So much to say about Carrie Baris, the co-race director of the Hellbender 100. Yes, she is an ultra runner, but she is also very successful in the equestrian sports of endurance riding and ride & tie. I was absolutely fascinated to dig into both of these equestrian sports to find out how they operate and how they correlate to endurance running. One thing I learned is that I HAVE to try ride & tie...combining both running and riding a horse. Sounds like an absolute dream to me! Carrie is also the queen of National Parks...with a goal to visit every single park out there to honor her late husband and their adventures together. Such an epic goal, and she is well on her way to checking them all off the list. Carrie is also completely selfless. She puts others, animals, and family above herself...always looking out for their needs and desires first, and this is so evident when you get into a conversation with her. Yes, I wanted her to talk about her races and accomplishments, but she really lit up when she talked about her sister, her horse, her puppy and her fiancé. What a beautiful soul she is.

Carrie, I hope you realize how special you are and how much you mean to this community of runners. You have given so much of your time, energy and love to see others succeed, and this does not go unnoticed. Thank you, from all of us.

Carrie's Instagram

Hellbender 100

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