“The Badwater 135 starts at the hottest time of the year in the hottest place on the planet. I love the unprecedented vistas, having a team that leapfrogs you with drinks throughout the race and the other runners who come from over 20 countries around the globe. Of all my Ultras over the past 23 years it’s hands down my favorite!”

“Always seek to do what feels right. Focus on finishing and not comparing yourself. Be your best and improve on your personal marks. Enjoy the scenery, people and the challenge itself. Have fun!”

“I wear a single pair of Swiftwick PERFORMANCE™ Zeros and I’ve never had an issue. Badwater is a really hot race which can add extra heat and pressure on the skin but my feet did really well with these. I also like to put a little Squirrel's Nut Butter on my toes before I put on my socks to reduce friction. My friend told me she had success with it and I found it really helps me.”

“The 2019 Badwater race was my first Badwater – I was one of the few rookies this year! I have already started to strategize for Badwater 2020. The reason I applied in the first place was because Badwater is not just a race, it challenges runners on many levels. It forces runners to go beyond their limits and show everyone watching that the human body and mind are capable of so much more than we think. I learned a lot about myself and what I still want to show the world!”

“Go out and enjoy it – smile the whole time and fall in love with the sport even more. And with that positive energy, great things start to happen.”

“My colorful ASPIRE™ Zeros are a must! I also always wear Altra Running Olympus shoes, Oakley trail shades, and my Nathan hat with bacon and avocados on it. Tommy Rivers gave me that hat and it will forever be my lucky racing hat.”