How One Wrong Turn Changed Jim Walmsley's Career | Outside

From 9MindAsylum, "Lighting The Fire: Wrong Turns" tells the story of Jim Walmsley's eventful start in the sport of ultrarunning. After being honorably discharged from the Air Force and dealing with bouts of severe depression, Walmsley turned to running to get his life back on track. He moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, and connected with a community of runners who helped him rebound and supported him after his infamous wrong turn at mile 93 of the 2016 Western States 100 race.

[@peterd1623]

So what do you run Jim? Jim: the 100 Oh that’s funny you don’t look like a sprinter Jim: *the 100 MILE*

[@thepavankeerthi]

Hahaha

[@cubesquared2291]

Thought it was 100Km

[@shenandoahwrobel5354]

Update: In 2017, Jim Walmsley was again predicted to win the Western States 100. He started off at the same extreme pace and opened a huge lead, with camera crews following him and a lot of pressure on him. About halfway in, due to heat and not taking in enough calories, he became sick and had repeated attacks of violent vomiting and incoherent thoughts. Jim was not able to finish the race in 2017. He dropped out. . . . So he ran it again in 2018. And this time he won. His time of 14:30:04 shattered the course record.

[@aldoluvs]

Shenandoah Wrobel - Wow!

[@jasonjennings8465]

Freaking hoss!

[@dragonyears]

I'm so glad to read that!

[@twiston43]

Congrats to him.

[@billbradleymusic]

Indeed.

[@pjyg51241]

I started running last year....but I went through a very bad period in my life..suicide was an option...I was tired of drinking and doing drugs...I decided to get sober I’m 3 months sober at the time of this comment and running now is my medication...I encourage people who battle with depression and drug abuse to run...it could save your life

[@y.annick161]

how are you doing now? :)

[@jabibgalt5551]

How are you doing so far? Stay strong!

[@michaelmcginley7930]

John Duran keep going we are with you

[@conorrees2885]

That’s good to hear! I’m 10 months sober after 7 years of drugs and heavy alcohol addiction. Living in a bad place after a toxic relationship. Found running and that’s been my way of dealing with the tough times, mental health and it seems to make everything seem a little brighter.

[@gbizzy9922]

I hope you are all doing great now and staying strong. I've dealt with similar circumstances in my life, I know how difficult and hopeless it can feel but I promise you all there is light at the end of the tunnel! Find something physical that you are passionate about and chase it with intense fervor, it helps profoundly.

[@jmcconvlle]

Can totally relate to “running is like medication”

[@gabrielmalek7575]

mxstery everything kills you if you do it too much, running being something we can do much more of than most other things, ultra running does feel more about mental strength and unbelievable resilience, more so than just fitness.

[@troliskimosko]

@@mxstery9960 nothing about that was a joke, you just don't want to look stupid

[@iamlegend3674]

@@mxstery9960 sorry Bro look into the Tarahumaras they can run for 150 miles without getting tired and have no cancer diabetes etc

[@Impedancenetwork]

Running is for weak-ass bitches. Lift some fucking weights. He looks malnurished.

[@beepbadapup8523]

@@Impedancenetwork gymbro spotted. Enjoy dying of a cardiovascular disease at age 50;)

[@coltonfrancis644]

i appreciate the vulnerability he shares in this video we dont see many professional athletes share their story's in this way. it takes courage to share this way and let the river flow.

[@LAnonHubbard]

Great comment.

[@kennymonty8206]

Yeah, thank goodness we're not watching abc, NBC, CBS, and the rest or that's what we'd have got. Stupid dribble. Bye dummies. Too bad you couldn't realize that we're not stupid. We want to actually know Jim. Now I do. Just a little bit.

[@maxwalker9117]

I was lucky enough to have worked with Jim in Montana. Jim is one of the nicest guys I have ever met. He is one of those guys who leaves an impression on you and it makes you want to be around him. He is an inspiration. I am blessed to have known him. All the very best Jim. You can do it.

[@tank2449]

where at in montana?

[@melikesleepy]

Malmstrom AFB in Great Falls Montana@@tank2449

[@bjrieidi878]

Nice

[@chacerook4329]

Dang losers should be more careful

[@LAnonHubbard]

He does seem like a really nice guy!

[@lorgerdat]

Sadly not many men get support for issues like depression / isolation etc

[@alexp4462]

Fuck yeah Outside, you nailed it! What a great 14 minutes to spend!

[@JeffThinksDifferently]

I have been to that low place, it's no fun and I almost took the short way out. I sat there a long time considering but didn't take the short cut. When I was on active duty I ran 15-20 miles everyday then the demons got into my head and I stopped. It's been 40 years. I have silenced the voices in my head. Recently, (March 2018) I started running again. It's a good place to be. Right on man - good video.

[@lucindalove7606]

Jeff Heiser Thank you for your service!❤️🇺🇸

[@joeblogs9017]

Thanks for your story Jeff . I'm in Australia .

[@AWildBard]

I'm glad to hear you overcame it and you are enjoying running again.

[@uncoverthetruth5550]

the demons are real too bro kzbin.info/www/bejne/iaPFpKiqpMZkgtE

[@l1m1n4l]

It's nice to see more and more athletes showing their weaknesses, as well as their strengths. Makes us all a bit stronger - thanks!

[@James-nj4pc]

Man his form when running looks amazing. Those side-on shots were great.

[@tacovato9247]

Dude. This hit home. I had a similar situation. And I finally almost 10 years later picked up running. I’ve always wanted to tell my story but never thought anyone would care. Thanks for your inspiration man.

[@BarefeetB]

Do it man - Share you're story I Really enjoy these kinds of stories and I'm guessing a lot of other do also "Never put off something for tomorrow When you can do it today "

[@johnelder150]

Just showed this video to a number of men in early recovery from drugs/alcohol. They were very moved. It helped them open up more in the group that followed. Thank-you Jim for your candidness and vulnerability. (Interestingly enough, the first time I ever heard of Jim was on the day of the 2018 Western States 100, when I watched Found on 49. I won't post a spoiler tho ...

[@jeannelucas3132]

What a great story to pass on to folks trying to recover. Withdrawal sucks. Jim's story shows that things DO change...when/if you do.

[@gunkshunter2519]

I respect this guy's honesty.

[@Wavygravvy]

There is just something about running that connects to the spirit..fucking beautiful video..we can all relate in one way or another

[@lisalundmalm4793]

Every time he cried I cried, and then I cried a little more

[@zXJulianXz]

This is exactly like me. The depression is so painful, I would run until my legs broke to avoid that pain.

[@natashawatson6072]

I'm 13. Crosscountry running is my medication. The nature fills my head and everything becomes better

[@jacobjensen6617]

Natasha watson I started running at 13 and I’m 52 now! I still run and love it!! It has helped me through some very tough times!! I’m so glad you love it & it helps you 🌸💕

[@albertomontano1225]

I'm so happy that you decided to get up and fight against depression. I have suffered from it for years and although I'm not even 1/100 of the runner you are, running is medicine for myself as well. Well, I call what I do running. It's more like what an animal looks like after getting hit by a car on the highway, gets back up and hobbles into the forest.

[@sheaiek]

1:04:00 half marathon for Jim today in Houston!

[@Easystreet1234]

I was in my feels then I skip to an hour and 4 seconds on the video out of 14 minutes and now I have to find my place again lol

[@casy6203]

I've definitely found myself running and crying, being outside and just moving is so cathartic for your emotions sometimes.

[@thetrailvagabond]

Lost count of how many times I’ve watched this inspiring video. Thank you for sharing it!

[@richardasbury536]

Thanks for sharing the ups and downs of your life with us Jim, that took a lot of guts !

[@JoeKammerExclusive]

I relate to this a lot, running and getting myself out and being in nature and feeling branches brushing against you on the trail is unlike many other things

[@spastic54]

This was amazing to watch . Thanks to everyone involved in making this and thank you to Jim for telling a hard story for us.

[@sudhersonnadar]

Really nice one it was very awesome. Literally I got tears on my eyes🤗 All the best for rest of your life keep running buddy

[@crystalkeara8868]

Thank you for being so honest about your struggles with depression!!! I can totally relate ❤️🏃‍♀️❤️

[@WayneScott7]

Wow, what an unexpected story, twist, and turns. Incredibly moving and inspiring.

[@ildikostrieker3544]

Such an inspirational story about overcoming mistakes and finding your way again. Well done turning your life around Jim. You should be very proud of yourself. Thanks for posting your story!

[@FlaminalLow]

I’ve got so much respect for your courage and honesty. Thanks for opening up!

[@dryguyrainproof]

Awesome story. Thanks for sharing!

[@ER-xl6cs]

Your story is so wonderful, very inspirational. I am grateful to hear and watch your story. Thank you! I will think about you when I am running.

[@h2energynow]

One of the most amazing running steps I have ever seen. Amazing

[@Jiofromatvid]

Running became my medicin for my depression 4-5 years ago as well. I am so greatful for it. Just live running and I am accually planning to do my first ultra 2021. You are a great inspiration to others and that's what I want to be as well. Hope to see you on the trails one day Jim!

[@marystivender87]

Just worked the aid station at Mile 43 and saw you come through 45 mins ahead of everyone--wow. I'll be there again next year, Jim, and will head down to the stadium to see you come in. 2018 it is!

[@claystone7729]

Love your Heart Brother Jim. I am much older but have been through some similar things so I can relate. We learn from the downturns in ours lives you will Succeed in your passions and whatever you set out to do will be Bless. God Bless you and keep strong.

[@alfredohernandezlara3848]

Loved it. Thank you for the motivation. Running can save your life.

[@mikedolan5435]

Thanks for sharing your very personal story. Run, Jim, RUN!

[@runbrenna]

Such an inspiration! Thanks for making this movie and telling your story.

[@DJayAce4]

Being in a really dark place like that, enough to get you emotional when you think about it... I've been there and know the feeling, really glad he got out of that. Now look at him. Just comes to show that the easy way out should never be an option. Your life could be totally different a year or two down the road. If anyone is out there in that current situation, just know that it is temporary and there is a way out. You have options, don't let the darkness fool you into thinking otherwise. Stay strong, good luck to Jim and everyone else!

[@sauzeeee]

It's funny that i just started running a month ago, and i've been binge-watching all these running videos ever since. i may just do my first marathon or even an ultra. So thanks for the vids!

[@midgicegg874]

Awesome video. I'm glad to read in the comments that Jim returned to the event and won it.

[@ejarroyo]

Wow. Powerful video. Go Jim!

[@HoundDogHats]

Yeah what he said.

[@burrelljohn11]

I absolutely love this guy even more. His transparency and honesty is beautiful. A true athlete.

[@deldridg]

Great introspective. I'm sure Jim's honesty will be of high value to a lot of folks who are struggling right now. I'm going to send it to a few I know. Cheers and thanks from Oz - Dave

[@liamtubsy3767]

Can confirm.

[@joeblogs9017]

Thanks for your story Jim very inspirational . High lights my troubles ATM rnt so bad . Good luck in life's journeys

[@SemperTrain]

Very inspiring, keep running bro!

[@saltydog6241]

What a badass. Thanks for sharing his story.

[@aldoluvs]

Really proud of you Jim! Thank you for the inspiration!

[@felixhohne4478]

So touching! Great guy, great motiviation! Go Jim!

[@JodyArnott]

This was an epic watch, you guys nailed it. Awesome story.

[@fonhollohan2908]

This young man inspires me like no other, he's a champion of all champions in my opinion. I don't follow this sport at all. I just felt lead to check out long distant marathoners and I ran across this guy. I injured myself twenty years ago and had to have an instrumental fusion of my tailbone and four of my discs and nine months after the surgery I fell off a ladder in my garage, and that was in 2006. So since than, I've had to take fentanyl and hydromorphone in order to cope with the pain. I'm nearly sixty years old. I've been a fighter all my life and I have never been so depressed in my entire life as I have the last three years. I've have to lie in a medical bed twenty four seven, that has been my struggle these last three years. So I look at this young mans story and it inspires me, not to quit, and to keep fighting and not give in to the suicidal thoughts that plague my mind. I will continue to fight and put my trust in my lord and savior and trust in what he's done for me on the cross. I don't know why but Jim Walmsley's testimony has really inspired me to keep the faith and continue to endure this race called life.

[@kaseywaldroup1820]

Great Video!!! I can relate to a lot of that, I have been very down before and running with my mom was a spark in my life and now 11 months later I feel great and doing much better. Very inspiring guy!

[@antoniabaker7770]

What an amazing young man. Im so proud of you.

[@Jezzz549]

This was pretty awesome, especially as I have had depression so this is pretty inspirational. I guess it's for the best that he left the force

[@MrSupernova111]

I can relate to this story so much. I went through a very difficult time in life about 10 years ago that led to me going back to college, earning a college degree and redefining what's important to me.

[@mrdennis1038]

What a wonderful story...taking a disappointment and not let it define you. What an inspirational message.

[@MytechsearchNet]

@Jim - I hope your still running distance runs. I hope you’re in a better place now. You’re part of my community, and I just want to say you rock for running the 100 miles. There used to be days I thought I’d never run a mile. After some life changing events I got addicted to running and never looked back. I’m doing marathons but hoping to someday make a 100 miles. It’s my outlet just like you mentioned; it’s my medication. Keep it up and never stop!

[@andreastraining4513]

Wow this story is really strong, i am happy you find your true self again. And it is true, physical activity is really helpful in many areas of your life. Thank you for sharing.

[@cameron_a9116]

Wow that was good. In all the reading and watching I've done about Jim this is my first time learning about his DUI, so its probably a super touchy subject and took a lot of strength to open up about it! Great story Jim!

[@marinaschwanke6416]

answertotodayis1776 Sorry about your friend, but apparently you have no idea what it's like to be a cop or a cop's kid. If you hate cops so much, try living without them and not calling them whenever you need help. Grow up and have a little respect.

[@coffemonster6734]

a lot of cops do not respect or even care about people at all or even do their job correctly, it seems your being willfully ignorant of this fact marina.

[@vampiredoge8698]

Marina Schwanke what have you achieved in life apart from being a dick to the guy who's friend was killed, 100% the only thing you have ever lost is your gold fish not a best friend. You would have his same attitude towards cops if you where in his shoes. Why don't you grow up and live with an open mind.

[@coffemonster6734]

its not that marina was trying to be a dick shes just ignorant and perceives things wrong. to her cops are the good guys period. shes not thinking that they are also human with flaws, just a very naive dumb little girl but its not really her fault its her parents that raised her to have that narrow illogical mindset. she doesn't have the rational mind to realize that cops can also be shitty people that are capable of murdering innocent people for no reason. she doesnt know reality.

[@marinaschwanke6416]

Well first of all none of you know anything about my life so you can stop making your own assumptions. And second, I have actually seen both sides of the spectrum when it comes to police officers. Also, I've actually been quite respectful unlike the rest of you, just making my point that police officers are ya know, necessary. There are good cops and bad cops just like there are good people and bad people in every profession. Obviously.

[@adilmzese5346]

I love how I watched this my xc season and now I see it again right when I'm starting to run again

[@manzanitarunning26.27]

Congratulations #Jim #Walmsley's You are a Warrior of Running my respect and admiration for you, you made me cry but I liked the video very much, thank you for sharing and it is a blessing that Your parents support you it makes me very happy, a runner hug🏃🏻‍♂️👊

[@Dinckelburg]

Huge amount of new respect for him after watching this. Love you Jim

[@a-aron14]

Inspiring - keep grinding my man!

[@jjwa2439]

What an amazing honest story! Lovin Jim!!

[@andreg1860]

Either you win or you learn!! Good dude and really happy you found your path!

[@74Pulsar]

Thanks for telling your story... that's certainly what I needed to watch right now. Well done indeed🥇

[@74Pulsar]

@D4amaz Ing sorry, I don't know it.. but its great music.

[@marisol5841]

you are amazing Jim! thank for sharing with us 💖

[@fredecks4641]

Thank you for an excellent video. Yes, 100-mile ultrarunners are whacked. I've got the Zion 100 coming up 2 weeks from tomorrow morning. :-) This is the best stuff I've experienced in life, just going and going, sharing the trail and the adventure with fellow humans. Awesome! Thanks again for this inspiration.

[@williamrunner6718]

I can empathize with Jim in so many ways! I sincerely hope Jim ends up as the greatest ultra runner of all time!

[@motivationtheoryrunning]

Its amazing to hear about so many of us in the ultra community battle and over come these mental things in life, and seek out these races that make us battle even more...its like home, its way too much like home.

[@nikfarrant1640]

Incredible story inspiring to us all !!

[@jespervorstermans689]

Inspiring story Jim! Respect.

[@manzanitarunning26.27]

how exciting it is to watch as they run and inspire me to move on, and it's just what I love to do in this life !!!!🏃🏻💨👍👊Great Runners

[@deanc2000]

The guy's got a gift for running. Very inspirational how he overcame his early mistakes and still became a success.

[@arjun230190]

So true. Endurance sports help overcome bad times. Cycling and running are amazing tools in this regard. They will transform your thinking capability and also help give up smoking and drinking. A part of it is being out in the nature.

[@capttast]

I have seen many lives shattered because these tiny little moments in time. What you do next is all that matters. Good job Jim. He runs like a gazelle!

[@gnostikz8995]

Dam Jim never realised any of this . Big kudos to you for carrying on after that mishap on western 100. I would have been fuming!! I think your an amazing runner bro love to watch your docs and watched your progress in the utmb.

[@MiguelHernandez-pt1kl]

This inspired me. I literally ran to the local Walmart from my house, a couple miles. Nothing compared to an ultra runner tho but it felt good! EDIT: Try not to run on concrete guys, build up slowly. I got shin splints from doing too much too soon :( lol

[@MiguelHernandez-pt1kl]

Hey, thanks! :)

[@MiguelHernandez-pt1kl]

Good idea, get that blood pumping even at home! Crack a cold one for me!

[@t-west3437]

Miguel Hernandez u have to get a good pair of trainers, it helps a lot. Also role out ur legs after 👍

[@kirasussane1556]

ShiftCtrl85 😂😂😂😂

[@kirasussane1556]

That is great Miguel

[@collindass2361]

Jim, you're one hell of a champion. thank you for the inspiration.

[@quinnkunz1409]

I watch the first minute of this video before bed every night.

[@ShaunKjar]

Fantastic video. What an amazing dude.

[@MrF4tty]

Beautiful, Good Luck Jim.

[@oscarmaldonado7067]

This hit home for me. if you ever hit that wall, make sure to talk to someone and find what makes you feel alive.

[@AlyssaAllDayVlogs]

Such a great interview. I think a lot of us that run can relate to this.

[@Coolmonj99]

I run cross country for high school down in Surprise, Arizona and it’s really cool to me in the last clip of him running away from the camera down the straight away is where I had one of the best races of my high school career 😁😁😁

[@tonyandvinnette]

Powerful story! What doesn't break you, makes you!

[@XxcrunxXx]

freaking beautiful video

[@jamesbadham228]

Glad you made it back, on the run and in your life. We all sometimes just need a friend to help us put the next foot in front of the one.

[@joe1071]

Wow. I’m finding my way back to running during some dark anxiety and depression. I find running strips away everything else and gets me grounded again. I hope for Jim that his running can outlast his mental health struggles. Hoping he has other passions to lean into if they day ever comes that he has to hang up the running shoes

[@charlesgustafson5014]

Good luck this weekend Jim!

[@tigergreg8]

So the trail isn't marked where each turn is??? How is this entirely his fault.I felt bad for the guy, that should never happened.

[@TreadlightlyWR]

I think that the navigation is a certain part of the contest.

[@stromdiddily9166]

Even marked, it's actually quite easy to miss turns...trying to block out the pain, maintain rhythm, etc. puts navigation on the backburner at times.

[@thiagov6123]

its 100 miles man, do you have any idea how long that is? My half marathon had long unmarked parts and it was totally understandable.

[@alexandrebeaudry8377]

I was on a organisation of a xterra triathlon. We mark the trail at each 3 meters. We were joking that runner had more chance falling on a flag and losing an eyes than getting lost. And one team got lost.

[@alwaysuseless]

As an ultra-marathon runner, I agree common-sense navigation is important. BUT *every place there is a reasonable choice has to be marked* which way to go. The race is not professional, if it's not. You can't expect someone after running 90+ miles to be at their cognitive best. They are supposed to be running a *well-marked* course. That's part of what the 1,000, or however many, runners there are in a race pay their entry fees for.

[@wik360]

Fantastic vid. Props to him.

[@heartdawg]

What a beautiful spirit!!

[@kcc9775]

Jim, you are the man.

[@plantsforlife1120]

You be the MAN Jim! ,

[@DevonDub]

Congratulations on turning your life towards the positive. No doubt a continuous struggle day to day, but know the positive effect you have on others watching this. God bless on your continued journey.

[@rahulbarca4112]

More power to you Jim

[@denvergriffin5555]

Ups and downs and times of the worst suck. You keep going. Ultrarunning. Life. Run on Jim.

[@ewbeyer1104]

Fantastic story!!