Vernon's Shanda Hill, now into day 28 of her unconscionable ultra race, continues to run despite immense pain.
"Shanda said the pain she feels right now is beyond anything she has ever been able to comprehend," said Jacs Spence, Hill's partner. "The pain in her hips was the worst pain she had ever felt in her life. She said the mental strength to withstand the pain of a single lap (1.07 km) is the most intolerable thing she has ever had to withstand."
Despite this, she continues to trudge along, having completed 392 of the total 1,266 km run. So far Hill has completed a 114 km swim and 5,400 km bike to go along with the running.
For reference, 5,400 km is akin to going from Vernon to Thunder Bay, Ont. and back.
"Despite her body screaming for rest, she’s pushing through nearly two marathons every single day," Spence added. "Let’s rally behind Shanda as she faces the final stretch. With a couple of rain-free days ahead, she has the chance to gain more ground in the next 12 days."
Hill is currently the top female racer in the Triple Deca Continuous race in La Garda, Italy. However, the competition has not been without controversy. Another racer, David Clamp, was attacked by people throwing corn from passing cars. The race organizers essentially "washed their hands" of the situation according to Spence.
The attack was reported to the police but there has been no investigation.
"They are not just battling physical exhaustion, they are facing risks no one should have to endure," said Spence. "To be honest I can't even believe this as I write it."
To support Hill on her race, visit her Facebook page.
