Hayden Hawks / Leah Yingling / Ryan Montgomery | 2024 Western States 100 Pre-Race Interviews
Jun 27, 2024
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Professional ultra runner Hayden Hawks, endurance athlete Leah Yingling, and participant Ryan Montgomery share their final thoughts and preparations before the 2024 Western States 100 race. Topics include race strategies, mental fitness, unique clothing, community support, and reflections on training and racing histories.
Adaptability to race conditions and competitors is crucial for optimal performance.
Mental fortitude and readiness to embrace suffering are vital for success in key race moments.
Community support and camaraderie at races like Western States enhance motivation and enjoyment of the sport.
Deep dives
Training and Race Strategies
Running the Western States 100 race involves a combination of physical and mental training strategies. With a 15% increase in training volume this year, the focus is on adapting to higher relative perceived effort levels. Building mental fitness is equally crucial, ensuring the ability to push through challenges and optimize performance. The approach involves being adaptable to race conditions and environment while leveraging experience and coping strategies for a successful outcome.
Agility and Adaptability in Racing
The ability to be agile and adaptable during a race is emphasized, reacting to the environment and competitors dynamically. Combining a pre-planned race strategy with on-the-fly adjustments based on conditions and competition enables optimal performance. Recognizing the significance of mental fortitude and readiness to embrace suffering during key race moments highlights the importance of adaptability for success.
Community and Racing Motivation
The community aspect of races like Western States plays a pivotal role in motivation and dedication to the sport. The energy, support, and camaraderie experienced during the race contribute significantly to the attraction of returning to such events. The communal vibe and enthusiastic atmosphere at races like Western States serve as a driving force for continually engaging in and enjoying the sport.
Footwear Choice and Stability Concerns
The decision-making process behind footwear selection for the race involves balancing stability needs with performance features. Exploring various shoe models to determine stability, comfort, and suitability for the high country terrain is essential. Opting for stable shoe options like Nike's Zagama for ankle support highlights the importance of ensuring comfort and stability during a demanding race.
Excitement for Women's Field at Western States
This year's Western States is anticipated to have the deepest and strongest women's field in the event's history. The increasing professionalism and dedication of female ultra runners highlight the growth and competitiveness in the sport. Leah Ying Ling, an experienced racer, is looking forward to the challenge of lining up against a field of professional athletes and aims to give her best performance.
Utilizing Learnings from Multi-Day Race for Western States
Leah Ying Ling gained valuable insights during a recent six-day race that she is applying to her approach at Western States. She focused on maintaining body temperature, nutrition, and understanding sustainable heart rates during the multi-day event. These lessons are guiding her in preparing mentally and physically for Western States, providing her with additional tools and strategies for the race.
These conversations were livestreamed on the Singletrack YouTube a few days before the 2024 Western States 100. Enjoy Leah, Hayden, and Ryan's final thoughts before race day! Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.