Leadville 100 Run - Finding The Why

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Curious WTF you wear when running 100 miles? Watch my gear video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/np6zmKCKdppki8k

[@jazzmynbrown8221]

are you racing again this year?

[@kiera_kayaks7521]

I've never met you man, but each time I watch you hit that finish line I tear up. So freakin proud of you! And thank you for taking us along, I love it!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thank you so much 🙏🏽

[@samrichardson2641]

Dude no way you took time to set up your camera and get shots while you were running a 100 mile race you’re built different

[@runningwithsimon]

lol literally, no way he took some of those on race day... but I love that he took the time - I'm assuming the day before while also getting drone shots based on the sky and no runners - it makes for a much nicer movie.

[@brandon4601]

My thoughts exactly. My man’s a beast.

[@Kyle-zk7oq]

I want to know if he set the camera up before or after the race, the weather is not the same as race day. For example, look at the sky when he is at the bottom of powerline and goes onto the road. Sunny skies with white clouds. Just a mile or so later at Outward Bound the sky is totally grey.

[@ajpotter518]

You are an inspiration to many folks out there. I have recently started climbing 14ers in the last two years and I’ve watched many KZbin folks. But, I’ve always come back to your videos because of the time you spend showing the routes and not focusing on hyping yourself up as others do. I’ve learned so much from your videos as how to go about climbing them. I definitely stick to the class 2 right now. But this video was no different. You showed us the true you and how you had ups and downs and worked thru them. You obviously have an incredible family base that support you. Keep up the great job with the videos as I know how much time it must take to edit them. But know that you are helping so many out there find enjoyment in the wilderness.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks Andy, it’s a slog and I do sometimes question why I’m doing it because it’s so much work and I sometimes do feel used too but stories like yours keep me inspired to keep going so thank you 🙏🏽 Best of luck with whatever goals you have in the mountains, you got this 👊🏽

[@Adventures_of_Rev]

I got Goosebumps watching you crossing that finish line! BEAST!!!!

[@pw2883]

Hi Sherpa, What a hardcore athlete you are - both physically and mentally! You achieved a goal that perhaps only the top 0.01% of athletes can accomplish. I’m so happy for you for earning a belt buckle - you now belong to an exclusive club!

[@jenniferfeleppa5371]

Your why made me cry...watching you cross the finish line choked me up because it was such an accomplishment, but the why....ugly crying immediately. I bet she is proud of her dad🖤

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks Jennifer, I know she’s proud 🐼

[@torimiller7486]

You’re a rock star! Congrats on your finish. As someone who loves to run, you ultra-marathoners inspire the hell outta me. I’ve been following he Leadville 100 for years, thanks so much for giving us an insiders look.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Can’t tell you how much I appreciate the kind words. Leadville is a special race

[@larrydirks285]

Hats off to everyone who has the courage to undertake such a event. 🥳

[@gregforester5935]

Your videos got us through COVID and inspired us to climb Mt Elbert. We actually arrived in Leadville from NC the day of the race. We did a hike around Turquoise Lake on Sunday. Wish we knew you were in the race so we could have introduced ourselves

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Awesome stuff, happy to hear. I was probably a very dead inside person on Sunday so best we didn't meet then I would have been VERY cranky/depressed hahah.

[@prairiestonecollectiblescu835]

I kind of waited to watch this video until I knew I needed inspiration. Today was the day! 😁 While we are worlds apart in our physical abilities, we share the love of the Colorado ( & other) mountains. Congratulations on a truely amazing feat!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thank you so much and glad it was able to provide some inspiration 💪🏽

[@OldManRocketLeague]

Loved that man, thank you.

[@gmeta2611]

pure leadville spirit!!

[@abalone317]

Juno!! Can't think of a better "why"

[@GaryCarlton-km5vv]

This will be my 22nd year at the Hope Pass Aid Station. You all inspire me to return year after year and be there for you. Your strength to continue on always resonates with me while deep in the back country alone on my own journey. Gary

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

thank YOU for all you do. Volunteers make all of these ultras possible

[@kathrynsmith8554]

Dang dude, you’re a badass. I admire your determination. Congrats! Thanks for sharing some BTS on what a race like this involves.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks Kathryn appreciate it 👍🏽

[@Bibs123]

I’ve watched many of these, and yours is the most inspirational by far. My goal is to do this race in 2 years, and you have truly inspired me to an even greater degree than before. Awesome job!

[@jg5555]

Awesome video man, awesome job and thanks for taking us on the run with you!!

[@torcherd83]

Congratulations, man. #rip Juno 🙏❤️

[@ColoradoRunnerGuy]

I loved watching this, thanks for sharing your journey, especially with how difficult and emotional it was. Ken was so proud of you at the finish, what a great guy to be there to greet everyone at the finish line.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Glad you caught that - I loved his reaction and it’s why I kept that bit in. Really cool to see and glad you liked the vid 👊🏽

[@coachb530]

Great video! Details were great for other Ultra folks and look forward to doing these races in the near future!

[@ChicosBailBonds-hb8nx]

Got a little "dusty" in my office when you finished. What a great story, thanks for sharing!!

[@jplmedley]

I've been watching your videos for a couple years, and this one really touched me. I've had long covid for 2 years and as you were sharing about the turnaround, I thought, maybe I can get out there again. So inspiring. You did Juno proud :)

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Appreciate it, she keeps me going to this day. 🙏

[@michaelmyers7416]

Love your videos and as a hiker turned mountain climber, ice and alpine, and now over the hill, I enjoy the mountain videos. Never was a runner. Did the Leadville 100 on mountain bike, a separate race and can’t imagine doing 100 running. Did the 24 hours of Montezuma‘s revenge a now defunct mountain bike race that included a snow climb over grays which intimidated a lot of people and I hold some kind of intergalactic age graded non-drug fueled record on that one for top 10. Also successfully did Paris -Brest-Paris with the American team. 750 miles on race bike self supported in under 90 hours. I say this not to toot my own horn which is too old to make much of a sound but to give some credence to the absolute awe that I have for all that you do and particularly that run. Though I would much rather watch you dance in the mountains. Congratulations again

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Really appreciate the kind words Michael, especially from someone as accomplished as yourself.

[@specintexas7225]

I'm sorry to hear about Juno really am. Very amazing that you finished the race for her how incredibly are you😊

[@travismolly4654]

Incredible people we are 💪👍

[@jessenattrass3107]

So impressed! You're a bad ass! Emotional to watch....

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

🙏🏽

[@thirdballattack]

Brother, well done.

[@michaelroundcount8982]

1:26 was that the Miami Marathon back in February? That was my first marathon. I thought training at altitude in the cold on the High Line Canal trail in Denver would give me an advantage, but I totally underestimated the south Florida humidity sucking it all out of me. That's a cake walk compared to Leadville, but an experience I'll never forget. Glad to have shared it with you; catch you on the trails or at the Colfax Marathon! Congrats!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Good spot - ran the half and yeah the humidity is something 🥵

[@thezenhodler1620]

You're a beast. Love the channel. Love trail running and love hiking 14ers.

[@Meishach2112]

Awesome job man! We are just wrapping up 5 weeks in Summit County and headed back to Dallas. Your channel really helped me prepare, and we knocked out 6 14ers and a bunch of other peaks and great hikes. Thanks for all the motivation and congratulations on your race!

[@emilywein8956]

This is amazing Mickey! Glad you did it. And glad you found your why. I think it’s interesting to think about what types of things are goals for certain people. And how certain activities are “absolutely that’s awesome for some” and for others is a fuck no. People going above and beyond doing something is always amazing though regardless of whatever it is they choose to do. Congratulations

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks Emily and agree with you - it’s such an interesting concept to think about what motivates each individual. Even in the running world: prs vs distance or in hiking: peak bagging vs exploring new areas.

[@oongieboongie]

Juno sees you!

[@miahrun]

So bad ass man. Happy for you and congratulations

[@robytosso9311]

Thank you for this video! I mean it! Thank you for the reminder that we can achieve great things because we have a why? In our hearts! Thank you for the detailed footage, it will really help me to plan my race and thank you for sharing you amazing story, now, you’re a part of my why? To toe that start line this coming 8/19th!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Go get it, you got this!

[@seektruth707]

Dude, you are such a motivator. I watch your 14er videos occasionally as I'm planning to climb one. What you did here is so hardcore. This is superhero mode. Nice!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@johnbaumert]

Congrats!!

[@alealejandro9696]

Amazing amazing video man. Truly an inspiration

[@arcoleman10]

A life goal. Very impressive!

[@tresilewis5925]

Juno would be so proud....and rightfully so.

[@OmarSanchez-mp1gp]

Amazing.

[@jmarkmorris43]

Love it. I held Texas Men’s record for 8 years. 22:19 age 44. Didn’t finish it last few attempts however.

[@jmarkmorris43]

Thanks for bringing back the memories

[@kenkenkenken007]

Fantastic man! Awesome!! Juno was with you all the way!!!

[@jmbabineaux]

Congrats!! Truly inspiring

[@natashabaily9061]

Congratulations!!!! You are amazing and truly inspiring. Keep up the great work😊

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@duzer]

Nice job!!!! Way to come back from the depths to cross that finish line!!!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks man - really enjoyed your BM ultra as well. Looked like a ton of fun 🤟🏽

[@wattsjc1]

Amazing job and so inspirational! Congrats!!

[@amywirtz6881]

Congratulations! Such an incredible accomplishment!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks Amy 👊🏽

[@mikimcconaha9507]

Fu@$ing love this❤

[@emfritz82]

Congratulations! This is such a huge accomplishment. Great job pushing through the lows and accomplishing your goal. 👊

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks Erin, think I have the bug - already looking into what other 100s I can do 😂

[@hordboy]

Dude…. that is so awesome! Congrats! 💯

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks really appreciate it 👊🏽

[@mtwain1674]

Dude, awesome, really, really awesome. You inspire us all!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thank you so much!

[@sidbarnes2107]

Amazing xxxxx

[@TK98973]

Congrats man! Running 100 miles is seriously something else! Way to give it your all and earn that buckle!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

That’s man 👊🏽

[@dansouth2088]

Wow so proud of you man! I've never run Leadville but know the course and history and cutoffs well. Such a great accomplishment. Major Congrats!!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks Dan - it was a battle and I’m def ready for another one 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽

[@salisburyxc22]

Big congrats on finishing and thanks for sharing your journey!

[@grantskidmore6921]

Inspiring! Keep training bro

[@99krushil]

U r an inspiration to many!! Thanks.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Means a lot thank you 🙏🏽

[@papajon62]

Congratulations from Georgia here! I was just in Leadville on vacation a few weeks ago to hike Mt Elbert. Man, that race looks brutal. I like the guy at the finish with the double barreled shotgun. My kind of folk….

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Really awesome people, they founded the race and have run it something like 10+ times. Check out their backstory - it’s really cool

[@farbeyonddriven8173]

I roll under the name FAR BEYOND DRIVEN but I ain't that driven. VERY well done!!!!

[@manzanares9754]

Good job buddy. Can tell lots of work went into this, had fun watching it.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Glad you enjoyed, thank you very much.

[@ZackRuns]

Great inspo! RRR will be my first 100 next month. Hoping to have the chance to say hello to you on the course!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

See you out there 🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽

[@MountainHobbler]

What is that race in Colorado where you have to run up a mountain dragging a donkey behind you? Looks fun tbh. I also like the Average Joe race in Pagosa Springs.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Know what you are talking about - Rick’s actually done that one but can’t remember the name. Think it might be in FairPlay?

[@MountainHobbler]

@@TheVirtualsherpa Yep that jolted my memory it happens during Burro Days in Fairplay.

[@Mrm16pink]

Hell yeah 👏🏻🙌🏻#Rip big toes .

[@gregory_adam5350]

Cool vid 👍🏻

[@shawnvsshawn3573]

Hey man! I just stumbled across your silver rush 50 and then this. Great videos, loved your voiceover and explaining your thought process and methods. How much running have you done leading up to this? Reason I ask is I want to sign up for the 50 but have ran roughly 750 miles in the last 18 months and 500 in the last 12. I have started running every day since jan 1 and will be up to 40 or 50 mile weeks come june when I want to volunteer the heavy half and marathon. Do you think if I train consistently and get to this weekly volume I could complete the 50? Also live at elevation in colorado springs and can train vert on the incline!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

6 months is plenty of time to train for the 50. I "started training" officially for both runs about now this time last year. Stay consistent and healthy and you should crush it.

[@eddy0083]

The aspens in the twin lakes part of this course look amazing, is there any place better for leaf peeping this fall?

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Million dollar highway / slumgullion pass are the best spots I’ve seen if you can time them right

[@joevandenbosch6199]

Let’s go Mickey!!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks bro - really appreciate it, hope all is well 👊🏽

[@thereadmans5693]

Love your channel man. I’m wondering how you trained for a 100 mile mountain race. What were some of the furthest distances you ran before this? And were you nervous out in the middle of the track about getting sick/injured or anything? Again love the channel dude, you’re living my dream life!

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Most I had run (before signing up for this) was a marathon but had also done a full Ironman. In training, I topped out at a 50 mile run though an event (video on the channel) and then did several 26+ mile days as well. No nerves other than finishing and making cutoffs.

[@runningwithsimon]

Congrats! Did you come back after (or before) to get those extra shots of you running?

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Lots and lots of b roll went into making this.

[@runningwithsimon]

@@TheVirtualsherpa I bet! Nice shots - I really appreciate them and the amount of effort that goes behind making that possible!

[@uncledabob]

Super inspiring, thanks for sharing. Btw what song did you use for the outro? Thanks in advance :)

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

@henketooraw on the beat!

[@uncledabob]

@@TheVirtualsherpa I can't seem to find it, got a link by any chance? 👀

[@analogkid28]

❤️

[@AD04070]

My go to for recovery is 32oz of unsweetened tart cherry juice right before my first sleep after a 100 mile effort

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Woof - I dk if I could drink 10oz of that let alone 32 but will keep in it mind for next time

[@AD04070]

@@TheVirtualsherpa great work, as someone from the springs, I hope to run into you one day at a run 👍

[@Shevock]

You know there are some women who give birth and they're happy they did it but, remembering the labor, stop at one child. Then there are women like my mom. I have 3 brothers and 3 sisters. I wonder if there's a similar psychological type for those who run a marathon or ultra and then say, proud of such an amazing accomplishment, that's enough. And then there are those who finish and say, sure I'll have another next year.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

For me personally, it’s more of - man that was tough but: A. I could do better and B. I finished so what else can I find that’s harder? There is also an enjoyment of spending so much time in the mountains in an unforgiving environment. Unlike road marathons or endurance events - so much of this is by yourself which is an interesting mental challenge in its own right

[@StaleBearFarts]

Goggins

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

I’m not in the same universe but appreciate it

[@czdjax]

You are a great motivation for all overweight people, they see that if you can run, so can they.

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Think this was lost in translation. Glad you enjoyed the video and found it motivating.

[@miahrun]

How long did you train for?

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

About 9 months but was in decent shape to start

[@miahrun]

@@TheVirtualsherpa that's still so crazy man. Good job bub. I plan to do a 50k or 50 miler this year hopefully. Gnarrunners put on some good races up here by collins

[@hitimez8800]

On behalf of all Leadville locals… nice run. But we’re tired of the tourists, please leave. Run in Denver…

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

I don’t live in Denver 🤣

[@jasonthomas16]

Incredible. Congratulations ❤

[@TheVirtualsherpa]

Thanks Jason 🙏🏽