Spoke and Sole

Race day Rituals and Routines


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Terrance and Anthony dive into the specific rituals, routines, and superstitions that keep them grounded on race day and during long rides. The guys break down why preparation is the ultimate anxiety killer, sharing their personal pre-event checklists, in-race mental strategies, and post-race celebrations. From the power of a peanut butter waffle to the hilarity of dodging porta-johns, this episode is a blueprint for taking the stress out of your start line. As the guys always say—shoutout to Scott—"If you stay ready, you don't have to get ready."

Key Takeaways

  • "Kissing the Bricks": Reaching the finish line is about more than just the race itself. It’s a moment to honor and celebrate the unseen hours, the early mornings, and the grueling training blocks that got you there.
  • The Art of "Fishing": Don't let the starting line adrenaline ruin your pacing. Let the race come to you and slowly "fish" for the runners ahead of you, picking them off one by one.
  • Lay Out the Fit: Morning-of anxiety is real. Laying out your entire kit—from bibs and socks to charged headphones and devices—the night before is non-negotiable for a clear head.
  • Fueling Up: Terrance’s pre-race secret weapon? A simple waffle with peanut butter and a strict pre-race bathroom policy to avoid the dreaded porta-john lines. And for carb-loading, you can't go wrong with chicken lo mein!
  • The "White Monkey" Secret: A shoutout to the legendary White Monkey balm for saving the guys' calves on those grueling long-distance efforts.

The Spoke & Sole Event Day Checklist

Here is a breakdown of the guys' essential routines to keep you locked in and stress-free from the night before to the finish line:

Phase                     | Runner / Cyclist Rituals
The Night Before  | Lay out the "fit" (clothes, bib, socks). Charge Garmin, Apple Watch, and headphones. Prep hydration bottles (Tailwind/water) and store them in the fridge. Check bike tire pressure. Eat a solid carb-heavy meal (like chicken lo mein!).
The Morning Of    | Eat a light, reliable breakfast (peanut butter waffle). Do a 1-mile warm-up jog to loosen the legs. Double-check tire pressure. Use the bathroom before leaving the house.
At the Start Line   | Clip in one foot early (right foot in, left foot out). Apply White Monkey balm or Icy Hot to the calves. Dial in your race playlist.
During the Event  | Execute the "fishing" strategy. Keep your composure and avoid going out too fast.
The Finish Line     | "Kiss the bricks!" Celebrate the accomplishment and enjoy a well-earned post-ride Uncrustable.


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So lace up, clip in and we’ll see you on the road.

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Spoke and SoleBy Terrance Jackson