The Ultimate Test of Endurance: Ashley Paulson’s Great World Race

A Global Running Adventure Like No Other

Ashley Paulson, a 43-year-old ultrarunner from St. George, Utah, embarked on one of the most grueling challenges in the running world: The Great World Race. This extraordinary event required athletes to complete seven marathons in seven days across seven continents. Paulson, a seasoned professional athlete, coach, and trainer, took on this monumental task with determination and resilience, proving that no challenge is too great when approached with the right mindset. Her journey was nothing short of inspiring, filled with moments of panic, camaraderie, and personal triumph.

Antarctica: The Coldest Marathon on Earth

The first leg of the race took place in Antarctica, one of the most inhospitable environments on Earth. Paulson faced a bone-chilling 2°F temperature as she ran 26.2 miles on the icy Wolf’s Fang runway. Despite the harsh conditions, she found herself embracing the beauty of the frozen landscape, describing it as "a frozen ocean" with crystal-blue ice on either side of the path. Paulson’s preparation and mental toughness allowed her to complete the race in 3 hours, 18 minutes, and 2 seconds, a time that shattered the previous world record by nearly 30 minutes. Her experience in Antarctica was so unforgettable that it became her favorite race of the entire journey.

Camaraderie and Solidarity on the Run

As Paulson traveled from continent to continent, she found strength in the camaraderie of her fellow runners. In South Africa, she and a group of female athletes ran together, crossing the finish line hand-in-hand in a five-way tie for first place. This sense of unity was a recurring theme throughout the race, as runners supported each other through challenging conditions, such as fierce winds in Australia and blistering heat in Colombia. The shared experience of overcoming such extreme challenges fostered a deep connection among the participants, turning them into a tight-knit community.

Overcoming Injury and Adversity

Paulson’s journey was not without its setbacks. During the race in Colombia, she faced 103-degree heat and full humidity, conditions that would be challenging even for the most experienced athletes. However, it was an unexpected injury that nearly derailed her progress. A sharp pain in her hip caused her to panic, fearing that her journey might come to an end just two marathons short of completion. Thanks to the help of a fellow athlete with a biometrics background and a massage therapist, she was able to recover in time to finish the race. Despite the injury, Paulson persevered, drawing on her mental strength and the support of her team.

The Final Stretch: Pushing Through Pain

The final race in Miami proved to be one of the most emotional moments of Paulson’s journey. Despite her injury, she limped to the starting line, determined to see it through. Her husband’s words of encouragement—"You know pain. This is just a different pain"—became her mantra, giving her the strength to push through the discomfort. With the help of her fellow runners, Paulson crossed the finish line hand-in-hand with the athlete who had assisted her with her injury. Completing the final marathon marked the end of an incredible journey, one that left her on crutches but filled with a sense of accomplishment.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

After completing The Great World Race, Paulson reflected on the lessons she learned along the way. The experience taught her the importance of camaraderie, resilience, and mental strength. She also realized the value of a balanced approach to training, incorporating cycling, swimming, and strength training into her routine to prevent future injuries. Paulson’s journey not only showcased her physical endurance but also highlighted the power of positivity and the impact that encouragement can have on both oneself and others. Her story serves as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome even the most daunting challenges.