LOLZLetter 299 | Kelsey's Unusual Way to Fuel Road and Trail Races
Welcome,
Happy Veterans Day. Today, we honor the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces, dedicating their lives to protect our freedoms. On this Veterans Day, let us come together to express our deepest gratitude and respect for their sacrifices. :-)
This week is the last week of the mini series about fueling. I've enjoyed talking with various people about how fueling has made all the difference in their training and I hope you have too. Next week is the 300th newsletter and I'll have a special shoe giveaway for that so make sure to subscribe to the newsletter if you haven’t already.
To see previous fueling newsletters:
Let's get into this week's newsletter with Kelsey!
For Huntsville, Alabama’s Kelsey Lane, fueling a long race is more about adventure and joy than strict regimens. Her unique approach to snacking during marathons and trail races is a refreshing twist on conventional strategies.
As she prepares for the Lookout Mountain 50-miler, Kelsey enjoys trail running by treating it like a day in the woods, complete with snack breaks. I wanted to hear more about her fuel choices, from oatmeal cream pies to gummy bears, and why she believes in breaking the “rules” to keep running fun.
How did you get into running?
When I started college, I didn’t know anyone, so I took up running because it was something I could do alone. Over time, it’s led me to meet some of my closest friends. Running started as a solo activity but turned into something that’s connected me with so many great people.
Your fueling strategy is pretty unique. What’s your go-to plan for a road race?
I keep it simple but fun. Around mile 5, I start with a few Welch’s gummies, and by mile 7 or 8, I finish the pack. If there’s Coke or any sugary drink at the aid stations, I’ll start sipping that too. Around mile 13 or 14, I eat half an oatmeal cream pie and any fruit I find—bananas, oranges, whatever is handed out. Between miles 18 and 20, I finish the oatmeal cream pie. Then, around mile 22 or 24, I snack on a few more gummies and just hang on until the end."
How is trail race fueling different for you?
Trail races are a little more involved because I have to think about what’s at each aid station. I usually check beforehand to know if a station has hot food or something heavier.
Even if I’m not hungry, I try to take a few bites at each stop. It can make a huge difference between finishing strong or struggling.
I carry water and Gatorade on me, and here’s my typical plan: Around mile 4 or 5, I eat a pack of gummies. Between mile 7 and 10, I go for chips or a full oatmeal cream pie, and I start drinking Coke at every aid station. Between miles 11 and 20, I snack on gummies, chips, pretzels, and whatever candy’s around. After mile 20, I want something heartier—grilled cheese, quesadillas, hummus wraps, or mashed potatoes. By mile 21, I’ll go back to lighter snacks like chips, pretzels, candy, or oatmeal cream pies. If it’s a long race over 31 miles, I’ll grab another meal, usually the heaviest carb I can find.
What led you to fuel with all these different foods?
When I first started, I didn’t eat anything while running, but as I started going longer distances, I knew that had to change. My first attempt at fueling was algae bites...terrible idea! Gels never appealed to me, so I was hesitant to try them.
During my second marathon, someone handed out Coke and cookies, and that changed my whole approach. I realized I could eat what tasted good and felt good in my stomach, so I started experimenting."
How did you find out that this was the best method for you?
I had to accept that it was okay to eat whatever felt good. I tried things like Oreos and gummies on my long runs, and it worked. From there, I’d just eat whatever looked good at aid stations—fruit, chips, cookies, grilled cheese. I also prefer individually wrapped snacks or things I can bag up since they’re easier to handle and less messy. Oatmeal cream pies turned out to be perfect for me; they’re soft and don’t require a lot of chewing."
How do you carry all your fuel?
If I’m road running, I’ll tuck snacks in my sports bra, even though it can get kind of gross, or in a pocket if I have one. On the trails, I carry everything in a vest. I’m pretty picky about this because I don’t like holding anything in my hands if I don’t have to."
What advice do you have for runners who don’t like gels?
Break the rules! Eat whatever looks good and feels manageable, even if it’s during a race. My best trail races have been the ones where I just ate random aid station food—boiled potatoes, chips, grilled cheese.
I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t by trying things out. If something doesn’t sit well, I avoid it next time. It’s all about learning."
Thank you Kelsey for your time!
By staying flexible and treating aid stations like snack stops, she’s found a method that works for her and keeps running fun.
I love this: "Running is an adventure, so fueling should be too".
You can find Kelsey on instagram.
What is Keeping Me Entertained?
Next week, will be the 300th newsletter and I'll have a shoe giveaway. :-)
Wild Deodorant Review: Natural deodorant that actually works? Believe me, I was shocked.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 Review
Map Medal Custom Poster Review: With the holidays right around the corner, this is an awesome gift for any runner.
October Recap: Training and Cooler Weather
Fast Women's Newsletter this week sums up everything political in a much better way then I ever could.
Thanks for asking where she carries her fuel. I was curious where half of an Oatmeal Cream Pie would go: in her hands until eating it again or stored away somehow.
Bananax3 the small red ones . Chocolate bars the small 4 pack Trader Joe’s . Water .