Ryan Saunders

What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?

“Take pride in how far you’ve come. Have faith in how far you can go. But don’t forget to enjoy the journey.” -Michael Josephson-

Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?

I lay out all of my gear (head to toe) + my race nutrition, to ensure that I don’t forget anything. Eat a light breakfast, consisting of a banana, Clif Bar, and Skratch Labs electrolyte beverage … foam roll … double tie my shoe laces

What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?

My fellow competitors are who inspire me to push myself, to the next level. Not only those who will be in front of me, but also (and most especially) the ones who push themselves, overcoming their own obstacles, to finish the race, no matter how long it takes.

What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?

I enjoy travelling (exploring new places, and meeting new people), camping, hiking, photography, mountain biking, kayaking.

What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?

Proudest athletic accomplishment, would have to be completing (in 16 hours 38 minutes) the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim 80k (Bright Angel Trail to North Kaibab Trail to Bright Angel Trail), while nursing an earlier injured Achilles+ankle (wore a functional ankle brace for that adventure), fighting a respiratory infection, and sleep deprivation.

What is your go-to workout song?

Masterpiece by Jessie J

If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?

Zombie (how terrifying would that be, for the people I’m chasing, lol)

What is your go-to mantra for living an active life?

Make the most of the life you have been gifted.