In the latest episode of the Choose To Endure Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Marisa Rogers, a seasoned ultra race director from Ultra Expeditions. Marisa's tale is not just about the meticulous planning and execution of some of the most grueling races in Texas; it's a story of transformation, community, and the profound impact of endurance sports on both the individual and collective levels.
Marisa's journey began with a personal quest to shed weight, a challenge that led her to lace up her running shoes. Her dedication to this personal transformation paved the way for a serendipitous encounter with an ultra race advertisement. Volunteering at the Wild Canyon Ultra marked the start of her path to becoming a race director—a role that demands an extraordinary blend of strategic acumen and empathy.
Throughout the episode, Marisa provides an in-depth look at the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies ultra races. As a race director, she's witnessed the raw emotions of runners pushing past their limits, the concern of families as they support their loved ones, and the camaraderie that forms among the crews and volunteers. These experiences, such as untangling a runner's shoelaces with teeth to save precious seconds, encapsulate the unyielding spirit of the ultra running community.
Race directing involves a symphony of logistics that many runners might not even be aware of. Securing permits, liaising with park authorities, ensuring runner safety, and navigating technology limitations in remote locations are just a few of the challenges that race directors face. Marisa shares stories of manual timing when technology failed and the anxiety of maintaining relationships with regulatory agencies to ensure the races could go on.
For anyone aspiring to step into the shoes of a race director, Marisa offers sage advice. Volunteering across various race positions is invaluable, as is understanding the nuances of permits, especially in environmentally sensitive or heavily regulated urban parks. Her insights underscore the need for flexibility, patience, and grace in managing the expectations of participants.
Marisa's final chapter as a race director brings to light the importance of the finish line atmosphere over the material rewards of medals and shirts. The spirit of the ultra community, the shared celebrations, and the acknowledgment of personal sacrifices form the true essence of these events. Her parting words, along with the rhythm of Will Smith's "Gettin' Jiggy With It," leave listeners with a sense of the joy and fulfillment found in enduring together.
As we wrap up this blog post, let us remember Marisa's story as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, the undeniable beauty of nature's courses, and the bond that ties us together in the pursuit of extraordinary feats. Her experiences, rich with challenges and triumphs, inspire us to contribute to the enduring legacy of ultra marathons and the race directors who bring them to life.
