Adam Popp, an above-the-knee amputee, is preparing for the arduous Western States 100 race, which involves significant elevation changes. His experience comes after facing the life-altering loss of his leg due to an explosive ordnance disposal accident in Afghanistan in 2007. Over the years, Popp has become a notable athlete, having completed multiple 100-mile races and even an Ironman. However, he's particularly challenged by the downhill sections of the race, having to work harder with one leg. With support from fellow amputee Dave Mackey, Popp aims to tackle this daunting race head-on.
I don't have an anatomical knee, so going uphill I'm doing twice the work with one leg and then going downhill trying to brake or slow down it's like I'm doing it with one leg as well.
It's an audacious goal, but if there's one through-line to Popp's life, it might just be that he faces uncomfortable situations head-on and comes out the other side a stronger person.
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