COACH’S CORNER - Tips for Your Why by Mario Buchs

Over the years and having run 17 Ultramarathons ensuring I have several “Why’s” in my “toolbag” is critical in the pursue of finishing each of these races. Here’s a few tips, whether getting ready for the first Ultra or your 100^th.

Assembling the Whys of Ultra Running: A Journey Beyond the Miles

Ultra running is more than just putting one foot in front of the other for extended distances; it’s a journey of personal discovery, resilience, and connection. Every ultra runner has a deeply personal 'why'—the driving force that keeps them moving forward despite exhaustion, adversity, and the sheer enormity of the challenge. While each journey is unique, certain themes tend to emerge: family, crew support, the training process, and the evolution of self through hardship.

Family: The Anchor of Purpose

For many, ultra running isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s a way to set an example for loved ones. Whether it’s showing children the value of perseverance, strengthening bonds through shared experiences, or simply proving that growth comes from stepping outside of comfort zones, family plays a central role. The time commitment required for training and racing means that support from partners and family members is crucial. Their encouragement, patience, and belief often provide the emotional fuel needed to keep pushing forward.

Crews and Pacers: The Pillars of Strength

Ultra running may be an individual sport, but no runner conquers the miles alone. Crew members and pacers become the backbone of success, offering encouragement, problem-solving skills, and much-needed humour during the darkest moments of a race. The camaraderie formed during these events fosters deep relationships—bonds forged through sleepless nights, blisters, and the mutual goal of reaching the finish line. The presence of a trusted crew can turn an overwhelming challenge into a shared adventure, making the journey all the more meaningful.

The Training Journey: Embracing the Process

The race itself is just the tip of the iceberg; the true transformation happens during training. Long solo runs, back-to-back efforts, and pushing limits in every condition imaginable build not only physical endurance but mental resilience. Training is where ultra runners refine their 'why'—testing their resolve, learning to suffer with purpose, and discovering the joy in small victories. It’s during these quiet, lonely miles that the essence of ultra running is truly understood.

The Evolution of Self: A Lifelong Pursuit

Every ultra marathon is a chance to strip away the noise of daily life and connect with something deeper. Whether it’s seeking adventure, processing past experiences, or proving inner strength, ultra running has a way of reshaping identity. The sport teaches patience, grit, and the value of embracing uncertainty. Each race becomes a metaphor for life—facing the unknown, managing setbacks, and emerging stronger on the other side.

Conclusion: Finding Your Why

Every ultra runner has a different 'why,' but the threads of family, community, training, and self discovery often weave through each journey. Understanding and embracing these motivations can make the difference between success and failure, between stopping at an aid station and pressing forward into the night.

Ultra running is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life—a relentless pursuit of something greater than the miles themselves. And in that pursuit, we find our true selves.