By Olivia dePunte
This year, the medical team behind the ASICS Falmouth Road Race advocated for an early start time based on the strong data behind heat-related illness, and the 2026 race will now be the first in history to begin one hour earlier at 8:00 a.m. The intention behind shifting the race’s start time an hour earlier is to prioritize the safety and well-being of runners and volunteers, and to have less impact on the community on race day.
Medical Director Dr. John Jardine has championed the benefits of an earlier start time based on extensive data behind the best practices to avoid cases of heat-related illness, and the proposal has gained support from the entire race organizing committee. One of the most dangerous cases of heat-related illness is Exertional Heat Stroke (EHS) – a severe medical emergency characterized by dangerously high body temperatures and central nervous system dysfunction due to strenuous physical activity in hot conditions.
The severity of EHS can be likened to a cardiac arrest, and the best treatment for it is cold water immersion within a tight window of thirty minutes. The medical tents come prepared with tubs for ice baths for that very reason, and Dr. Jardine shares that “we see 90% of our patients going home from the tent” thanks to the dedication of a volunteer team in the two hundreds.
Being a challenging road race in the heat of August, race day conditions can result in EHS if runners aren’t following Dr. Jardine’s tips – to stay well-hydrated, to run wisely, and to listen to their bodies for signs to slow down. Medical Coordinator Chris Troyanos echoes his advice: “Find some shade, stay hydrated, and stay within your pace.” Both medical team leaders believe the earlier start should further reduce the toll the heat takes on runners.
“These conditions will be safer for our runners, as well as our volunteers, staff, and spectators,” explains Jardine. “We believe that an earlier start time for the race, even by one hour, would be significantly safer for all involved.” The race organizing committee agrees, and is looking forward to welcoming runners to the start line in Woods Hole bright and early for another safe and successful race day this August.