Interview with Hillsound Ambassador Duncan Callahan

Originally Posted on November 20, 2014

Sales and Marketing Coordinator, Yoo Ra Kang, chats to Hillsound brand ambassador,Duncan, about his recent run in the Javelina Jundred:

H: Hi Duncan!

Congratulations for completing the 100 mile race in just 19:34:43, giving you a final position of 15th at the Javelina Jundred! How do you feel?

D: I felt okay during the race. My fitness has been sporadic these past few months and I was happy to toe the line healthy and ready to run. I was feeling strong for much of the race.

H: A 100 mile race sounds quite daunting to approach. How did you come to the decision to compete in the Javelina Jundred this year?

D:I have always wanted to compete in this race for many reasons, but mainly because I love running in the desert! The desert is my favorite place and this course looked incredible! I’ve also heard that the overall atmosphere of the event is positive, and it sure was.

H: You started running competitively just seven years ago – what drove you to sign up for your first race? What motivates you to keep competing?

D: I’ve always been interested in running long distances. The simplicity of putting one foot in front of the other is very compelling for me. My motivation to keep competing is rooted in a strong desire to grow my character and endurance.

H:Other than ultra-running, are there other types of sports you enjoy? Any college/highschool teams you were a part of?

D: I was a Nordic skier for many years in high school and I raced competitively in college. Cross-country skiing defined my existence until 2005 and then I turned my attention to Ultra-running.

H: You have traveled and ran on various routes all around the world. Can you tell us one of your top picks? Any local favourites to train on?

D: I love training locally on Gold Basin Road and at Hartman Rocks Recreation Area. Wonderful training in and around the Gunnison Valley. Mount Fuji in Japan was the best 100-mile race experience I have had. Incredible!

H: Now, I’ve been asking this question a lot and I can’t help but ask it again- you must stick to a very healthy diet and lead a healthy lifestyle, but do you have any guilty pleasures?

D: Dark chocolate is a major vice, as is coffee. Lots of coffee. 🙂

H: You let us know that you recently welcomed a beautiful baby girl to your family! Is she your trail companion from time to time?

D: I do bring Jordan (3 year old daughter) on runs with me from time to time. I love getting to push her in the stroller. Amazing kid!

H: Could you tell us a little bit about how you prepare for a race in the morning?

D: I wake up about 2 hours early, consume a fair amount of coffee, and eat a little amount of food.

H: Any jams that keep you pumped up?

D: Dave Matthews Band.

H: Over the course of your seven-year running career, you must have met a whole bunch of inspiring athletes. Did you see any familiar faces at Javelina Jundred?
D: Quite a few! It is amazing how many runners are out there at numerous races. It is always a welcome sight to see so many familiar faces.

H: Thank you so much for your time, Duncan! I can’t wait to chat with you again in the near future!

D: Thank you!

Read more about Duncan here and visit his website.