The 2026 Black Hills 100 Race Report - Mindset Changes Everything
It's midafternoon on top of "Peak 5701" in the Black Hills National Forest. I'm beginning a descent down into the Dalton Lake Aid Station where I will see my crew. The singletrack section of trail flows beautifully from one vista to the next, slowly working its way down the mountain. The views are breathtaking, grand in scale, and stunningly beautiful. As my legs move effortlessly across the rocks and roots, the only thing on my mind is "who gets to do this?!" Gratitude fills my consciousness and tears stream down my face. I know at this moment I'm experiencing something such a small subset of humans will ever get to. In fact, I am the only human who has ever had this exact experience. Through my unique lens, my senses, and my consciousness; I'm having a truly one of a kind experience. I thank the universe for the moment and continue down the trail. After a disappointing and unfulfilling experience at the High Lonesome 100 last year, I knew I needed ...
