The 2008 JFK 50 Mile race will be held on Saturday, November 22nd.

Course Information The JFK50 has three sections: 16 miles on the Appalachian Trail (AT), 26 miles on the C&O Canal Towpath, and the final 8 miles on paved roads.

At times the AT is a hilly, extremely rocky, narrow trail. Remember, it's not really a trail run until you've fallen on your face at least once. Get this out of the way on the AT. Do not expect any speed records on this section.

C&O canal towpath is very flat. Aid stations approximately every 4 miles.

Paved road section is moderately hilly. Nothing very serious. Some folks find it a welcome relief after 26 flat miles on the C&O towpath.

Running Tips Eating and drinking is important in an ultra, even more important than in a regular marathon. Most runners run with a water bottle since a 5 mile space between aid stations can mean a full hour without water. Some runners prefer "regular food? (potatoes, fruit, sandwiches), others do well with gels and energy bars. Supply your crew with your preferred snacks.

Unless you've trained extensively beyond the marathon training you should not aim for a specific time goal. HILLS: don't push up the hills, walk like the rest of us or trot very slowly. You will need any of that extra energy from mile 35 on.

On the C&O canal many runners plan to work in a scheduled walk/run schedule. Options: Run into aid stations, walk out 5 minutes. Run 10 minutes, walk 2. Run 2 minutes, walk 10. A few runners prefer to jog the whole distance, but only a very few.

Almost all runners experience some serious low points during the run where you forget that it's actually more fun than the MCM. Usually this occurs between 25-35 miles. Expect this. Know that this will pass. Second, third and fourth winds are almost guaranteed. You are not allowed to drop out because you are tired. You are only allowed to drop out if you are injured. You are not allowed to pretend you are injured..