Hardrock Uncovered | Episode 3: Kaci Lickteig – A Decade in the Making

Hardrock Uncovered is Ultra Uncovered's exclusive interview series leading into the 2026 Hardrock Endurance Run, bringing you inside the stories, preparation, and mindset of the athletes taking on one of ultrarunning's most iconic races.

In Episode 3, we sit down with ultrarunning veteran Kaci Lickteig as she prepares for her long-awaited Hardrock debut after spending ten years in the lottery.

Known for her 2016 Western States Endurance Run victory, ten Western States finishes, and earning the coveted 1,000-mile buckle, Kaci reflects on why Hardrock has remained a dream race despite spending her career training in the flatlands of Nebraska.

She shares how she's preparing for one of the toughest mountain races in the world from the rolling Loess Hills of Iowa, why she's focused on soaking in the entire Hardrock experience rather than chasing a result, and the incredible community that has inspired her journey.

The conversation also takes a heartfelt turn as Kaci opens up about losing her grandmother earlier this year, the woman who first worried that ultrarunning would "kill her" before becoming one of her biggest supporters. It's a moving reminder that the people who shape us are often with us long after they're gone.

Whether you've followed Kaci's career for years or are just getting to know one of ultrarunning's most respected veterans, this is a conversation about patience, gratitude, resilience, and finally getting your chance.

Stay tuned as Hardrock Uncovered continues with more athlete interviews leading up to race day.

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