One of the mantras ultrarunner McKendree Hickory holds dear is that during a 100-mile race she will “live a an entire life in a day.”

It means that if a runner is not prepared to reach the height of elation and the depths of despair, then they have no business running 100 miles.

“You’re going to experience a lot of individual moments throughout the race,” explained Hickory. “Sometimes you’re going to be totally present and in touch with yourself, and other times you’re going to be completely zoned out. To make it through, it’s important you stay with it.”

One-hundred miles is a distance that humbles even the most conditioned runners.

“Somebody does not just run 100 miles,” said Hickory. “You have to be incredibly intentional with your effort. If you’re not, it’s going to be a miserable experience.”

On Aug. 22, Hickory lined up with 700 other runners in the dark of the early morning in Leadville, to run one of the most famous ultramarathons in the country — the Leadville Trail 100.

Known as “The Race Across the Sky,” the course climbs 15,744 feet across the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Nineteen hours, 39 minutes and 12 seconds later, Hickory crossed the finish line as the women’s champion. A smile adorned her face, knowing she accomplished one of the hardest achievements in running.

“It’s an amazing experience, which I am so glad to share with my mom, dad and girlfriend,” said Hickory. “Overall, it was an incredible day.”

Leadville allows pacers who can carry the runners’ packs for them, and Hickory was appreciative of the two women who helped her.

“It was amazing to drop my pack, and run with just a water bottle in my hand,” she said. “My first pacer was a friend who had not run with me before. The second was a friend who had done Leadville with me in the past and is incredible at pushing me to be my best.”

After returning to Steamboat, Hickory has taken the opportunity to rest both her body and mind.

“Giving all you have for 100 miles is a lot,” she explained. “I need to heal both my body and my mind. I’ve only done light running, walking the dogs and napping. I’m not mentally ready to run just yet.”

She won’t compete in the Run Rabbit Run 100 in Steamboat on Sept. 18, and says she will probably take the rest of the year off from competitions.

Hickory advises that whatever distance an individual runs, it’s important to be intentional and refrain from judging oneself.

“Running is about being present,” she said. “It’s important to remember that whatever distance someone runs, they shouldn’t compare themselves to others. They should run for their happiness.”

“I’ve ran five races this year, and I am ready to take some time for myself,” said Hickory. “Maybe next year I’ll run the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc in France or the Western States 100 in California, but right now I just want to be intentional and present with my time.”