Jim Walmsley was attempting his first 100 mile race at Western States in 2016. Shortly after the start, he captured and maintained the lead for the first 92 miles extending his lead by nearly 50 minutes AND on pace to break Timmy Olsen’s course record. But then the unthinkable happened, he missed a turn and ran 2-1/2 miles in the wrong direction. Jim joins The Nation to talk about his preparation for the race, his strategy, his execution and how he finished the race.
His splits (courtesy of John Medinger)
Red Star to Robinson Flat, 1:54 – Fastest ever
Robinson Flat to Last Chance, 1:35 – Fastest ever
Last Chance to Devils Thumb, 0:48 – 3rd fastest
Devils Thumb to Michigan Bluff, 1:14 – 2nd fastest
Michigan Bluff to Foresthill, 0:51 – Fastest ever
Foresthill to River crossing, 2:10 – 3rd fastest
Photo courtesy of Gary Wang
amazing run Jim! you’ll be back and great things ahead in your career.