Julie B. Hughes
MILES of MEANING: from Doubter to JFK 50 Mile Finisher takes you through every section of the course—the rocky Appalachian Trail climbs, the canal towpath, the legendary train crossing, and those final miles when your body begs you to stop.More than a race report, it's about what fifty miles can teach you about courage and resilience—especially when each mile carries the name of someone touched by cancer. It's about discovering your own meaning in the miles.
What readers are saying:
“Julie's dedication to running and family is fierce. Not wanting to sacrifice time away from her family, she shows how it's possible to still pursue her goal of completing the JFK 50 Mile, and she shares what she has learned along the way in this very insightful and inspiring book.”—Felicia Case, JFK 50 Mile Finisher
"The JFK 50 Mile is more than miles on a map—it’s a journey of the mind and heart. In Miles of Meaning, Julie reminds us that resilience is not the absence of doubt, but the choice to keep moving through it. Her stories prove that the human spirit, fueled by courage and positivity, can carry us farther than we ever imagined—on the trail, and in life.”— Katie Lowe, JFK 50 Communications Director, three-time JFK 50 Mile Finisher and counting
"The JFK 50 medal signifies so much more than completing the race. The journey to get ready for an Ultra Marathon requires the type of discipline, determination, family support, and grit that very few people are willing to commit to. In this memoir, you'll discover how these principles can revolutionize your approach to any big goal—business, relationships, or personal growth.”—Billy Rudd
"Julie’s engaging writing truly encapsulates the grit and dedication required to successfully complete the JFK 50 Mile. The attention to detail in race preparation and the race itself provides a credible resource for future ultramarathon runners.”—Quinn Rundgren, JFK runner, 2LT US Army
"Julie lays her heart bare in her brilliantly captured journey of training for, and finishing, the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon. Through grit, laughter, injury, tears, and determination, she draws the reader into what it feels like to be a true champion. Grab your tissues and be prepared to cheer."—Spice, Three-time Top 100 Female Finisher, JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon
“"Miles of Meaning" is an inspiring title that describes in detail the author's "why & how" of committing to and successfully completing her first ultra-marathon, the iconic JFK 50 miler.
It is less than 200 pages long and can easily be devoured in one sitting. But this narrative had me re-reading paragraph after paragraph so that I could fully take in the enormity of the challenge and the effort required to embrace, endure, and overcome the one obstacle we all must ultimately contend with...the mental chatter that fills us with self-doubt.
Whether you are a couch potato dreaming of your first 5k or a 70+ something wondering if time has passed you by, I urge you to read Julie Hughes' book that not only inspires you to discard your limiting beliefs but tells you how by practicing a daily discipline of mental training.
Julie teaches us many lessons, but for me, the most profound takeaway demonstrates that successful athletic performance is equal parts physical & mental training. Her vulnerability, truth-telling, and skillful action are a necessary antidote to a world that craves easy solutions.
I challenge you to read "Miles of Meaning". It just might change your life. It has forever changed mine.”— "B.Q." wannabe @ age 80
"It's Your Move" Channel:This is a companion resource to my memoir A Real Ballbuster: Untangling Testicular Cancer Together.At the end of each chapter, I've included an 'It's Your Move' section with some of my favorite exercises and stretches for staying active during difficult times.Feel free to try out the movements, taking what feels helpful and leaving the rest behind.
The key is keeping our bodies moving as an act of self-care.These exercises provided me with a positive outlet when I needed it most. I hope they can do the same for you.Take good care,
Julie B.
More from Julie B. Hughes
About
Imagine the courage it takes to run a marathon—and the courage it takes to write about it.Julie B. Hughes personifies courage. She’s not just a marathoner and author, she’s a mother and a physical therapist. Julie isn’t daunted by anything, whether it’s writing about her challenging childhood, her running, or her family’s journey through two cancer diagnoses. She’s bold, forthright, and generous with the lessons she’s learned and the strength she’s uncovered.Julie founded the Run to Write Club to bring together her dual passions for movement and writing within a supportive community. She encourages members to tackle their challenges one step and one word at a time, believing in the therapeutic nature of storytelling. Her books and poetry inspire readers to approach life’s difficulties with a spirit of curiosity, courage, and faith.Julie resides in Central New York with her husband and two children. To contact Julie for speaking engagements or Move. Write. Connect. workshops, please send an email to runtowritepoetry@gmail.com.Follow Julie on Facebook @juliebhughes, on Instagram @runtowritejulie, or subscribe to her Substack newsletter at juliebhughes.substack.com for regular writing and inspiration.Julie’s books are available on Amazon.com.
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