The Freetrail Podcast with Dylan Bowman Zach Miller | Hardrock 100 Pre-Race Interview
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Jul 10, 2025 Zach Miller, a professional runner for The North Face, shares his journey to the Hardrock 100 after overcoming setbacks, including an emergency appendectomy. He dives into the emotional highs and lows of recovery and the motivation drawn from past disappointments. Miller discusses the importance of resilience in elite racing, reflecting on his training and the pivotal role of pacers in ultra racing dynamics. His comeback story is filled with insights on balancing competitive spirit with personal growth, making for an inspiring conversation.
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Knee Pain and Recovery Journey
- Zach Miller experienced significant knee pain during and after his appendix surgery recovery, which affected his 2024 season.
- After diagnosis and surgery at Stedman Clinic, he incorporated cycling and Nordic skiing to manage recovery.
Psychological Comfort from Knee Limits
- Knowing his knee can't get worse actually comforts Zach Miller psychologically for this race.
- He learned to manage and strengthen the knee despite ongoing questions about how it will hold up.
Training Round Two Feels Easier
- Zach's 2025 Hardrock training felt like round two, much easier and less draining than last year.
- He mixed steep vertical work with runnable faster-paced training, improving mountain leg strength.