We are all keeping our fingers crossed that we can run the Catalina Marathon this August, and it looks like it might be a possibility as Catalina Island and Catalina Express start to open up. But it raises some questions.

The main question I’m getting is, “Should I train in the heat and if so, how?”

Yes but with caution. You should also train on trails and in the hills because that’s what you’ll be experiencing on the island.

Here’s some things to consider when training in the heat:

• Know the signs of heat exhaustion or worse, heat stroke. Don’t take chances
• Wear light colored clothes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and consider arm coverings,
• Stay well hydrated, take electrolytes and/or drink sports drinks. This also means having a hydration system and not relying on finding water out there while you’re running.
• Go slower. Walk a little more often and stay in the shade whenever possible. You might even want to monitor your heart rate and rest if it elevates and stays elevated.
• Pour water over the back of your head and let run down neck to cool yourself down. Pour water over your arms if they are covered. The fabric will help keep them cool. Be careful not to get your shoes all wet.
• Don’t worry if you need to cut your run short. Another day you’re healthy is another day you’re training.

Not many of us have ever experienced running on Catalina at the end of August. In fact, I was thinking if we are able to race it may not be the fastest day but there are lots of additional activities we can do that we normally can’t. For me it will be snorkeling in the marine reserve right off the Casino.

It also wouldn’t be the first hot day for the Catalina Marathon. Back in 2015 we experienced 90 plus degrees while running through Middle Ranch and the interior of the Island. I will not forget it. I got to the top Radio Hill and walked the next 2 miles. At the mile 23 aid station I sat in the shade for about 20 minutes, drank warm water (because it warmed up just sitting out on the table) and cooled down before running the last 3 downhills miles.

Catalina has different micro climates. We usually start at 7 AM, maybe earlier this year, so you get a couple of cool running hours. By that time you’ll make it to Little Harbor and be back on the coast. It’s mile 10 to 23 when it could heat up. We run back to beach so It cools down when we get back to Avalon.

My fingers are crossed to be racing in August. I’m living in the SanFernando so I can get a lot of train in the heat almost everyday. If you have any questions, please email me.

Train Focused,

Coach Steve.