Congrats to Academy member Yali, who conquered her first 50k! Here’s a nice email she sent us about how running has been an unexpected light in the dark.
“Dear Trevor and Angie,
I can’t believe I am writing these words – yesterday I ran my first Ultramarathon, a 50K, -at the “3 Days at The Fair”. The race is a 1 mile looped course, so the 50K is 31 full loops plus a little more.
I ran it in 5 hours 6 min and 59 seconds, pretty much without stopping (I walked for about 30 seconds in order to text my sister that I had 5 miles left).
I used your 50K plan, but with higher mileage, and it was perfect. I felt strong and ready -I did not feel the fatigue in my legs that I have in past races.
It is a miracle for me to be here, writing this, having spent 16 years battling a severe eating disorder that left me on the brink of life and death a couple of times. I am 5 and a half years into active recovery now, and feeling grateful with every step that I get to run, and every step I get to take in my life’s journey.
When my students ask me how I stay motivated, I tell them that when you spend so much time in the darkness, once the light enters, you’ll do anything to keep it with you. Running long distances has been an unexpected and healing light for me, allowing me to feel strong in my body, and deep in my soul.
Thank you for being part of this light, and inspiring me with what you do. I hope to meet you and run with you one day!
Be well,” -Yali
You never know what someone is going through. Good job chicka