# @alexandergolikk on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/C6U07UPuLm1
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/16935119-alexandergolikk-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/c2b613db3d.jpg
- **Posted:** 2024-04-29T00:33:37.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** AJ GOLIK (@alexandergolikk) — https://gondola.cc/alexandergolikk

## Caption

very short notice, very long obstacle course race. 

Spartan Tri-State NJ Ultra - 8:43:29
1st 18-24 / 16th Overall 🥇

50k (31.80mi) - 10,594 ft elevation gain - 68/69 obstacle completion

"might f around and do the ultra in vernon instead"
(text sent 12 days before race day in team gc) 

I've raced at Mountain Creek a handful of times. The terrain is technical, there's some brutal climbs, and the course is unrelenting. I love this venue. It's never easy here but always rewarding. 

I found myself in no-mans land early. After the initial climb I was not with the lead pack but too far ahead of the chase pack. I knew I had to play the long game and run my own race. 

I stuck to my fueling & hydration strategy and was mentally unwavered for the first 18 miles. As I was heading into transition I felt stronger than anticipated. I re-loaded for lap 2, took a deep breath and smiled. Back to it. I was told the race truly starts after transition. It was time to make some cash. 

I kept my head down and worked mile by mile. I ran flats & downhills, power hiked the bigger climbs, and survived when I needed to. I kept my head on straight and let the highs/lows flow as they came without letting them consume me. The lows were more physical than mental. Even when my body started to work against me, my mindset was positive.

I kept moving but I did not see many people for the majority of lap 2. I was sitting in 22nd overall coming up to Slip Wall (mile 29/32). As I was approaching Spear, I made a 3-man pass. After hours upon hours of lonely miles, that gave me a huge boost. Nailed my spear and that gave me an even bigger spike of adrenaline. I started picking people off and each pass gave me more juice to finish strong. I kicked hard the last mile and change, leaving no doubt in my efforts. 

This race was easily my most proficient obstacle showing (68/69) to date only missing lap 1 Spear. I was stoked about that. I got over Fire Jump to cross the finish line & complete my first Ultra. What an insane experience physically, mentally, and emotionally. I'm dang proud of this one. 

📸: jmartellophotography 
#UnderdogFitness #twtltrtd

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## Tags

twtltrtd, underdogfitness

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