Professional ultra-runner and Coros athlete Tim Tollefson is no stranger to performing under pressure. Having won the Javelina Jundred, Lavaredo Ultra Trail 120km, and Ultra Trail Australia 100km, the 37-year-old is one of the most accomplished American 100-milers to date. In fact, he’s the last American male to podium at UTMB.
Behind the scenes of his success though, Tim Tollefson has arguably faced much greater challenges with mental health, battling internal demons since the very beginning of his career. Over the last two decades, the California-based athlete has been struggling with an eating disorder and body dysmorphia.
Since 2003, Tim has been hiding these struggles from everyone other than his wife, Lindsey, and more recently, his therapist. However, after making major leaps forward in the past few years, Tim has decided to share his story in the Coros film What Goes Unsaid.
Released yesterday, on World Mental Health Day, the film details Tim’s journey towards self-acceptance and healing as a runner. In Tim’s words, “true strength is vulnerability”. His decision to open up about his lifelong battle with an eating disorder and body dysmorphia was a difficult, but rewarding process he hopes can help others dealing with similar struggles.
If you are affected by these issues, resources are available at the National Eating Disorders Association. You can reach the helpline at 1–800–931–2237. Or, for a 24-hour crisis line, text ‘NEDA’ to 741741.
‘What Goes Unsaid‘ is presented by Coros. It was directed by Ryan Scura, Co-Founder of Dooster Film, and produced by Andy Cochrane.
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