Waypoint Narrative #2
Waypoint Narratives: Five questions, one objective - share stories of people who have experienced the impact of the outdoors.
This Waypoint Narrative is written by my fun-loving trail bud, Mary! When I sent this out to some trail running friends, she was the first eager person to respond, which is so characteristic of Mary’s charismatic spirit and kind soul. Here is her story:
Do you have a trail name, and how did you acquire it?
No, but my Instagram handle is runningmare - so I’d probably go with that or something along those lines.
What is the most prominent thing the trail/the outdoors has taught you about yourself?
That no matter what, I’m capable of doing it alone.
I’ll keep pushing myself and never stop.
What are the key waypoints of your life that ultimately lead you to the trail in the first place?
I’ve been a runner for over 20 years (majority road). I also love hiking and camping. I’d say adventure of the unknown has mostly brought me to the trail and all my trail running friends who say “hey, here’s the race you should do!” I then usually sign up 🤣
Share about one of the most memorable problem-solving moments you’ve had on the trail.
September 2023, I ran my first 50k-Iron Master Challenge (2nd Ultra) realizing at the start, I had 2 different shoes on, there was no turning back. I fell at miles 12 & 27 but picked my self back up and made it within 9 hours during a tropical storm (it never stopped raining the entire race) and 3rd for my age group. I found myself alone on the trail at my favorite section (Pole Steeple) almost going off trail because I lost the markers. Thankfully, I retraced only slightly to get back on course. With all the rain, the heavily wooded sections were darker visibly.
Who and/or what inspires you to keep moving forward?
My own determination. I’ve always loved running but the trails are just magical and knowing that there is a great view, climbs, excitement to be found helps me to never stop.
Also, my son. He’s 9 and flew out to California with me for my first ultra (Lake Sonoma 50 miler) and for him to see his mom accomplish something so challenging, I hope he always remembers that. If there are races he hasn’t been able to make, he’s always the first person I call after I’m done.
