The decision to run Canyons 100K did not come lightly. I’ve finished other 100Ks before — so the distance was not new to me; but the most I had climbed was 13,000 feet. The course description on Epic Endurance Events’s website both excited and scared me: “Participants will experience some of the most scenic and challenging sections of the iconic WS Trail as they cover up to 15,000 feet of gain through the Canyons between Swinging Bridge and the famous river crossing at Rucky Chucky. Your limits will be tested and your finish will be hard fought as this is the most rugged and difficult of sections of the Western States Trail, RUN TWICE.” If I could finish in 18 hours, I would get my Western States qualifier. Clearly, this race was at the edge of my possible…It was perfect!