these things in a marathon of any size. I saw people at Chicago last year hauling these on their backs and I just could not understand what they were thinking. Forget about the 42 degrees start, just think about the 15 aid stations along the course. How much freaking water do you really think you can drink? Isn't that what the entry fee is all about?

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merigayle
1,586 posts since
Aug 15, 2007
4. Sep 25, 2007 7:10 AM in response to: ksweigh
Re: how refilling camelbak during race
Hypothetically speaking, if i was using the marathon as a training run for a race, i would wear the camelbak if i was going to run it in the race i was training for. I have carried a handheld water bottle during marathons to avoid aid stations and save time I also prefer sipping throughout the race, not just as designated stops. Also, if the race is serving a less than favorable drink like Heed or Powerade i will bring my own drink.
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ksweigh
2 posts since
Nov 23, 2007
5. Sep 25, 2007 8:59 PM in response to: ksweigh
Re: how refilling camelbak during race
I wouldn't even consider it, except that a friend ran a marathon with it and loved having access to the water. She carried 32 oz and needed a refill (and no bathroom breaks needed). I noticed on my runs (water every 3 mi) of 8 or more that I still easily drink the pint of water that I stash at the start. Makes me wonder how dehydrated I am and that perhaps I should lug my water with me.
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dg12002
622 posts since
Aug 26, 2003
6. Oct 15, 2007 1:02 PM in response to: ksweigh
Re: how refilling camelbak during race
I train with one but never race with one. Water at the tables is plenty every 2-3 miles. You dont need extra weight in a race, otherwise it will slow you down.
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merigayle
1,586 posts since
Aug 15, 2007
7. Oct 16, 2007 7:42 AM in response to: ksweigh
Re: how refilling camelbak during race
quote:<HR>Originally posted by dg12:
I train with one but never race with one. Water at the tables is plenty every 2-3 miles. You dont need extra weight in a race, otherwise it will slow you down.<HR>

I ran a race in August that was 100F and almost 100% humidity. My running buddy had two hand helds, we were two of very few finishers. If i had not had the 50oz camelback (very light) i would have dropped as well.

BUT if you ever use a camelback in a race, fill it up yourself. I have had a couple of race volunteers barely get any water in it as they are unfamiliar with them. I either do it myself or have a crew member do it. For a marathon i would probably not need to fill it at all.
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dg12002
622 posts since
Aug 26, 2003
8. Oct 16, 2007 8:15 AM in response to: ksweigh
Re: how refilling camelbak during race
quote:<HR>Originally posted by merigayle:


I ran a race in August that was 100F and almost 100% humidity. My running buddy had two hand helds, we were two of very few finishers. If i had not had the 50oz camelback (very light) i would have dropped as well.
<HR>


Great points Merigayle. I was assuming a normal marathon in good weather. No way I would run a hot race without plenty of hydration like that without electrolyte tabs either.
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