I don't think my perspective has changed because of prior DNF's. I think my perspective has changed because I have a ton of finishes, including one at the Bear. With a pile of buckles sitting at home, what's the point of continuing on when I really don't feel like it? I don't have anything to prove to anybody regarding any distance or terrain. I don't place a high value on have a matching buckle. I don't love running through storms and mud. Where's my motivation? If this had been my first 100, I would have finished because my perspective and my motivation would be entirely different. But this race really wasn't a big deal to me. This is hard to explain to people because we all have a unique perspective on 100 mile races. I love running mountain races but I'm not as competitive. It's nice to finish up front sometimes. But to answer your question, I like them all equally.
I don't think my perspective has changed because of prior DNF's. I think my perspective has changed because I have a ton of finishes, including one at the Bear. With a pile of buckles sitting at home, what's the point of continuing on when I really don't feel like it? I don't have anything to prove to anybody regarding any distance or terrain. I don't place a high value on have a matching buckle. I don't love running through storms and mud. Where's my motivation?
If this had been my first 100, I would have finished because my perspective and my motivation would be entirely different. But this race really wasn't a big deal to me. This is hard to explain to people because we all have a unique perspective on 100 mile races.
I love running mountain races but I'm not as competitive. It's nice to finish up front sometimes. But to answer your question, I like them all equally.
Sounds totally reasonable, well, for an ultra runner that is
running under the BigSky
Kelly- thanks for the report and the laughs! While no one certainly goes in planning to DNF, every race has DNF's (some more than others) and is just a fact of ultra running. Personally when it comes to injuries, I'm going to err on the cautious side-douche nozzle or not
Mike
2023 goal 2023 miles √
2022 goal- 2022 miles √
2021 goal- 2021 miles √