The True Spirit of Trail Running: Courage, Compassion, and Community
The Speedgoat Mountain Races by UTMB are known for their demanding terrain, stunning alpine vistas, and the camaraderie that defines the trail running community. That spirit of selflessness and care was on full display during this year’s 50K race. Scott Klingonsmith was initially having a great race until a hard fall knocked him out at mile 14.4 (~23km). Majell Blackhausen was the first to find Scott unresponsive on the trail. This particular location along the trail is quite remote so intentional and responsible action was crucial.
Majell describes finding Scott, “Myself and a few other runners came across an unresponsive runner (Scott) laying on the trail. He had several injuries (bloody knees and hands), but most concerning was the spot of blood on the stone next to his head. He was quiet and not moving. Following the Wilderness First Aid protocol of DRSABCD, my first reaction was to gain a response from him, asking if he could squeeze my hand and if he could hear me. Three very long seconds later, I felt a slight squeeze from Scott, and it was a huge relief.”
By this time, a few other runners had also stopped to ensure Scott was okay. While some runners ran ahead to the next aid station to alert the Speedgoat Race Team, Majell stayed with Scott to make sure that Scott was taking in fluids and gels as he continued to regain consciousness.
Majell describes those minutes of helping Scott, “There is no way we could have left him alone, it would be dangerous, and downright inhumane. The second big relief came when he slowly pressed pause on his watch. Like a true racer. As the seconds ticked by and his movement and awareness were slow but evident, it occurred to me that any sort of 'racing' was well and truly finished for the day. I think it was tough for us both to accept, but ultimately, I had to believe the words I told Scott, which were ‘This is a blip on the radar of life, man, there will be many more opportunities to race and don't sweat it. There are bigger things in life.’”
After approximately 40 minutes, Majell and a few other runners were able to get Scott to his feet and help him walk to the next aid station. Alex Graham, a runner that happened to be spectating on the course that day, was able to drive Scott back to the start line so he could receive medical attention. Ryan Cooper, a member of the Speedgoat Mountain Races by UTMB staff, was able to offer support and logistics planning in addition to keeping the race management command team aware of the situation and Scott’s progress.
Scott’s recounts his gratefulness from his social media post about the experience, “As I was laying on the trail surrounded by runners, it made me realize how grateful I am to be a part of such a selfless community of athletes that will stop their race, something they've trained and prepared for months, to help a stranger. I can't express the sheer amount of gratitude I have towards the individuals, race staff, and medics that helped me that morning. I love this sport, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.”
Scott’s story is a powerful reminder that while trail running is often about testing one’s limits, it is just as much about the ethos of taking care of one another. The actions of Majell, the supporting runners, and the Speedgoat race team embody the true spirit of the sport: courage, compassion, and community.
