In a tradition that has become both a personal challenge and a celebration of youth, Leigh-Anne Slack recently completed a 41-mile birthday run on the Virginia Capital Trail! Inspired by a close friend nearly a decade ago, she has fully embraced the challenge, embarking on a journey of running her age in miles each year. According to Leigh-Anne, what sets the tradition apart is not just the miles covered but the people she encounters along the way. From onlookers to cheering supporters, the reactions she receives are as diverse as the routes she conquers. Yet, one common thread unites everyone - an overwhelming spirit of friendliness and encouragement that makes the journey that much more rewarding. Hear from the adventurer herself as she shares her passion for running, personal inspiration, and why she looks forward to crushing her age in miles every year!
WHAT CONVINCED YOU TO TACKLE a 41-Mile Run ON THE CAPITAL TRAIL?
This is my 9th consecutive year doing my “birthday run”. One of my closest friends gave me the idea initially. Each year, I run my age in miles sometime during that calendar year, either in conjunction with a race or just on my own for fun. I joke and call it a “celebration of youth”! It’s more of a personal challenge and a personal affirmation that age is simply a number and many of the limitations we experience are self-imposed.
What I enjoy most about the experience is the people I run into along the way. Some people have no idea what I’m doing, some people ask and are shocked, but generally, everyone is friendly and encouraging.
I feel RELIEF and a peaceful sense of accomplishment when I’m done. I’m also excited to still be “young enough” to survive the miles. I plan to continue doing this until I am no longer physically able. To date, my longest run was a 100-mile trail race in Wyoming. I was so relieved to finish that I actually shed a couple of tears.
How did you Celebrate Afterwards and What Was Your Favorite Memory?
After my birthday run this year, I drank a protein shake, ate a piece of Mellow Mushroom pizza, took a relaxing Epsom salt bath, stretched, and went to bed early.
My favorite/most unique memory is definitely from my first birthday run. I did it with my friend who gave me the idea. I was 24 weeks pregnant with my second child at the time. We had a few friends come join us for various sections. I’m also certain this is the reason why my second child has endless energy!
ANY TIPS, TRICKS, OR LESSONS LEARNED?
I’d say the biggest tip I could give is to start slow and stay steady. Make sure there is a backup plan for when you hit the inevitable wall that comes with endurance running. This year, miles 23-26 were brutal for me as far as fatigue, the overwhelming desire to stop, and questioning my life choices. I’ve been lucky enough to figure out what works for my body as far as nutrition and tools to overcome that hump so I can achieve my goal.
I’m fortunate to have maintained my health as well as had the support of family and friends. Health is wealth and prevention of disease is the best medicine. I’ve been extremely fortunate.
Thank you, Leigh-Anne for sharing your incredible story with us!
