This is the twenty-eighth edition of The Duluth Runner Interview Series, where I get in touch with (mainly) local runners and athletes to share a bit of their story while inspiring others to pursue an active lifestyle.
Intro
Today’s guest is a father, husband, entrepreneur, and outdoor enthusiast. He doesn’t get out to run and ski as much as he would like (I can certainly relate!), but still makes an effort to go when he can to enjoy nature and the outdoors.
Prior to venturing into fatherhood and entrepreneurship, he was a collegiate cross country skier at Northern Michigan University and ran everything from half-marathons to ultramarathons. He is CEO and Co-founder of Ursa Minor Brewing here in Duluth..today’s guest is Ben Hugus!
Interview
Why is running/skiing important to you?
Running and skiing are the reason I am the person I am today. The lessons I’ve learned from these two amazing endurance sports have allowed me to excel in other areas of my life. While in recent years I don’t get out as much as I would like to, I’m working hard to find the time to get out and enjoy the outdoors whether that’s on skis or in running shoes.
What are the top two or three things that you do to prevent injury? Have you been susceptible to certain injuries in the past?
The two best things I have found to prevent injury are;
- Cross train- really making an effort to get out and do many different activites; skiing, running, biking, chasing children, brewing beer 😊
- Listen to your body- tuning into your body and paying attention to alarm bells. If something hurts, find an adaptation or rest!
What keeps you motivated when you don’t feel like heading out the door for a workout?
Like most people, I struggle often to find the motivation to get out the door. As life gets busier for me, this has become my biggest hurdle to staying/getting in shape. I always try to loudly reassure myself that it will be worth it and I always feel better after a work out.
Who is in your running support group (training partners, people to bounce ideas off of, etc.)?
My training program has changed over time as the demands of my life have changed. Currently I look to my wife to get me out the door and inspire me to keep working out and improving. She is a bad-ass and never fails to show me what is possible with limited time and limited energy.
When/what is your next race?
The next race I’m registered for is Grandma’s Half Marathon. It won’t be pretty, but I’m trying to regain some of my old speed in my training this spring.
What do you think about when you’re out on a run or gliding along on skis by yourself?
This is where my best thinking happens. I usually try to think through problems and issues in my life or business. More often than not, I end up finding the best solutions on long workouts.
What is your most memorable race or running achievement?
I have been lucky to have many memorable races; both in running and in skiing. The race that comes to mind is the 100km Patagonia Ultramarathon that I completed in 2016. It took me over 18 hours and climbed over 30,000ft of elevation gain. It was the hardest race I’ve ever done, and I am incredibly proud to say I finished.
Name one racing experience you would like to forget (please describe).
None of them. The hardest races are sometimes where you learn the most about yourself.
What is something non-running related you would like to share with readers?
Something non-endurance related…hmm….I love craft beer! I’ve dedicated my working life to creating experiences and flavors that bring people together over a pint. Some of the best beers in the world are consumed after a good run with friends. 😊
Closing
Many thanks to Ben for agreeing to stop by The Duluth Runner and share some of his knowledge/experiences with everyone. I hope you enjoyed this edition of the Interview Series – stick around for more to come!