26 Comments
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Janet riley sanderson's avatar

Hey Sarah, congratulations on the book deal! I can’t wait to read it.

Ever since I learned about your experience at Grand to Grand Ultra, I’ve had that race in the back of my mind. Hmmm…

And thanks for sharing Jason Koop’s advice. I really appreciated it. I’m also more of a low-mileage runner, peaking around 50 -60 miles a week as I train for my upcoming 100-miler, so it was reassuring to read that perspective.

Best of luck in your 100, enjoy the taper and thanks, as always, for sharing your journey!

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Thank you so much, Janet! Reach out to me if you’re seriously thinking of the G2G and have questions.

Janet riley sanderson's avatar

I will for sure!! Ive done a couple of stage races/adventure races in the past but I like the idea of this from what you’ve described. Maybe this is a wonderful idea to celebrate my 60th next year 😀 Thanks.

Seth LaReau's avatar

Congrats on the book deal! I’m sure it will be amazing :)

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Thank you, Seth!

Josh Jackson's avatar

Also, that opening photograph is beautiful!!

Josh Jackson's avatar

Hell yeah on the book deal, Sarah!! Spring 2028 is soooooooo soon.

Can't wait to get a copy. Love your writing!

Kelton Wright's avatar

I'd preorder right this second if I could!

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Thank you ❤️ crazy it takes 18 months but that’s the timeline both publishers offered. A year from now I hope to be pushing preorders!

Jenn Woltjen's avatar

So excited for you with your book deal. I cannot wait to read it and the story about your last Grand to Grand.

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Thank you Jenn!

Debra L Howell's avatar

Wow, Sarah, congrats re: the date for your book! I look forward to reading it.

I loved both the videos, especially the one about the man who sometimes has to get himself out the door, but after he runs for a few minutes, he loves running every time every day in every kind of weather. That is exactly how I feel about backpacking and hiking!

I really appreciate your article re: lightening, especially as the timing is perfect for my backpacking trip in the Eastern Sierras in less than two weeks! Question: I'd like to forward your Substack with this article (prefered), or the article itself to the women and leaders who I'll be backpacking with. I'm sure they would appreciate the info too. How can I best do this? Is it ok for me to just forward my email with your Substack to them, or should I do it a different way?

Wishing you a safe, strong, and wonderful race!

Debra H.

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Thanks Debra! You can simply share the link to the lightning article: https://ryderwalker.com/blog/how-to-safe-during-a-lightning-storm-while-hiking/

Good luck and have a fantastic time on your backpacking adventure!

Cam Torrens's avatar

Congrats on a publisher and date!!!!

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Thank you for your expert early read and for the great endorsement quote! I’m eager to hear about your PCT trek.

Rosalie Chan's avatar

congrats!! can't wait to read it!

Lori Allen's avatar

Congrats on the book, Sarah. That’s a big win!

Allison Powell's avatar

Great piece Sarah! Thank you especially for linking to the lightning safety piece; I read over it for a refresher! Was dodging between storms last week and am happy to be reminded of how to stay safe in the mountains as I head to the Teton Crest this weekend : )

Heather's avatar

Congratulations on the book deal! Looking forward to reading your story, especially now with the context of G2G (at least this iteration) coming to a close.

James Garner's avatar

Grand to Grand will always be special to me as my first ultra. It's where we first met. So many friendships were made during that week that are still strong today. As you mentioned with so many people running 200 milers it’s not surprising fewer runners are signing up. With a 200-mile race fewer days on the course and family & friends can participate, but you’ll never create the bonds with fellow runners from around the world in a 200 like you will at G2G. But there is the cost, the entry fee for G2G is much more expensive than running a 200 miler. While I’d like to run it again it is that entry fee that keeps me away.

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Agreed, and I’m glad you were there in 2014!

Erica Moore's avatar

I’ve always loved your stories from Grand 2 Grand! It’s how we actually ended up finding each other when Scott Kummer shared one of your posts from the race. Super excited for your memoir. Congratulations! 2027 is tempting…

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Thank you, Erica, I love our small-world connection from 2014!

Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Thanks and good luck!

Blue's avatar

I so enjoy your grand to grand stories that and javalina are on my wish list I hope someone takes their place and keeps the race going