Selecting the moments I’m most proud of are difficult. There are the obvious ones—big performances, like winning Western States in 2014; however, I’m struck by how much some of my very first experiences stay with me. Like my first 50-mile race at the Leona Divide in 2013, one I entered at the last moment, and how I first went to that “dark place” I’ve spoken of so often. Perhaps closest to my heart is the 42 magical miles I spent below the rim of the Grand Canyon only thirteen days after Leona Divide, during what was then the Fastest Known Time for the double crossing. I have rarely felt so connected to myself and to my surroundings. To be in the depths of this Canyon is to feel its presence and power as a living, breathing entity. I was alone in a vast and imposing place for many hours and it was a time of focus but also a reflective and meditative experience that helped me realign my priorities and understand more clearly the path ahead of me. It’s these moments that will live on in my memories most vividly and I take the most pride in.
Other Accomplishments:
The journey I’m on would not be possible without the generous support of so many, including my sponsorship partners. From the beginning, these companies placed their trust in me and have played a huge role in allowing me to chase goals I once thought impossible.
My ties to Nathan go back well before I ran my first ultra. Our relationship began by chance when photographer Ken Etzel needed a few last minute "models" for a Nathan shoot deep below the rim of the Grand Canyon. It's been a huge privilege to work so closely with Nathan, culminating in the release of the VaporKrar and VaporHowe hydration line.
Visit Nathan SportsI still remember my first pair of Smartwool ski socks as a young lad. My excitement over a great pair of socks hasn’t changed much since then. They are constantly refining, perfecting, and striving to create the very best. Whether on the ski hill or the trails, they always have me covered.
Visit SmartwoolNut butters aren't just for keto athletes and FBomb's Macadamia based butters are a tool in my training and daily life. Based right at home in Flagstaff, AZ, owners and friends Kara and Ross have been supporting my dreams and our camps since 2016.
Visit FBombA Flagstaff connection is at the roots of this partnership going all the way back to 2007 when I shared miles Magdalena Lewy-Boulet was she prepared for the 2008 Olympic marathon trials. Now the vice president of research and development at GU, as well as one of the best ultra runners in the word, I'm proud to call her a friend. GU is constantly working to keep things fresh in the taste department and use the latest science to constantly update and refine their products.
Visit GU EnergyAnother longstanding friendship is at the root of this partnership. I met Lauren Fleshman, owner and genius behind Picky Bars, a decade ago as she prepped for the 2008 Olympic trials. I've long respected Lauren and her husband Jesse, co-owner of Picky Bars and a world class triathlete. I was honored to join their inaugural athlete team. Athletes making quality fuel for life and training is a beautiful thing. Bonus: They regularly save Christina and I from losing it in a hangry rage and our relationship thanks them!
Visit Picky BarsNutrition that not only supports strong performances but also a healthy and long life. The oils, vitamins and teas are an integral and important part of my life each and every day. I am grateful to have the support of such a great company that provides quality nutritional products.
Visit Flora HealthTo me, sharing a beer with friends is the epitome of balance. It is important to find these ways to connect and unwind and I thank Wanderlust for providing the perfect environment. Stop in the brewery and you will find good beer, great people and if you hit the right night, great food without any fuss. You can see the whole operation as you savor the results. Owner and head brewmaster Nathan Friedman is a master of his craft and an inspired me to chase my own dreams.
Visit Wanderlust BrewingRyan and all the wonderful people at Paragon have helped me get back on my feet after injury and more importantly address weaknesses to prevent future injury. Their assessments and plans are invaluable and their strength work classes are fantastic.
Philosophy: Prehab is built on the concept that the movement assessments typically used in a physical therapy setting post-injury should be used in a training setting pre-injury.
Visit Paragon AthleticsThis company is Flagstaff through and through—created by long time resident Danny Giovale, Kahtoola is at the forefront of light and effective winter traction devices. The MICROspikes are now a classic and I was happy to provide feedback during the design of the new running focused NANOspike. Danny is inspirational member of our community and each year Kahtoola hosts the Agassiz Uphill event at Arizona Snowbowl, raising tens of thousands of dollars for Camp Colton, a local outdoor leadership camp for all sixth graders in the school district.
Visit KahtoolaAny great running community has a great running store and Flagstaff is no exception. Owners Vince and Sarah Sherry are incredibly dedicated and have grown Run Flagstaff from a small purveyor of running goods to a hub at the center of the running community.
Visit Run Flagstaff