Heather, I never leave comments on videos but feel compelled to do so after watching this. I started running Ultras about 3 years ago now. In 2021 I got into the Leadville 100. I was so excited, trained so hard, sacrificed so much. I took a bad fall around mile 37 and badly sprained my ankle. At mile 38 the medical staff wrapped up my ankle in practically a cast. I made it up and over Hope Pass and missed the 50 mile cutoff by 2 minutes. I cried soooo hard and it hurt. A few years later after finishing a few epic races including Moab 240 and I am still by far the most proud of that effort at Leadville and learned and grew more personally and as a runner from that race than all the rest combined. It sucks, lol, I hope over time it makes your future victories all the more beautiful, I know it has for me. Looking forward to more videos and seeing you continue in the crazy world of ultras!

Your sister has your laugh!!!

Heather a sincere Thank You 🙏 for sharing your life with us, both the ups and downs. Please know that through it all we cheer for you the person, not because of a placing but because of the absolutely amazing person you are. Much respect, and we all can't wait to ride, and run along with your next breathtaking adventure 😊 🤙

I was at DT and yelled out "speed laces mentality", shortly before realizing this wasn't a "speed laces" moment. Glad to see you chose your health and future races and "speed laces" moments.

Beautiful film, thanks for sharing! Makes me think of Lionels heart felt speech on the Colin epo saga, talking about him walking in Kona, how horrible that felt, but that embracing that and coming out the other end is what the utility of sport is all about, as it is so incredibly character building. Sorry for this not being your day, but you'll make to the finish in the future, no doubt, and then it'll be all the more special because of this! 🙌👏💪

For us triathletes that have witnessed how amazing you are, and how you have transitioned to this new adventure, we feel motivated and amazed by your strength, positive attitude, and perseverance. You are awesome, at any sport you do. We are here to cheer you on and be with you on each part of the journey. Thank you for sharing. You are an inspiration for all of us that love endurance sports and pain, both physical and mental every now and then. That pain makes us better humans, stronger.... better. Take care. David and Valentina (my daughter is also a triathlete and XC runner)

Biffster & Heather's laugh: the best!

😭😭😭 Thank you for sharing your personal story. I can’t wait to watch you come in on that track next year. Tears in my eyes. On another note, I can’t believe how much your sister sounds like you and laughs like you!! I can see you have a special bond. Keep killing it on the trails and you will have your day next year. ❤

HJ!!!!! Man! I have been waiting for this video. Didn’t care about your place/time, but YOU!!!! I have three kids (10,7,3). And I’m an old mom- 47-still trying to get it done. We watch you together so we ALL can learn from your World View. We are crushed for you. It 100% sucks. So wallow it, get your fingers all sticky in it, then let it wash over you and put that in your tool belt. You got this. And we are cheering you on no matter what. Thank you for this. Love from MN

Lady you will finish , family and friends will always be there. Now you know what to expect next next yr. So proud of you !

It’s harder to get to the start line than to the finish line… you are amazing! Looking forward to seeing your journey till next year’s race 🚀

I was 4th, 11th and 30th at States in 4 starts. DNF'd once at the Green Gate (80 miles). Only DNF in my Ultra career (dozens of races). That drop was the hardest thing ever. But, I rebounded through determination (a little anger) and a lot of focus to have the best races in the following few years.

It was a pleasure meeting you (albeit very briefly) at the meeting. I had 3 people I wanted my picture taken with and one was you. I have mad respect for what you've done coming from success in triathlon to such quick success on the trails. I know it's not a fluke and you work extremely hard at your craft. I have no doubt that you'll train the downhills and come back stronger. That snow and all the downhill was no joke. God bless, Heather!

Accidents can happen to anyone, but it still takes nothing away from you , you are one tough lady 👍👍👍

Heather, this brough tears to my eyes. I actually wanted to send you a handwritten card after WS, although I knew I wouldn't have a way of ensuring it got to you. I was on the snow near the top of the escarpment (just below the escarpment) and called out to you. That snow was no joke. I wished I'd brought microspikes just to hike up there. How you could run all those miles through it is a sign of your grit and skill. Some of it was like a sheet of ice, some softer and slippery. And the trails can be devious. We all know you will be back, and will share the tears of joy when you round the track in Auburn.

NEVER have seen someone want a finish line as bad as Heather wants this one. It will be so special when she crosses it!

Man, 1) I love how the sisters laugh similarly. And 2) I’m gutted for you. I know you’ll be back strong and healthy next year. I’m a huge fan.

This may be the best distance running video I've watched on KZfaq. When you got to the point of catching your toe and your other foot trying to brace against a fall, but sliding, I knew you were going to say "hamstring". This happens to me more often than I'd like and it floods my brain with freak-out just to think about it. I can hardly imagine heaping on a tweaked ankle. There are "races gone wrong" videos, but they typically seem like mismanagement. This is different. There are perils in trail running far and fast. And the cutting of the wristband with that giant knife. Ouch! Thank you for sharing. I've never wanted to run Western States before this, but a seed is planted.

Amazing job !!! What an inspiration you are. We always learn something about our selves when we take on an adventure. It’s all about the journey. Next year you will be back stronger than ever. Watch out here comes Heather Jackson!!!

Thank you for inspiring us all to pick ourselves up when we fall, and reminding us about the things that truly matter in life - our loved ones, community, support, joy, laughter.

Just want to give you a big hug. Can't wait for you to be back on that start line and see you absolutely crush it all the way to Auburn!

You are as enthusiastic and wonderful as anyone. I appreciate your joy!

That was heart wrentching. You're a freaking stud and great person that somehow can still make me smile even during the worst of times. You'll be back stronger than ever! 👊

Heather you're my favourite. It doesn't matter that you finish it matters that you show up. Just keep showing up and the results will come.

That was a compelling two part series. I've only done one 100miler and never an Ironman. This was so amazing to watch the path from the Unbound race into what I consider the pinnacle of out sport. Thank you for this and I cannot wait for next year.

You just can’t make it through any athletic career with 0 injuries, I’m sorry it worked out for you like that. Rolled, broken or torn, your still a bad ass, with 2 million miles of experience, and a drive that can not be questioned. You’ll get there with those tools. Facts. Thanks for letting me watch it all! Hope to see you folks again soon!

Even Courtney had to quit wser100 once so it doesnt make you any less of a beast!! Can't wait to watch journey to next year

Heather you'll come back even stronger after this... that raw emotion is something we can all identify with - but we also know that this makes us even more resilient, more determined and more focused. We love you Heather!

You bring joy, tenacity and heart into all these epic events you endure. Thank you Heather for sharing your journeys. You continue inspiring many of us to get to a start line.

You are an amazing soul who typifies the entire Ultra running community. It is a team sport, and at the end of the day your team will always believe in you. Western States will be there for you when you return, and this experience will ensure that next time out it is even more beautiful than you could imagine. Chin up, smile on, and away you go.

Gawd I’m crying. Just heartbreaking 💔. Can’t wait to see you tackle this again. 💪🏼🙏🏼

Thank you for sharing the hardest part of all, not finishing. I think it’s why the start line takes so much courage, because that potential is always there. I was so inspired to hear you say “I have 364 days”. I recently had a DNF at LT100 MTB and it’s so hard to overcome. But I knew the second they pulled my chip that I’d be back next year. The weeks since have been rough. Stoked to see your result at SBT!

I will never stopping say your energy and your love for sports and life in general are amazing. For me the most inspirational athlete of these days. Hugs Heather!!!

Wow what a tear jerker. Can’t wait to see you bounce back from this race experience and nail it next time. Here’s to a quick recovery and lots more of that infectious laugh you and your Sister clearly share. Love it

Who loves Heather even more now for opening up like that. You’ll make it back and you’ll cross that line

Sending hugs and much love from Texas! Thank you for sharing! I love watching you, not just when you win, not just when you finish, just when everyday you are out there being an inspiration to everyone! In case no one has told you today - You are a Hero! You are a Legend! You are an Inspiration to those who can and those you can't, but live through your adventures!! XOXO

Very inspiring to watch you, not only your athleticism but the strength and courage you show in the face of not achieving your goal. Being in that position but still finding the positives and having the ability to acknowledge and receive the love and support from the people around you is a beautiful thing to see. Much respect to you and thank you for sharing this with the running community.

As you said Heather....now you know what this race is all about. Put that one down to experience. 2024 will be yours ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

Heather, you will be back. Lots of good days ahead, including Auburn. You are an amazing athlete, both in trail running and gravel. Can't wait to see you back Trail Racing

Proud to know you, humbled by your grace and amazed by your courage. Onward!

This whole video shows just what a truly amazing athlete is made of. You will make it to Auburn ❤ Hugs and recover

Heather I have been following your races for months and was rooting for you. You are a very inspiring athlete. You show us your true emotions. Looking forward to all your future adventures.. Thank you for sharing

I am such an admirer of you and I am sure you will be back stronger. You inspire so many! The journey is the win. Thank you for your grit.

I waited a few days before I watched this because I knew it was going to be sad and I hoped it wasn't a terrible injury. A DNF always sucks but you handled it with strength and class and you obviously have a very large group of friends and family to get you through this. Your "I will be back next year" attitude is awesome and unsurprising. Heal up, rehab and train on what you were weak on. Can't wait to see what you do next.

I was SO bummed when I saw you drop during that race, but I can't wait to see what's ahead of you. You're a badass and an inspiration. You know this. And you're not done.

What a heartbreaking moment to see her cry and see her so sad. BUT: Heather ist the toughest girl i know, a fantastic racer and such a positiv person at every time - Love her. Lover her smile, love her positivity, love her strength and her speed during any kind of race. SHE will come back and she will rock the party NEXT year - Heather had such a bad luck - next time she's the one ! Good luck to you for your next (little bit mad 🙂) experiences 😘 Btw - your sister looks like you, talks like you und laughs like you 🤣amazing !

You will be back!! Thanks for bringing us along on this journey with you.

Your grit is epic, not only in your dedication and hard work, but in the way you candidly shared your heartbreak in this video. 340 days til next year

You will make it, Heather! We have no doubt in you!❤

Thank you for the most relatable content out there. I just DNF'd my 100 3 weeks ago and it still stings knowing I trained 365 days for it to make it to mile 60. We are more than out outcomes.

Amazing! Get it!! Next year I will be cheering again as the dark horse. Get it!!! Recovery and recharge the engine

We love and support Heather Jackson and her crew even more. ❤ Thanks for showing many of the raw, unfiltered experiences that a “dirt” pro goes through. We are hoping your disappointment does not take root in you… we certainly are not disappointed in you! Cheering you on, following your adventures, always. 🔥✌️🚴🏃

You'll be back stronger Heather. You have a wonderful team especially that furball. ❤ 🇮🇪!

Thank you for being real and sharing your journey and your experiences. You are such an amazing person and athlete!! You will get back there and you will get to that finish line!! I believe it!!

Thanks for showing your real and raw story. So beautiful and way more valuable than unicorns and rainbows and first place finishes.

Sorry for your pain Heather. Seems like an opportunity for a comeback, after all you are an Ironman.

❤ my heart goes out to you. What a tough woman. An inspiration, always

You are an amazing person and athlete, and I can’t wait to watch you run around that track next time!

Great story and production of the video. So sorry you suffered those injuries, you’re tough and I know you will be back ❤

I am "Team Wattie" here! Love you guys and what you do and I've always known that Wattie is such a special piece to your puzzle - it's cool to see it documented and what a rad team you have as a whole! See you soon on two wheels :-)

Gutted for you Heather but you are an awesome human being with a solid sincere committed team.....love watching your progress and it will be all the more sweet when you make it!!! Keep the cool content coming! Best wishes from UK ❤

You got this next year!!!! Still the greatest couple in endurance sports, Go Heather

I dont know how to explain, but there is something special on your videos!!! Love all of them!

Sport can be cruel sometimes but you are one hell of a fighter Heather. You will be back and you will make it to that finish line and I can't wait to watch you do it.

Heather, thank you and your crew for sharing part of this journey to Auburn... Can't wait to see you at the start line in 2024 - you know how to dig deep and fight to earn the spot - you got this! xx

Wow! Tough as nails and an Ironman forever. You’ll be back and you will conquer!

To have such close friends only to become closer, I would trade any trophy or finish line to have that. Thank you for sharing.

Amazing job, Heather!

Moment when you are being consoled by Wattie and Stevie is so poignant and beautiful. They love you no matter what, as we all do. Thank you and all your family and crew for this video.

Heather, you are such a phenomenal athlete, but even more importantly, a genuinely good person. I love watching your journey and celebrate your growth! Keep going.

You are ah-mazing! Thank you for sharing. It was gut wrenching to watch but also knowing you'll pick up and get it done when you want to/are ready. I'm stlll here for this journey - all in as a major fan!

❤ lots of ❤. You’re amazing

Ah Heather, so moving seeing your pain. Just think about how strong you’re going to be in 2024 ❤

I sound like a broken record. But I will say it again. WOW!! Hope you did not hurt yourself too badly and hope that you have a speedy recovery. Bet of luck with all your future endeavors. I can't wait to see them.

Thank you for this Heather. I had a similar experience of my own recently that I'm working through and processing. It's helpful to see a professional athlete going through the highs and lows and sharing them with us. I'm looking forward to seeing you run and race over the next year!

Such an awesome human being. You are an inspiration to all of us that have experienced the sad day when we cant finish something we wanted to. But we rise again, through pain and conquer !! 😊😊

What you have been doing since your last triathlon has been amazing to watch. You have high performance standards set for yourself but you don't know how crazy your performances are till now.!

So deeply moving - thank you for letting us into your journey- cheering you along

You have so much courage and fight but tenderness to let your fans see the worst day. I know you will be back. Hope your body parts are healing well and as you can begin training and rehabbing, your soul and spirit will heal as well. We love ❤️ you Heather and can’t wait to follow your journey 😊

You’re awesome Heather! Took me 11 years to finish my first 100 and you did it on your first try! DNF’s happen (unfortunately) and they reallly suck but you will 100% get ‘em next year!

So much love for you Heather; your discipline and dedication to all you do is so admirable! I know you'll be back at WS100 and I know you'll continue to inspire all of us like you so wonderfully do! Big hugs and Strength to you friend!xoxoxo

Thanks for sharing Heather.. To quote Arnold Schwarzenegger from the movie Terminator “I'll be back”.. I see you crushing this race next year!

Also...awesome work DREW DARBY!!

Cheers to strength through experience 🍻 See you in Auburn Heather!!

Some days we are the cheetah while other days we are the gazelle. Head up and move on! You got this Heather!!

I know you’ll be back. You are incredibly fierce and determined. The heartbreak here is so real, but I know you’ll come back even stronger.

True mountain running is a different animal than an Ironman. Lack of experience is a harsh taskmaster. Look forward to the day you will slay the Sierras.

Thank you so much for your sharing your vulnerability. I always watch your videos and admire the incredible athletics and the beautiful videography, but this video hit me in the heart. I've always wanted to offer but been too shy - if you all ever need anything (photos or help or whatever), let us know. We're based in AZ!

I've been waiting weeks for this video to come out .

You are so freaking cool. Thanks for sharing all this Heather. Rooting for you!

Injury sucks and you are amazing. Next year that finish is yours!

You will comeback stronger and better!

Ah, that is really a pitty. No matter what, you are still one of my heroes and people I look up to in the sportsworld.

You are amazing and thank you for always sharing the good, the bad and the ugly.

Western States is snarly. Congratulations to you for toeing the line. Next year will be much better. You just started in trail running and your best is yet to come.

Dude!! You are such an inspiration! You’ll be back!! I know it!!

You will be back and you will crush it!

You’ll be back ! I have NO doubt 👍. You just remember that when you’re finishing next time 👍….

What a beautiful, personal story, thank you sharing…I could feel the emotion. You’ll do it for sure 😊….thank you again for the inspiration…👊

Awesome effort! You'll be back next year and do amazing!