You Can Do More and Go Further Than You Think Possible!

At LATICRETE International , we’ve always prided ourselves on innovation—whether it’s through our cutting-edge products or the way we challenge ourselves as a team. This spirit of pushing boundaries is at the heart of our culture, and the Laticrete Endurance Lab embodies that philosophy. It’s not just about doing what’s expected; it’s about asking, "What else can we accomplish?" and then proving we can.

This mindset led me to an idea that was bigger, bolder, and more challenging than anything we’d done before: the Stagecoach Line 100, a 100-mile point-to-point trail race from Flagstaff, Arizona, to just outside the Grand Canyon. It sounded daunting, but also exhilarating—a test of endurance and teamwork that offered rugged mountains, forests, deserts, and the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon as a reward. And that’s how the adventure began.

?

Dream Big and Rally a Team

When you’re reaching for a new goal, it’s important to surround yourself with people who inspire and push you. For this race, I envisioned a team made up of individuals who weren’t afraid to take on a tough challenge and step outside their comfort zones.

I teamed up with Robert Smith , who had been working his way back into running and was ready for something bold. Daniel Rothberg , a fearless rock climber always game for an adventure, brought his unshakable determination to the team. David Roth, a friend with trail-running experience, was ready to guide us through the tougher parts of the trail. And then there was me, I planned the logistics and also stepped up to run alongside my teammates, driven by the same determination to prove that we could accomplish more than we thought possible.

Together, we decided to take on the impossible—and prove to ourselves that we could.

Plan, Prepare, and Then Embrace the Unknown

Every big challenge requires preparation, and the Stagecoach Line 100 was no exception. As the team’s planner, I took the lead on the logistics. From booking flights and arranging food and gear to coordinating with Steve Meyer—who graciously offered his toy hauler as a base of operations for us and our support team (our amazing wives!)—it was a detailed process.

But preparation alone doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing. As we discussed our race plan over pizza the night before, we reminded ourselves: things will change.

The key to success wasn’t rigid planning—it was adaptability, teamwork, and a commitment to keep moving forward, no matter what.

Step into the Night and Push Your Limits

One of the most memorable moments of the race came during the segments that happened at night. If you’ve never run a trail in pitch darkness with only a headlamp to guide you, you’re missing out on an experience that’s both humbling and thrilling. It’s quiet, lonely, and intensely challenging—but also one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.

Each team member faced their own doubts, hurdles, and surprises along the way, but we supported one another every step of the way. Whether it was Daniel’s rocket-like pace keeping us ahead of schedule, Rob’s determination through tough terrain, David’s steady presence on the trail, or my own efforts to adapt and lead from both the trail and the planning side, every runner played a vital role in our collective success.

In the end, after months of preparation, countless hours of running, and 22 hours and 44 minutes of sheer grit, we crossed the finish line together.

What’s Your Stagecoach 100?

The biggest takeaway from this adventure is this: you’re capable of so much more than you think. Whatever your goals—whether it’s running a race, achieving a professional milestone, or pursuing a personal dream—there’s always more within you than you realize.

Take that first step. Gather your team. Plan, prepare, and then embrace the challenges that come your way. You might stumble; you might face unexpected detours. But like us, you’ll find that the journey itself is where the magic happens.

So, what’s your next big challenge? What’s that one thing you’ve been telling yourself is “too hard” or “too far” to achieve? Think bigger. Push yourself. And when you do, remember—you’re not alone. Just like our team, you can achieve the extraordinary when you believe in yourself and work together.

You’ve got this. Go further. Do more. And surprise yourself with what you can achieve.

Find a big goal for 2025 and make it real!

#setgoals, #Ultrarunning, #gethealthy, #growthmindset