160. Courtney Dauwalter Makes History, Western States 100 Stories, and Why Ultras May Never Be The Same!

WOW, we just witnessed a Western States 100 that may change how ultras are run forever! We recorded this episode right after spending all day and night coaching and cheering at the race, so our voices are wavering, but our excitement is UNSTOPPABLE. We couldn't wait to tell you everything about the event, focusing on stories and lessons that will be helpful even if you don't race ultras.

The big story was Courtney Dauwalter's legendary course record performance, taking 75 minutes off the previous best. We discuss whether it was the best performance in endurance history (yes), and whether we will ever doubt Courtney in the future (no). She gave a tailwind to the entire women's field, in a group of performances that we think may change how ultras are run in the future. The edge may be farther away than we think, and that has some incredibly exciting implications for what we know about human endurance!

And that was just part of the joy of the day! Other topics: fueling lessons, pacing, endurance science, coaching at the race, training takeaways, tradeoffs between the brain and the body, lots of studies, and so much more. This race was a small step for a Courtney, but one giant leap for Courtneykind!

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