“Only those who risk going too far can possibly know how far one can go.” T.S. Eliot

Inspired by Joan, one of the main characters in the sitcom Girlfriends  (portrayed by Tracee Ellis Ross), I recently signed up for an adventure so epic that has me thrilled and —at the same time —scared to death. 

In the show, Joan turns 30 years old and is depressed that she has not lived an adventurous life and decides to change that. I am happy with the way I’ve lived my life, but being in my 40s feels different. Life is too short to not focus on the things that truly make you happy. Accordingly, I curated a list of 40 epic adventures to conquer in my 40s. 

I’m an amateur runner, but I love the sport and its many benefits. Thus, I had to incorporate a few races into the list. Since I was looking for epic adventures I googled “best races around the world,” which led me to a Red Bull article on the 10 most epic races around the world (a gold mine!). One race was the Atacama Crossing, a self-supported, 250-kilometer (155-mile), six-day race across the driest desert in the world, in Chile. 

I tried to convince a few of my running friends to register with me but so far no one has agreed to join me (there is still time friends!). Nonetheless, I was told that most participants go by themselves and leave with new like-minded friends. Sold. I signed up for the race the day I turned 41.

To be honest, I am scared. But I take this as a healthy sign that will motivate me to train properly. I am registered for a few marathons and my first 50K in the spring. After that, I plan to follow a formal plan to prepare and conquer this race. 

To add more meaning to this adventure, I will be fundraising for a special cause. I am passionate about a number of issues, including equal access to education and mental illnesses. In the next couple of months, I will select an organization to support and will ask for your help in raising funds to help them.

Thank you for your support friends. Wish me luck!