Western States week

“Coach tells us a story about his dad who was running a race for 100 miles from Squaw to Auburn, and he talked about failure and what it was like to work for something and show up, and keep showing up even when it feels like the outcome you want is impossibly out of reach.

Because when you keep showing up, at some point you’ll see something you never considered to be possible.

And you automatically beat anyone who didn’t show up, including the version of yourself that could have tapped out.

I heard something drowning in pain and injury and illness that felt clear and magical that I now understand is pretty rare. I heard a story about dirt and mountains where a race becomes pure persistence and survival.”

– Words by Julia Millon

I will be running the Western States 100 on Saturday. It feels like a lifetime since my name was called at the lottery.

As absolutely devastating as losing Julia has been, it has given me an in-your-face reminder of what the most important things in life are: the people we love and the experiences we share together.

I am so grateful for the support I’ve received in the form of encouragement, love, help with my kids, Beverly-care, support from my kids as they told me “it’s ok” so many times when we had to give up something else so that I could get out for a run. SO many friends made sacrifices so that I could pursue this selfish endeavor, and I am eternally grateful for that. I’ll never forget the many hours shared on the trail with Gretchen, Jamie, Steve, Kathy, Julia, Audrey, and everyone else I had the privilege of running with this year. Thanks to my coach, Meghan, for guiding me through the training.

Thanks in advance to my crew and pacers, friends and family who will be out there in person or in spirit.

Wishing all of my friends a safe and magical journey on Saturday. xo

4 responses to Western States week

Rose Potvin says:

6 years ago

I am always so impressed with your insightful writing! Thanks for sharing ❤️

Sent from my iPhone

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Jean Heun says:

6 years ago

Jenelle, good luck on your Western States run. You will manage it all and do fantastic as you always do and make everyone proud, especially Julia. She is rooting from above and you will carry her on your shoulder and in your heart.💜 I love your “never give up” attitude. You got this!

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Gretchen says:

6 years ago

So honored to have been a tiny part of your Western States journey. I am so proud of you. I know it is a lot to process, but I am hoping to see your race report soon! 🙂 Regardless, I know it was an incredible journey begun long before the gun went off at Squaw.

Also, that photo makes me so happy. 🙂

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- jenellep says:
  
  Author 6 years ago
  
  Gretchen, you were a HUGE part of the WS journey. Thank you so much. And yeah… I sat down today and tried to write a race report and all I could do was cry. Which is ironic, because I was smiling the entire race. It’s a lot to process for sure.
  xo
  
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