The Ultimate Crew Checklist for Ultra Marathons
Crewing an ultra marathon is not for the faint of heart. It’s thrilling, demanding, and sometimes downright messy — and incredibly rewarding.
When my husband ran his first ultra, I quickly realized that crewing wasn’t as simple as tossing snacks in a bag and cheering at aid stations. It’s strategy, organization, and a lot of flexibility.
👉 I created the Ultra Crew Checklist to take the guesswork out of crewing. It’s free, printable, and easy to pack — you can grab your copy here: [Download the checklist]
🏁 Pre-Race Prep For Crews
Race day success starts long before the starting line. Knowing the course, planning crew access points, and packing gear ahead of time can be the difference between smooth sailing and stressful scrambling.
💡 Pro tip: Hold a quick “crew huddle” before the race. Assign roles, set expectations, and make sure everyone knows their job. (Trust me, your future self will thank you.)
👟 Beyond Shoes and Snacks
Yes, your runner needs gear, fuel, and electrolytes — but they also need comfort and care. Think blister kits, backup shoes, sunscreen, and even a blanket. (Because a tired runner is basically a cranky toddler with sore quads.)
⛺ Aid Stations: The Real Battleground
For many runners, the thought of seeing their crew at the next aid station is what keeps them moving. Arrive early, set up fast, and stay calm (even when things get hectic). You’ll be the anchor in your runner’s storm.
💡 Pro tip: Keep notes on what your runner eats or changes at each stop. By mile 80, you won’t remember if they already swapped socks — but your notebook will.
🧃Crew Self-Care: Don’t Forget Yourself
Crewing is endurance for you, too. Hydrate, eat, rotate shifts if you have other crew members, and pack a chair. And don’t underestimate the power of duct tape — it fixes more than you think.
🌤 Keep Perspective
Race day rarely goes according to plan. Gear will break, stomachs will revolt, and the weather won’t always cooperate. What matters most is the energy you bring. Calm, positive encouragement will do more for your runner than anything in your bag.
📋 Grab the Printable Crew Checklist
This is just the start. For a printable, easy-to-use checklist Grab your printable list here: [Download the Ultra Crew Checklist].
Supporting an ultra runner may not have been the life you planned — but it’s a role that matters more than you know.
