Waypoint Narrative #17
Waypoint Narratives: Five questions, one objective - share stories of people who have experienced the impact of the outdoors.
“Who is that peppy girl back there?!”
This was the first interaction I had with today’s narrative author, Kaylee, during the World’s End Ultramarathon (100K) in 2023. This was one of a series of races (called “The Blacklist”) that Kaylee was completing last year, amongst many other ridiculously hardcore races across the country. I was pacing my friend, trying to create some positive energy and conversation when we approached Kaylee with just her handheld water bottle in tow. It seemed like she was pretty young to be frolicking out in those woods (by herself, mind you). But as turns out, this was not Kaylee’s first rodeo, and my initial shock about her age was quickly overcome by her remarkable maturity. My racer and I spent the next few miles chatting with her, and I immediately was drawn in by her kind yet intense, fiery spirit. We then got to spend more time at the finish line together, as well as at Kaylee’s final race of her “Blacklist.” I am super thankful that Kaylee took the time to share a bit of her story with us today!
Do you have a trail name, and how did you acquire it?
I was given a trail name when I was younger, Thunder. But to be honest, no one really calls me that. It was just a little thing when I was 12 years old, but didn't really stick like a meaningful trail name. (Sorry I'm lame, haha).
What is the most prominent thing the trail/the outdoors has taught you about yourself?
The trails have opened up a whole world of opportunity. I started out with road running, but eventually found the trails and hit them hard in 2023, running The Black List. The trails have shown me a whole different side to the world of running. It's taught me that I am much stronger than I think. Some of those PA trails are brutal, and finding the mental capacity to push through them is daunting sometimes, but always worth it.
What are the key waypoints of your life that ultimately lead you to the trail in the first place?
I'm not sure if people are really destined to do things or not, but if they are, then I'd say I'm destined to run. I have a strong faith in God, and I truly believe that He led me to find ultra-marathon running and to the trails.
Share about one of the most memorable problem-solving moments you’ve had on the trail.
I've been pondering this one for a while and I honestly can't think of any good stories. The best I can think of was using KT tape on my hands during Black Forest because my poles were giving my blisters.
Who and/or what inspires you to keep moving forward?
One of my biggest goals in life is to make my father proud. I'll never truly know if he or not, though, so I'll just keep pushing myself and trying to accomplish the impossible.
