How to Win the City Scramble: Lessons from St. Augustine

Published August 10, 2010 at 7:00 am |

Over the weekend I finally had the chance to participate in The City Scramble. In exchange for promotion on this site, The City Scramble granted me one free entry to any of their races. So Brian and I made a trip up to St. Augustine this past weekend and participated in the race. Here’s some hints and tips to help you win The City Scramble when it comes to your town.

1. Plan Your Route

First things first, as soon as you get your clues, chart out your route. This will save precious time later since you’ll avoid having to double-back and revisit the same area. We started from one end of St. Augustine and made our way to the other. The last few stops were close to the finish line, thus eliminating a long walk to the end – hopefully giving us an edge over the competition.

2. Stock Up on Supplies

Be sure to bring your smart phones, camera, pen, map and water. These are essential items you don’t want to miss. Bringing something to drink is critical. This is a race and it’s hot.

3. Lighten Your Load

Avoid bringing extra items in a backpack. You’ll tire yourself out and that pack will make you sweat even more than you already are.

4. Dress for the Race

Wear light-fitting clothes. Shorts, tank tops, comfortable running sneakers and sunglasses. Some teams created team t-shirts. Very fun.

5. Go, Go, Go

It’s a race, so don’t waste time. If you haven’t gotten and answer, move on. Ask for help. Divide responsibilities. Brian was map man and I was clue person. He navigated while I kept track of progress.

6. Photo Quality Doesn’t Matter

You’ll need to to take photos to prove you made it to each destination. But that’s the sole purpose for taking the photos. So don’t waste time creating the best composition. Get everyone in the shot as best you can with the landmark in the background and you’ll be fine. Check out my Facebook Fan Page Photo album for the rest of our photos or you can view the official race photos here.

So, did we win?

Not exactly. We came in about 30-minutes after the 1st place team. But…we weren’t the last team to finish (you can view the complete race results here (27 out of 47 teams). So it begs the question, “how valid are these tips if they didn’t help us win?” I’ll let you be the judge. Which is also why I want to ask you,

Do you have any hints for winning The City Scramble? Share them by commenting.

I’ll see you out there…! You’ll need to say “hi” quick. This is a race, you know!