What happens when an experienced ultrarunner steps into a completely new race format?

In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, I sit down with fellow Minnesota runner and coach, Wendy Krause, to talk about her first-ever Backyard Ultra at Blacks Grove Backyard Ultra. Although Wendy has years of experience racing trail ultras and 100-milers, the Backyard format challenged her in entirely new ways. From pacing and self-crewing to fueling, staying present, and embracing the unknown, Wendy was curious about what she could learn.

We also dive into what it's like to coach midlife runners, why your best running doesn't have to be behind you, and how curiosity (not chasing numbers) can lead to some of your biggest breakthroughs.

Along the way, we discuss:

• What surprised Wendy most about her first Backyard Ultra
• Self-crewing, pacing, and fueling lessons she'd change next time
• Why staying present one hour at a time is the key to success
• Midlife running, longevity, and overcoming limiting beliefs
• Training and running with her two Vizslas
• Why "stay curious" has become one of her biggest lessons as both an athlete and a coach

Whether you're preparing for your first Backyard Ultra, chasing your next ultramarathon, or simply looking for inspiration to keep growing as a runner, this conversation is full of practical takeaways and encouragement.

Follow Wendy on Instagram @Wendyrunsfree

Follow Wendy's dogs on Instagram @indykodarunsfree

Follow the Heartland Trail Series coming in 2027 (10K•13.1•50K•100K) @heartlandtrailseries

Wendy's coaching link

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

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🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them)

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