Episode 234 – Jasmin Paris and a #BM100 Special

Episode 234 of Talk Ultra is a #BM100 Barkley Marathon Special with an in-depth interview with Jasmin Paris.

The 2023 Barkley Marathon concluded with three finishers, Aurélien Sanchez completing 5-loops in 58:23:12, John Kelly in 58:42:23, and Karel Sabbe becoming the ‘slowest’ finisher in 59:53:33.

John Kelly is only the third person to complete the Barkley Marathon more than once, Jared Campbell who participated in the 2023 event (who did not finish) is a three-time finisher.

For the women, Jasmin Paris became only the second woman ever to start loop 4 and the first woman to complete loop-4, albeit out of time.

Jasmin at the 2025 Dragons Back Race which she won and placed 2nd overall.

On this weeks show, we speak in-depth about her past, her 2022 Barkley Marathon experience and of course, her 2023 record breaking run.

The interview with Jasmin starts at 00:16:30

You can listen to the show on ANCHOR by Spotify HERE

Share us on Facebook – Talk Ultra FB HERE

Tweet us on Twitter – Talk Ultra on Twitter HERE

Instagram – HERE

And use good old word mouth.

Importantly, go to iTunes and subscribe so that you automatically get our show when it’s released we are also available on Stitcher for iOS, Android and Web Player and now Tunein. We are also on Spotify too.

Our web page at www.iancorless.com has all our links and back catalogue.

Please support Talk Ultra by becoming a Patreon at www.patreon.com/talkultra 

THE SHOW

Spotify HERE

ITunes HERE

Stitcher You can listen on iOS HERE, Android HERE or via a web player HERE

Website – talkultra.com

Episode 172 – JOHN KELLY – ‘The Grand Round’

Episode 172 of Talk Ultra is here… We bring you a full and in-depth interview with John Kelly about his amazing journey to attempt The Grand Round  in the UK and the Godfather of Trail, Kurt Decker is co-hosting.
*****
Speedgoat is currently on ‘The Longtrail” with Belz (his crewman from the AT)
*****
Talk Ultra is now on Tunein- just another way to make the show available for those who prefer not to use iTunes – HERE  You can download the Tunein APP HERE
Talk Ultra needs your help! 
We have set up a Patreon page and we are offering some great benefits for Patrons… you can even join us on the show! This is the easiest way to support Talk Ultra and help us continue to create! 
Many thanks to our Patrons who have helped via PATREON
Donate HERE
*****
NEWS
TRANSVULCANIA HERE
*****
TRAIL MENORCA HERE
*****
ZEGAMA
Eli Anne Dvergsdal won in 4:36 and finished just 1:39 off Maite Maiora‘s2017 course record. Elisa Desco was a second in 4:47 and Amandine Ferrato was third, only eight seconds behind Desco. King Kilian Jornet won the race for a record ninth time, his time 3:52. Revelation (mark this name) Bartłomiej Przedwojewski was second in 3:55 and Thibaut Baronian was third in 3:56.
*****
USM – Ultra Skymarathon Madeira
Pere Aurell beat Beñat Marmissolle by 2mins, 6:06 to 6:08. Daniel Jung was a close third in 6:12. Maria Koller won in 7:20. Ekaterina Mityaeva was second in 7:22 and Ester Casajuana was third in 7:34
*****
ULTRA TRAIL STARA PLANINA HERE
*****
ISRAEL NATIONAL TRAL FKT on SIDETRACKED HERE
*****
TENERIFE BLUE TRAIL PREVIEW HERE
*****
VJ SPORT MAXx SHOE REVEW HERE
*****
01:50:00
*****
Share us on Facebook – Talk Ultra FB https://www.facebook.com/talkultra/
Tweet us on Twitter – Talk Ultra on Twitter https://twitter.com/Talkultra
And use good old word mouth.
Importantly, go to iTunes and subscribe so that you automatically get our show when it’s released we are also available on Stitcher for iOS, Android and Web Player and now Tunein.
Our web page at www.iancorless.comhas all our links and back catalogue.
Please support Talk Ultra by becoming a Patron at www.patreon.com/talkultra and THANKS to all our Patrons who support us. Rand Haley and Simon Darmody get a mention on the show here for ‘Becoming 100k Runners’ with a high-tier Patronage.
****
Stitcher You can listen on iOS HERE, Android HERE or via a web player HERE
Website- talkultra.com
UP & COMING RACES go to https://marathons.ahotu.com

Episode 155 – The Barkley Marathon Special with Eoin Keith and Ally Beaven

Episode 155 of Talk Ultra and this show is all about the Barkley with two interviews. Yes, two virgins tell us about their experiences at Frozen Head State Park. Eoin Keith from Ireland and Ally Beaven from Scotland discuss what it’s like to toe the line at one of the toughest foot races in the world.
*****
Talk Ultra is now on Tunein- just another way to make the show available for those who prefer not to use iTunes – HERE  You can download the Tunein APP HERE
Talk Ultra needs your help! 
We have set up a Patreon page and we are offering some great benefits for Patrons… you can even join us on the show! This is the easiest way to support Talk Ultra and help us continue to create! 
Many thanks to our Patrons who have helped via PATREON
Donate HERE
*****
00:02:15  Interview with EOIN KEITH
*****
00:54:57 Interview with ALLY BEAVEN
*****
01:46:02 CLOSE
*****
01:47:37
*****
Share us on Facebook – Talk Ultra FB https://www.facebook.com/talkultra/
Tweet us on Twitter – Talk Ultra on Twitter https://twitter.com/Talkultra
And use good old word mouth.
Importantly, go to iTunes and subscribe so that you automatically get our show when it’s released we are also available on Stitcher for iOS, Android and Web Player and now Tunein.
Our web page at www.iancorless.comhas all our links and back catalogue.
Please support Talk Ultra by becoming a Patron at www.patreon.com/talkultra and THANKS to all our Patrons who support us. Rand Haley and Simon Darmody get a mention on the show here for ‘Becoming 100k Runners’ with a high-tier Patronage.
*****
Stitcher You can listen on iOS HERE, Android HERE or via a web player HERE
Website- talkultra.com
*****
UP & COMING RACES go to https://marathons.ahotu.com
  • Ragnar Trail Atlanta – GA, Presented by Salomon
    Ragnar Trail Atlanta- GA, Presented by Salomon
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Georgia / Conyers
    2018-04-13
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Zumbro 100
    Zumbro 100M
    North America / USA / West North Central / Minnesota / Zumbro Falls
    2018-04-13
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Buffalo Stampede
    Ultra SkyMarathon
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Victoria / Bright
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Castricum Ultraloop
    42.2 km
    Europe / Western Europe / Netherlands / North Holland / Castricum
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    SandTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Castricum Ultraloop
    60 km
    Europe / Western Europe / Netherlands / North Holland / Castricum
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    SandTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Chicago Lakefront 50/50
    Chicago Lakefront 50K
    North America / USA / East North Central / Illinois / Chicago
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningMore info
  • Chicago Lakefront 50K George Cheung Memorial Race
    North America / USA / East North Central / Illinois / Chicago
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningFlatSoloMore info
  • Corfu Mountain Trail
    Night & Day
    Europe / Southern Europe / Greece / Corfu
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Desert R.A.T.S. Trail Running Festival
    50K
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Colorado / Fruita
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    DesertTrailRunningHillyMore info
  • Forget the PR Mohican 50K
    50K
    North America / USA / East North Central / Ohio / Loudonville
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Hawkeye 50k/25k
    Hawkeye 50k
    North America / USA / West North Central / Iowa / Solon
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Kal-Haven Trail Run
    North America / USA / East North Central / Michigan / Kalamazoo
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • KRSUltra
    60 km
    Europe / Northern Europe / Norway / Kristiansand
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Lake Sonoma 50
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Geyserville
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Lumberjack 100
    100 Mile Run
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Port Gamble
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Lumberjack 100
    100 K Run
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Port Gamble
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    RunningSoloMore info
  • Lumberjack 100
    50 Mile Run
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Port Gamble
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Mt Mee Classic Trail Marathon
    Classic Marathon Solo
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Queensland / Dayboro
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Mt Mee Classic Trail Marathon
    Marathon relay
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Queensland / Dayboro
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • NJ Ultra Festival
    50M Trail Race
    North America / USA / Mid-Atlantic / New Jersey / Blairstown
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • NJ Ultra Festival
    100K Trail Race
    North America / USA / Mid-Atlantic / New Jersey / Blairstown
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • NJ Ultra Festival
    100M Trail Race
    North America / USA / Mid-Atlantic / New Jersey / Blairstown
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • NJ Ultra Festival
    50K Trail Race
    North America / USA / Mid-Atlantic / New Jersey / Blairstown
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Oxfam Intermón Spain – Girona
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Olot
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailWalkingTeam effortMore info
  • Rattler Trail Races
    50K
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Colorado / Colorado Springs
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Salamandra Ultra Trail
    50 km
    Europe / Eastern Europe / Poland / Wisla
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Salamandra Ultra Trail
    100 km
    Europe / Eastern Europe / Poland / Wisla
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Save Mount Diablo Trails Challenge
    50K
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Walnut Creek
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Singletrack Maniac 50k Trail Run
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Williamsburg
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • The Calderdale Hike
    The Calderdale Hike – Long
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Calderdale / Sowerby
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • The Calderdale Hike
    The calderdale Hike – Short
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Calderdale / Sowerby
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Traprock Ultra Marathon
    50K
    North America / USA / New England / Connecticut / Bloomfield
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • (un)Pleasant Hill Trail Runs
    50K
    North America / USA / East South Central / Kentucky / Harrodsburg
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • (un)Pleasant Hill Trail Runs
    50K Team
    North America / USA / East South Central / Kentucky / Harrodsburg
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningRelayMore info
  • Weiser 50k Ultra & Relay
    Weiser 50k Ultra
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Idaho / Council
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningPoint to PointSoloMore info
  • Weiser 50k Ultra & Relay
    Weiser 50k Ultra Relay
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Idaho / Council
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningPoint to PointRelayMore info
  • XTERRA Spring Eagle
    XTERRA Spring Eagle 50K
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Soaring Eagle Regional Park
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Zumbro 100
    Zumbro Midnight 50 Mile
    North America / USA / West North Central / Minnesota / Zumbro Falls
    2018-04-14
    Ultramarathon
    Night RaceTrailRunningMore info
  • 100 km di Seregno
    60 km di Seregno
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Lombardy / Seregno
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • 100 km di Seregno
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Lombardy / Seregno
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Australian Running Festival
    Australian Running Festival Ultra Marathon
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Australian Capital Territory / Canberra
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Don’t Run Boston 50K & TARC 50M
    Don’t Run Boston 50K
    North America / USA / New England / Massachusetts / Milton
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Don’t Run Boston 50K & TARC 50M
    TARC 50M
    North America / USA / New England / Massachusetts / Milton
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Grizzly Peak Trail Run
    50 Km Trail Run
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Berkeley
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Jalisco ULTRA Maraton 50Km
    50 km
    North America / Central America / Mexico / Jalico
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Maratón Montaña Valencia (Ma MoVa)
    Maraton Montaña Valencia
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Valencian Community / Andilla
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    MountainUTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Palouse 100K Relay & Solo
    Relay – 4-10 runners
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Pullman
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningRelayMore info
  • Palouse 100K Relay & Solo
    Palouse 100K Solo
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Pullman
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Palouse 100K Relay & Solo
    Relay – 2-3 runners
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Pullman
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningRelayMore info
  • Pendine Sands Races
    Pendine Sands Ultra
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / Wales / Carmarthenshire / Pendine Sands
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    SandTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • The North Face® Endurance Challenge Argentina
    80 km
    South America / Argentina / San Carlos de Bariloche
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    MountainUTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info
  • The North Face® Endurance Challenge Argentina
    50 km
    South America / Argentina / San Carlos de Bariloche
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningMore info
  • Trail des Balcons d’Azur
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur / Alpes-Maritimes / Mandelieu la Napoule
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Trail des Balcons d’Azur
    Ultra Trail des Balcons d’Azur (UTBA)
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur / Alpes-Maritimes / Mandelieu la Napoule
    2018-04-15
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Trail Roses-Cap de Creus
    Marathon
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Roses-Cap de Creus
    2018-04-16
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • HeXenStieg Ultralauf
    Europe / Western Europe / Germany / Lower Saxony / Osterode am Harz
    2018-04-19
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Colonial Relay
    Colonial Relay/200
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Charlottesville
    2018-04-20
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningRelayMore info
  • HeXenStieg Ultralauf
    Hexenritt
    Europe / Western Europe / Germany / Lower Saxony / Osterode am Harz
    2018-04-20
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • HeXenStieg Ultralauf
    Hexentanz
    Europe / Western Europe / Germany / Lower Saxony / Osterode am Harz
    2018-04-20
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Täby Extreme Challenge 100 miles
    200 Miles
    Europe / Northern Europe / Sweden / Täby
    2018-04-20
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • ZION ULTRAMARATHONS
    100 Mile
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Utah / Virgin
    2018-04-20
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • ZION ULTRAMARATHONS
    100 K
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Utah / Virgin
    2018-04-20
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Zion Ultras
    100 Mile
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Utah / Springdale
    2018-04-20
    Ultramarathon
    DesertWestern States QualifierTrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Zion Ultras
    100k
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Utah / Springdale
    2018-04-20
    Ultramarathon
    DesertTrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • 100 km de Belvès Groupama Périgord Noir
    100 km de Belvès en Périgord Noir
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Aquitaine / Dordogne / Belvès
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • 100 km de Belvès Groupama Périgord Noir
    50 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Aquitaine / Dordogne / Belvès
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • 24 ore di Torino
    100 km di Torino
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Piedmont / Torino
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Big Turtle 50 Miler and Marathon
    50 Miler
    North America / USA / East South Central / Kentucky / Morehead
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Blue Ridge Marathon
    Blue Ridge Double Marathon
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Roanoke
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Cedro Peak Ultra Marathon
    50K
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / New Mexico / Tijeras
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Colonial70 Relay
    70 Miles
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Hanover County
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    CountrysideForestRoadRunningRelayMore info
  • Colonial Relay
    Colonial Relay/70
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Charlottesville
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningRelayMore info
  • Dalian 100
    Dalian 50
    Asia / Eastern Asia / China / Dalian
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Dalian 100
    Asia / Eastern Asia / China / Dalian
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    Western States QualifierUTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • DoubleTop 100
    100k
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Georgia / Ft Mountain State Park
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • DoubleTop 100
    100M
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Georgia / Ft Mountain State Park
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • DoubleTop 100
    50K
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Georgia / Ft Mountain State Park
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Flint Hills 50 Mile & Marathon
    50 Mile
    North America / USA / West North Central / Kansas / Manhattan
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Folsom Lake Trail Run
    50K
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Folsom Point
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    Seaside / LakesideTrailRunningOut & backSoloMore info
  • Fox Ultra
    58 km
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Surrey / Godalming
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RunningHillyMore info
  • Fox Ultra
    58 km Relay
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Surrey / Godalming
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RunningHillyMore info
  • Free State Trail Run
    100K (3-loop) course
    North America / USA / West North Central / Kansas / Meriden
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Free State Trail Run
    40-Mile (2-loop) course
    North America / USA / West North Central / Kansas / Meriden
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Free State Trail Runs
    40-Mile Trail Ultra
    North America / USA / West North Central / Kansas / Meriden
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningUndulatingMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Free State Trail Runs
    100 km Trail Ultra
    North America / USA / West North Central / Kansas / Meriden
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningUndulatingMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Hyner Challenge
    Hyner Ultra Challenge 50K
    North America / USA / Mid-Atlantic / Pennsylvania / Hyner
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Iznik Ultramarathon
    Asia / Western Asia / Turkey / Iznik
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMountainSingle loopMore info
  • Iznik Ultramarathon
    Iznik Mountain Marathon
    Asia / Western Asia / Turkey / Iznik
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMountainPoint to PointMore info
  • La Bouillonnante
    49 km
    Europe / Western Europe / Belgium / Wallonia / Bouillon
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningHillyMore info
  • Lauf “Rund um Wolfach”
    Europe / Western Europe / Germany / Baden-Württemberg / Wolfach
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Loskop Ultra Marathon
    Africa / Southern Africa / South Africa / Middelburg
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningMore info
  • Mátrabérc Trail
    Europe / Eastern Europe / Hungary / Sirok – Kőkútpuszta
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Roseburg to Coos Bay Relay
    67 mile running relay
    North America / USA / Pacific / Oregon / Roseburg
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningRelayMore info
  • Ruth Anderson Ultras
    Ruth Anderson 100k
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / San Francisco
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Ruth Anderson Ultras
    Ruth Anderson 50M
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / San Francisco
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Ruth Anderson Ultras
    Ruth Anderson 50k
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / San Francisco
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Sächsische Mt. Everest Treppenmarathon
    Europe / Western Europe / Germany / Saxony / Radebeul
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RoadVertical RaceHillySoloMore info
  • Spitfire Ultra Trail Challenge at Menan Butte
    50K
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Idaho / Menan
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Spitfire Ultra Trail Challenge at Menan Butte
    50K 2 Person Relay
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Idaho / Menan
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningRelayMore info
  • Spitfire Ultra Trail Challenge at Menan Butte
    50K 4 Person Relay
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Idaho / Menan
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningRelayMore info
  • SweetH20 50K
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Georgia / Sweetwater Creek State Park, Lithia Springs
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Täby Extreme Challenge 100 miles
    50 miles
    Europe / Northern Europe / Sweden / Täby
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Täby Extreme Challenge 100 miles
    100 miles
    Europe / Northern Europe / Sweden / Täby
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierWestern States QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • TARC Spring Classic
    50K
    North America / USA / New England / Massachusetts / Weston
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • The Bath Beat
    26.5 miles
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Bath and North East Somerset / Bath
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Trail de La Reid
    57 km
    Europe / Western Europe / Belgium / Wallonia / La Reid
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Trans Aubrac
    Trail du Capuchadou
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Midi-Pyrénées / Aveyron / Saint-Geniez-d’Olt
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Trans Aubrac
    Ultra Trans Aubrac
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Midi-Pyrénées / Aveyron / Saint-Geniez-d’Olt
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Trans Aubrac
    Relais x 4
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Midi-Pyrénées / Aveyron / Saint-Geniez-d’Olt
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyRelayMore info
  • Tuscany Crossing Val d’Orcia 100 km
    103 km
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Tuscany / Castiglione d’Orsia
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Tuscany Crossing Val d’Orcia 100 km
    53 km
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Tuscany / Castiglione d’Orsia
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningPoint to PointSoloMore info
  • Ultra-Maraton Arenal
    51 km
    North America / Central America / Costa Rica / Arenal Volcano
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Ultra-Maraton Arenal
    80 km
    North America / Central America / Costa Rica / Arenal Volcano
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Ultra Trail Chaouen Maroc
    Ultra Trail Chaouen 85K
    Africa / Northern Africa / Morocco / Chefchaouen
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningMore info
  • Ultra Trail Muntanyes de la Costa Daurada
    Half Trail
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Prades
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    MountainUTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Ultra Trail Muntanyes de la Costa Daurada
    Long Trail
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Prades
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    MountainUTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Ultra Trail Muntanyes de la Costa Daurada
    Ultra Trail
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Prades
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    MountainUTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Yakima Skyline Rim 50k & 25k
    Yakima Skyline Rim 50k
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Ellensburg
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • ZION ULTRAMARATHONS
    50 K
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Utah / Virgin
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Zion Ultras
    50K
    North America / USA / Mountain Region / Utah / Springdale
    2018-04-21
    Ultramarathon
    DesertTrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Bellimontrail
    Le marathon de bellevue
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Auvergne / Haute-Loire / Bellevue-la-Montagne
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Challenge Fuji 5 Lakes
    Fuji 4 Lakes
    Asia / Eastern Asia / Japan / Fujiyoshida
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Challenge Fuji 5 Lakes
    Fuji 3 Lakes
    Asia / Eastern Asia / Japan / Fujiyoshida
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Challenge Fuji 5 Lakes
    Fuji 5 Lakes
    Asia / Eastern Asia / Japan / Fujiyoshida
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Connemarathon
    Connemara Ultramarathon
    Europe / Northern Europe / Ireland / Connacht / Galway / Maam Cross
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningHillyMore info
  • Convicts and Wenches
    50 km
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Tasmania / Greens Beach
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningMore info
  • Convicts and Wenches
    50 km Relay
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Tasmania / Greens Beach
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningMore info
  • Ecomaratona del Collio Brda
    Ecomaratona del Collio
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Friuli-Venezia Giulia / Cormons
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Ironhead Brothers Relay
    50k solo
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Florida / Venice
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Ironhead Brothers Relay
    50k relay
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Florida / Venice
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMultiple loopsRelayMore info
  • Ironhead Brothers Relay
    50k Duo
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Florida / Venice
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMultiple loopsTeam effortMore info
  • Mokelumne River Trail Running Festival
    50K
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Valley Springs
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Nord Trail des Monts de Flandres
    80 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Nord-Pas-de-Calais / Nord / Bailleul
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Relais Gourmand du Mellois
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Nouvelle-Aquitaine / Deux-Sèvres / Prailles
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningRelayMore info
  • Spokane River Run
    50K Team Relay
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Spokane
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyRelayMore info
  • Spokane River Run
    50K
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Spokane
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Täby Extreme Challenge 100 miles
    50 Miles Night
    Europe / Northern Europe / Sweden / Täby
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    Night RaceUTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Trail de la Sainte Baume
    La Trans’Baume
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur / Bouches-du-Rhône / Cuges Les Pins
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningHillySingle loopSoloMore info
  • Trail du Lac de Paladru
    Le grand tour du lac 50 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Rhône-Alpes / Isère / Paladru
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Trail du Wurzel
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Alsace / Bas-Rhin / Villé
    2018-04-22
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyMore info
  • Ironhead Brothers Relay
    50K
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Florida / Sarasota
    2018-04-23
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Ironhead Brothers Relay
    50K Relay
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Florida / Sarasota
    2018-04-23
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • 50 KM di Romagna
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Emilia-Romagna / Castelbolognese
    2018-04-25
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningSingle loopSoloMore info
  • Due Rocche
    48 km
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Veneto / Cornuda
    2018-04-25
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • PEAK Ultra Marathon
    500 Miles
    North America / USA / New England / Vermont / Pittsfield
    2018-04-25
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • American Odyssey Relay
    Relay
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Washington D.C. / Washington
    2018-04-27
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningRelayMore info
  • Doliho Ultra-Marathon
    Europe / Southern Europe / Greece / Delphi
    2018-04-27
    Ultramarathon
    Multi terrainRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Ragnar Trail Richmond-VA, Presented by Salomon
    North America / USA / Mid-Atlantic / Virginia / Chesterfield
    2018-04-27
    Ultramarathon

‘Failure’ …or is it? – on IRUN4ULTRA

“Notice here that I place ‘failure’ in commas – for me, Gary didn’t fail. He achieved a great deal, he just didn’t achieve his goal.

Just as John Kelly had failed on 2 previous occasions, he triumphed on a 3rd attempt and the victory was sweet.

Gary of course was left on the floor, a tired wreck facing demons.”

Read the full article on IRUN4ULTRA HERE

Episode 132 – Dean Karnazes, Wardian and the Barkely and Janine Canham

Episode 132 of Talk Ultra and we talk ‘The Road To Sparta’ with Dean Karnazes. Mike Wardian tells us how difficult it is to cover 20-miles at Barkley and Janine Canham tells us about multi-day running, the Hong Kong run scene and the 9 Dragons race.

I am going solo this week. Karl is on the road and has been for sometime promoting his up and coming movie on his Appalachian Trail FKT (info HERE) and Niandi is busy with work…

So here I am, recording solo literally just before I jump on a plane and head for Morocco and the 32nd Marathon des Sables.

Just a little info on Niandi – the cam boot is off and slowly but surely she is moving around more. Pool sessions daily and strength work in the gym are all falling into place and we have set ourselves a little 3-day fast packing for early May as a target. Running may be a way off yet, this fracture was more serious than the one a year ago.

Me? Well, I had a weekend off work with Niandi in Paris which was pretty awesome and then I followed that with a trip to Norway to work as a stills photographer on a feature film. Something new for me and I loved it… I am a real fitm fan so to work behind the scenes with the crew and actors was just incredible. I will be back in Norway at the end of April for 2 more days on set

Talk Ultra is now on Tunein – just another way to make the show available for those who prefer not to use iTunes – HERE  You can download the Tunein APP HERE

Talk Ultra needs your help! 

We have set up a Patreon page and we are offering some great benefits for Patrons you can even join us on the show! This is the easiest way to support Talk Ultra and help us continue to create! 

Many thanks to our Patrons who have helped via PATREON

Donate HERE

NEWS

Barkley

Well the big news is all about a little race in Tennessee that usually nobody finishes. This year one person did, John Kelly. The 15th finisher. However, his incredible victory in many ways was overshadowed by what first looked like Gary Robbins missing the 60-hour cut-off by 6-seconds. The reality was, Gary had gone off course and navigated his way back to the yellow gate the wrong way – he would have been a DQ even had he been inside the 60-hour time. It all makes for a great story and you can read more HERE. However, lets celebrate John Kelly being the 15th finisher of what is arguably, the toughest race in the world.

If you need clarification on ‘toughest’ – I caught up with Mike Wardian who got lost on lap-1 and eventually finished the first 20-mile loop outside the 12-hour cut-off.

 INTERVIEW with MIKE WARDIAN

Georgia Death Race

Avery Collins won the 74-mile race ahead of Kyle Boykin and in the process obtained a Western States slot. What has followed is a Tweet/ FB storm as Dave Mackey has called Collins out for smoking dope (a banned substance on WADA’s list). There has been much chatter with in the community and this will rumble on. Bob Shebest was 3rd.

Aliza Lapierre won the ladies race ahead of Jackie Merritt and Alondra Moody – 14:00, 14:24 and 14:58 respectively.

Kilian Jornet

Kilian announced his year! Everest figures and an attempt at the Bob Graham Round.

Surprisingly, his run calendar is full, no doubt due to the run series that is currently a little under the radar…. Mont Blanc Marathon, Sierre Zinal, a return to a super stacked UTMB and of course Hardrock 100 and Ultra Pirineu figure. From a UK perspective, KJ will race at Glen Coe which is awesome news.

Run4Water 24-hour

Jon Olsen and Gina Slaby took top honours running 154.58 and 142.38 miles respectively.

American River 50

Scott Trummer beat Zach Bitter by 13-mins 6:03 to 6:13 and Rich Hanna was 3rd. Vanessa Taylor was top lady ahead of Melissa Penwell and Kelly Cronin – 7:29, 7:37 and 8:26.

El Reventon Mountain Race

Aritz Egea is back taking a win ahead of Miguel Heras by 12-min – 3:48 to 4:00. Cristofer Clemente placed 3rd. Dominique Van Mechgelen won the ladies’ race in 5:09.

The racing scene in Hong Kong is growing and growing and I caught up with Brit, Janine Canham who has lived there for 25-years. She has witnessed the run scene grow and she tells us about her running, multi-day running and the recent 9 Dragons race.

INTERVIEW with JANINE CANHAM

Recently I was in Bulgaria with Dean Karnazes and it was just too much of an opportunity to pin him down and talk about his up and coming book The Road To Sparta which is currently being released worldwide and will be available in the UK from late April. Read more HERE

INTERVIEW with DEAN KARNAZES

UP & COMING RACES

Argentina

Patagonia Run 100k | 100 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Patagonia Run 130k | 130 kilometers | April 07, 2017 | website

Patagonia Run 63k | 63 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Patagonia Run 84k | 84 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Australia

Australian Capital Territory

Australian Running Festival Ultra Marathon | 50 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Queensland

Wildhorse Criterium 50 km | 50 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

Wildhorse Criterium 70 km | 70 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

Victoria

Down Under 135 | 135 miles | April 07, 2017 | website

Western Australia

3 Waters 50km Ultra Marathon | 50 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Belgium

Brussels Capital Region

Trail 50 km | 50 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

British Virgin Islands

Tortola Torture | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Canada

British Columbia

Diez Vista 50k Trail Run | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Croatia

100 Miles of Istria | 108 miles | April 07, 2017 | website

100 Miles of Istria – 110 km | 110 kilometers | April 07, 2017 | website

100 Miles of Istria – 69 km | 69 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

France

Ariège

Trail des Citadelles – 70 km | 73 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

Bas-Rhin

Le Challenge des Seigneurs | 100 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Le Défi des Seigneurs | 74 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

L’Intégrale | 132 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Eure

53,1 km | 53 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Finistère

Extrême Duo 54 km | 54 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Trail Extrême 54 km | 54 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Gironde

Tour du Canton de Fronsac 60 km | 60 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Lozère

100 km | 100 kilometers | April 17, 2017 | website

Grand trail Stevenson 126 km | 126 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

Grand trail Stevenson 144 km | 144 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

Grand trail Stevenson 179 km | 179 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

Grand trail Stevenson 224 km | 224 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

Grand trail Stevenson 59 km | 59 kilometers | April 18, 2017 | website

Grand trail Stevenson 65 km | 65 kilometers | April 17, 2017 | website

Mayenne

53 km | 53 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

53 km | 53 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

53 km Relais 2 coureurs | 53 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

53 km Relais 2 coureurs | 53 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

Var

La Trace des Montrieux 51 km | 51 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

L’Ultra de Signes 80 km | 80 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Germany

North Rhine-Westphalia

Nord Eifel Ultra | 56 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Guadeloupe

GUADARUN : ultra-marathon des îles de Guadeloupe | 136 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Italy

Lombardy

BVG Trail | 73 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Kuwait

240 km RunKuwait Challenge | 240 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Malaysia

168 km | 168 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

50 km | 50 kilometers | April 16, 2017 | website

84 km | 84 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Morocco

Ecotrail de Ouarzazate | 111 kilometers | April 18, 2017 | website

Marathon des Sables | 250 kilometers | April 07, 2017 | website

Nepal

Mustang Trail Race | 170 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Trail des Trois Vallées | 353 kilometers | April 07, 2017 | website

Netherlands

North Holland

Castricum Ultraloop | 60 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

New Zealand

5 Person Relay | 60 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

62 km Ultra marathon | 62 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Portugal

Gerês Trail Aventure® | 130 kilometers | April 13, 2017 | website

Gerês Trail Aventure® Starter | 70 kilometers | April 13, 2017 | website

Peneda-Gerês Trail Aventure® | 280 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Singapore

64.5 km | 64 kilometers | April 14, 2017 | website

South Africa

Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon | 56 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Spain

Basque Country

Long Trail | 68 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Ultra Trail | 85 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Catalonia

Half | 60 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Ultra | 87 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Extremadura

LXVII Milhas Romanas | 100 kilometers | April 21, 2017 | website

United Kingdom

Carmarthenshire

Pendine Sands Ultra | 32 miles | April 16, 2017 | website

Devon

Coastal Trail Series – Exmoor – Ultra | 34 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Dorset

The ONER | 78 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

The ONER Half Day Section | 39 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

East Sussex

South Downs Way 50 | 50 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Hampshire

Compton 40 mile Challenge | 40 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Liverpool

Liverpool to Manchester Ultra | 47 miles | April 15, 2017 | website

Northumberland

100 km | 100 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

50 km | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

80 km | 80 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

USA

California

Diablo Trails Challenge 50K | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Grizzly Peak 50 Km Trail Run | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Lake Sonoma 50 | 50 miles | April 15, 2017 | website

Oriflamme 50k | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Ragnar Relay So Cal | 200 miles | April 07, 2017 | website

Ruth Anderson 100k | 100 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Ruth Anderson 50k | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Ruth Anderson 50M | 50 miles | April 15, 2017 | website

Woodside Crossover 50K | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Colorado

50K | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Rattler Trail Races 50K | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Connecticut

Traprock 50 | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Florida

100 Miles | 100 miles | April 15, 2017 | website

50 Miles | 50 miles | April 15, 2017 | website

75 Miles | 75 miles | April 15, 2017 | website

DTR Endurance Race 50k | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Idaho

Menan Butte Trail Challenge 50K | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Illinois

Chicago Lakefront 50K George Cheung Memorial Race | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Potawatomi 150 Mile Trail Run | 150 miles | April 07, 2017 | website

Iowa

Hawkeye 50k | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Kansas

Free State Trail Runs 100 km Trail Ultra | 100 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Free State Trail Runs 40-Mile Trail Ultra | 40 miles | April 15, 2017 | website

Kentucky

50K | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Yamacraw 50k | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Massachusetts

Cape Cod Trail Race – Run Forward. Give Back – Ultra | 50 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Don’t Run Boston 50K | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

TARC 50M | 50 miles | April 15, 2017 | website

Michigan

Kal-Haven Trail Run | 33 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Minnesota

Zumbro 100M | 100 miles | April 07, 2017 | website

Zumbro Midnight 50 Mile | 50 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Missouri

Double Chubb 50k | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Ozark Foothills 50K | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Nevada

55K | 55 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

New Mexico

Spaceport America Relay Race | 200 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

North Carolina

50-KM | 50 kilometers | April 09, 2017 | website

Ohio

Forget the PR Mohican 50K | 50 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Oklahoma

Tatur’s Lake McMurty Trail Race 50K | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Oregon

Gorge Waterfalls 100k | 100 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Gorge Waterfalls 50k | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Peterson Ridge Rumble 40 Mile Trail Run | 40 miles | April 09, 2017 | website

Texas

50K | 50 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Brazos Bend 50 | 50 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Utah

100k | 100 kilometers | April 07, 2017 | website

100 Mile | 100 miles | April 07, 2017 | website

50K | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Washington

Lumberjack 100 K Run | 100 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Lumberjack 100 Mile Run | 100 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Lumberjack 50 Mile Run | 50 miles | April 08, 2017 | website

Palouse 100K Relay – 2-3 runners | 100 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Palouse 100K Relay – 4-10 runners | 100 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Palouse 100K Solo | 100 kilometers | April 15, 2017 | website

Squak Mountain 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

West Virginia

50 km | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Wisconsin

Mad City 100K | 100 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Mad City 50K | 50 kilometers | April 08, 2017 | website

Close

02:38:00

We say this every show, but Talk Ultra is nothing without downloads and listeners so please help us spread the word.

Share us on Facebook

Tweet us on Twitter

And use good old word mouth.

Importantly, go to iTunes and subscribe so that you automatically get our show when it’s released we are also available on Stitcher for iOS, Android and Web Player and now Tunein.

Our web page at www.iancorless.com has all our links and back catalogue.

Please support Talk Ultra by becoming a Patron at www.patreon.com/talkultra and THANKS to all our Patrons who support us. Rand Haley and Simon Darmody get a mention on the show here for ‘Becoming 100k Runners’ with a high-tier Patronage.

I’m Ian Corless

Keep running

ITunes http://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-ultra/id497318073

Stitcher You can listen on iOS HEREAndroid HERE or via a web player HERE

Libsyn – feed://talkultra.libsyn.com/rss

Libsyn Player HERE and HERE

Tunein – http://tunein.com/radio/Talk-Ultra-p983452/

Website – talkultra.com

Barkley 2017 – High Drama and a 15th Finisher

Image ©canadian running

John Kelly was the 15th and only finisher of the 2017 Barkley. An incredible achievement and something that didn’t come easy (his 3rd attempt) for the Washington DC runner. His time of 59:30 shows just how close it was. However, many would say (including Laz the race director) that 30-minutes leeway is far too much in what is universally considered the ‘hardest’ race in the world.

Kelly had ran the first 4-laps with Canada’s Gary Robbins who was faced with a repeat of 2016 when he ran a similar story with Jared Campbell (who went on to win the race) for the 2nd time.

Kelly and Robins had traded blows, helped each other along and then at the end of the 4th lap they went there respective ways – one clockwise and the other counter-clockwise. A rule introduced by Laz to ensure less finishers and a race to the line. Both didn’t finish in 2016!

It was on this lap that the weather changed. Rain, mist, fog and of course sleep deprivation bullied the runners as they searched for the 13 books from which they must tear out a page.

Kelly triumphed arriving at the infamous yellow gate first having taken ‘anything’ he could find from the course to keep warm – a orange hat, a plastic bag and so on. As his hands touched the gate, he asked, “Where is Gary?”

It was a question many asked and as the 60-hour cut-off approached Robbins could be seen sprinting up the road, poles in hand, desperation on his face…

Image©canadianrunning

Would he make it?

Did he make it?

No – he was 6-seconds over the mythical 60-hour cut-off time. There was no way Laz would be lenient… the ultra world collapsed and universal sympathy was sent to Robbins on what was the most heartbreaking 6-seconds in running.

Image ©canadianrunning

The reality is, it wasn’t as close as many first thought. Robbins had made a navigational mistake in the mist and fog. Although he made the yellow gate with all the relevant pages of the book, he did not take the correct course and therefore Laz would not have permitted the finish, even if Robbins had been within the 60-hour cut-off. Robbins tagged the gate from the wrong direction and in the videos posted on Canadian Running  you can see the desperation of a broken man.

 

So, just as Jim Walmsley became famous with going off course at Western States, Gary Robbins may well become more famous and gain more recognition than the 15th Barkley finisher, John Kelly.

He and the 2017 Barkley, rightly or wrongly, will be remembered as the most stunning 6-seconds in ultra running and it is comparable to those 8-seconds that separated Greg Lemond from Laurent Fignon at the 1989 Tour de France.

Both John Kelly and Gary Robbins are legends of the sport for undertaking the 5-loop beast at Frozen Head State Park in Tennessee as are all those who toe the line.

But we should all remember John Kelly for achieving what so few have done… Robbins brings us tears but as he says below, “I did not finish The Barkley Marathons, and that is no one’s fault but my own.”

Over the years, the Barkley has grown and grown in stature – funny for a race with $1.60 entry fee.

Everyone will now look to 2018. Robbins for sure will go away, lick his wounds and will be back… Kelly summed it up though, ‘Oh no, next years course is going to be even harder!’

40-runners will receive the letter notifying them that they have been unlucky to gain entry to the 2018 Barkley – would you like to be one of them?

Perspective – a statement from RD Laz:

I wish I had never said 6 seconds… Gary had just come in after having run off course and missing the last 2 miles of the Barkley, that is of course, not a finish. I do, however, always record when runners come in, whether they are finishing a loop, or not. So I had looked at the watch, even tho there was no possibility that he would be counted as a finisher. When someone asked if he had gotten in before the limit; I foolishly answered. I never expected the story to somehow become that he had missed the time limit by 6 seconds. He failed to complete the course by 2 miles. The time, in that situation, is meaningless. I hate it, because this tale perpetuates the myth that the Barkley does not have a course. The Barkley is a footrace. It is not an orienteering contest, nor a scavenger hunt. The books are nothing more than unmanned checkpoints. The Boston marathon has checkpoints and you have to show up at all of them or you can be disqualified… that does not mean you are allowed to follow any route you choose between checkpoints. Now, the class with which Gary handled this terrible disappoinment at the end of a truly magnificent performance… that was exceptional and is, in and of itself, a remarkable achievement. But he did not miss the time limit by 6 seconds, he failed to complete the Barkley by 2 miles.

– Laz

Of course, Gary Robbins, ever the gentleman has soon penned just a few words to congratulate John Kelly and clarify the final moments of his 2017 Barkley. Read the full article and post HERE

“…I thrashed my way to the road and put my head down and gutted out the hardest three minutes of my life to collapse at the gate, overtime, and from the wrong direction. I did not finish The Barkley Marathons, and that is no one’s fault but my own. That one fatal error with just over two miles to go haunts me.”

– Gary Robbins

 

  Images ©canadianrunning please go to http://runningmagazine.ca

Episode 93 – Kimmel Zundel Donovan

TALK ULTRA LOGO

Episode 93 of Talk Ultra has an interview with lady on fire, Megan Kimmel. We also speak to Harald Zundel about running long and super hard races. We also speak with Greg Donovan about running the 4 Deserts Grand Slam and the Big Red Run in Australia. Speedgoat is with us and we have some new music and new logo!

 

00:04:43 NEWS

 

Help Nepal – Nepal images ‘FACES of NEPAL’ – order a print and all funds donated to Nepal charities https://iancorless.org/2015/04/28/nepal-appeal-nepalearthquake/

You will notice a few changes in episode 93 of Talk Ultra. Yes, we have some new music, a new logo and over the coming weeks and months we will start to add some new interview sections.

TRANSROCKIES

Notable as Rob Krar pulled out….. UTMB?

Jenn Shelton and Kathryn Ross won the ladies event

Florian Nueschwander won the male race and Shannon Thompson won the ladies

Results HERE

SIERRE-ZINAL

1 – Kilian Jornet 2:33:13

2 – William Rodriguez 2:33:17

3 – Robbie Simpson 2:33:34

1 – Lucy Wambui Murigi 2:56:48

2 – Megan Kimmel 3:02:08

3 – Elisa Desco 3:03:08

PIKES PEAK MARATHON

1 – Alex Nichols 3:46

2 – Abu Diriba 3:54

3 – Ricky Gates 3:55

1 – Hirut Guangul 4:29

2 – Hayley Benson 4:45

3 – Kim Dobson 4:46

NORTH DOWNS WAY 100

1 – Ed Catmur 18:02 (the CR is 15:44:39 set by Ed!) apparently the weather was great?

2 – Ally Watson 18:11:15

3 – Jeremy Isaac 18:56:54

1 – Sally Ford 19:20:40

2 – Maryann Devally 21:17:56

3 – Mari Mauland 21:24:37

BIGFOOT 200

1 – Gavin Woody 64:12:35

2 – Gennadii Tertychnyi 65:34:38

3 – Harald Zundel 70:32:30

1 – Gia Madole 73:28:42

2 – Van Pahn 79:00:35

3 – Tina Ure 85:14:40

 

00:28:32 INTERVIEW 

HARALD ZUNDEL

 

FAT DOG 120 miler

Nick Hollon 25 hr 7min

Bethany Lewis 30 hours

  1.  

EASTERN STATES 100

Mike Wardian 21:21 new CR

Jay Lemos 24:18

Tsutomu Bessho 24:37

Kathleen Cusick 24:57

Robin Watkins 27:30

Jennifer Brunet 29:41

Frosty and Missy is currently taking on the Nolans 14ers and FINISHED •Breaking News

Coming up Squamish, Leadville UTMB, Glen Coe, Matterhorn Ultraks

 

01:02:19 INTERVIEW

GREG DONOVAN read up and enter the Big Red Run HERE

 

01:57:46 INTERVIEW

MEGAN KIMMEL

 

UP & COMING RACES

Australia

Northern Territory

The Malbunka | 133 kilometers | August 27, 2015 | website

The Namatjira | 80 kilometers | August 27, 2015 | website

Queensland

Kuranda to Port Douglas Ultra Trail Marathon | 64 kilometers | August 23, 2015 | website

Belgium

Flanders

Oxfam Trailwalker Belgium | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Bulgaria

Orehovo Ultra | 80 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Persenk Ultra | 130 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Canada

British Columbia

Black Spur Ultra – 100km | 100 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Black Spur Ultra – 100km Relay | 100 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Black Spur Ultra – 50km | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Squamish 50 | 50 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Squamish 50/50 | 130 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Squamish 50K | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2015 | website

TrailStoke Ultra | 60 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Quebec

Chute du Diable 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Chute du Diable 80 km | 80 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

France

Alpes-Maritimes

Ultra-Trail Côte d’Azur Mercantour | 140 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Ariège

Ultra du Montcalm | 65 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Hautes-Pyrénées

Grand Raid des Pyrénées – le Grand Trail | 80 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Grand Raid des Pyrénées – l’Ultra | 160 kilometers | August 21, 2015 | website

Grand Raid des Pyrénées – Tour des Cirques | 117 kilometers | August 21, 2015 | website

Isère

La Traversée Nord | 85 kilometers | August 28, 2015 | website

L’Echappée Belle Intégrale | 144 kilometers | August 28, 2015 | website

Ultra Tour des 4 Massifs | 160 kilometers | August 21, 2015 | website

Ultra Tour des 4 Massifs – 90 km | 90 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Loir-et-Cher

100km des Etangs de Sologne | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

50km de la Sologne des Rivières | 50 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Rhône

La Nuit des Carbones – 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Savoie

North Face Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) | 166 kilometers | August 28, 2015 | website

Orsières – Champex – Chamonix (OCC) | 53 kilometers | August 27, 2015 | website

Petite Trotte à Léon (PTL) | 300 kilometers | August 24, 2015 | website

Tour de la Grande Casse | 62 kilometers | August 23, 2015 | website

Germany

Bavaria

Allgäu Panorama Ultra Trail | 70 kilometers | August 23, 2015 | website

GORE-TEX® Transalpine-Run | 240 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Greece

Athens-Sparta | 245 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Iceland

Fire and Ice | 250 kilometers | August 31, 2015 | website

India

Uttarakhand

Uttarkashi 135 | 135 miles | August 28, 2015 | website

Ireland

Connacht

Achill Ultra Marathon | 39 miles | August 29, 2015 | website

Leinster

Longford Ultra Marathon | 63 kilometers | August 30, 2015 | website

Munster

Kerry Way Ultra | 120 miles | September 04, 2015 | website

Italy

Aosta Valley

Courmayeur Champex Chamonix (CCC) | 98 kilometers | August 28, 2015 | website

Sur les traces des Ducs de Savoie (TDS) | 119 kilometers | August 26, 2015 | website

Japan

Hakusan Geotrail 100 K | 100 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Hakusan Geotrail 250 K | 250 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Malaysia

Gunung 5 Nuang | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Most Beautiful Thing Ultra Trail Marathon – 100K | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Most Beautiful Thing Ultra Trail Marathon – 50K | 50 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Netherlands

North Holland

Dutch Coast Ultra by Night (Summer Edition) | 75 kilometers | August 21, 2015 | website

Dutch Coast Ultra by Night (Summer Edition) – 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 21, 2015 | website

New Zealand

Great Naseby Water Race 100 km | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Great Naseby Water Race 160 km | 160 kilometers | August 28, 2015 | website

Great Naseby Water Race 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Great Naseby Water Race 60 km | 60 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Great Naseby Water Race 80 km | 80 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Norway

styrkeprøven True West | 50 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Peru

80 K | 80 kilometers | August 28, 2015 | website

80K Relay | 80 kilometers | August 28, 2015 | website

Réunion

Cimasalazienne | 55 kilometers | August 30, 2015 | website

Romania

Dracula 106K | 106 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Dracula 106K 2-Day Stage Race | 106 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

South Africa

Namaqua Quest | 110 kilometers | August 26, 2015 | website

Peninsula Ultra Fun Run | 80 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Spain

Aragon

8K | 78 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Sweden

Fjällmaraton Bydalsfjällen 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

UltraVasan 90K | 90 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Taiwan

50 km of Wild Pig | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

United Kingdom

Anglesey

Ring o’ Fire | 131 miles | September 04, 2015 | website

Buckinghamshire

Ridgeway Challenge | 86 miles | August 29, 2015 | website

Cumbria

Grand Tour of Skiddaw | 44 miles | August 29, 2015 | website

Greater London

London 2 Cambridge Ultra | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

T184 | 184 miles | August 28, 2015 | website

Hertfordshire

Chiltern Way Ultra 100k | 100 kilometers | August 30, 2015 | website

Chiltern Way Ultra 214k | 214 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Moray

Speyside Way Race | 36 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

USA

Arizona

Javelina Jangover 100K Night Trail Run | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Javelina Jangover 50K Night Trail Run | 50 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Javelina Jangover 75K Night Trail Run | 75 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

California

Bulldog 50K Ultra | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Castle Peak 100k | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Castle Peak 100K | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Diablo Trail 50K Run | 50 kilometers | August 30, 2015 | website

Headwaters Ultra – 50K | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Pioneer Spirit 50M | 50 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Salt Point 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Tamalpa Headlands 50K | 50 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Colorado

Devil Mountain 50K | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Devil Mountain 50 Mile Ultra | 50 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Leadville Trail 100 Run | 100 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Silverton Alpine 50K | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Georgia

Yeti Snakebite 50K | 50 kilometers | August 30, 2015 | website

Yeti Snakebite 50M | 50 miles | August 30, 2015 | website

Idaho

Resort to Rock 60K | 60 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Michigan

Ultra Marathon | 50 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Montana

Fool’s Gold 50M | 50 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Fool’s Gold 50 Miler | 50 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Ghosts of Yellowstone | 100 miles | August 21, 2015 | website

Ghosts of Yellowstone 100M | 100 miles | August 21, 2015 | website

Mystery Ranch 50K Endurance Run | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Rampage the Roots Montana’s Ultra Challenge 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Nevada

51 km | 51 kilometers | August 30, 2015 | website

Black Rock City 50km | 50 kilometers | September 02, 2015 | website

New Hampshire

MadAthlete Emerald Necklace 3-Day Stage Race | 80 kilometers | August 21, 2015 | website

MadAthlete Emerald Necklace 3-Day Stage Race 2-Person Relay | 80 miles | August 21, 2015 | website

New York

Green Lakes 100 km Trail Race | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Green Lakes 50 km Trail Race | 50 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Twisted Branch Trail Run | 100 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Oregon

Hood to Coast Relay | 199 miles | August 28, 2015 | website

Where’s Waldo 100k Ultra | 100 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Pennsylvania

Baker Trail UltraChallenge | 50 miles | August 29, 2015 | website

South Dakota

50 km | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Lean Horse Half Hundred | 50 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Lean Horse Hundred | 100 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Texas

Habanero Hundred 100k | 100 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Habanero Hundred 100 miler | 100 miles | August 22, 2015 | website

Habanero Hundred 50k | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2015 | website

Reveille Peak Ranch – 60km | 60 kilometers | August 29, 2015 | website

Washington

Cascade Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run | 100 miles | August 29, 2015 | website

02:36:45 CLOSE

 

02:38:35

http://traffic.libsyn.com/talkultra/Episode_93_Kimmel_Zundal_Donovan.mp3

ITunes http://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-ultra/id497318073

Libsyn – feed://talkultra.libsyn.com/rss

Website – talkultra.com

Episode 59 – 29th Marathon des Sables and Barkley Marathons

Ep59 Talk Ultra

 

This weeks show is a Marathon des Sables and Barkley Marathons special. We have daily chats from the Sahara with top Brit and 5th overall, Danny Kendall. By contrast, we also have daily chats with actor, Bertie Portal who undertook the challenge of a lifetime at his first MDS. Barkley Marathons are infamous and we speak with rookie ‘fun run’ finisher Jamil Coury and we also speak with two time finisher and 2014 champ, Jared Campbell. The News, a Meltzer Moment, Up & Coming Races and of cousre Speedgoat Karl.

NEWS
Lake Sonoma 50
 
  1. Zach Miller 6:11:10 CR
  2. Rob Krar 6:12:14
  3. Sage Canaday 6:12:58
  1. Emily Harrison 7:26:15 CR
  2. Step Howe 7:33:24
  3. Kaci Kickteig 7:37:42
 
Marathon des Sables
 
Men
  1. El Morabity 20:27:37
  2. Al Aqra 20:37:09
  3. Ahansal 20:50:58
  4. Sa 21:24:58
  5. Kendall 21:30:15

Ladies

  1. Kimball 29:04:49
  2. Klein 30:05:19
  3. Roux 31:30:56
  4. Pierron 32:29:47
  5. Donovan 33:37:17
Zion 100k
  1. Karl Meltzer 9:09:40
  2. Mick Jurynec 10:05:39
  3. Cody Draper 10:44:26
  1. Jen Segger 12:32:02
  2. Linday Tesar 13:04:55
  3. Tonya Littlehales 13:10:14
ZION 100m
  1. Jeff Browning 16:49:53
  2. Jason Koop 19:13:56
  3. Justin Faul 20:30:51
  1. Candice Burt 23:04:08
  2. Cherri Marcinko 24:26:18
  3. Lisa Jones 25:00:31
SDW50
  1. Paul Navesey 6:11:28
  2. Richard Ashton 6:23:26
  3. Mark Perkins 6:24:41
  1. Louise Waterman Evans 7:06:08
  2. Edwina Sutton 7:09:21
  3. Sarah Perkins 7:19:43
Scott Jurek and Rickey Gates – UK and Bob Graham Round
“Quite possibly one of the most difficult courses I have done in my life! Over 28,000 feet of ascent in 65 miles, yet amazingly gorgeous!”
BLOG – 
INTERVIEW
The Barkley Marathons are infamous. It’s the trail that eats its young… on this show, we have an interview with Barkley rookie, Jamil Coury who completed the 60-mile fun run and an interview with 2-time finisher and 2014 champ, Jared Campbell
AUDIO with JAMIL COURY
 
AUDIO with JARED CAMPBELL
 
MELTZER MOMENT with Speedgoat
 
 
UP & COMING RACES
 

Australia

Queensland

Wildhorse Criterium 50 km | 50 kilometers | April 20, 2014 | website

Wildhorse Criterium 70 km | 70 kilometers | April 20, 2014 | website

Victoria

Go the Extra Mile Melbourne | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_38dee2e9bf1319cbdffbAustria

Tiroler Abenteuerlauf 60 KM | 60 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_6795a5e624f1622b0bf3Canada

Ontario

Pick Your Poison 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_d512d458411f528ae9efChina

Dalian 100 | 100 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Dalian 50 | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Shangri-La LIJIANG Action Asia 3 day 100 km Ultra Marathon | 100 kilometers | April 18, 2014 | website

Shangri-La LIJIANG Action Asia 3 day 60 km Ultra Marathon | 60 kilometers | April 18, 2014 | website

Trail de la Grande Muraille de Chine | 73 kilometers | May 02, 2014 | website

Ahotu_5d16c798b1713934efdcDenmark

Hovedstaden

Salomon Hammer Trail Bornholm -100 Miles | 100 miles | May 02, 2014 | website

Salomon Hammer Trail Bornholm – 50 miles | 50 miles | May 02, 2014 | website

Midtjylland

Gudenaa Trail Challenge | 75 kilometers | April 18, 2014 | website

Ahotu_d6484dc8236b25f1f120Ethiopia

Ethiopian Lakes Trail | 85 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Ahotu_26e5f4d3970adb6b57f5France

Alpes-Maritimes

Ultra Trail des Balcons d’Azur (79+25) | 104 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ultra Trail des Balcons d’Azur (UTBA) | 79 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ariège

Trail des Citadelles – 70 km | 73 kilometers | April 20, 2014 | website

Aveyron

Trail “Le Roc de la Lune” – 60 km | 60 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Dordogne

100 km de Belvès en Périgord Noir | 100 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

50 km Belvès-Sarlat | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Morbihan

Bretagne Ultra Trail – 115 km | 115 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Bretagne Ultra Trail – 63 km | 63 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Seine-et-Marne

Ultra Trail de la Brie des Morin | 87 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Seine-Maritime

Le RaDicAtrAil – 110 km | 110 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Le RaDicAtrAil – 56 km | 56 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Vosges

Trail des Roches | 73 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Yvelines

Trail des Lavoirs de la Vallée de Chevreuse | 65 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Ahotu_fffd0b607b8778bee13cGermany

Bavaria

Chiemsee-Ultramarathon Mai | 108 kilometers | May 01, 2014 | website

Lower Saxony

HeXenStieg Ultralauf | 216 miles | April 25, 2014 | website

Hexentanz | 104 kilometers | April 25, 2014 | website

Rhineland-Palatinate

Bärenfels 50 km Trail | 50 kilometers | May 01, 2014 | website

Saxony-Anhalt

Harzquerung – 51 km | 51 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_d08300ae7b802d5cf496Greece

Doliho Ultra-Marathon | 260 kilometers | May 02, 2014 | website

Ahotu_c207ef19951ba2657f03Guadeloupe

GUADARUN : ultra-marathon des îles de Guadeloupe | 136 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Ahotu_98ea321800d3d03e1c5dIndia

Thar Desert Run – 100 miles | 100 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

Thar Desert Run – 50 miles | 50 miles | April 20, 2014 | website

Ahotu_81515ba183d4c083f24eIsrael

The Sea to Jerusalem 144 km Ultra | 144 kilometers | April 24, 2014 | website

The Sea to Jerusalem 54 Ultra | 54 kilometers | April 24, 2014 | website

The Sea to Jerusalem 70 km Ultra | 70 kilometers | April 25, 2014 | website

Ahotu_add3cc93efa9170be4d3Italy

Emilia-Romagna

50 KM di Romagna | 50 kilometers | April 24, 2014 | website

Sicily

Lafuma Volcano Trail | 80 kilometers | April 20, 2014 | website

Tuscany

The Abbots Way | 125 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Tuscany Crossing Val d’Orcia 100 km | 100 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Tuscany Crossing Val d’Orcia 50 km | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_2e9a148b1feaa1fd26c3Japan

Shizuoka to Yamanashi | 85 kilometers | April 25, 2014 | website

Ultra Trail Mt Fuji | 161 kilometers | April 25, 2014 | website

Ahotu_4d4164c8b73a3edc16daLaos

Les Foulées de la Soie au Laos | 109 kilometers | May 01, 2014 | website

Ahotu_10844ffe013896d005acMadagascar

Semi Trail des Ô Plateaux | 65 kilometers | May 02, 2014 | website

Ultra Trail des Ô Plateaux | 130 kilometers | May 02, 2014 | website

Ahotu_89998df67965ebec7b86Malta

Eco Gozo Ultra 55k | 55 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_13f92b4304a1bec59e30Morocco

Morocco Trail | 120 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_de7077cf89cd2b33215aNepal

Annapurna Mandala Trail | 250 kilometers | April 25, 2014 | website

Ahotu_9c2d62d9954372cab565Poland

Beskidzka 160 Na – Long Distance | 84 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_5e1eba796118d29b01f6Portugal

OMD – Ultra Trail Serra da Estrela – K100 | 101 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

OMD – Ultra Trail Serra da Estrela – K160 | 166 kilometers | April 25, 2014 | website

OMD – Ultra Trail Serra da Estrela – K60 | 59 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_d73d2797b1da2ab5b3e9Serbia

Fruska Gora Ultra Plus | 111 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Ahotu_13e380040edb60835759South Africa

Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon | 56 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Ahotu_3c1809f603f0f63063a1Spain

Balearic Islands

Trail Mallorca Serra de Tramuntana | 62 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Ultra Mallorca Serra de Tramuntana | 102 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Catalonia

24 hores del Cap de Creus | 87 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Long Trail Barcelona | 69 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ultra Trail Barcelona | 100 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_bba79c9e4f9321814582Tunisia

100km of Sahara | 100 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Ahotu_7e740fcacd0b51330fbaTurkey

Iznik 130K Ultramarathon | 130 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Iznik 75K Ultramarathon | 75 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Ahotu_597d7614a0b1922677c0United Kingdom

Dorset

The ONER | 78 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

The ONER Half Day Section | 39 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

East Dunbartonshire

Highland ‘Fling’ | 53 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Hampshire

Compton 40 mile Challenge | 40 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

North Yorkshire

The Fellsman | 60 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Worcestershire

The Evesham Ultra | 45 miles | April 27, 2014 | website

Ahotu_e9568ffb83e589f455eaUnited States Minor Outlying Islands

Brazos Bend 50 | 50 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Ahotu_abc779e2d55a765e25b4USA

Arkansas

Ouachita Trail 50 Km | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Ouachita Trail 50 Mile | 50 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

California

Diablo Trails Challenge 50K | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Folsom Lake Trail 50K Run | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Leona Divide 50K | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Leona Divide 50 Miles | 50 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

Mokelumne River 50K | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Mokelumne River 50M | 50 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

Ruth Anderson 100k | 100 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Ruth Anderson 50k | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Ruth Anderson 50M | 50 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

Sierra Azul Challenge 50K Run | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Sierra Azul Challenge 50 Miles Run | 50 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Tehama Wildflowers 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Colorado

Cheyenne Mtn. Trail 50K Race | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

C.U.R.E Ultra’s 100K | 100 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

C.U.R.E Ultra’s 50K | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

C.U.R.E Ultra’s 50 Mile | 50 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

Desert R.A.T.S. 50K | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Desert R.A.T.S. Double Marathon | 52 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

Connecticut

Jack Bristol Lake Waramaug 100k | 100 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Jack Bristol Lake Waramaug 50k | 50 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Jack Bristol Lake Waramaug 50M | 50 miles | April 27, 2014 | website

Traprock 50 | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Florida

DTR Endurance Race 50k | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Fort Clinch 100M | 100 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Fort Clinch 50M | 50 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

JWCorbett 50K | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

JWCorbett 50M | 50 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Indiana

Indiana Trail 100 | 100 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Indiana Trail 50 | 50 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Iowa

Heartland Relay | 205 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Kansas

FlatRock 101K Ultra Trail Race | 101 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Free State Trail Runs 100 km Trail Ultra | 100 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Free State Trail Runs 40-Mile Trail Ultra | 40 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

Maryland

C&O Canal 100 | 100 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Massachusetts

TARC Spring Classic 50K | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Michigan

Running Fit Trail 50K | 50 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Missouri

Double Chubb 50k | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Frisco Railroad Run 50k Ultramarathon | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Frisco Railroad Run 50 Mile Ultramarathon | 50 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

New York

Sybil Ludington 50K Run | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

North Carolina

Run the Rock Ultra | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Pennsylvania

The Ironmasters Challenge – 50K Ultra | 50 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Utah

Red Mountain 50K | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Salt Flats 100 | 100 miles | April 25, 2014 | website

Virginia

Bel Monte 50K Endurance Run | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Bel Monte 50 mile Endurance Run | 50 miles | April 19, 2014 | website

Promise Land 50K | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Washington

Capitol Peak Ultra Marathon – 50 mile | 50 miles | April 26, 2014 | website

Capitol Peak Ultra Marathon – 55 km | 55 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Mt. Si 50K Relay & Ultra Runs | 50 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Mt. Si 50 Mile Relay & Ultra Runs | 50 miles | April 27, 2014 | website

Spokane River Run 50K | 50 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

XTERRA Soaring Eagle 50K | 50 kilometers | April 27, 2014 | website

Yakima Skyline Rim 50k | 50 kilometers | April 20, 2014 | website

Wisconsin

Chippewa 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | April 26, 2014 | website

Mad City 100K | 100 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website

Mad City 50K | 50 kilometers | April 19, 2014 | website
CLOSE

LINKS:

Website – talkultra.com

Jamil Coury – Running for fun at Barkley ‘aka’ The trail that eats its young

Jamil Coury Barkley

‘Lazarus. A sadist? I had a perspective about him. He is soft spoken. He is a great guy. He is kind of like your inspirational High School or College coach. He is going to make you to dig deep. He is going to push you to that edge and push to see who you really are once you strip away the layers. I thought I was done after 2-loops. I got to that point where I was already thinking about my race report, ‘How the Barkley beat me.’ I rose above it; I found that extra to get through that 3rd loop. So, Lazarus does want to see you succeed but he wants participants to not believe they can do it, to push through so much to get to the end. That is why the course is a genius thing… most events design a course to help you finish, they want you to finish. This race is opposite, they do everything to help you fail.’

IC: The Barkley marathons have just finished, once again, only one person finished the full five loops; Jared Campbell. Today I am speaking to Jamil Coury who finished the ‘fun run’ (60-miles) at his first attempt. You survived?

JC: I did, I somehow survived. It was beyond expectations of how difficult it would be. I read the stories, I read the book, I have talked to friends but I was blown away by how difficult this race is!

IC: can you put it into words? I know friends who have gone to this race with high expectations but the course has chewed them up and thrown them out with only 1-loop at the mot covered.

JC: I had only seen about 2-miles of the course before race day. Much of the trail is cross-country, you occasionally have a little good trail but mostly your navigating and struggling to remain upright and move forward. It was interesting at the start. The field is probably 50/50; those with experience and those that are virgins. My plan was to stick with veterans and use them to help me on the first lap. A buddy, Alan had finished 4 fun runs so he was a great person to follow. We probably had a group of 10 in the early stages. At the first book it was like a feeding frenzy; a scene out of the movie, ‘The Hunger Games.’ We all wanted our pages ASAP so we didn’t loose the veterans. It was high intensity. It was like survival, I just wanted to keep those guys in sight.

barkley

IC: From following the race, a nail in the coffin was the weather. You had some really horrible stuff thrown at you.

JC: We did! It was calm at the start but then it started raining and it didn’t let up. We then had snow and high winds on the peaks. It really took people out. Either they weren’t prepared or it was so cold that they goy hypothermic.

IC: Your strategy was to follow so that you could get around loop-1. Did that work for you?

JC: Yes it did but I was working too hard for so early in the race. I sort of had no choice… I stayed with the group and made it around without too much issue. It was a good strategy.

IC: How difficult was the terrain? We hear the stories, we see some pictures and of course a movie is imminent about the Barkley. I have also interviewed avid Horton, Nick Hollon and Jared Campbell. They all say it’s your worse nightmare… it rips you up and it has so much climbing. Is it that bad?

©karenjackson

©karenjackson

JC: Yes for sure. The course is designed to push you to your limits and then find out what happens when you reach that point. You are going through wood, cross-country, you rock climb, you try to traverse muddy climbs, you go through briers that rip you apart and the mud, oh the mud; I think I will have nightmares about the mud. It was just crazy. Plus everything was so steep. I had done calculations and compared it to Hardrock 100. I am used to that terrain but some of these climbs are just like mountain climbing. I used poles on loop-2 and 3 and you are just digging in, pulling, grabbing trees, whatever you can to keep going. You feel like you will fall off!

IC: Stats show for the full race that it has almost 60,000 ft. of vertical in comparison to 33,000 for Hardrock. That’s just crazy… even Nolan’s had 45,000ft. In the fun run you will have around 37,000ft.

JC: The loops are little subjective. They say the loops are 20-miles but they are more 24-25 miles.

IC: What time did you do the first loop in?

JC: We started at 0645 so I guess just a little over 9-hours. I think 5 of us came in together.

IC: Okay, that’s pretty good.

©karenjackson

©karenjackson

JC: We were going to do a 20-min turnaround but I headed out first. I wanted a head start and I felt they were stronger than me.

IC: Did you alternate for this loop?

JC: No, loops 1 and 2 are the same direction, 3 and 4 or the opposite direction and 5 is your choice but it depends if you are with someone else for the last loop. They won’t allow 2-people to do the same loop.

IC: With 1-loop done did you feel confident to retrace or is it not that easy?

JC: I felt comfortable for parts. In the middle in the mountains it started to get tough. The f1st loop went so quickly with so many little changes, left, right and so on. Plus it was going to be dark. My plan was to get as far as possible before darkness came. Lazarus the RD told us we needed to be prepared for a cold night. So, I took extra clothes and that was critical. I had enough gear. I must say, having been with people on loop-1 it was nice to be alone on loop-2 and use my skills to navigate. It was kind of exciting. I think I made it to book-4 with no issues.

IC: That’s good going. In the races history many don’t even get this far… mentally how difficult was it, so many different aspects; fatigue, navigation, temperatures which caused you the most distress?

JC: After book-4 it started to rain and sleet. I was getting cold and my hands were really cold. I was getting concerned and nervous. I was wondering to myself, I hope I can make it and then I saw lights! The group caught me. I would say that your body just gets sore. All the climbing adds up and you question, can I do this? The night, the conditions, it is just survival. The race has no aid stations, no helpers; you are against yourself and the elements. You are trying to stay alive.

IC: I guess that’s a bonus. Once you are on a loop you have no choice but to go to the end of at least that loop. I guess the problem comes when you get to the end of a loop. Making yourself go back out must be really tough… it’s a huge commitment.

JC: Oh yeah. Interestingly though, because it’s a big loop, the course is surrounded by groomed trail that they call ‘quitters roads.’ Literally you can be back in camp in a hour or so. It’s a huge mental challenge to quit. It’s easy to get out of a situation but it also makes it hard to go on. At the end of loop-2 I was not in a good shape. It was impossible to think of a 3rd loop. I knew it would take so long, I knew all the climbs that I would have to do and I was questioning how could I do it, and how could I get to the books.

IC: So you’re sitting with warm clothes, food and thinking of lap-3, what was happening around you, how many were left in the race.?

JC: Jared was already out on loop-3. We had seen him on the reverse loop at one of the book stations, 2nd I think, so we were near the end of our loop-2. Jared was hours ahead. I was with about 3-4 other guy’s. We had our little pack. As we approached the end of loop-2 we all discussed our plans. Nearly everyone was going to take a 1-hour break. I got back to camp but my crew would not let me stop. I was coming up with all sorts of excuses… my foot hurts, my ‘this’ hurts and so on. Deep down I didn’t want to quit but that is the Barkley game. I just kept doing what I was supposed to do; eat, caffeine, dry clothes and then I kind of just got moving again. I left with John Todd.

IC: Tough call eh, must have been so tempting to fall asleep and stay warm?

JC: A plus for sure was the weather, it was really improving, and it was something to look forward to. It really got me back out there to see it. I wasn’t sure if I would make the loop but I thought, get out, enjoy the day and see what happens.

IC: Did you do the final loop solo?

JC: I was mostly with John and Alan. We left loop-3 together and we just headed out and sort of took it as it came. We made the first book together and then we teamed up and worked book-to-book. Every now and again I took my own line but we always met up at books and we worked as a team, especially later. We were moving so slowly. We were going to be so close to the cut-off. We had a 40-hour cut off to hit and in comparison to our 9-hour 1st loop, the 3rd was taking 16-hours. The night and the poor weather had taken so much… we never made it back after that, we were depleted on calories. We each would lead on sections and do navigation, it was a push though for the last hours, last books. We knew we would be close.

IC: And your finishing time?

JC: We did 39:56, so we had 4-mins to spare…

IC: Yikes!

JC: Yep, very close.

IC: That must have been a pressured final hour?

JC: Hell yeah, the last book we had to get to had a climb called checkmate, it’s a super steep climb. We got to where the book should be but we couldn’t find the book. We kept walking past it and we had precious minutes to spare. We were panicking. The book was under a rock; it was in front of us but hidden. It sure added some drama. We ran the final 2-miles into camp. I think everyone in camp was more nervous than us!

IC: for sure, I was following on line and it was captivating, really touch and go.

JC: It was quite the experience. Nice to be under 40-hours.

IC: That would have been tough had you not made it.

JC: I was happy to get 3-loops. Under the time limit is a bonus.

IC: And you have the 3-loops are you tempted by 5?

JC: I am, yes! 

IC: Something sick in that decision I think!

JC: Yes. Beforehand I was doing the math and I thought I could do 5. But the reality was different. I didn’t do the course justice. I didn’t prepare. Jared had a 40,000ft vertical day in training over a 23-hour period getting ready for Barkley. That is insane! I am looking forward to doing proper training and heading back next year. Knowing the course helps too. I enjoyed being alone and navigating, I look forward to more of that.

IC: The 52-hour record for the 5-loops, do you think that will go down or do you think Lazarus will try to keep making the course harder?

©karenjackson

©karenjackson

JC: Apparently this year’s course is the toughest they have had. Only really a 5-looper could answer that. We had 13-books this year too which is the most they have had. It’s tough to say, Jared was in great shape and he did almost 58-hours. For me this year it would be tough to imagine 5-loops.

IC: Yes, it’s a different ball game. The mental and physical jump is massive. Can I ask about the course, Jared for example is a great runner and a great hiker? Is this course about being a great hiker?

JC: It’s a mix. You definitely need to be comfortable on steep and technical terrain. You need to be comfortable on rocks, trees, bushes and kind of efficiently moving around this ever-changing terrain. Hikers do really well. You just need lots of time outdoors on tough terrain.

IC: Is it possible to say what percentage you ran in comparison to hike?

JC: It was lots of hiking… I don’t know percentages. I certainly could have run more on loop-3. We definitely walked runnable sections due to fatigue. You can’t think too much, you just need to do what you can.

IC: What advice would you give to anyone who wants to attempt Barkley?

JC: Vertical and vertical. Go across country, don’t use trail, go rough trail and practice navigation. Also get used to carrying a pack, you will need a pack with additional clothing, food and water. Also get used to night and how to function in bad conditions. Be specific. I am certainly going to do lots and lots of vertical; Nick Hollon, Jared and many others confirm this.

IC: Finally, entry to Barkley is infamous, how do you get in?

JC: No.

IC: Funny…

JC: Exactly, you need to know people, talk to them, you need to be told how to get in. It is what it is. It’s a unique part of the event…

……..

Audio with Jamil Coury will be uploaded to Episode 59 of Talk Ultra available April 18th.

Jared Campbell will be on a future edition of the show discussing his 2014 victory

You can listen to Nickademus Hollon talk about Barkley HERE

 

Info:

The Barkley Marathons is a 100-mile run and a 60-mile ‘fun run’ held annually in Frozen Head State Park near Wartburg, Tennessee in late March or early April.

The course itself, which has changed distance, route, and elevation many times since its inaugural run in 1986, currently consists of a 20-mile (32 km) loop with no aid stations except water at two points along the route and the runner’s parked car at the beginning of the loop.

Runners of the 100 Mile version run this loop five times, with loops three and four being run in the opposite direction and loop five being runner’s choice. Runners of the 60 mile ‘fun run’ (considered to be harder than Hardrock) complete three circuits of the loop.

With 54,200 feet (16,500 m) of accumulated vertical climb, the 100 mile run is considered to be one of the more challenging ultramarathons held in the United States, if not the world.

In addition to running, competitors must find between nine to eleven books, the number varies per year, and remove the page corresponding to the runner’s race number from each book as proof of completion.

The cut-off time for the 100 mile race is 12 hours per loop, and the cut-off for the 60 mile version of the race is 40 hours overall, which averages out to approximately 13 hours and 20 minutes per loop. Since the race’s inception in 1986, only fourteen runners out of about 800 have completed the 100 mile race within the official 60 hour cut-off (Mark Williams 1995, David Horton and Blake Wood 2001, Ted “Cave Dog” Keizer 2003, Jim Nelson and Mike Tilden 2004, Brian Robinson 2008 (55:42:27), Andrew Thompson 2009, Jonathan Basham 2010, Brett Maune 2011, Brett Maune 52:03:08 (new course record), Jared Campbell 56:00:15, John Fegyveresi 59:41:21 for 2012, Nick Hollon 57:39:24, Travis Wildeboer 58:41:45 for 2013, Jared Campbell 57:53:20 for 2014).

In 2006 nobody finished even the 60 mile ‘fun run’ in under 40 hours. The best women’s achievement is Sue Johnston’s 66 miles (106 km) in 2001.

The race is limited to 35 runners and usually fills up quickly the day registration opens. Potential entrants must complete an essay on “Why I Should be Allowed to Run in the Barkley.” The race starts at different times each year and is signaled by the lighting of a cigarette.

The course was designed by Gary Cantrell. His idea for the race was inspired upon hearing about Martin Luther King, Jr‘s assassin James Earl Ray escaping from prison, and making it only 8 miles (13 km) after running 55 hours in the woods. Cantrell said to himself “I could do at least 100 miles.”

Thus, the Barkley Marathons was born.

Content @wikipedia

 

Ultra Running Review of the Year 2013

Rob Krar UROC ©iancorless.com

What an amazing time to be involved in the sport of ultra running! The once niche minority sport has exploded to greater heights and distances in 2013. No longer is a long beard and ‘Buff’ a pre requisite of ultra running (unless you’re Rob Krar). Clean cut, young, fast is the new ‘ultra runner’ mixing it up with the old guard.
Just think back to this time last year, had you heard of Zach Miller (not the Zach Miller, but, the Zach Miller; confused?), Michele YatesRob Krar, Magdalena Boulet and Xavier Thevenard.
Racing and the opportunity to race has also increased to the extent that it is now possible to race pretty much week in and week out for 12-months of the year. Of course, this brings pluses and minuses, certainly from an elite level, runners need to be far more savvy and race clever. You can no longer race month on month and expect to win. Races now have much higher quality fields and the pace is going up. The growth of Skyrunning has been instrumental in enticing a world audience to test runners of all abilities on tough, technical and high-terrain and the feedback has been incredible. UTWT have launched a series of races above the 100-km distance and in doing so have created a ‘trail’ circuit that offers multiple terrain in multiple locations all over the world. It will be interesting to see how the inaugural year goes when 2014 comes around.
So, what are the highlights of 2013?
Ultra Runner of the Year – Men and ladies
Rob Krar UROC ©iancorless.com
  • Lets start with Rob Krar. I interviewed Rob just after his incredible ‘FKT’ in the Grand Canyon early in 2013 when he put the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim record at another level. At the time we discussed Western States, he was intimidated by the ‘Super Bowl’ of ultra and his first 100-miler. “I’ll give it a shot and see what happens”. Well, if you hadn’t noticed Rob pre WSER you did afterwards. Your not supposed to run WSER and get 2nd overall in your first attempt. UROC, Ultra Race of Champions was the final of the Skyrunner Ultra World Series and for some reason they had bestowed upon themselves the title, ‘The Ultra Running World Championship’. Mmmmm well, it certainly had a quality field but ‘World Championship’? I don’t think so. In the end it came down to a head-to-head between Dakota Jones and Rob Krar. Dakota looked as though he had it sewn up but on the final descent, Rob unleashed a pace that Dakota went on to say was ‘just crazy’. Rob took the win and a pattern was forming. We were all a little surprised to see Rob’s name on the start list for JFK50, primarily with TNF50 in San Francisco just two weeks later. As it happened, Rob dropped at around the 41-mile mark and went on to say that it was either ‘a great training run for TNF50 or the worst decision he had made in a while.’ It was a great training run! Rob ran a super calm, collected and mature race in San Francisco and when he took the front in the last fifth of the race he released a pace that was just incredible. Without doubt my ultra runner of the year!
Kilian Jornet and the Matterhorn ©iancorless.com
  • Of course, you can’t talk about male ultra runner and not mention Kilian Jornet. Kilian is a phenomenon. He is the star of our sport. Once again he was crowned Skyrunner World Ultra Series Champion with wins at Transvulcania and Ice Trail Tarentaise. In addition to this, Kilian was also champion of the ‘Sky’ series with 4 wins; ZegamaMont-BlancMatterhorn Ultraks and Limone Extreme. Add this a couple VK’s, a win at Canazei Sky race for the European Championships and a win at Trans D’Havet for the ‘Ultra’ Skyrunning European Championships and you would say the deal is done! But wait-a-minute, we haven’t mentioned his records for his ‘Summits’ project. A stunning new FKT for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc-Chamonix but arguably THE highlight of the year was his Matterhorn Summit. It was a sublime and surreal performance that put going to the mountains light on another level. It was without doubt my ‘moment’ of the year. You can read my ‘Matterhorn Summits Interview’ with Kilian here. Kilian is the most complete athlete I know.

Michele Yates - iancorless.com ©bradclayton

Michele Yates – iancorless.com ©bradclayton

  • Michele Yates hadn’t run an ultra before 2013. Who would have thought that Ms Figure Colorado 2008 would be such an awesome talent? Well her history shows that she is a 2x Olympic Trials Marathon Competitor, she has 9 marathon wins and PB of 2:38:37. To say Michele burst on the ultra scene would be an underestimation. Her win at Indiana Trail 100 (17:35:18) almost went unnoticed but then taking top spot and the $10,000 prize at Run Rabbit Run suddenly made every one stop, look around and take notice. Placing 3rd at UROC was another sign that Michele was no one trick pony but just like Rob Krar, Michele sealed a quality 2013 with a win at TNF50. She started that race from the front and never relinquished the lead until the line. Is Michele female ultra runner of the year? Well, I would have said yes. That is until the weekend of Dec 13th/ 14th(Listen to interview with Michele on the Christmas show of Talk Ultra, Ep51 out Dec 27th)
  • Pam Smith victorious at Western States turned up at the Desert Solstice track meet run by Aravaipa Running and not only took out the win for 12-hours on the track but set a new female record for 100-miles, 14:11:26. Take your pick, Michele or Pam; it’s a tough call.
Emelie Forsberg ©iancorless.com
  • But wait a minute, what about Emelie Forsberg. Emelie arrived on the run scene in 2012 and instantly had success, continually placing top-3 with Anna Frost and Nuria Picas. However the break through moment came ironically this time last year, she won TNF50 in San Francisco. This seemed to change everything, Emelie arrived at Transvulcania in May 2013 and won, she followed this up with a win in ZegamaCanazeiIce Trail TarentaiseMatterhorn UltraksUROC and then went on to run her first 100-miler at the super tough Diagonale de Fous (Raid de la Reunion) and place 2nd. Do you want to vote against Emelie?
Performances of the Year
tnfutmb 2013 ©iancorless.com
  • Rory Bosio blasted around the TNFUTMB course and in the process not only obliterated the female record but placed 7th overall. Her performance was nothing short of miraculous.
  • Jon Olson set a new American record for 100-miles on the track and then just as the year came to a close, Zach Bitter broke the record with an 11:47:21 but maybe even more important, Zach set a new World Record for 12-hours (101.66 miles) beating a Yiannis Kouros record. That does not happen very often! (Zach Bitter will be in the Christmas episode of Talk Ultra, Ep 51 out Dec 27th here)
  • I have already mention Kilian and the Matterhorn but it was so good I am mentioning it twice!
  • Timothy Olson went back to Western States and won again. You can win a race once but going back and doing it again is always a true sign of a champion.
  • Seb Chaigneau took a win and CR at Hardrock 100.
  • Nickademus Hollon became the youngest person ever to not only complete Barkley but also win it. You can listen to his interview on Talk Ultra here.
Julien Chorier Ronda dels Cims ©iancorless.com
  • Julien Chorier produced a sublime and calculated performance at the super tough Ronda dels Cims. It was a joy and a pleasure to watch someone control and dominate a race from the front and look good all the way.
  • Sage Canaday, jeez I missed him out and he definitely deserves a mention for BanderaTarawera, Transvulcania (3rd), Lake Sonoma and Speedgoat 50k.
 
Francesca Canepa ©iancorless.com
  • Francesca Canepa once again had an incredible year with a great performance at Ronda dels Cims but arguably a repeat win at Tor des Geants places her well and truly at the top on ‘endurance’ lady of the year!
  • Iker Karrera nailed Tor des Geants.
  • Ricky Lightfoot went over to South Africa and raced at The Otter and not only won but put the course record at a new level, in addition he won the IAU World Title in Wales.
 
tnfutmb 2013 ©iancorless.com
  • Xavier Thevenard took everyone, including himself, by surprise at TNFUTMB with a controlled and impressive performance against some top competition.
Jez Bragg TNFUTMB ©iancorless.com
  • Jez Bragg completed the Te Araroa in New Zealand. An incredible journey from the northern tip of New Zealand all the way down to the southern tip. Listen here.
  • David Johnston completed the Iditarod trail Invitational in 4 days 19 hours 13 mins.Crazy fast.
  • Ian Sharman and Nick Clark went head-to-head in the Grand Slam of Ultra Running and produced possibly the most exciting competition of 2013. The pair of them produced incredibly consistent performances and showed us all that it is possible to race four 100-milers back-to-back. They didn’t only ‘complete’ but they competed. They both won a race and were never out of the front rankings. Ian Sharman ultimately had the icing on the cake with the overall fastest time and a new Grand Slam record. Respect! Interview with Ian Sharman here.
  • Paul Giblin at the West Highland Way race. 15:07 and good beating of Terry Conway’s previous CR.
Stevie Kremer Limone Extreme ©iancorless.com
  • Stevie Kremer doesn’t do ultras but she is a darn fine trail and mountain runner and what ‘Pocket Rocket’ achieved in 2013 is nothing short of miraculous. Can’t wait to see what 2014 has in store.
  • Ed Catmur has continued to knock out some great 100-mile performances on the GB scene with wins at North Downs Way and the Winter 100.
  • Lizzie Wraith new female CR for the Lakeland 100 in the UK.
  • William Sichel keeps running and running crazy distances and setting new records.
  • Jonas Buud didn’t win Comrades in 2013 but he ran one of the best paced races I’ve ever witnessed. He was way back in the late 30’s and slowly moved up to 3rd. Wow! Notable mention to Brit ladies, Joanna Zakrezewski and Holly Rush who placed top-10.
Surprises of the Year
  • Rob Krar – Just one word sums up the bearded warrior ‘Krarnage’.
  • Zach Miller – no, not Zach Miller, but Zach Miller. Zach rocked up at JFK50, nobody knew him and he didn’t know anyone else. He took over the lead when Rob Krar dropped at mile 41. Not only did he win but also he set the 3rd fastest time ever. Interview with Zach here.
  • Xavier Thevenard – TNFUTMB was going to be won by Anton KrupickaMiguel HerasJulien ChorierSeb Chaigneau or Mike Foote. Somebody should have told them all about CCC winner, Xavier.
  • Michele Yates – wow, what a first year in the ultra world.
Who and what to watch out for in 2014
Cameron Clayton UROC ©iancorless.com
  • Cameron Clayton has found his feet, 2013 had some mixed performances but when everything aligns he races with the best. His TransvulcaniaUROC and TNF50 performances without doubt elevates him to ‘hot’ for 2014.
Luis Alberto Hernando Haria Extreme ©iancorless.com
  • Luis Alberto Hernando pushed Kilian close at Transvulcania, Zegama, finished joint first at Trans D’havet and won at Cavalls del Vent. In 2014 he plans to race TNFUTMB, now that will be interesting.
  • Magdalena Boulet had an ultra debut at TNF50 and placed 2nd. This sub 2:30 marathon runner may turn a few heads in 2014.
  • Brit, Stuart Air may raise a few eyebrows in 2014. He had a solid Ronda dels Cims, Ice Trail Tarentaise and Tor des Geants and for 2014 he has a Hardrock 100 slot!
  • Hardrock 100 had it’s draw and suddenly much of the WSER ‘lottery’ chat shifted focus to the field up at Silverton. The 2014 race is a classic in the making with Kilian JornetSebastian ChaigneauJulien ChorierJoe Grant and more. Excited? Just a little.
  • The Skyrunning World Championships take place in Chamonix with runners from all over the world coming to race VK, SKY and ULTRA in one of the endurance capitals of the world.
  • Beards – the jury is out. Are beards fast or slow? Rob Krar, Timmy Olson and ‘Clarky’ are certainly great advocates for hairy running but Kilian, Cameron, Sage provide a strong counter argument. What are your thoughts?
And finally…
 
A review of any year is going to be personal. Without doubt we will all have our own highlights and favourite moments, so, I would love to read your thoughts.
Please use the form below.
Ian Corless ETR ©iancorless.com
On a personal note, 2013 was an incredible year, I feel blessed with all the opportunities I have had. To witness many of the moments I write about is a great pleasure. Of course, it’s nothing without you folks reading, looking at my photographs or listening to my podcast.
A very BIG thank you from me.
Happy Christmas and a wonderful 2014 awaits us all…
LINKS:
Photography from 2013 races HERE
IMAGES book HERE
Calendar HERE
Podcasts HERE