Running On The Edge - A Positive Edge Runner Embracing a 100 Miles Through The Alps

I have goosebumps as I bring you some pretty cool news about a member of the Positive Edge community who will be running 100 miles through the Alps on September 1st in the ultimate of trail races.

 One of our own, Krista Keirstead, a woman I have had the pleasure of coaching for the last 6 months, will compete in the UTMB World Series 100 mile Race, against the backdrop of the majestic Mont Blanc, France.  

What makes this even cooler is that runners must qualify with past performances and this race is literally the dream of any trail runner.

The “Tour De France” of trail running will start in the heart of Chamonix, where cobbled streets will hum with anticipation. She will push through the Alps, from the alpine meadows of Courmayeur to the heights of Col du Bonhomme and Grand Col Ferret. This course will test every aspect of her and every other runner’s endurance. Mentally, physically, emotionally she will be challenged to the absolute limit.

There is an elevation of over 10,000 feet a combination of ascents and descents. The challenge is not just the distance, but the relentless push against gravity itself. 

The weather is another aspect of this race that will test and challenge her. Krista will run from the sun-kissed panoramas to impromptu snowfalls that turn the trail through Champex-Lac into a winter wonderland.

But it's not just about the physical spectacle. These types of races, and especially this one, makes every step a testament to resilience, and a blueprint for pushing boundaries. The sense of exhaustion at times in this 30-35 hour trek will test everything in Krista’s power, and she knows she is ready.

Krista is nervous but prepared, ready and confident.

“I’m so, so excited. This is something I have dreamt about for years. It is iconic and it is the ultimate goal for me as a trail runner. I can’t wait."

It has been my absolutely pleasure to coach Krista. Her discipline, her attitude, her positive energy and her passion has been evident from day one.

Please send all of your positive vibes to Krista on Sept 1st.

Krista you’ve worked so hard for this and you’ve  got this! We will be cheering for you!