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Ever wonder what goes through an elite athlete's mind when injury threatens to derail everything they've trained for? In this captivating conversation with mountain running legend Allie Mack, we discover how the most challenging moments often lead to unexpected triumphs.

Fresh off qualifying for her eighth USA Mountain Running Team at the Sunapee Scramble, Allie reveals she almost didn't make it to the starting line. Battling hip pain that left her in tears the night before, she made a last-minute decision to race - then proceeded to lead almost wire-to-wire on a brutally technical course featuring thigh-high water crossings, slick mud, and massive rocks.

What's remarkable isn't just the physical performance but the mental approach that made it possible. Rather than pressuring herself, Allie reframed the race as "just a nine-mile run" - her favorite distance on any given day. This shift in perspective allowed her to find joy in the moment and perform with rare freedom.

At 34, Allie dismisses any notion that she's past her prime. "I think I'm as fast as I was in 2014," she reflects, "but now with added knowledge and strength." Drawing inspiration from veterans like Joe Gray and Max King, she's convinced her best performances may still lie ahead as she targets the vertical team qualification at Broken Arrow.

The conversation turns to what might be America's strongest-ever women's mountain running squad, with Allie eager to build deeper team bonds before Worlds. Her insights on balancing individual competition with national pride offer a fascinating glimpse into elite sports psychology.

Ready to be inspired by an athlete who continues to redefine what's possible? Join us for this heartfelt, candid conversation about perseverance, perspective, and finding joy in the journey.

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Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your cart at UltimateDirection.com!