394: Long Haul 100 Recap

As a physical therapist and running coach, I often guide athletes through the physical and mental challenges of endurance sports. Few experiences showcase these challenges more powerfully than an ultra-marathon. Today, I’m excited to share Kevin’s incredible journey completing the Long Haul 100—a race that tests not just the body but the will. Join me as we explore the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way.

As the sun peeked over the horizon on January 18th, Kevin stood at the starting line of the Long Haul 100, ready to embark on a journey not just measured in miles but in resilience and determination. As his wife, both proud and anxious, I was there not just as a cheerleader but as the crew chief and anchor, ready to keep our family steady through the highs and lows of this extraordinary challenge (not so easy with 2 teenagers in tow!)

Let's back up...

The day before the race was a whirlwind of nerves and activity. Kevin’s anxiety was palpable as we navigated last-minute preparations, the unplanned detour to fetch fuel (because the original shipment did not arrive on time), and the mounting pressure of trying to be everywhere on time.

It was a lesson in releasing control—a theme that would echo throughout the weekend.

We hit the road late. Our original schedule unraveling amidst delays and unexpected stops for delayed items. When we heard our daughter ask for the first bathroom stop, realizing that our goal arrival time was quickly fading away, we decided to let it go and come up with a new plan. Just then, a sign over the highway flashed reassurance, “Don’t hurry. Be happy.” These words became our guiding light, a reminder to breathe and embrace the journey, not just the destination.

Thanks, angels. That was a really special sign that we were on the right path.

On race morning, we were a portrait of calm efficiency. By then, the unfamiliar chaos had transformed into a familiar rhythm. Despite a few hiccups, like realizing we were missing the elusive cap for Kevin’s water bottle as I was unpacking the car, the morning unfolded smoothly. Kevin was focused and ready, a testament to his mental resolve and perhaps divine timing.

As he took those first steps onto the trail, my heart swelled with pride. Watching him disappear into the woods transformed anticipation into a quiet resolve—this was where he belonged, where all the hard work and perseverance paid off.

Kevin’s journey through those 100 miles was not just physical; it was an internal battle between doubt and determination. Loop after loop, he returned to us, expressing fatigue yet maintaining an unyielding spirit. I watched as he grappled with the balance between listening to his body and pushing beyond limitations.

Fueling decisions were critical. At one point, I handed him a peeled sweet potato, only to be met with a grimace—it was not what he needed. Through trial and error, grapes emerged as the unexpected hero, a symbol of adaptability and endurance in the face of relentless challenges.

As he finished lap 2, his main complaint was tired legs, quite normal after running 33 miles, so I assured him to just keep moving forward.

As the day wore on, my role as crew chief became one of both logistical support and emotional anchor. The race was Kevin's journey but also mine, a reflection of our lives intertwined. Our daughters, too, participated in their way, learning the value of perseverance and teamwork through their father's example.

Stay tuned for Part Two next week, where we’ll dive into Kevin’s experience on loops three through six and his triumphant finish. If this story resonated with you, please leave a review or share it on social media. And as always, this is the Real Life Runners podcast—now, get out there and run your life!