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FOR YOUR SAFETY

Drink plenty of liquids - DRINK BOTH WATER AND SPORTS DRINK.  Do not drink only water.  Both water and sports drink are available at the water points. If you march and sweat for a long time and drink only water, you can dilute your body's electrolytes, which can lead to weakness, nausea and confusion.  Remember, by the time you are thirsty, it's too late!  

For more information on preventing heat injury, visit the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine website.

Listen to your body!  See a medic if you are not feeling well.

Listen to your feet!  Take care of hot spots before they turn into nasty blisters.

Watch your step.  Beware of rough terrain.

Be respectful of wildlife. The course is strewn with rattlensnakes, bears, and boars.

If you see a marcher who needs aid, help them.  Report injured or ill marchers to race officials. |

  • There are 12 water points along the route - make sure you drink plenty of liquids. The greatest danger to marchers is dehydration because of the dry desert climate.  DO NOT drink alcoholic beverages the night prior to the march.

  • We encourage you to alternate between water and sports drink that will be available at water points.

  • A condition called hyponatremia can be induced by over hydration with water exclusively.  This lowers sodium levels in the bloodstream and can lead to seizure and convulsion activity.  marchers can avoid this condition by taking sports drinks containing essential electrolytes such as potassium, chloride, and magnesium.

  • Keeping your feet clean and dry throughout the march will help avoid blisters.  Change sweaty socks during the march and consider using a quality foot powder or even antiperspirant on your feet to help control sweating.  Above all, don't try anything new (e.g., new shoes, new type of socks, new insoles or flexible orthotics) on the day of the march.  If you have not trained with it, do not use it.

  • Good training, common sense and proactive hydration will help ensure that your participation is a safe and memorable experience.