"The 33"-Road Bike Racing - Do you really need to eat during a 50-mile or less race?

I see that an upcoming rr has a feed zone, but the whole race is only 48 miles. Does anyone really "eat" during that time or are we talking about grabbing extra water and a gel or two?

Thanks!

I never bothered to eat during a 50 mile race and felt just fine. I suppose depending on the heat, you may want more water.

Two water bottles filled w/whatever, and take a couple of gels along, in case you need them.

Do some carbo loading the night before, eat a decent breakfast early that's light enough to keep you from overdoing it, and take some gu with you and some water bottles with half gatorade and water. I bet you'll be just fine, and if you're not, you've got gatorade and gu for quickie energy...

Koffee

Gotta eat! I usually can't wait more than 2 or 3 hours to eat under 'normal' conditions. When I do any kind of physical activity I have to eat before, during (maybe just a really big power bar), and a big fat meal afterward.

I would not see whole foods a necessity but a little goo will do ya. Tke at least two water bottles along, a big one with water and a 16 oz of cyto max or other performance drink. Be sure you have fresh cold water waiting at the feed zone. If its cold you'll be more inclined to drink it and stay well hydrated.

Dehydration during a 2 hour or less ride will be the primary enemy as you likely have enough glycogen and carbs to last that long without eating solid food. If you lose 2-3% of your body weight in fluids you will begin to see significant performance drop.

Drink about 16oz of water an hour before the race to delay dehydration. 2hours before eat oatmeal/cereal and fruit for breakfast and maybe some OJ.

Good luck.