Forged in Fire

I’ve written many times on the topic of perseverance. The ability to overcome and to surpass preconceived mental and physical barriers. This very premise is what has drawn me to endurance sports, and shifted my way of living in an extremely powerful way. 

The human body is weird. It’s complex and hard to fully comprehend. 

I wish I knew more, but simultaneously enjoy the enigma of it all – the mysterious ways in which our bodies have, time and time again, surmounted seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Everything from physical achievements like the sub-4-minute mile to medical advancements like artificial organs or 3D printed body parts.

To be blunt – the human species is pretty rad.

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Broken Anvil

This past weekend, I spent 26(ish) hours assisting a good friend of mine with a race that he directs. It’s called “Broken Anvil Backyard Ultra.”

One loop, 4.167 miles in distance. Repeated, on the hour, every hour – until only one runner remains. There can be only one winner. 

This was the third iteration of the specific event. The previous set record being 75 miles – 18 loops. 

This go-round, however, that 75 mile record was shattered. One full day after the starting gun went off, this year’s winner finished the final loop all by his lonesome. He had outlasted the rest of the field, running 4 miles every hour for 24 straight hours. 

Epic, am I right?

For lack of better words and phrasing, the performance inspired me, while simultaneously humbling me. I quickly realized that I myself had a lot more to give – a whole lot of progress yet to be made.

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What’s Next?

Several people have asked me this very question: “what’s next for you?” To which I promptly respond “I’m not really sure yet.” 

This was true, until Broken Anvil. Until I witnessed the level of resilience and endurance that was put on display. I was suddenly reminded of my love for the wild sport of ultra running, and of the intrinsic goals that I had set for myself – to dig deep, and to push myself to the absolute brink.

Broken Anvil helped me to realize that I’ve yet to reach that place. I’ve yet to take myself to the edge. 

I was convinced that I had. But, I hadn’t. Not yet.

But, I will.

When and where? That’s yet to be decided. But, It’s on the horizon. 

There is little that I know for certain. This, however, I do – there is always more to give. Be it in your relationships, in your workplace, your hobbies, or simply within your day to day existence. 

You’re not held prisoner to who you are at this very moment. 

You are capable of more than you’ve accomplished thus far, no matter the significance.

Seek out inspiration, surround yourself with those who call forth your best, and go find a way to go all-in. Give it all you’ve got, because what do you have to lose?

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