Trail running straight up Pikes Peak climbing 7,815 feet takes amazing grit. As we posted the last time Michelle ran this race, the race finishes at 14,050 fee elevation after the runners run UP 13.32 miles (downhill portions are virtually non-existent).
In this year's Pikes Peak Ascent on 8-24-19, Michelle finished FIFTH place in females, 2nd place in her age group, and 42nd overall. She completed the run in 3 hours, 8 minutes, 27 seconds. Michelle ran at a pace of 14:09 minute miles. Given her recent injuries, this performance is simply astounding.
By the way, that's her fiancé Art Messal next to her in the photo above. He's had some impressive running results in some of these races, too. It's nice when your partner in life likes to do what you like to do, right?
Here's is a link to a video of Michelle crossing the finish line:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVq3b9jT5Os&feature=youtu.be&t=12035
Here's another link to an article about Michelle and her running philosophy:
https://lifelongendurance.com/athlete-spotlight-michelle-hiland/?fbclid=IwAR0yA8boVW8mx2ajOQR7JzSrnwrtDobqsqi2C6MCQPkzTcbhjbuonV_kti8