#208: From Burnout To Solo Run Across GA, Cheyenne Hit Breaking Points And Kept Going

Run The Race

Years after burning out from competitive running, a former running store manager gutted through 277.2 miles in 4+ days to complete the solo Run Across Georgia, from Tybee Island to Columbus (where she lives). She takes us through the ins and outs of that immense challenge on this "Run The Race" episode, along with what she did about burnout and divorce after being a fast cross country runner in college...helping other runners...and connections with the community, the outdoors. (3:16) Cheyenne Greenside, a Washington state native, thought "Why Not?" with the epic Run Across GA, seeing fellow runners in Columbus do it. (8:00) She talks about the training and planning before the race, lots of miles and staying positive, one leg of the race at a time. She had goals for how much to run/walk each day of the event, and how much sleep (hint: it was less than 3 hours per night). What were her favorite foods? You may be surprised what she wanted on sandwiches. (17:13) In challenges, we all need tenacity! What did she do when she was exhausted, feeling broken? One breaking point for her was at mile 140, when she was panicked and sobbing, but her crew/family got her going again. There were challenges like unknown roads, horrible humidity , tendinitis, and painful chafing! Ouch. (25:25) Cheyenne also talks about those closing miles of "Run Across Georgia" and what it was like at the finish line, with so much support from cheering friends. (34:28) One of her passions is inspiring, teaching, encouraging fellow runners. She still works part-time at Big Dog Fleet Feet, where she used to be manager, continuing to push the importance of good running shoes. Worth the cost? (42:50) Going back to her days of running HS track in WA and XC at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, she tried to run faster and faster. Running became more like a job, leading her to finding new purpose through a Trans-con relay (San Francisco to NYC) to raise money for cancer, then burnout again. She has advice for when you get tired of the sport or hobby you do a lot: let it go. Cheyenne explains a little more. Running also helps with mental health. It did for her during a divorce, and she's got the tattoo for that too. She feels most at home and peace while running, loves being outdoors. (53:56) We talk about her future running goals, like a faster 50K and a few 100 milers coming soon, pushing her body to more breaking points and overcoming, like she did at Run Across Georgia. (59:50) I close the episode with a prayer. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast, which I hope you'll subscribe to! Share it with your friends. Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info and listen to any previous episodes, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.