I thought this story would be very helpful for any CDR racer contemplating the 2011 race. The racer, Phil, is one of the elite athletes that entered the race and had been running in 2nd place for the majority of Leg 1.
Experienced racers and in experienced racers alike, all have problems. The story goes on to say that Phil has cramps going up Leg 2. This will happen to you if you are not careful. I carefully highlight how to avoid cramps on Leg 2 in my book, "Conquering The Canadian Death Race" by focusing on hydration, nutrition, and timing of effort. I also specify on how to deal with altitude issues. My own training was done mostly at sea level and my preparation ahead of the race helped.
Phil also explains the cramps continued through the "slugfest". Many racers that I passed during my death race experience were sidelined with cramps. Some concerns addressed in my book, "Conquering The Canadian Death Race" are altitude, cramps, hydration, nutrition, etc.