In appealing to the rich, has trail running lost its dirtbag spirit?

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Have we become so comfortable in our lives we are now seeking – and willing to pay big money for – discomfort?

In the week leading up to the world’s second-largest ultra trail running event, I had three terrible fantasies: a part of me prayed I would get gastro, get injured or that wild weather would make the race a non-starter.

Thankfully, when I arrived in the Blue Mountains last weekend, the nerves dissipated and the awe of the natural beauty kicked in.What also kicked in was the realisation that the dirtbag spirit is alive and kicking. The dirtbag spirit pioneers were mavericks who eschewed the trappings of modern life – including permanent shelter, permanent work, the relentless pursuit of “things” and regular showers – for a hardy, spiritually rich life of adventure. Responding to the call of the wild, they lived a humble life, so they could explore its bounty while trail running, hiking and climbing and mountain biking.

But, though the weekend dirtbag seeks to explore the wild of mind, body and nature, to test their physical and mental endurance, there are limits to how much some of them really want to rough it. Which explains why luxury ultras have become a trend.

 

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