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Every summer, thousands of runners journey to Manitou Springs for America's Ultimate Challenge – the legendary Pikes Peak Marathon. For three-time champion Kristina Mascarenas, this race represents something far deeper than just another mountain to conquer.

"It's just you're constantly wondering if you're going too hard and if you're going to die," Kristina candidly shares, capturing the essence of what draws elite athletes back to this grueling event year after year. "You know this is a test against yourself. Everybody that's out here is doing it and everybody's testing themselves."

In this revealing conversation, Kristina opens up about her 2024 racing season, including a difficult DNF at Black Canyon 100K that prompted her to refocus on events that bring joy rather than pressure. She discusses her strategic approach to shorter races like the Broken Arrow 23K and her triumphant win at the Barr Trail Mountain Race – perfect preparation for her upcoming attempt at a historic fourth Pikes Peak Marathon victory.

The personal connection to Pikes Peak runs deep for Kristina, who's planning a multi-generational family participation for next year's race. Her intimate knowledge of every section of the mountain, from equipment choices to weather considerations, reveals why she's become synonymous with this iconic event. Yet she remains humble, joking about being labeled a "backyard betty" despite achievements that place her among the all-time greats of mountain running.

Whether you're fascinated by the mental aspects of endurance sports, curious about elite training approaches, or simply drawn to stories of human potential, Christina's journey reminds us why we challenge mountains – not just to reach their summits, but to discover what lies within ourselves when pushed to the edge of possibility.

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Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod