Duane McKee
Coach Duane McKee, 45, Gainesville Fl, Fitness Trainer/Running Coach
Why do you run? I like to run because it brings me joy and mental clarity. It also inspires other people to start running.
How long have you been running? I have been doing Ultramarathons for two years now.
Tell us about competing. I compete mostly against myself and the course distance. Most Ultramarathons have between 40 -60% DNF (Did Not Finish) failure rate.
Most challenging aspect of running 100 miles at a time: Mental preparation and to keep running at mile 70 when everything is telling you to stop.
Most fun aspect of running: Meeting other Ultra runners and sharing experiences out on the course.
Most rewarding aspect of running: Completing is a very challenging task and I also run to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project.
Who/what inspires you when you’re feeling weak? All the people that have supported me in my Ultra running journey: my wife, kids, and being a former Army Officer. All the Wounded Warriors who have given so much for our country and will face much bigger challenges in their lives, not by their choosing.
Advice for others who’d like to get started: Do your research before you begin. Slowly increase your running distance, 10% at a time. Hire a Coach, even if it’s just for an hour to pick their brain. This is a very specific event, normal physiological processes, nutrition info, Thermic regulation principles don’t apply when your body is in constant motion for 20-34 plus hours.
Your must-have equipment for running: A strong mind, water, electrolytes, a practiced nutrition plan, anti-chafe gel and head lamps for running at night!
Favorite training song: Against The Wind by Bob Seger
Favorite healthy food: Brown rice
Favorite not-so-healthy food: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Butterfinger candy bars
Funniest /weirdest/most awkward experience while running: I had a stray dog run with me for 12 miles at a time, three different times. Same dog on an out and back 25 mile loop I had to do four times for my first 100 mile race. People thought I had brought him as my pacer!
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