“Why would you run ultras? Do you have some kind of mental illness?”

I’ve been asked this question (and other versions of this question) several times recently. I’ll admit- the first time someone asked me, I was initially offended. Then, after a few seconds, I realized that this may be a good opportunity to de stigmatize mental illness.

The summary of my answer? Yes, I do have a mental illness! I am in recovery from an eating disorder. And I certainly don’t have life all figured out yet. Some days, I feel like I’m stuffed with flaws and stitched together with good intentions 🤣 And yes, most of the ultra runners that I have met over the years struggle with anxiety, depression, and many other mental health issues (who doesn’t?)

I’ve encountered former drug addicts, alcoholics, survivors of trauma/abuse, etc. during ultramarathons. Is this surprising? No, not at all. Because guess what? Extreme people do extreme things. Scars have stories. That being said, I’ve never met a more accepting group. These people are very much ok with getting outside their comfort zones & being their authentic selves. They’ve helped me realize that fueling my body makes me faster, stronger, and happier.

I no longer count calories, and my VO2 Max is at an all time high. Coincidence? I think not. It may not make sense to the general public, but running ultramarathons makes us more happy and peaceful not only the on the trail, but in our daily lives as well. This endurance sport has a positive ripple effect like nothing else I’ve found. And I think that’s a beautiful thing.

Favorite distance: 50k

Do you have any running/walking advice you'd like to offer?: Find a training partner or two that is near your pace and is accountable. Having someone else along for the training journey- especially those long runs- makes it so much more tolerable. (Dare I say… enjoyable?)

Why do you like running River City Races events?: I love seeing how RCR events have become an annual tradition in the Louisville running community. It often feels like a big celebration at the finish line!

Anything else you'd like to share?: I fell in love with yoga as my go to for cross training. I am injury free, recover faster, and it gave a boost to my mental health as well.

I’m on the staff of Yoga6, a new hot yoga franchise opening several locations in Louisville this Spring.