The race day mantra: It’s what we pull from in our lowest low. It’s what helps us remember to keep going and why we signed up for this. It’s incredibly powerful to remember our “why” when we’re on the verge of quitting. In fact, when our heads aren’t “all there” in the middle of a long day (or night) a mantra can keep us leveled.
As an ultrarunning coach, I’ve noticed that each of my athletes gravitates towards different types of mantras. Some prefer a deeply emotional mantra, some prefer thinking of their loved ones to keep them going, and some simply prefer “one foot in front of the other.”
It’s race season for a lot of athletes right now, and many of our Boundless athletes are getting ready for the Leadville 100 races. While your race may be approaching, it’s okay to not have a mantra prepared, too. I’m training for my seventh 100-mile race, and at this point, I don’t always have a big “why.” That’s why I’ve put together a little list of some mantras that should always work, or at least help a bit if you need something to pull from in your “low”.
1. “What Story Am I Writing Today? Will I Be Proud of My Story Tomorrow?”
This one comes from Sally McRae, aka Yellow Runner. It’s a tactic to take yourself out of the moment and put yourself in the shoes of you, tomorrow. Whether you’re just having a tough time or considering dropping, due to any reason, does the story make sense? Dropping due to a broken leg surely makes sense. But dropping from tummy issues when you haven’t given yourself the chance to try to turn it around? It’s your story, and you want to be proud of the one you’re writing.
2. “You Get to Do This”
It’s such a blessing to show up on race day healthy, pain free, and mentally ready to take on the challenge. You got yourself here, and it’s time to go out and put your fitness to the test. Choosing to do hard things means that we’re in a privileged position. Of course, it won’t feel like that when you’re at your low.
It can help to remember those who don’t have the choice and privilege to sign up for these endurance events, or even, think of yourself at a time where you never would have been able to do what you’re doing now! Thank your body for all it’s doing for you! A little gratitude can put everything in perspective
3. “Run the Mile You’re In”/”I Can Go One More Mile”
It’s almost always true. Can you just get to the next aid station? Sometimes, you simply have to get there to receive help anyway. Can you focus on one foot in front of the other for just 20 minutes? Get to that aid, get to your crew, then come up with a plan for the next section.
It’s not going to help you to picture the finish line at mile 50 of a 100. What can you learn in the next section? What might it teach you? Pull from a place of curiosity.
I hope these can be in your back pocket as you prep for your upcoming race, or better yet, write them down on a sheet of paper to give to your pacer! They can pull it up for you when you’re hitting a low.
Now, go out there and remember why you’re taking on this challenge! Here at Boundless, we’re proud of you, whatever your reason may be.
-Colleen Miracle, Boundless Coach
August 5, 2026