Conquering the Trails: My 50km Ultramarathon Redemption Story
Running an ultramarathon is an incredible feat, and completing the Sulphur Springs 50km trail race after a previous attempt shows remarkable resilience and determination. Jolt Fam member, Tammy D., shares her inspiring story of grit, redemption and consistent hard work both in the gym and on the trails.
The finish line of an ultramarathon isn't just about a fitness goal; it's about breaking through mental barriers and proving to yourself what you're capable of. That's exactly what Tammy set out to do when she recently completed the Sulphur Springs 50km trail race – her second attempt at this challenging distance.
This blog is written by Coach Siggy as a voice for Tammy D.
The Grueling Prep: Six Months of Grit
“This year the weather was challenging as it was a terrible winter/spring. I only used the ‘dreadmill’ 2x- the rest I ran in the snow, cold, wind, rain and sleet. I never missed a training run or a scheduled workout at Jolt. There were a lot of self-talk on the runs especially with the snow blowing or rain pouring down in my face.
To prepare for the distance, each week I ran 4x and attended classes at Jolt for strength training, mobility/core, yoga and stretch on Sundays. I also had to keep on top of my nutrition to keep up with the added exercise. Practicing fueling and hydrate on the longs runs was also important to be able to keep the energy to run for that extended time. They say an ultra is an eating contest and that is the truth.”
Why a Second Shot? "I Can Do Hard Things"
Tammy’s first crack at a 50km run last July ended in disappointment, she described. But instead of letting it defeat her, it fuelled a fire. She says that finishing an ultramarathon wasn't about proving anything to anyone else; it was a deeply personal goal.
“I wanted to show myself that I could go that far, that ‘I can do hard things’. I feel grateful that I can work out and run each day as life changes in a blink”.
FROM Battling the Elements to overcoming Self-Doubt
Tammy, always smiling - through the elements & nausea.
This past winter and spring threw everything it had at Tammy. Training runs were a constant battle against deep snow, biting cold, relentless wind, pouring rain, and sleet. She was out there, embracing the elements. She describes that there were countless moments of self-talk, especially when the snow was blowing sideways or the rain was drowning her, she was urging herself to keep going. The elements wouldn’t be the last time she needed to dig deep into her self talk.
“During the race, at about 45km, I started to feel a bit nauseous and worried I could not finish as I was going to be sick – I have not run this far before. Plus, I just hit 7 hours - was I just plain crazy to think I could! I then remembered a mantra I had heard– Adapt and Overcome. I ate and kept going. I finished up the hill to the finish line. I was greeted by cheers from my run club friends and my husband. That was the best part – their excitement seeing finishing my goal.”
Jolt: training for Trail Dominance
Training for a trail ultra is vastly different from road running. The Niagara Escarpment, where the Sulphur Springs race is held, is a mix of rolling hills with steep climbs and descents, and, of course, plenty of mud, roots, and rocks. This is where strength training became Tammy’s secret weapon.
“Every runner should strength train. I believe Jolt gave me the extra I needed to make me a stronger runner for these challenging conditions;
Lift classes- strength training - helped me conquer the hills and keep up my endurance –power throughout the race made me finish strong.
Mobility/core stabilized - helped me with fall prevention and move easier.
Stretch classes let me remain injury free.
Yoga gave me balance especially on the roots/rocks!”
My Advice for Fellow Runners: Embrace the Journey
“Running any distance is a mental game as much as a physical sport. It involves commitment and work but it so rewarding on a personal level. I do not focus on a pace or time. Trail running has become my favourite as a way to enjoy the beauty of nature and lots to look at. Here in Exeter, we are lucky to have such a beautiful trail. For me running is also a fun social time. I met my closest friends from running – a lifelong friend that we ran my first races with, to joining a running club that I found some amazing (a bit crazy) women who otherwise I would never have known. From a 5k to a 50k, each km is a reward.”
Next up for Tammy? The epic mountains and scenery at the Canmore Half Marathon!
The Finish Line and Beyond: Your Journey Starts AT JOLT
Tammy's story is a testament to the power of consistent effort and dedication. Her commitment to her training, both at Jolt Fitness and out on the trails, is inspiring. She embraced the brutal winter conditions, battled self-doubt, and pushed past physical discomfort, all to achieve a deeply personal goal. Thank you Tammy for sharing your inspiring story of grit and redemption.
Her success highlights the important role of a well-rounded training program. From conquering hills with newfound strength to maintaining balance on uneven terrain, Tammy's efforts at Jolt Fitness's Lift, Mobility & Core, and Yoga classes clearly helped build the foundation for her trail dominance and injury prevention.
Are you a growth-oriented individual seeking to elevate your health, fitness, and longevity? Just like Tammy, you can achieve your fitness goals. If you're ready to embrace the journey, overcome challenges, and unlock your full potential, we invite you to join a community of motivational people like Tammy and learn how Jolt Fitness can empower you. Discover a training approach that builds resilience, fosters strength, and supports you every step of the way.
