RUNSPIRITED

Shalini Bhajjan stumbled into race directing, made every wrong turn, and built 12 trail ultras in St. Louis. Her best advice? "Don't replicate someone else's blueprint. Be the person who brings the weird, the wonderful, and the unexpected."

Expert analyst Andy Jones-Wilkins gives his 2026 Western States preview, breaking down the men's and women's fields, course conditions, poles, and course record chances.

Here are 10 reasons why ultra runners need speed work, even if you’re not chasing fast. Among them: speed work powers your VO2max, builds mental toughness, helps masters runners thrive and more.

Runners experience community, challenge and adventure thanks to race director David Compton and his team who deliver East Coast trail and ultra running events.

By Henry Howard I have been a fan of HOKA trail shoes for a good number of years and miles. The Speedgoats and Challengers have long had a home in my rotation depending on the terrain. But earlier this spring, I spent time in the new HOKA Zinal 3, accumulating more than 30 miles on dirt trails. (Note: I usually run 50 miles in shoes before writing a review but an injury has sidelined me.) I can honestly say this shoe has earned a spot alongside the Speedgoats and Challengers.

From the Hennepin Hundred to Rio del Lago — ultra runner and running coach Henry Howard picks the 12 best beginner-friendly 100-mile races in the U.S, with dates, course types, and firsthand race experience.

Kayla Fitzgerald stepped in to save Charleston's ultra running scene and built Palmetto Ultras into a thriving series of trail races. “Our mission is to inspire everyone to embrace the trails, push seasoned runners to new heights and cultivate lasting bonds in our community,” she says.

Meet Angie Lake, co-RD of Wild Woman Trail Runs — the team behind America's first all-women's trail marathon. She's building bold, inclusive spaces and popularizing trail running for women.

Ultra running has a visibility problem when it comes to women. Not because women aren't doing incredible things. But because those incredible things often go unreported. Here are 10 world record holders, community builders, advocates, history-makers for Women's History Month.

Strength training exercises are critical for women runners at every life stage. This guides offers practical advice for every life stage — hormones, pregnancy, menopause — including recommended exercises to build strength.