“100 miles is not that far” - Karl meltzer.
This quote by Karl Meltzer represents the mindset of a seasoned pro ultra marathon runner. This was not the case when I ran my first 100 miler back in 2015, the North Downs Way 100 (NDW100). The race was help by Centurion Events, a popular running company which is owned by James Elson. He models his 100 mile races on American 100 milers which he has run over the years. America runner’s who complete a 100 miler in less than 24 hours recieve a belt buckle.
I needed to qualify just to enter the NDW100, so ran the 50 mile version earlier on that year. Then there is the mandatory kit list. All James 100’s require a full kit list in case you need these in an emergency. By the time I stood on the start line my running pack weighed over 5 kilos, full of food and other things I would not normally take running with me.
I positioned myself at the back of the pack as I was a rookie to the distance and felt it needed my respect. The day started at 6 am just as sun was rising, I felt like I was setting out on the ultimate life adventure. I didn’t even know if I could finish. The most I had run was the 50 mile qualifying race.
It was a long day so I will not give a full account here. But what I will tell you is what I learned that day. Crossing the finish line I felt pure accomplishment and relief. I’d managed to finish ahead of 95% of the competitors.
After running the 100 miles I changed my approach to life. Similar to my first marathon back in the year 2000, I tapped into unlimited self potential and belief but in an even bigger way than I could have ever imagined.
I was now a 100 mile ultra marathon runner. When I finished that day another runner came over to me and said in a lowered tone
“A Lot of people might not like me saying this, I do not believe you are an ultra runner until you complete a 100 miler”.
I felt like a member to an extreme, elite club of warriors.
From then onwards my life changed, I no longer felt life was happening to me but instead for me. I continued to run the NDW100 a further 2 more times, the last time I ran I finished on the podium in 3rd position.
Running 100 miles changed my life and for me was the ultimate challenge. I came out mentally stronger than I could have ever imagined. I highly recommend other runners to have a go at the 100 mile distance, it might just change your life.
Please if you like this article share with someone who may be inspired by reading. Have you run 100 miles? Did it change your life?
