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The decision to drop from a grueling race like the Badwater Ultra isn't as easy as one would think. Rick Polito of the Marin Independent Journal writes an excellent story capturing the challenge and conflict of runner and crew as world-class Masters ultrarunner Mike Sweeney decides to throw in the towel at Mile 100 in the 2006 Badwater Ultra.

My favorite quote:

Sweeney is equally bitter. "If the crew wants to mutiny me, that's OK," he says. "I'll find another crew."... At 90 miles, the edges are worn to sharp relief. The pride, the ego, the emotions, all on display. "It's an opera," Maselli says in aside. "We came to an opera."

You can read the whole article here. I think it's one of the better articles on ultra running I have ever read.

I've met Mike Sweeney and know he's a true champion of the sport. My hat is off to you, Mike, as well as your courageous crew. Congratulations on giving it everything you had that day...there will be other days for sure.

- SD