Bek’s Crew Tips: Fuelling Tips & Tricks

Bek has crewed more of Gavin’s races than she can count; from 20km to 100 milers, and even multi-day epics. She’s been there through rain, snow, and blistering Aussie summer days, learning what works (and what definitely doesn’t). Here are her best tips for fuelling with Tailwind and keeping your crew game strong. Let's start with the Tailwind fuelling hacks :) 1. Pre-Mixing Tailwind Every athlete has their own “perfect scoop” - one, one and a half, or three scoops! The good news is that Tailwind can be pre-mixed before the race and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. On race day, it’s ready to pour straight into their bottle or bladder.

Bek and Ryleigh crewing Gavin at GNW 2013 for his 100miler.

2. Tailwind for All Weather Hot conditions: Freeze Tailwind for an instant, refreshing slushie that can be a race-saver.

Cold conditions: Serve it warm (not hot!) to help maintain core body temperature. Pro tip: try Limited Edition Apple Cider Endurance Fuel warm; it tastes just like apple pie. Tip 3. Mix and Match Flavours within the range You or your athlete need a little boost? Mix Caffeinated Tailwind Endurance Fuel with non caffeinated to give a little buzz. Lemon is the most common denominator mixer. Lemon mixes well with all Caffeinated flavours try- Lemon and Cola, Lemon and Raspberry, Lemon and Tropical.. So yum! Tip 4. Keep it fun with flavour Games Encourage your athlete to have a mix of flavours during racing. With multiple flavours you can play guess the flavour, guess the mix of flavours. Especially good when they are tired and need something to take their mind off the event. Many an hour was spent trying to pick the flavours of Tailwind during a run. Crew Tips (Part 2) About you!

Bek has learned a lot from years of crewing, sometimes the hard way! Here are a few more essentials to help make your crewing experience smoother (and save you from last-minute stress):

1. Pack a Crew Bag for Yourself Athletes always forget something - and often it’s the one thing they really need. If you’ve got a well-stocked crew bag, you’re ready to save the day.

2. Learn the Driving Routes Race maps aren’t always easy to follow, and travel times in remote areas can be unpredictable (think cow crossings and dirt roads). Get familiar ahead of time!

3. Don’t Forget Your Own Fuel Pack a surplus food and snacks for yourself. A hungry crew member isn’t much help to anyone.

4. Always Pack Warm & Wet-Weather Gear Even if the forecast looks sunny, throw in a fleece and raincoat. More than once, Bek has been caught out by a surprise cold snap or rain shower. Trust me, you’ll never regret not having them.

5. Bring a Tarp It sounds basic, but a tarp is the ultimate multi-purpose tool:

Ground mat

Rain shelter

Sun shade

Emergency fix-it helper

You’ll be surprised how many times it comes in handy!

6. Other Useful Crew Kit

Mozzie spray

Sunscreen (can we say it again? Sunscreen!)

Vaseline or Glide (for chafing emergencies)

Needle and thread (yes, really)

Hats: broad-brimmed, peaked, legionnaire… the more options, the better We hope that this guide gives you an extra piece of mind when it comes to just some of the basics. Bek has so many more tips and tricks to share, so we will definitely do a part two.

Enjoy your Crewing position, it's a great way to meet so many great people and learn so much for your own events. Happy Crewing!

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT OR WANT TO LEARN MORE ON CREWING TIPS AND TRICKS?

We're always here to help! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@tailwindnutrition.com.au