Sadly, I have worked with numerous leaders who disqualified themselves from leadership and no matter how well they started or what heights they achieved, needlessly did not finish well.
I thought a lot about that this lately. Let me explain.
The Barkley Marathons
Every year, in the remote woods of Frozen Head State Park in Tennessee, a select group of ultra-endurance athletes gather for what is widely regarded as the toughest footrace on the planet — The Barkley Marathons. More than just a race, it is a leadership crucible, a test of grit, perseverance, and mental fortitude.
The Barkley Marathons is not your typical ultra-marathon. There are no cheering crowds, no mile markers, and certainly no guarantees of success. Designed by its mastermind, Lazarus Lake, the course consists of five punishing loops totaling approximately 130 miles, with a mind-boggling 60,000 feet of elevation gain—the equivalent of climbing Everest twice. The terrain is treacherous, the navigation is brutal, and the rules? Well, they are as unconventional as they come. There are no GPS devices, no aid stations beyond water jugs, and runners must locate hidden books on the course, tearing out a page corresponding to their bib number as proof of completing each loop.
But here’s the kicker: in the nearly four decades of its existence, fewer than 20 runners have ever finished. The vast majority leave the course defeated, often broken, but never the same.
8 Reasons Some Leaders Disqualify Themselves and Fail to Finish Well
In the realm of leadership, the ability to finish well is as crucial as starting strong. Per this article, last week’s 2025 Barkley Marathons offered profound insights into why some leaders fail to reach the finish line.
1. Failing to Protect Their Character
One of the most devastating reasons leaders fail to finish well is a lack of character integrity. The Barkley Marathons test not only physical endurance but also personal discipline. There are no shortcuts, no easy ways out — only the grueling reality of whether a runner has done the work to finish with honor. In leadership, the same principle applies.
Far too many leaders start strong but fall short because they compromise their values along the way. Whether through ethical lapses, arrogance, or neglecting accountability, they erode the trust of those they lead. Character is the foundation of enduring leadership, and when it cracks, even the most talented individuals will eventually collapse under the weight of their own compromises.
A leader’s legacy is not just defined by what they accomplish but by how they accomplish it. Winning at all costs is not true success. Protecting integrity, staying humble, and leading with honesty are what ensure that a leader not only starts well but finishes well.
2. Failing to Count the Costs
The Barkley Marathons are infamous for their brutal terrain and complex navigation. In 2025, despite favorable weather conditions, no runner completed the race, highlighting the perils of underestimating the task at hand. Similarly, leaders who fail to fully grasp the magnitude of their responsibilities may find themselves unprepared for the obstacles ahead, leading to premature burnout or failure.
3. Failing to Adapt
Race director Lazarus Lake’s adjustments to the Barkley Marathons, such as moving the race to March to increase difficulty, reflect a commitment to continuous evolution. Leaders who resist adapting to changing circumstances or feedback may struggle to navigate the evolving and ever-changing landscapes of their industries, hindering their ability to finish well.
4. Failing to Prepare
The Barkley Marathons demand rigorous physical and mental preparation. In 2025, only nine runners reached the second lap within the 12-hour timeframe, underscoring the necessity of thorough preparation. Leaders who neglect comprehensive preparation may find themselves ill-equipped to handle the complexities of their roles, leading to subpar performance and unachieved goals.
5. Failing to Develop
Some participants in the 2025 race relied heavily on veteran runners for navigation, a strategy that proved ineffective. Leaders who depend excessively on others without developing their own competencies may find themselves directionless when faced with challenges, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and self-reliance.
6. Failing to Persevere
Despite the daunting conditions, John Kelly’s completion of the “Fun Run” (three loops) in 39:50:27 exemplifies resilience and perseverance. Leaders who lack the tenacity to persevere through adversity may abandon their missions prematurely, preventing them from achieving long-term success.
7. Failing to Prepare for Contingencies
The Barkley Marathons’ course is notorious for its unpredictable weather and challenging terrain. Participants who fail to account for these environmental factors often struggle. Leaders who disregard external influences, such as market trends or organizational culture, may find their strategies ineffective, impeding their progress toward successful outcomes.
8. Failing to Plan
In the 2025 Barkley Marathons, some runners failed to start on time, putting themselves at an immediate disadvantage. Whether it was last-minute gear adjustments, underestimating pre-race logistics, or simply failing to anticipate how quickly the clock would start, their delay cost them valuable time and energy.
Likewise, in leadership, failing to plan properly or delaying action can be disastrous. Leaders who procrastinate on key decisions, fail to anticipate challenges, or ignore the need for early preparation often find themselves playing catch-up. This can lead to rushed execution, missed opportunities, and ultimately, failure to finish well.
A leader’s ability to start strong often determines their ability to finish well. Whether in ultra-endurance races or leadership, waiting too long to act can mean the difference between success and failure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2025 Barkley Marathons serve as a compelling metaphor for leadership. To finish well, leaders must protect their character, count the costs, remain adaptable, prepare diligently, personally develop, persevere, prepare for contingencies, and plan well. By embracing these principles, leaders can navigate their paths effectively and achieve enduring success.
FREE Helpful Resource
In conjunction with one of my content partners, I created a new checklist to help you identify ways you can improve your leadership:
You can download them by clicking HERE or on the image below.
Now a special request. These is a complimentary resource. Therefore, if you download them, make special note of the ads on the pages you will see. If any interest you, please click the images and learn more about their products. Thank you as this helps cover the cost of production.
