Congratulations to MPF Client Emmanuel Odebumni for completing the Grand Slam of Ultra Running!
Congratulations to MPF athlete Emmanuel Odebumni for completing the Grand Slam of Ultra Running, plus one. Yep, he added another 100 for good measure for a total of 5 hundred mile races in 1 year! The Grand Slam includes 4 of the oldest 100 mile races in the country.
Below is the trail tour he embarked on:
Old Dominion 100, VA, June 2nd.
Western States 100, CA, June 29.
Vermont 100, VT July 21.
Leadville 100, CO, August 17.
Wasatch 100, Utah, Sept 7th.
Over the last couple of years I have had the privilege of coaching Emmanuel through many 100’s, when I called him to let him know he got into Western States, his next question was what should I do “boss, should I slam?” without a hesitation I said, for sure! With the strict lottery process of some of these races, the opportunity may never present itself again.
Emmanuel set off on his journey of completing the slam to raise awareness and funds toward the organization Ainsleys Angels and Gage. Emmanuel has pushed his friend Gage a member of the Ainsley Angels community to the finish line of many events, they have formed a special bond. Emmanuel has been involved with this charity for some time and believes completing 100 miles is nothing in comparison.
Emmanuel made his journey a team event by inviting friends to take part in his adventure, some have never run on trails prior, but are now completely taken by the sport.
My main job was to get him to each starting line free of injury and ready to tackle the next event, of course there were some struggles along the way, oh and not to mention at Leadville when he got to Winfield outbound with almost no time to spare before cut off…
Congrats Emmanuel you are a great human, you showed so much strength, humility and kindness, we are so happy you entered our lives. Here are a couple of photos of his adventure through the Wasatch Range this past weekend where I was able to join him for 33 miles.
Emmanuel has one more race to finish before his goal for the year is complete, he is going to push a rider to the finish line of the Marine Corp Marathon.
My love for ultra running runs deep, even if I’m not running as much as I used too, being a part of others success fills me with inspiration, gratitude & happiness.
To make a donation or volunteer to Ainsley’s Angles, please visit their site by clicking here.
