I talk with Helen Mino Faulkner, a professional trail runner who recently placed fourth at the Tarwera 100k. We discuss her decision to turn down a golden ticket to Western States 100, her experiences racing in New Zealand, and the challenges of training through winter in Truckee. Helen shares her journey back to running after a hiatus, the importance of excitement in racing, and how living in a seasonal environment contributes to success.

We also explore her path to becoming a professional athlete, the role of yoga, and the differences she has experienced racing in Europe compared to the U.S. In this conversation, Helen Mino Faukner and I discuss various aspects of trail running, including the vibrant community in Europe, the realities of ultra running, and the challenges of nutrition during races. We also explore Helen's aspirations for future races, her experiences with the Tahoe to Yosemite route, and her approach to creating engaging content for her YouTube channel. The conversation highlights the excitement and challenges of the trail running lifestyle, as well as the importance of community support and personal goals.

Follow Helen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helenredcloud/

Follow Helen on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ @helenminofaukner

Takeaways

Helen turned down the golden ticket after careful consideration.

She enjoys racing in diverse environments, like New Zealand.

Training in winter involves cross-country skiing and lower mileage.

Excitement and positivity are key to her racing mindset

Helen’s journey back to running was inspired by friends and community.

Living in Truckee allows for seasonal variety in training.

She values the community found in both running and yoga

Helen’s path to professional running was unexpected but fulfilling.

Yoga helps her maintain balance and prevent injuries.

Racing in Europe offers a different experience with well-maintained trails. There's a vibrant trail running community in Europe.

Aid stations often lack the variety of food expected.

Ultra running is more about speed than socializing at aid stations.

Planning for long runs requires careful consideration of conditions.

Helen's dream of running from Tahoe to Yosemite remains on her list.

Creating YouTube content involves spontaneity and personal experiences.

The importance of community support in trail running is evident.

Nutrition strategies in ultra running can be quite unique.

Future goals include various challenging trails and races.

Helen enjoys the thrill of competitive races close to home.

Chapters

00:00 Turning Down the Golden Ticket

03:03 Racing in New Zealand

06:00 Training Through Winter

09:14 The Importance of Excitement in Racing

12:09 The Journey Back to Running

14:55 Living in Truckee: The Value of Seasons

17:54 Becoming a Professional Athlete

20:55 The Role of Yoga in Running

23:54 The Differences in Racing in Europe

29:40 Trail Running Community in Europe

31:34 The Reality of Ultra Running

32:52 Aid Stations and Nutrition in Races

34:11 Dreams and Aspirations in Trail Running

37:53 Planning the Tahoe to Yosemite Route

41:56 Future Trail Running Goals and Aspirations

43:40 Creating Engaging YouTube Content

49:39 Upcoming Races and Personal Goals

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