Colorado’s David Roche isn’t simply coaching for Western States 100 (WSER)—he could also be redefining what’s doable. A coach, author and ultrarunning phenom, Roche made waves when he shattered the Leadville 100 course file, a efficiency so dominant it was chosen as Path Efficiency of the Yr. Now, he’s providing a behind-the-scenes journey as he chases a daring aim: to face on prime of the rostrum at WSER.
“I’m in it to win it”
Roche likens his journey to WSER as greater than a coaching plan—it’s additionally a science experiment along with his personal physique as the topic. Within the intro to his collection, he mirrored on his 18 years of endurance coaching, likening every day to laying a brick in a construction he couldn’t but envision. “Now, I get 166 extra alternatives to put down bricks to the dream I by no means actually let myself totally think about,” he stated.
However Roche is doing greater than dreaming—he’s decided to chase that first-place end.“I do know it in all probability ruffles some feathers once I say that I’m in it to win it. I’m not that man, proper? Deep down, I undoubtedly don’t suppose I’m. Effectively… I used to be improper each occasions earlier than.”
Redefining the playbook
To make historical past, Roche is aware of he can’t play by the same old ultrarunning guidelines. His plan? Present up with “track-ready 5K health” to outpace even the very best within the sport. He’s throwing himself into speedwork and operating financial system like by no means earlier than, aiming to push boundaries and rewrite the expectations of a 100-mile race. “I’m going to get quick. Actually quick,” he says.
Why you’ll need to watch
Roche is inviting the world to observe his journey in a brand new YouTube collection, Street to Western States, with the primary episode titled “Shock the World.” Roche presents a uncooked, unfiltered take a look at what it takes to chase greatness. From pace exercises to GI coaching, psychological challenges, fueling and extra, Roche’s movies provide a front-row seat to an athlete prepared to threat all of it for a shot at making historical past.
“Possibly it would work. Possibly I’ll crash and burn,” he says. “Both manner, I’ll have a narrative to inform.” For anybody who’s ever dreamed massive or rooted for the underdog, that is the story to observe. Try Episode 1 of Street to Western States right here, directed by Cody Naked, and put together to be impressed.