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* '''Crew'''. My crew was my wife and two of my three sons. They did a fantastic job of having just what I needed ready when I needed it. They were also encouraging and optimistic; never underestimate the importance of the attitude of your crew!
* '''[[Heat Acclimation Training]]'''. The heat acclimation training paid off nicely. Not only did I have the physiological adaptations (lower electrolyte loss, lower heart rate, greater blood volume, etc), but I also had a number of psychological adaptations. The training got me used to running in the heat, so there was little discomfort for most of the time. The biggest advantage I think was learning the early warning signs of overheating. If my breathing rate increases without the corresponding rise in effort or heart rate, that is a sign that I'm overheating and need to back down the intensity. I found it best to think of running in the heat like running at altitude or running uphill; you have to go slower for the same effort.
* '''Hydration & nutrition'''. I drank about 5.5 gallons of sports drink, which is about 40 Oz/hour. I remained well hydrated (frequent urination, periodic thirst, etc) and well fueled. The only other nutrition during the race was a Reece cup at mile 90. I was not particularly hungry after the race, or the next day. My sports drink was [[Fellrnr's Go Juice]] which provided about 27,500 Calories, which is much less than I would expect to need, but it seemed to work fineand 500 grams of protein.
* '''Ice'''. Using ice helped reduce the impact of the heat. I used two [http://www.zombierunner.com/store/product152.html 'Cool Off Bandanas'], swapping the one I was wearing with the other when I met my crew.
* '''Clothes'''. The [[Under Armor Heat Gear Top]] helped reflect the sun and keep me cool. I wore [[Race Ready Shorts and Tights|Race Ready Shorts]] and 2XU white compression socks. I'm not sure if the compression socks help performance, but they do feel good. I'm not sure if the compression socks increase swelling in the feet however. A 'Legionnaires style' cap helped protect my head and neck, though not my face as the sun set - [http://www.rei.com/product/721671 Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap].