RUNSPIRITED

The 2025 Western States race was an epic showdown, with first-time winners on both the men's and women's sides. There were many story lines before the big day, and now there are many more. Here are some questions in the aftermath of the race.

The 2025 Western States boasts a highly competitive men's field and strong women runners battling for the top spots. Here's a look at the top competitors, story lines to watch and more in a Q&A with race expert Andy Jones-Wilkins.

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.

The Canyons-UTMB 50K is part of the race weekend that also offers 100-miler, 100K and 25K options. The 50K course has roughly 5,000 feet of elevation gain on a mix of smooth California dreamin’ single track, along with some rocky sections and several miles on roads between the start-finish area and the trails.

The Hoka Mafate X trail running shoe has a forked carbon fiber plate, higher bed of cushioning, and a very responsive feel.