July 2021

photos by Matt Cornelius

He says another personal achievement he is proud of is winning the Skull Crusher Challenge on the Eagle Rock Loop and setting the “Fastest Known Time” for anyone who has ever run the course. “I also competed in ‘Run the Line’ here in Texarkana,” said Taylor, “and ran a one hour, 21-minute half-marathon and was the top Texarkana finisher.” Ultra trail running is a different beast, and Taylor considers it as the most extreme of the endurance sports out there. “Imagine running for three days straight with maybe two hours of sleep across an entire 72-hour period covering distances of 250 miles [or more],” said Taylor. “It takes mental fortitude and body training unparalleled by any other sport. There are much shorter distances, “ Bringle Park has an excellent systemof trails. You can get upwards of 18miles on the trails if you run themproperly. ” Brad Taylor

but the 100-mile [or more] events are really the ones that test your ability to keep pushing when you feel there’s nothing left.” Races take place on lengthy, and often hazardous, courses. The danger comes from uneven and unpaved terrain on these trails. Any misstep is possibly devastating, and since the sport is not seasonal, running in unfavorable weather is normal. Snow, rain, heat or cold do not stop them. “I’ve run on mountain sides that could end in death with one false foot placement,” said Taylor. “We run in extreme conditions and come face-to-face with threats of heat stroke and frostbite. Not to mention, we always have to be mindful of wildlife such as snakes, bears and big cats. We are constantly jumping over rocks and logs, and tripping is a real threat. Several runners have broken bones, knocked out teeth and received lacerations that need stitches. Fortunately, I’ve never had a serious injury.” It is a somewhat solitary sport; once the race begins, cheering fans dissipate. It is also less popular. Taylor says competitions range from as many as 1,000 competitors, to some as few as ten. “In training, it’s usually just you and nature. A race is much different,” said Taylor. “At the start line of a race, there will be many people there cheering you on. Once you get out on the trail, you most likely won’t see many people cheering until you come to an aid station, which could be four to ten miles later. Because of the distances we

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