HOW DID YOU PREP FOR THE ULTRA?

Lots of running. I started training specifically for the ultra in August. I already had a decent base level of fitness from triathlon training and marathon experience the year prior. My weekly distance peaked at around 80 km, which is a record for me. Though still low compared to some. Outside of physical preparation, I also took time to carefully plan the route, my fueling strategy, the gear I would need, etc. I’m lucky enough to have had two very supportive friends help me with both the preparation and execution of the run.

HOW DO YOU KEEP YOURSELF MOTIVATED FOR SUCH A LONG DISTANCE?

I get a feeling of adventure from these kinds of runs. When doing something you’ve never done before and going further than you ever have, you find what exists beyond those limits. You also discover interesting places you may never have been before. After every run—whether it’s training or a race—you feel accomplished and stronger as a result. It’s not so different from the feeling of gaining experience points in a video game. Lastly, once you say to yourself (and others) that you’re going to do something, you have to follow through with it.