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→Racing 24 hours
There are a variety of ultramarathon distances, each with its own 'flavor'.
== 50K ==
In many ways, the 50K is an odd distance. It is only about 5 miles longer than a marathon, rather than part of the usual doubling that occurs in the progression of '5K-10K-half marathon-marathon-50 miles-100 miles'. Some runners can run a 50K like a marathon - continuous running at an intense pace, where every second counts. For most runners however, this approach does not work, and the 50K needs be treated as an ultramarathon, with varying the intensity, eating, etc.
== 24 Hours ==
A timed race, like 24 hours, is obviously different to a distance race. With a distance race, the slower you go, the longer it takes. This tends to punish slower runners even more, as they are on their feet for longer. With a timed race, the slower you go, the easier it is. If you reduce your pace, the lower the intensity AND the shorter the distance. Of course, the opposite is true - when you push things hard, the race becomes disproportionately harder. Timed races are normally run on a small loop course, which make them sociable events. You get to see, and often run with, the fastest and slowest runners. This type of loop course also makes logistics simple; your gear is never far away. The opportunity to take a break is always available, which is a two edged sword. A few runners will keep going continually, but most will take some rests. This might be 5-10 minutes here and there, or it might be an 8 hour sleep. I have even known people go off to a wedding and come back! Overall, a 24 hour race is a wonderful opportunity, regardless of if you are a complete beginner, or an elite ultrarunner. A 24 hour race can also be used in different ways, especially for a cheap race like [http://www.hinsonlake24hour.com/ Hinson Lake 24 Hour] (HL24) which is only $24. === Marathon preparation race ===For some, a cheap 24 hour race, such as HL24, is the perfect marathon tune up race. You can set whatever distance you like, but 18-24 miles would be typical. HL24 provides the real race feel, which is hard to replicate in training, combined with outstanding aid. The course has a near perfect trail for the distance, being soft, wide dirt with a few boardwalks, and almost flat. While this might be one of the few places you hear "I'm only doing 20 today", no one think any less of someone doing that distance. The loop course makes it easy to bail early if things go badly, which is sometimes a possibility with a marathon preparation race. To add sugar, the low entry fee also makes HL24 a very cost effective marathon preparation race. === Fixed distance ===For another group of runners, a 24 hour race represents the chance to cover a specific distance without any time limits cutting in, and under easier conditions than most races. Common distances I heard people doing were standard marathon (26.2 miles), 50 miles and 100K (62 miles). Some were aiming for 100 miles, but at that distance, the time limit does become a factor. I saw one couple at the [[2009 Hinson Lake 24 Hour]] push on through the night to make 100K, visibly battling exhaustion together; I thought it was very romantic. I've also seen the US 50K age record being broken at the [[2010 Freedom Park 24 Hour]].
=== Racing 24 hours ===
For a few, there is the prospect of pushing the boundaries of the 24 hour limit and cranking out lots of miles. See [[24 Hour Races]] for tips and advice on running big miles.
== Multiday ==
I have not participated in multi day events, so I cannot provide any useful advice. One day I hope to update this section with some personal experience ;}
==See Also==
* [[Essential Ultrarunning Tips]]
* [[Training for your first 100 mile race]]
* [[Your First 100 Mile Race]]
* [[Sleep Deprivation in Overnight Events]]
* [[Walking Breaks]]
* [[Fueling in an Ultra]]
* [[Aid Stations]]
* [[Drop Bags]]