Early on, @yellowrunner mentioned how she was just so grateful to be able to be at the starting line of the Cocodona 250. She had goals for her race, but her overwhelming disposition was one of gratitude. For over a year she was riddled with multiple injuries, surgeries, and unexpected health scares. Her journey as a professional athlete was set back in ways that were totally unknown to her, that left her with more questions than answers.

Sally didn’t have the race she set out for at Cocodona. Her time on course was one that was relatable to everyone, not just professional athletes. She ran with vulnerability and pain, persevering through circumstances and situations that ultimately didn’t produce the results that she hoped for. She problem solved and pushed herself past the point of where she wanted to be, just to finish. Her results didn’t display the numbers that she wanted, but she finished.

Her performance may not have been what she hoped for but it spoke volumes to her ethos - “Choose Strong.” Seeing her fight through her setbacks, despite not being able to achieve her desired outcome and with the demeanor with which she did it, was something I will never forget. During those 4 days I witnessed her love others well, love her kids well, make time for others for countless photos ops, and so many other intangibles that aren’t shown alongside the finish time at the end of a race. She raced in a way that many others can’t. She made others’ races better and made them feel loved. She raced well.

It was a ton of fun chasing Sally around in the Arizona desert. It was an experience I’ll forever be grateful for and will look back on fondly. There will be way more to come, but here are a few that highlight her journey.