I met up with my friend Shannon Mick to catch up and see how her ultra running has been going. Shannon has been a former guest on the Scarecrow Runner podcast and has since completed numerous ultra marathons including two 100 mile ultra marathons: The Mohican 100 and The Burning River 100. Shannon most recently finished the Glacier Ridge 50 mile ultra marathon in May with a PR of 11:13 which was an improvement of her previous attempt in 2022 of 12:36. This race was one she used to prepare for her upcoming attempt for Laurel Highlands 70.5. She DNF'd this race back in 2020 and is back for redemption in 2025.

Shannon shares several things she does to prepare herself mentally and physically for running ultra marathons and the pain associated. She even shares what she doesn't like about running ultras. It was fun to check back in with her and see her progress since we last spoke.

## The Uncommon Runner Podcast: Facing Adversity and Sharing the Gospel

This episode of the Uncommon Runner Podcast features Anthony Gilbert, aka the Scarecrow Runner, and his friend Melissa Sharp, a fellow ultra runner and believer in Jesus Christ. The discussion centers around Melissa's recent experience running a 100-mile race in Kansas, highlighting the challenges she faced and how her faith helped her persevere. The conversation also explores the importance of sharing the gospel, particularly within the running community.

### Melissa's 100-Mile Journey: A Test of Faith

Melissa recounts her recent 100-mile race, which she describes as the hardest she has ever run. The week before the race, she and her husband Larry, a race director, experienced a tragic event when a young boy collapsed and died at the finish line of one of their races. This deeply affected Melissa, and she felt a strong desire to finish the 100-mile race in honor of the boy's mother.

Adding to the challenge, Melissa stubbed her pinky toe the Tuesday before the race, causing significant pain. Despite the pain and the emotional toll of the previous week's tragedy, Melissa decided to run the race, trusting in God's strength to carry her through.

The race itself presented further obstacles. Melissa opted for the 4 AM start, finding herself alone in the dark for the first 16 miles. She also encountered challenging terrain, including cattle guards that were difficult to navigate with her small feet.

Throughout the race, Melissa faced moments of doubt and fear, particularly when she was alone and struggling with the heat and terrain. She questioned her ability to finish and even considered dropping down to the 100k distance. However, she ultimately persevered, relying on her faith and the support of her husband and pacer.

### The Importance of Sharing the Gospel

Melissa's experience highlights the importance of sharing the gospel, even in unexpected places like a race course. She emphasizes that we are called to be laborers in the harvest, ready to share the good news of Jesus Christ with anyone who is willing to listen.

Melissa shares how she has been inspired to be more intentional about sharing her faith, even with strangers. She believes that we should not hesitate to speak up and share the hope that we have found in Christ.

Anthony and Melissa both agree that running can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth and healing. They discuss how running allows them to process their thoughts and emotions, and how it can be a time for them to connect with God.

### Key Takeaways

This episode of the Uncommon Runner Podcast offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of ultra running, as well as the importance of faith in overcoming adversity. Melissa's story demonstrates the power of prayer, perseverance, and sharing the gospel. The conversation emphasizes that we are called to be bold in our faith, ready to share the good news of Jesus Christ with anyone who is willing to listen.

There are so many people in this world that are set on bringing us down and destroying our hopes and dreams and the things that bring us joy. God did not design us to listen to what man says. He wants us to be filled with hope and purpose and joy. Instead of allowing the voices that come from every direction tell you what you should not do, turn your eyes to the very thing that brings you joy and walk in it with confidence. Walk in peace and comfort knowing that God gives us the desires of our hearts and we should not be worried what others think or do. Keep doing what brings you joy and forget all the rest.