100 Miles, 17,000 Feet, 36 Hours: Brian Ladeau Conquers the Infinitus Ultra
Over Memorial Day Weekend, BFIT member Brian Ladeau completed one of the toughest ultra-marathons in the country: the Infinitus 100, hosted by the Endurance Society in Goshen, Vermont. Spanning 100 miles and about 17,000 feet of vertical elevation, the race took Brian a grueling 36 hours to complete—through mud, relentless rain, and some of the worst conditions the race has seen.
Despite the challenge, Brian not only finished—he placed 7th out of 34 competitors.
This was Brian’s sixth time attempting the Infinitus 100 and his fourth finish, a testament to his determination, grit, and training. Two prior DNFs (did not finish) came from trench foot and extended nausea, but this year, he powered through.
"A 100-mile race is such a mental race. It gives you plenty of time to make yourself feel alive," Brian said. "It’s all about time on your feet, making sure you get the nutrition you need, and being able to block out the mental game when things get tough."
He began training four months in advance, averaging 35–50 miles a week through running, walking, and hiking to build endurance. But even the best training can’t fully prepare someone for 36 hours of movement in pouring rain and deep mud. Around mile 88, Brian developed intense blisters. After changing his shoes and socks and elevating his feet, he got back out there—for 18 more miles.
He wasn’t alone on the course. Ashlie Graham, BFIT personal trainer and instructor, joined him for nearly 50 miles, helping set the pace and lift spirits along the way. Tim O'Toole, BFIT member and local fire volunteer, ran the final 18 miles with Brian, helping him dig deep to the finish line.
"I sprinted at the finish just like I did at the start. Pain is only temporary—as long as your mind can manage that, you can complete and conquer an ultramarathon."
Congratulations to Brian for this extraordinary accomplishment—and thank you to Ashlie and Tim for showing what the BFIT community is all about: support, strength, and shared endurance.
Brian & Tim
Brian & Ashlie
