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“I had a 10-year journey to Hardrock. And when I kissed the rock, it felt like all those years finally made sense.”

In this episode, Troy sits down with Ann Ongena, a Belgian-born runner and mom of five who discovered running in her 40s and went on to become the final official finisher at the 2025 Hardrock 100—crossing the line with just seven minutes to spare.

Ann's story is one of quiet persistence, deep community roots, and a love for the mountains that shaped her into an ultra-runner. From training with a Flemish-language Couch to 5K podcast in Malibu to building up to qualifiers like UTMB, Kodiak Ultra Marathons, and Ultra Tour Monte Rosa, she’s embraced every mile of the journey.

We cover:

• How Ann transitioned from a late-blooming runner to an ultramarathon finisher

• Her 10-year journey of trying to get into Hardrock—and what it meant to finish

• Training while raising five kids and now juggling grandkids and a part-time hiking guide gig

• Her role in Malibu’s Trail Runners Club and love for the local trail community

• How crewing, friendship, and the right playlist carried her through the San Juans
  

Ann’s story reminds us that age, pace, and finish time don't define us—showing up does.

Relevant Links

• Ann’s IG: @annongena

• Hardrock 100 Endurance Run

• Trail Runners Club - Malibu

• Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB)

• Kodiak 100

• Ultra Tour Monte Rosa

Partner Links:

Janji - Janji.com

A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust.

Check them out at janji.com.

Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order.

Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com

Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete.

H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving.

Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com

Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order.

Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com

Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. 

Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean.

Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com

Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order.

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Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!!

Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. 

Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's.

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Ann Ongena, Hardrock 100, Trail Running, Midpacker, Female Ultra Runner, San Juans, Trail Runners Club, UTMB, Kodiak, Ultra Tour Monte Rosa, Grandmother Runner, FKT, Perseverance, Grit, 100 Miles, Golden Hour Finish, Malibu Trails