Mission Project

By Evan Serpa

So about a month into my fifth deployment to the middle east I decided, with some inspiration, to get into ultra running. I had planned on using the time I had here to get into shape for a 50k upon my return to North Carolina. After being extended an extra few months, I realized I would be in Iraq during the race I was training for. My friend who had run a few times with me gave me a great idea... instead of missing the race I could run my own 50k in Iraq. So despite the 120+ degree daytime temps I decided I would give it a shot. The run went much better than planned and after a few days of resting and forgeting how bad my legs hurt I decided to push it even further and sign up for a 100 miler upon my return home. I have even had the pleasure of running with some of the Iraqi guards out here on a few occasions (who are sherpa tough and will run in full gear no matter how hot!!).

PS: I love your wicked tees for hot day running.