Molly Seidel crossed the finish line of the Western States 100 in Auburn, California, early Sunday morning, marking a significant milestone in her ultramarathon journey.
With a finishing time of 24 hours, 29 minutes, and 27 seconds, Seidel's experience was far from what most had imagined, especially given the record-setting performance by winner Jenn Lichter at 15:28:05. Nonetheless, Seidel's satisfaction at finishing her first attempt at 100 miles was palpable, as she expressed eagerness to tackle future challenges.
At 31, Seidel, a bronze medalist in marathon from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, shifted her focus to ultrarunning last summer. Her impressive results in ultradistance races earlier this year included victories in a 50K in Texas and top finishes at the Black Canyon Ultras and Canyons Endurance Runs.
A Tough Transition
However, tackling the Western States presented a steep learning curve. The race kicked off under challenging weather conditions at Palisades Tahoe. Seidel, determined to run conservatively, initially performed well, securing the fourth position among women during the first significant climb. By the 24.4-mile Duncan Canyon aid station, she remained close to the front pack.
As the miles accumulated, Seidel encountered foot issues and severe chafing, accompanied by insufficient refueling with carbohydrates. By 55.7 miles, she struggled significantly—greeted with great support from her crew yet facing relentless pain that hampered her pace. After some critical aid station moments, she had slipped out of the top ten, shifting her focus from contending for a podium spot to simply finishing the race.
Critical Lessons Learned
“She got behind on fueling, and that was a rookie mistake,” coach Cliff Pittman noted. The physical and mental challenge of the 10-hour mark in unfamiliar territory proved daunting for her. Essentially, the race became about survival rather than speed.
As temperatures climbed, Seidel pressed on but with a diminished pace. The subsequent segment, a brutal climb toward the 62-mile aid station, took nearly three hours. At this point, she had rapidly descended to 22nd place, her body rebelling against the prolonged effort.
Endurance Beyond Limits
Despite moments of overwhelming fatigue and knee stability issues, Seidel showed remarkable resilience. Medical staff had to address her increasing discomfort, and for a few hours at the 94.3-mile mark, a decision loomed—continue or withdraw. Ultimately, Seidel chose to press on, embodying the spirit of ultrarunning.
Accompanied by new pacer Jessa Hanson for the final stretch, Seidel averaged 12-minute miles, steadily moving toward the finish. After crossing the American River, she continued through the night, displaying unwavering resolve amid a grueling test of endurance.
Finally, in the pre-dawn hours, she approached the endgame, fueled by the enthusiasm of her crew. As she ascended the last incline, the sky began to brighten. Summoning her remaining energy, she surged past the finish line, removing her sweatshirt in celebration as she was met with applause and the award of a finisher’s medal.
“It was truly special having my crew with me for that last mile,” said Seidel. The camaraderie from fellow runners and volunteers throughout the race underscored the sport's collective spirit, leaving her thankful and inspired.
A Future in Ultrarunning
Wrapping up in 28th place among women and 141st overall, Seidel received acknowledgment from peers and the crowd alike as she claimed her commemorative bronze belt buckle. The overall experience, while not what she had expected, deepened her understanding of what it means to endure an ultramarathon.
Looking ahead, Seidel plans to rest and recover before focusing on the OCC 50K in Chamonix, France, at the end of August. She remains committed to the ultrarunning journey, aspiring to tackle the Western States 100 again next year.
“I genuinely thought of quitting at Foresthill, but seeing my support team rallied around me changed everything,” she reflected. What she anticipated as a race evolved into an invaluable ultramarathon experience, steeped in lessons learned and a passion reignited for the challenges ahead.
