Breaking Down DNF Culture: Why We Need to Celebrate Our Miles.

This podcast episode dives deep into the controversial culture surrounding DNFs (Did Not Finish) in ultra running, with hosts Brian and Josh discussing the social constructs and emotional weight attached to these outcomes.

Brian passionately argues that runners should be able to celebrate their efforts, regardless of whether they complete a race, pointing out the absurdity of labeling a significant distance as a failure.

The conversation expands to explore the pressures and expectations placed on amateur runners compared to elite athletes, highlighting the different motivations and mentalities in play.

Additionally, the hosts reflect on the implications of race metrics and how the ultra running community could evolve to better recognize the achievements of those who may not finish but still push their limits. With a mix of humor and serious reflection, the episode encourages listeners to reconsider how they perceive and react to DNFs in the sport.

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Devil's Gulch 100 miler, 50 miler, 13.1 miles. Wenatchee, WA - July 13, 2025

Salt Lake Footshills Trail Races. Salt Lake City, UT - May 31, 2025

VKTRY Insoles - I wear these every run, 20% off.

PATH Projects - My favorite running shorts, Borderlands10 for 10% off.

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Takeaways:

• The DNF culture in ultra running creates unnecessary stigma around not finishing races.
• Runners invest significant time and effort into training, making DNFs feel like failures.
• There should be alternative metrics for race completion rather than just DNF statuses.
• Celebrating accomplishments in running, even if they don't result in a finish, is important.
• The podcast discusses how elite runners view DNFs differently than amateur runners.
• There is a need for a cultural shift in how we perceive and discuss DNFs.