Reflections from a DNF at the Leadville 100

Failing is hard—and human. 

Life doesn’t always go the way we plan, train, or hope. I chose this challenge partly to honor those living with mental illness, who don’t choose their hard journey. They fight every day, and sometimes still “fail” despite doing everything right. I expected the race to be hard, but I didn’t expect to fail. That’s been painful and humbling. 

For perspective: the finish rate for those 60+ at Leadville is only 15%. 

The odds for those living with mental illness can feel just as overwhelming.