This week on HappyCast, it’s just the core trio—Andrew, Dylan, and our very own Stephanie Leake, who takes center stage to share the wildest race recap we’ve had in a while. Stephanie traveled to Columbia, South Carolina, to take on her 17th 100-mile finish, expecting a straightforward timed event. What she got instead? A logistical rollercoaster involving sand-filled shoes, an unexpected rainstorm, a mid-race existential crisis, and—oh yeah—the race director canceling the event while she was still on course.

With no volunteers, no aid stations, and only an email notification to signal the end of the race (which, let’s be honest, no ultra-runner is checking mid-race), Stephanie had a choice: pack it in, or keep going and hope for the best. Spoiler: she kept going. Along the way, she met some incredible runners, took her first-ever trail nap, and discovered just how far sheer stubbornness and a little bit of fear can carry you when you’re determined to finish what you started.

We break down the drama, debate the ethics of continuing after a race is called, and discuss what race directors should do in situations like this. Plus, we dive into a major controversy in the ultra world—how illegal running shoes got a USATF champion disqualified—and wrap things up with our signature “Can’t Let It Go” segment, featuring some hot takes on running gear (RIP Stephanie’s favorite hydration vest).

Would you have kept running? Would you have even checked your email? Tune in, and let us know!

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