RUNSPIRITED

Briston Rains gives back to trail and ultra runners by creating unique trail races in Texas with his Texas Outlaw Running Company.

The impact of 100-mile training on health is best analyzed through comparative tests like I did with InsideTracker. The before and after comparative results showed some positive gains.

For ultra runners, each race represents an opportunity to learn from what worked and what didn’t. Part of my journey has included selecting, working with and trusting crew members for my 100-mile races. For newbies or others, here's how to crew a 100-mile race.

After the New River Trail 50K was canceled in 2020 due to COVID, Melissa Londry took it upon herself to continue the race as a way to unite the ultra running community in Southwest Virginia.

Rod Farvard is on a Western States quest this year as he returns to Western States, following his breakout performance in 2024 when he finished second overall with the third-fastest time ever at the historic race.

Heather Jackson, a HOKA-sponsored athlete, made a successful transition from elite triathlon to ultra running champion.

Conquer the World race director Steven Estremera has created a niche of trail and ultra running in upstate New York, focusing on challenging mountain races.

In preparing for a big goal race, runners can learn a lot by participating in another race as part of their training. The benefits when runners use a race as a training run include getting hydration and nutrition dialed in, sharpening mental toughness and prioritizing recovery.

Active Joe race director Libby Jones emphasizes community, inclusivity and charity in her races that include the Dinosaur Endurance Run, a Western States qualifier.

The trail and ultra running community is welcoming, passes knowledge down from experienced to new runners and is incredibly supportive.