Ultra

Koning van Spanje Trail – 72KM, 3rd Place Finish

I signed up on impulse—something I tend to do when it comes to trail running. This time, it was the Koning van Spanje Trail, a 72 km course through the hills of Limburg. My goal? A test run before attempting the Grossglockner Ultra in July: 85 km with 5,000 meters of elevation gain. A beast of a race that honestly intimidates the hell out of me.

In the weeks leading up, I didn’t train like I normally do. What I did have, though, were two intense weeks of trekking through the Himalayas—long days, steep climbs, and thin air. I hoped that would be enough.

Still, I was scared. Insecure. I had nightmares leading up to race day. The morning of the event, I woke up soaked in sweat.

Truth is, I had no idea if I can actually pull this off, but I guess that’s the whole point. It’s very intriguing to do something you are not sure you are capable of doing. That uncertainty—it humbles me, challenges me, and keeps me coming back.

Why do I run ultras? What is my why? Why am I drawn to long hours of hard effort, being on my feet, chiseling my pain cave?

It’s about standing up for myself. Choosing hope over fear. Choosing grit over comfort. Choosing to be my own biggest fan. It’s about chasing the kind of freedom that only comes when you push your limits—when you discover just how far you can go.

After each of these events there are only two questions that matter to me.

Did I do my best?

Was it worth it?

Ultra running teaches me to answer both because it shows me what my best is and what my best takes. Often people have no idea what they are capable of and think “I gave it my all” when they actually experienced just mild discomfort. Ultras tear that illusion apart. They demand honesty, presence, and a willingness to suffer with purpose.

Knowing what our best is and being able to actually give it is something in life that’s worth it.

As it turned out I finished 3rd. There was a little mistake in the time check. But who cares.

Best buddies