A stream of headlamps sets the race course aglow. PHOTO: Glenn Tachiyama Photography
running in the woods. Based on research
sure to let someone know your plans: when
For your head, pick a high lumen count
in 1994, “Prevention and Control of Wildlife
and where you’ll be running, and when
headlamp that has both a low beam and a
Damage,” Scott E. Hygnstrom conducted a
you’ll be back.
high beam spot. I prefer the Black Diamond
study that looked at the use of flashing lights
With a little bit of practice, trail running at
Icon for its 100+ meter high beam for spot-light-
for protecting livestock from predators. Flash-
night can be a fun, engaging experience.
ing those pesky green eyes you might happen
ing lights imply to animals that hunt or feed
It’s a great way to open up a busy schedule
across. Aim the beam to just merge with your
at night that they have been discovered
and get in more trail time, not to mention the
waist light so the beams slightly overlap.
or are being watched. This is their deepest
zero-crowd factor on high-use trails. Plus, as an
When combined, the two light systems
fear, and forces them to flee the area. It’s a
added bonus, if you ever decide to sign-up
work well together. The waist light always
simple, yet effective deterrent for trail run-
for a 100-miler, you’ll be a seasoned veteran
illuminates the trail directly in front of you,
ners to decrease their chances of nighttime
when it comes to the night portion of the race.
while the headlamp allows you the freedom
predatory wildlife encounters.
How can you beat that? Giddyup. •
to scan ahead, including side to side like you would during normal daylight hours. Lastly, having two lights gives you the added benefit of redundancy. If one light fails, you have
Safety in Numbers If you are going out at night, think about inviting a friend along. Having company on
a backup.
a night run can make it less intimidating. Also,
Blinking Red Rear Light
Remember, it could be 24 hours or even days
if something does happen, you’re not alone.
With the obvious safety features of a
before you see someone else, especially if
blinking red light for night running in the city,
the trail is somewhat remote. Don’t forget if
this can also be a great strategy for night
you do go for a solo trail run at night, make
About the Author Jeff Browning, aka Bronco Billy, is up for any running adventure that involves gorging on wild berries. You can follow him on his blog at www.GoBroncoBilly. com or on Instagram and Twitter @GoBroncoBilly.
October/November/December 2016 racecenter.com
Jeff Johnson
sections, leaving you free to look ahead.
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