In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the soul of ultra running through the lens of the Jackalope Jam—a unique timed event on a ranch between Austin, TX and Houston, TX that brings together a community of runners who laugh, endure, and evolve together.
Our guest, Chris Trevino, takes us on a vivid journey through the Jackalope Jam, an ultra-marathon that spans 6 to 100 hours. Chris recounts his evolution from a 24-hour race participant, weathering relentless rain, to embracing the daunting 100-hour challenge. The event's infamous "cone of death" becomes a symbol of persistence and resilience, marking the runners' repeated encounters with their mental and physical limits. But it is the race's spirit of camaraderie, not the cone, that leaves an indelible mark on participants.
The episode paints a picture of a tent city buzzing with life, where every mile forges unbreakable bonds. Chris describes the shared experience of tackling the notorious "cone of death," dressed sometimes in cone costumes, as a testament to the race's unique character. He reflects on the mental toughness needed to resist the allure of comfort, especially when your RV is just a step away from the course, and highlights how the event's structure fosters an extraordinary blend of competition and support.
We then explore the theme of personal upheaval and the solace found in spirituality and the ultra community. Chris shares his experiences of loss and change, and how these led him to the transformative world of long-distance running. The podcast delves into the mental and physical demands of ultramarathons, the significance of community support, and the pride and joy that emerge from surmounting personal obstacles.
The discussion moves to the mental strength built through timed races. Here, we examine the surprising physical resilience we discover in ourselves during endurance events, the incremental goals we set, and how they propel us toward greater achievements. We draw from the experiences of runners who've used races like Jackalope as training grounds for more grueling events, highlighting the importance of step-by-step progression.
Finally, the episode celebrates the transformative impact of the ultramarathon experience. We discuss the camaraderie within the ultrarunning community, where fellow runners become impromptu crew members, offering motivation and assistance throughout the race. We share stories of friendship and the power of music in driving runners forward. The emotional connection to songs like "Graves to Gardens" by Elevation Worship or the energizing beats of Run DMC illustrates how music becomes a crucial component of the ultra running experience.
In closing, we tease the next week's episode, which promises to delve deeper into the role of music in training and race strategizing. This episode of the podcast offers an intimate glimpse into the ultra running world, where every step is a narrative, and every loop a life lesson.
The Jackalope Jam stands as a testament to the profound endurance and camaraderie that defines the soul of ultra running. It is not merely about the miles run but the shared journey of transformation that binds the ultra community. As runners conquer the "cone of death" and weather the storms, they emerge stronger, not just in their legs but in their spirit, solidifying the Jackalope Jam as an essential experience for every ultra-runner.
