Meg takes us on a captivating journey through her relationship with running, starting as an overly competitive high school athlete that took away her love for the sport. She shares how ditching the GPS watch and running for fun in college reignited her passion for running, as well as her subsequent transformation into a post-pandemic elite ultra trail runner. Meg’s relationship with running has evolved alongside her growth as an individual, and she shares the lessons she has learned along the way.
Balancing Short-Term Goals and Longevity: With Western States on the horizon, Meg sheds light on the delicate balance between chasing short-term success and maintaining longevity in the sport. She emphasizes the importance of nurturing a love for running and prioritizing overall health while pursuing ambitious goals. Meg’s insights provide valuable guidance for runners seeking to find equilibrium in their own running journeys.
Preparing for the 100-Mile Challenge: Stepping up to the 100-mile distance at Western States is a monumental endeavor. Meg discusses her preparation strategies, both physically and mentally, as she gears up for the race of a lifetime. Over 30 miles longer than her furthest run to date, Meg shares how she is balancing anxiety with excitement ahead of doing something she’s ever done before.
Coping Strategies for Mental and Physical Challenges: Running long distances comes with its fair share of mental and physical challenges. Meg opens up about the coping strategies she employs to overcome these hurdles during races. Her mental fortitude and resilience shine through as she shares her tips for staying focused, managing discomfort, and pushing through the toughest moments on the trail.
Community and Camaraderie: Meg finds solace and inspiration in the vibrant community of competitors and women athletes. She highlights the sense of camaraderie that arises from sharing experiences, supporting one another, and fostering a strong bond within the running community. Meg’s appreciation for the community aspect of running is palpable and serves as a reminder of the incredible connections that can be forged through the sport.
Meg Morgan’s journey from a competitive high school athlete to a Western States debutant is nothing short of inspiring. Her evolution as a runner, emphasis on balancing short-term goals with longevity, meticulous preparation, coping strategies for challenges, and appreciation for the running community make for a captivating and informative episode. As we eagerly anticipate the 2023 Western States Endurance Run, Meg’s story serves as a reminder of the immense dedication, mental strength, and love for running required to take on such a monumental challenge.