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Loading...“Into The Well: 100 Miles. 32 Hours. 200 Racers.” explores the intense world of trail racing through the lens of the REM to River 100, a marathon trail race through the challenging New River Gorge in West Virginia. The course is described as classic New River Gorge—rugged, rocky, and demanding with steep ascents and descents. The documentary introduces the audience to the race’s unique features, such as covering 55 miles out and 45 miles back, with a total of 100 racers having 32 hours to complete the grueling course.
Bryant, one of the participants, shares his connection with the New River Gorge, emphasizing the therapeutic and empowering nature of running in the woods. The narrative delves into the diverse backgrounds of the racers, highlighting the motivations of individuals who are drawn to the challenge of a 100-mile trail race.
Personal Journeys and Motivations
The documentary introduces key racers, including a former ballet dancer turned ultra-marathoner and a young woman who discovered her passion for distance running through her older brother. The diverse backgrounds and experiences of the participants add depth to the narrative, showcasing the wide range of individuals who find solace, empowerment, and a sense of purpose in trail running.
The film captures the mental and physical preparation required for such an extreme challenge. From training on trails to running back-to-back long distances, the participants share their strategies for overcoming the mental and physical fatigue that accompanies a 100-mile race. The personal stories offer a glimpse into the resilience and determination required to undertake such a demanding endeavor.
Behind the Scenes: Organizing and Supporting the Race
The documentary goes behind the scenes, shedding light on the logistical aspects of organizing a trail race. Bryant and his wife Laura, the race organizers, discuss the adjustments made to address COVID-19 concerns, such as implementing wave starts and modifying aid station setups. The importance of volunteers and crew members is emphasized, illustrating how their support can make a significant impact on the racers’ success or challenges.
The film also introduces the non-profit organization connected to the race, Adventure Appalachia, founded by Bryant and Laura. The organization aims to empower local youth by providing access to outdoor adventure sports, highlighting the positive impact these activities can have on individuals and communities.
“Into The Well: 100 Miles. 32 Hours. 200 Racers.” offers a captivating and inspiring look into the world of trail racing, weaving together individual stories, race organization challenges, and the transformative power of outdoor adventure. The documentary showcases the grit, determination, and community spirit that characterize the REM to River 100 and similar ultra-marathon events.
