Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 27: Hillary Allen - Professional Ultra Runner

Overview:

This episode features professional ultra runner Hillary Allen, whose story of resilience through injury and exploration into gravel cycling is nothing short of inspiring. From her background in tennis to her transition to trail running, Hillary recounts her traumatic 150-foot fall, her recovery, and her foray into gravel racing with Dirty Kanza as her first ever event.

Hillary’s journey exemplifies the idea that adversity can be a launchpad for growth. Her experience in trail running and gravel cycling reinforces how embracing the uncomfortable fosters transformation. Whether recovering from injury or facing the collective challenges of a global pandemic, her mantra of “laying one brick a day” is a valuable blueprint for perseverance.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[00:01:20] Pandemic-driven race calendar changes
[00:07:45] Questioning the need for racing in motivation
[00:11:00] Introducing Hillary Allen
[00:12:15] Living and training in France
[00:15:30] First gravel race: Dirty Kanza 200
[00:20:10] Use of cycling in injury recovery
[00:27:45] Mental resilience and redefining strength
[00:32:00] Hillary’s upcoming book Out and Back