What drives someone to run 100 miles and keep going?
Stephen Parker is an ultra marathon runner, author of There Is No Finish: The Ultra Backyard Story (foreword by Backyard Ultra founder Lazarus Lake) , and the Associate Academic Dean for the Australian College of Ministries.
Stephen joins Caleb Gray on the Upside Down People podcast to share the grit, faith, and community behind his extraordinary journey.
He has tackled grueling races like the Backyard Ultra, pushing his body and mind beyond limits most can’t imagine. With four daughters and a 25-year marriage, he’s learned to channel the perseverance from running into every corner of his life.
We cover:
The mental trick to push through “unspeakable pain” in a 100km race…
How running strengthens faith and prayer?
Why Backyard Ultras are taking the world by storm?
The surprising way ultra running builds stronger marriages.
How to turn suffering into perseverance for life’s toughest moments. and so much more!
KEY CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Personal Background
03:29 The Journey into Ultra Running
06:31 The Psychological Aspects of Endurance
09:40 Perseverance in Life and Marriage
12:32 Balancing Family Life and Training
15:36 The Backyard Ultra Experience
18:39 Motivation and Support from Family
21:36 Highlights of Ultra Running Career
24:24 Adventure Racing and Unique Experiences
31:17 Pushing Limits: The Journey of Ultra Running
33:12 The Rise of Backyard Ultras: A New Trend
36:42 Community and Camaraderie in Running
40:59 The Global Backyard Ultra Championships
44:16 Inspiration Behind the Book: A Journey of Writing
50:54 Faith and Running: A Personal Connection
56:57 Connecting with the Community: Park Run Experience
Grab a copy of Stephen's book "There Is No Finish: The Ultra Backyard Story" here: https://www.amazon.com.au/There-No-Finish-Backyard-Ultra-ebook/dp/B0DD42GD27
Follow Stephen here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardultrastory/
Website: https://runningforever.au/
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