'I'm motivated by the puzzle': how Courtney Dauwalter became ultrarunning's GOAT
Courtney Dauwalter, a leading ultrarunner, won over 50 races and made history in 2023 by winning the Triple Crown. She trains intuitively, prioritizing joy, mental resilience, and personal growth.
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Courtney Dauwalter, a 38-year-old ultrarunner, is recognized as the greatest of all time in her sport, having won over 50 ultramarathons in the past decade. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first person to win the Triple Crown, which includes the Western States 100, Hardrock 100, and UTMB, in a single season. Unlike many of her peers, Dauwalter does not adhere to a strict training regimen or have a coach; instead, she trains intuitively based on how she feels each day. Her approach emphasizes joy and comfort, as she often consumes candy during training and enjoys beer post-race. Dauwalter's philosophy centers on the process of running rather than the results, viewing each race as a puzzle to solve. Despite her accolades, she remains grounded, focusing on personal growth and learning from each experience. Her journey into ultrarunning began in her twenties, and she left her teaching job to pursue it full-time, driven by curiosity and a desire to explore her potential. Dauwalter's mental resilience is a key aspect of her success, as she embraces the challenges of racing and uses visualization techniques to push through difficult moments. She continues to enjoy her running journey, prioritizing the present over future plans.
- Courtney Dauwalter is considered the greatest ultrarunner, winning over 50 races.
- In 2023, she became the first to win the Triple Crown in a single season.
- She trains intuitively without a strict plan, focusing on joy and comfort.
- Dauwalter emphasizes the process of running as a puzzle to solve.
- Her mental resilience and curiosity drive her success in ultrarunning.
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