I was having the race of my life. It was one of those days when your legs can do anything you ask of them, the weather was perfect, the course was beautiful, and I was so happy. Then it was all over in an instant.

As the volunteers filled one of my soft flasks with… another beer, I started to reflect on the last 4-ish days and the wild, surreal, adventure I had just experienced. I was an 8 mile descent from a top 10 overall and 2nd female finish at one of the biggest 200’s in the world. As I started to reflect on all that happened over my trek from Prescott to Flagstaff, I started to accept the reality that this is exactly where I belonged.

I willy nilly signed up for this 100 miler as a kickoff for training for Cocodona in May. I hadn’t really trained, and didn’t know what to expect except a fun day on the trails. It was my first 100 miler without any crew or pacers.

Thank you to the best group of volunteers I’ve ever experienced. Thank you to the crowds cheering at the aid stations, and the hikers who hiked in all over the course just to cheer on runners, you were all so inspiring and encouraging, and really made the day so special.

In April 2021, Lauren set a new FKT (Fastest Known Time) for the Georgia section of the AT finishing with a record time of 19:43:20. Watch the record setting attempt as she traverses some of the east coasts most technical and beautiful trails.

I was so fulfilled with the depth of the experience as it stood. Not only did I get to spend 5 beautiful days doing nothing, but existing and moving down the trails I love, with the people I love, but I got to experience the kindness and generosity of people around me more than I ever thought possible.

It’s been a wild couple weeks and not to start this out by talking about the weather and all… but like, it got HOT here in Atlanta. Like HOT, hot. And humid. There have been several instances where I can SEE the humidity in the air. It’s kind of crazy and at this point, I don’t think my clothes will be anything less than dripping wet at the end of every run until October. We’re full on into summer. I guess it’s time to embrace it. Bleh. 

This weekend felt like a perfect cap to what felt like a good, solid week of running. Ever have those weeks? They’re the best! I didn’t have any major struggle days, and I feel like I’m starting to get more comfortable in the heat an humidity. I know it’s going to get much worse, but for now, I’m enjoying it!

I’m happy to report that snake was the only bad part of my run this weekend. I really enjoyed all my miles on Saturday! I was so happy to be back at one of my go-to trail spots. The little trails near the house are fun and all, and a long day in the mountains are great, but I’m glad there’s an in-between spot that’s not far from home where I can still get after it a bit. It was a double-win because I finally felt good. I didn’t feel like I was dying because of the heat and humidity. It was a day that makes me glad I run. Dare I say, I’ve come out the other side of heat training?

Wow, it’s been an exciting week. Everyone has been so nice and supportive. THANK YOU!! I’m having fun following everyone’s training, including some really big efforts. Shout out to Allison Lerer for snagging the women’s FKT on the Georgia Loop!! Woop!! Amazing job lady! Y’all are keeping me going out there!!

I’m gonna try to beat the record and set a new Pinhot Trail FKT. I’m going to run 350 miles, from Alabama to Georgia, in 5 days.