(Ep.22) From 800 Meters to 258 Miles: Megan Smyth's Ultra Journey on Backyard Ultras, 24-Hour Rac...

Описание: This is an episode about progression.


About adjusting on the fly.


About nutrition saving races.


And about learning to stay when your brain tells you to quit.






In this episode of the One More Hour podcast, Megan Smyth shares her evolution from middle-distance track athlete to one of the strongest and most consistent backyard competitors in the country. Megan discusses her evolution as a runner, emphasizing the importance of maintaining joy in the sport, especially after experiencing burnout during her college years. She highlights how finding a supportive running community reignited her passion and led her to explore longer distances, ultimately excelling in the backyard ultra format.


Megan's insights provide valuable lessons for both seasoned and aspiring ultra runners. She recounts her experiences at the Summit Backyard Ultra, where she progressively improved her performance over the years, culminating in a remarkable 62-yard finish. She reflects on the mental challenges of ultra running, including the importance of pacing, nutrition, and the camaraderie that develops among participants.


The conversation also delves into her recent success at the Raven 24 Hour event, where she achieved a US team qualifying mark at 132 miles, showcasing her adaptability and strategic approach to different race formats.


Megan also delves into her training philosophy, highlighting the importance of consistent mileage and strength training to prepare for ultra events. She shares practical advice for runners, especially those new to the backyard ultra format, encouraging them to embrace the experience and focus on their personal goals rather than specific mileage targets.


 


For Runners Hesitant to Try a Backyard


Megan says: If you're already curious, what’s the downside?

• You’re never more than 2 miles from camp.
• You can self-rescue anytime.
• You can’t go out too fast.
• You get built-in rest.
• The camaraderie is unmatched.

Some people try one and never look back.


 


This episode is about:


Consistency over flash.


Adjusting without drama.


Fueling like it matters (because it does).


And choosing to stay one more hour.


 


Follow Megan's journey on Instagram @runningnutmeg (  / runningnutmeg84  ) and Strava (  / strava  ) as she takes on Banana Slug Backyard for a Silver Coin on the US Team and her other big future adventures.


👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.


⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.


📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast (  / onemorehourpodcast  )


📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → [email protected]


🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) (https://the-runner-s-toolbox-with-coa...)


⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website (https://jaciwilsonruns.com/run-coachi...)