Running 200 Miles? And the Dawn of Running Really, Really Far ft. Mika Thewes

"For a distance like 200, you just got to break it up station to station and don't think, 'Oh my gosh, I'm running 200 miles." - Mika Thewes

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In a masterclass of endurance and unyielding resilience, Mika Thewes once again etched her name into ultrarunning lore by claiming the women’s title at the 2026 Tahoe 200, storming to second overall in an astonishing 51:10:26.

A vegan powerhouse with one of the deepest 200-mile résumés on the planet, Thewes turned the rugged Sierra Nevada single-loop into another showcase of disciplined pacing, mental fortitude, and quiet dominance, adding yet another chapter to her remarkable legacy of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the ultra world.

Mika is not your average ultra runner; she's a force of nature, a relentless spirit who has conquered some of the most grueling races on the planet. With over 17 races exceeding 200 miles under her belt, Mika has not only survived but thrived in the ultra-endurance world.

Her accolades include winning the Bigfoot 200 twice and setting a course record on her fifth attempt, as well as standing tall on the podium as the female champion of the Tahoe 200 in 2026. Mika's journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit, showcasing her ability to push through the toughest moments with unwavering determination and grit.

But Mika's story is more than just about races and records. It's about a mindset that refuses to quit, a philosophy that every run is a chance to finish what you start. From her humble beginnings as a non-athlete to becoming an elite ultrarunner, to navigating the brutal climbs of the Tour de Geants or finding solace in the breathtaking scenery of the Alps, Mika's adventures are as much about the journey as they are about the destination. Her story is an inspiration to anyone looking to push their limits and discover what they're truly capable of.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome to Mika Thewes
01:51 - The toughest race moments and how to flip the switch to keep going
03:55 - The power of “I will not drop” in moments of chaos
04:48 - Inside the legendary Tour de Geants and the Alps' brutal climbs
07:47 - Sleep strategies during multi-day races: naps, bivy, Porta Potty?
12:48 - The mental and physical shifts from 100 to 200 miles
15:14 - The different skillset needed for ultra trail versus marathons
17:11 - Planning a 200 miler: breaking it into manageable sections
20:35 - The best moments versus the lowest lows in ultra races
21:04 - Fueling strategies: plant-based fuel, calories per hour, and snacks
24:36 - Training your stomach: from gut training to handling issues
27:14 - Recovery insights: physical versus mental challenges post-race
31:12 - What scared Mika about her first 200 miler and how fears evolved
34:45 - The sweet spots in training: volume, hills, and speed
40:08 - The race she loves (Bigfoot) and the one she’d rather forget (Moab)
45:45 - Going feeling-based: running on instinct instead of metrics
49:11 - Essential gear: iPods, music, and the love for old-school tech
52:38 - Encounters with Bigfoot—myth or adventure?
57:43 - Mika's Key Advice

If you’re inspired to chase giant distances, Mika’s journey reminds us that the human spirit and a well-placed mindset are sometimes more crucial than the miles or the gear. Remember: break the race into manageable pieces, fuel with what works, and always leave room for a nap. Your epic adventure starts with one small step—and the belief you won’t quit.

Find More Mika Here:
► Mika on Instagram: instagram.com/sugarcrashvegan

We thank Mika for becoming a RUNEGADE.

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