Who are the most inspirational ultra runners of the year?

By Henry Howard

In December, I will publish my ninth annual list of the most inspirational ultra runners of the year. There are many notable achievements this year, including a new six-day world record for a woman ultra runner, a three-peat victory at Hardrock for a masters athlete, an epic record-breaking performance at Cocodona, two new Western States champions who also set course records and much more.  

But inspiration also comes from ultra runners who never place on a podium.

Who would you recommend for the 2026 list? Fill out this quick and easy form with your recommendations, or just shoot me an email.

Due to the popularity of this feature — and expanded interest in the sport – the list was split up a few years ago into one for women and another for men, increasing the total number of honorees to 50. I will determine any nonbinary athletes individually based on how they register for races.

For previous versions, check out last year’s most inspirational women ultra runners and the compilation for men ultra runners. 

Additionally, check out the 2024 list of women ultra runners here and click here for the men’s most inspirational list. The 2023 honorees for women ultra runners are here and the most inspirational on the men’s side is at this link. The 2022 compilation is here, the 2021 list here, the 2020 version here, this one from 2019 and the first installment in 2018.

The 2026 lists will be published in December. Stay tuned!