Erik Bird is a west coast trail ultrarunner and race director from Mission, BC.  He started running in 2015 after realizing he was not in the shape that he wanted to be in.  He started with 10K and progressed to 50K before falling in love with the trails that are part of the Fat Dog course and completing 120 miles in one of the most scenic places in Canada.  Erik now finds himself the race director for the Fat Dog 120, Trail Run for Water, and the Valley Vertikiller.  In addition Erik caught the Backyard Ultra bug and competed at the BC Backyard Ultra, earning himself a spot on the Canadian team in the world championships in 2022.In this episode Erik shares how he followed his heart and his passion when he decided he needed a career change and decided to gamble on running events during a pandemic.  He talks about what running means to him, and what the best part of race directing is.  Hint: it has something to do with the community.Erik Bird is someone who exemplifies what running and community are all about!Learn more about Erik's races:Run for WaterFat Dog 120Valley VertikillerRapid Fire:Favourite Mantra: Enjoy it (when the suffering happens) Favourite Place to Run: Manning Park Bucket List Race: Hardrock 100 or Moab 200Favourite Running Book/Movie: Anything by YouTuber Jeff PelletierFavourite Post Run Indulgence: Beer. Cheerios Connect with Carolyn & Kim:Email us with guest ideas: inspiredsolescast@gmail.comInspired Soles InstagramKim's InstagramKim's FacebookCarolyn's InstagramCarolyn's FacebookCarolyn's website (sign up for her free weekly newsletter on the homepage)We love hearing from you! Connect with us on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, subscribe or leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.We love hearing from you! Connect with us on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, subscribe or leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.