Nikki Wynd

In a world where the relentless pursuit of physical and mental endurance defines the sport of ultrarunning, few stories are as compelling and inspiring as that of Nikki, an ultrarunner from the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. Here's her incredible journey from hesitant beginnings to conquering some of the world's toughest races.

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Discovering a Passion for Running

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Nikki's journey into the world of ultrarunning began in an unexpected manner. Initially averse to running, her entry into the sport was driven by the simple act of walking her son in his pram. "I was that person who would beg my mum to write me a note so I didn't have to run cross-country," Nikki recalls. Her casual walks gradually evolved into running, culminating in her first official race, which she entered on a whim at the age of 50.

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The transformation from a recreational runner to a competitive ultrarunner happened almost by accident. Nikki's first ultrarunning event was marked by unexpected success. "I thought it was funny, I won. I came first," she says, still amused by her initial underestimation of her abilities. This victory was the catalyst for a deeper commitment to the sport, leading her to tackle increasingly challenging races, including the renowned North Face 100 and Badwater 135.

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Nikki's First Experience at Badwater 135

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Nikki's recount of her experiences at Badwater, one of the most grueling ultramarathons in the world, highlights her mental and physical resilience. "The first time I went there was in 2014," she remembers. Despite her initial doubts and emotional turmoil during the pre-race check-in, Nikki's performance was nothing short of spectacular. She not only finished the race but secured a third-place finish, making her the highest-placing Australian under 30 hours. Her approach to training and racing is methodical and intense. She describes her preparation for Badwater, which involved running three 100K races in five weeks as training runs. "My third 100K was my fastest. I just got stronger and stronger with that training," she explains. This meticulous planning underscores her dedication and strategic mindset, which are essential for success in ultrarunning.

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Beyond physical endurance, Nikki emphasizes the psychological aspects of ultrarunning. She shares insights into her mental strategies during races, particularly how she handles pain and fatigue. "The more it hurt, the more I wanted that hurt," she says, describing the drive that pushes her to continue despite physical discomfort. This mentality, coupled with her rigorous training, has been key to her impressive performances.

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Looking Forward

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Despite the highs and the inevitable lows of ultrarunning, Nikki's passion for the sport remains undiminished. Each race is a learning experience, providing her with insights on what works and what she can improve. Her story is not just about running; it's about overcoming personal limits and continually striving for excellence. Nikki's journey through ultrarunning is a powerful testament to the transformative power of sport. Her achievements are not just a series of race results but milestones in a lifelong quest to push the boundaries of what is possible, both physically and mentally.