What happens when you mix scorching temps, dirt trails, wild river crossings, and a 100-mile adventure in the mountains?
In this run-focused episode, Kelly and Sara "run" head first into the world of ultramarathons, with on-the-ground in-the-dirt coverage from the legendary Western States Endurance Run.
They're basically ultrarunners now — risking heat and fatigue to answer important questions like: Why is Western States so famous? What is the deal with the wild lottery system where it takes athletes 10 years to earn a spot on the start line? How do researchers study these runners in the middle of racing? And does Western States live up to the hype?
This includes interviews with:
- Ultra insider and Western States broadcast commentator, Corinne Malcolm, who breaks down the race’s history, grueling lottery system, and the spirit that makes Western States more than just a race.
- This year's oldest female runner, Diane Grim—also a first-time 100-mile-racer.
- Western States Medical Research Directors Dr. Megan Roche and Dr. Emily Kraus, who share the findings that come out of research conducted during the event: carbs, hydration, and GI distress.
- And the race winner, Abby Hall, in the moments after her surprising (but not surprising) win.
But first, on the other end of the running spectrum, let's talk about Faith Kipyegon’s attempt to become the first woman to run a sub-4-minute mile — and whether, even in failure, she succeeded?
Today is all about running: the people, the science, the breadth and depth of what it means to go the distance.
