Kali Abel

WHY I RUN

I used to run primarily because I enjoyed being competitive. I enjoyed the challenge of always working to get better and setting new goals and achieving them. Some of those things are still the same but now I run for the places it takes me both physically and mentally. Getting out on a long trail adventure now is an opportunity to explore a new place or explore my limits - often both at the same time. I'm now more likely to plot out a long adventure linking one peak to the next that I can tackle by foot, rather than worry about the stats my watch spits out at me (I'm actually not sure I know where my watch is). Exploration, community, the opportunity to be creative through running, and the challenge it brings, makes running inherently tied to who I am. I love that the sport has not only changed me, but is always changing with me.

 
 
 

BIO

2017:

Attempting fastest women's unsupported time around Rainier on the Wonderland Trail (96ish miles). Spending the summer living out of my van, travelling, running, and climbing.

Where I live:

Mostly in Portland, OR on a sailboat, but when summer rolls around I live wherever my van takes me. (Her name is Van Go.)

Home Trails:

I grew up about a quarter mile from the Wildwood Trail. When I was a kid I wasn't allowed to go into the forest on my own which gave it an aura of mystery and a hint of trouble (In high school I actually snuck out at midnight on New Year's with my best friend to try and get the first run on Wildwood of the year. I'm guessing I probably did). No matter where I travel or where I have lived, coming back to Wildwood has always felt like coming home.