From Wyoming, With Love: The 50k Ultramarathon That Made Me Barf On Denver

Key Points:

• The author participated in The Loco Strikes Back Taco Bell 50K ultramarathon in Denver, a 31-mile race requiring runners to visit 11 Taco Bells and eat menu items at 10, including specific items by certain stops, with a strict no-vomiting rule leading to a 60% DNF rate.
• The race combined long-distance running with Taco Bell food challenges, testing participants' endurance and digestive limits, as the author consumed multiple Taco Bell items including soft tacos, a Chalupa Supreme, and Cinnamon Twists during the run.
• Despite initial strong performance and camaraderie with fellow runners inspired by the ethos of "Born to Run," the author experienced severe gastrointestinal distress around mile 15, leading to disqualification after vomiting multiple times.
• The experience provided a unique perspective on Denver, revealing a city with hidden charms beyond its sports and entertainment reputation, and highlighted the ultrarunning community's embrace of pain and discomfort as a path to deeper joy and connection.
• Reflecting on the challenge, the author mused on the motivations behind such endurance events, suggesting that inviting physical hardship fosters empathy and resilience, while humorously acknowledging the difficulties faced during the race.