Given To Fly : An Improbable Story of Triumph, Tragedy, and Realization at the Western States 100

In June 2006, Brian Morrison ran the race of his life at the legendary Western States 100—almost.

For nearly one hundred miles through the brutal heat of California’s Sierra Nevada, Morrison ran stride for stride with the sport’s greatest champion, chasing what seemed impossible: victory at the world’s most iconic ultramarathon.

Then, within sight of the finish line, everything fell apart.

In one of the most dramatic moments in the history of the Western States Endurance Run, Morrison collapsed on the track just 250 meters from victory. What followed was confusion, controversy, and heartbreak that would ripple through the ultrarunning world for years.

Given to Fly is the unforgettable story behind that moment—and the life that followed it.

With humility, honesty, and two decades of perspective, Morrison reflects on ambition, mentorship, public failure, and the fragile line between triumph and disaster. Along the way, he explores the friendships, music, and community that helped him find his footing again after the most devastating day of his athletic life.

But this isn’t just a story about a race.

It’s a story about resilience, redemption, and the realization that the most meaningful victories often happen long after the finish line disappears.