50K trail race as a marathon training run? (Read 733 times)

I ran the Mississippi 50k trail run last year as a training run for making up my mind whether to run the ING Georgia full or half marathon. The course was not overly technical (and I came in 20 out of 60) but it still took a lot out of me. I ended up deciding to run the half marathon. You do need to keep in mind that trail runs don't correlate specifically to road races, as you have to watch your footing more carefully and even on non-technical trails it's somewhat easier to twist an ankle. As for support the Mississippi 50k was outstanding. No spectators of course but he aid stations were well supplied. Bottom line of my 2 cents - go for it, but keep it in perspective if you are going to use it as a training run. I like trail runs but because I'm so clutzy I don't run them without a partner, just in case I fall and twist/break something.