While running the McDonald Forest 50K, my first ultra, I met a guy named Michael. We exchanged stories as I talked about my young twins and he told me how he’d run this particular race several times in the past. His training had recently taken a backseat because his wife was battling cancer. We continued running together off and on throughout the day, and once I crossed the finish line, not only did I realize how much I loved ultrarunning but also what amazing people ultrarunners really are.
As the new editor of UltraRunning Magazine, I know I’ve got big shoes to fill. Boxes of previous issues (some dating as far back as 1981) sit on shelves in my office, and I often reach to them for inspiration – both in writing and running. This timeless content comes from stories of suffering, resilience and strength on the trail, and those who are willing to tell them. I look forward to not only covering major milestones and events in our sport, but diving deep to discover unique perspectives as ultrarunning continues to grow.
Growth can be daunting. With more and more races turning to lotteries, planning for them can feel like a year-long process. Fortunately, new races are happening every year which means more opportunities to run on some amazing trails that you may or may not have known about. And with growth comes change. Preparing for it is something we’ve all had to do, whether it’s because of a wildfire, new baby or injury. Ultrarunners adapt and find their way. Maybe it’s persistence, maybe it’s stubbornness–maybe it’s a little of both.
I met Karl Hoagland for the first time when I jumped at an opportunity to pace and crew for him at Western States in 2016. I had no experience doing either one. While crewing and pacing at Western States can be intimidating, I dove in head first. It didn’t take long for me to realize that because I said yes to an opportunity, I got to be a part of something that changed me forever. Spending 30 waking hours to get Karl to the finish line of his 8th sub-24-hour finish was challenging, but worth every second.
Little did I know that two years later I would be offered yet another opportunity from Karl – this time as the editor of UltraRunning Magazine. I did the same thing that I’d done back at Western States in 2016 – I dove in head first. I’m excited to be part of this magazine, and grateful for the opportunity to inform and entertain you with not only what you’ve come to expect from UltraRunning, but more in-depth articles and features that will continue to keep you reading from cover to cover.
Keep Moving,
