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Episode 180 – Christmas Show with Speedgoat Karl, Zach Bitter and Beth Pascall

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Episode 180 of Talk Ultra brings you our Christmas Show and three in-depth chats with Speedgoat Karl all about 100’s. Setting a 100-mile WR with Zach Bitter and an incredible 2019 with Beth Pascall.
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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
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00:01:28 SPEEDGOAT KARL talks about winning 42 100-mile races.
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01:14:00 ZACH BITTER discusses his amazing 100-mile world record.
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02:14:00 BETH PASCALL talk about her amazing 2019 running Western States, UTMB and victory at Ultra Trail Capetown.
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Watch ‘WRATH‘ featuring Damian Hall and Beth Pascall HERE
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03:00:00
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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.
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Stitcher You can listen on iOS HERE, Android HERE or via a web player HERE
Website – talkultra.com

Hardrock 100 2017 Preview

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As races go, the Hardrock 100 has anticipation and attention way beyond its relatively diminutive size – less than 150 runners will toe the line in 2017! However, as those who have run the race confirm, Colorado’s San Juan Mountains and the Hardrock 100 route is something to embrace. If proof were needed, Kilian Jornet has run and won the race three times and he will be back again in 2017. For Kilian, the course is tough, beautiful, offers a challenge but maybe more importantly, it’s low-key. He can turn up, walk around, race and have little of the media and fan frenzy he would get in Europe, irrespective of the size of the race. Kilian’s Salomon teammate Anna Frost also confirms that this area of the USA is something pretty darn special – so much so she currently calls Durango her home.

It’s a high altitude race, with much of the race taking place above 3000m and the high point coming around 4200m. In total, the runners climb and over 10.000m whilst covering 100 challenging miles.

Last year, Anna Frost topped the ladies podium and Jason Schlarb and Kilian Jornet were the joint male winners, all three therefore are guaranteed an entry for 2017 and all three have confirmed participation but Anna Frost is still unsure if she will toe the line – more on that later.

It’s a constant frustration for me that we never see a fully stacked field at Hardrock. Don’t get me wrong, there is always plenty of class up at the front but it often feels that the winner will come from a small and select group of 4 or 5 runners. I think we all know that so many top elite runners would love to toe the line but the Hardrock lottery is against them – I guess it does add some charm and anticipation to the race.

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I don’t think we will see Kilian Jornet hold hands this year but I do anticipate he will spend much of the race in the company of 1 or 2 runners until beyond the midway point – it’s a big day out for Kilian in an awesome place and he enjoys the company. Of course, he may be enticed by setting a super fast time? If he does, then we can expect him to hit the front alone maybe somewhere around half-way, if not, he may take the race by the horns in the final quarter. Whatever he decides, Kilian will win barring an accident.

Jason Schlarb has dined out on crossing the line at the 2016 Hardrock for one year and who can blame him. He has done something that so few can do, keep up with the Catalan. Earlier this year Jason raced The Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica with a solid run and then he recently placed just inside the top-10 at Transvulcania. For the last month or so he’s been in the San Juans preparing and it’s fair to assume he will be ready for battle.

Read HERE

Listen HERE and HERE

Iker Karrera is an interesting addition to the 2017 line-up and after being a ‘one-to-watch’ at so many races in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015, I can’t help but feel Iker’s been a little awol for the last 18-months and that leaves a question mark. Iker on his day is one of the best there is, especially at long distance races with loads of vert – he won Tor des Geants in 2013 for example. If he has the form that provided him with 2nd at UTMB in 2014 then we have an interesting race on our hands.

Karl Meltzer has won Hardrock five times and he’s back. He will be the first to admit he doesn’t have the speed to keep up with Kilian but Speedgoat is a fox. He appears to have recovered well post his Appalachian Trail FKT and he’s been sensible by not rushing things. He won Zane Grey 50 which prompted me and Speedgoat to confirm, ‘there is life in the old dog yet!’ If he’s feeling good, he has the long game to put on a great race and few can keep up with Speedgoat’s hiking pace – an essential skill for Hardrock. The AT HERE

Mike Foote is another mystery for this years race. Not that I or you have to question who he is, the question is more about his form? Ever since he did his FKT project with Mike Wolfe, Foote seems to have raced a little on the back burner. Having said that, mountain races are his thing and he has a long list of impressive results at UTMB and he has been 2nd at Hardrock. He will start slow and then move up making up places and time in the final third.

Nick Pedatella was 4th at Hardrock in 2012 but I know little of his current form. Experience alone and a top-5 performance in the past makes him someone to make a note of.

Adam Campbell was 3rd at Hardrock in 2015 and 2014. As many of you will know, Adam was wiped out of 2016 with a near death accident. Read HERE. No pressure on Adam in 2017 and I’ll make no guesses or predictions, to see Adam toe the line will be a wonderful sight and one that he and many of us thought would not happen. Read HERE

Mr Hardrock, Joe Grant, is back again! The lottery gods love Joe and Joe loves Hardrock. He placed 2nd in 2012 and in many respects, that podium place set Joe up for the runner who he is today. I say runner, but I feel Joe goes beyond the tag of ultra-runner and I see him more of an adventurer. He’s taken on some huge challenges over the years, examples coming with the Iditarod, his Colorado 14ers FKT and expeditions via bike. Pretty sure Joe will treat Hardrock as another awesome adventure in the mountains and if things go well, we can see him in or around the top-5.

Other names to watch to be in and around the top-10 are: Mike Wardian, Coury brothers (Jamil and Nick), Grant Guise and Scott Jaime.

LADIES

Anna Frost has won the race the last 2-years and who would want to bet against her? Frosty when in form is unstoppable and when she is not in form, she can often dig deeper than any other runner I know. I was with Frosty in Costa Rica (Read HERE) and spending much time chatting – I was well aware that she was switching into a new phase of her life. At Zegama-Aizkorri she participated but was way off the top-10 and at Ultra SkyMarathon Madeira she dropped. All things considered, I think Frosty’s prep for this years Hardrock is behind where she would like it to be and therefore she has three choices: 1. She will run because she loves the course and wants to irrespective of placing. 2. She will think that she can win it and be mentally prepared for the pain that will be required or 3. She’s over it and can’t get herself set up for the physical and mental challenge it will bring. Of course, the only descent thing to do was ask Frosty… “I’m doing Hardrock! It’s been a mental and physical battle this year but one I am winning right now. Definitely not on competitive form but I am doing HR because I love it! ….I’ll get it done! It deserves that.” So. it looks like it’s no1.

Caroline Chaverot is probably putting the fear of god in the ladies’ competition. In 2016 this French lady was unstoppable and for me was the stand out runner, male or female, in 2016. The depth of here ability incredible, her range (long or short) her skill (fast or mountainous) was unmatched. 2017 kicked off with a rough patch and an early withdrawal from Transgrancanaria, what followed was some quiet time away and then boom, she was back with victory at Maxi-Race Annecy and most recently, Lavaredo. Her victory at UTMB last year sets her up perfectly for Hardrock and I think she will win the race.

Nathalie Mauclair, also from France, can’t be ruled out of the podium places but her recent form seems a little below recent years. She was 2nd at Marathon des Sables earlier this year. Her record at Diagonale des Fous, champion in 2013 and 2014, is the best indicator of success in the San Juans.

The wild card goes to local girl, Hannah Green who has been training her butt off and is super strong and young. She may lack experience but has heart and if she can hold on and manage herself she could do it and be up on the podium. (Hot tip from Frosty)

Three time winner Darcy Piceu (formerly Africa) gave Frosty a battle in 2015 with a really strong run – Frosty triumphed with a late surge. Missing the race last year, it’s fair to assume that Darcy will be fired up for a great run. She has the experience, no question, not sure she has the speed of an in form Frost, Chaverot or Mauclair.

Darla Askew is the last prime contender for a win and podium – she’s placed 2nd before and that is backed up with two 3rd places.

Ones to watch – Jamie Frink, Betsy Kalmeyer, Tina Ure and Rachel Bucklin.

A Year of Podcasting

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2014 Podcast
A year comes to an end and with it an opportunity to look back. Talk Ultra podcast has a 3-year anniversary in January… Yes, 3-years!
The show has come a long way in those 36+ months and I have to say I am very proud of what we have created. The running community have been extremely supportive of the show and this has been reflected in 1000’s and 1000’s of downloads for every show all over the world. Over 162 countries! Little did we know way back in 2011 that a 3-hour plus show that talked about running would be so popular.
Our guests have always been and always will be a who’s who of ultra running. In our very small way, Talk Ultra is creating an audio history of our sport at arguably one of its most exciting periods of it’s development.
Needless to say, we thank each and every interviewee who has been so generous of their time.
Talk Training, Smiles and Miles with Emelie Forsberg, A Meltzer Moment, The News, A Blog, Up & Coming Races and so on all add up to something quite unique but we don’t want to be complacent… not at all. We will always be looking for new ways to make the show that little bit better!
Speedgoat Karl Meltzer has been an invaluable co-host. Speedgoat says it like it is and with his history in the sport, who is going to argue with him? Injecting humour, experience and a unique perspective on the world of ultra, Speedgoat is a pleasure to work with. Thanks Karl!  When Mr Meltzer has been ‘off the radar’ I have had the pleasure of some stunning stand in co-hosts: Stevie Kremer, Holly Rush, Mike Wolfe, Kurt Decker and Niandi Carmont to name just a few.
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You can catch up on the last 3-years of shows HERE
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To keep things nice and simple, I have provided a summary and links to all the 2014 shows below – Episode 52 to Episode 77.
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Just look at the list of names that have appeared in 2014…
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Ellie Greenwood Max King Joe Grant Grant Maughan Lisa Smith Batchen Iain Don Wauchope Tina Lewis Timothy Olson Landie Greyling Julia Boettger Gary Robbins Adrian Saffy Michael de Haast Mimi Anderson Samantah Gash Luke Nelson Emelie Forsberg Marc Laithwaite Niandi Carmont Stevie Kremer Kim Collison Charlie Sproson Jason Schlarb Donnie Campbell Claus Rasmussen Frosty Ty Draney Caine Warburton Lizzy Hawker Sam Robson Adam Schwarz-Lowe Eirik Haugsness Daniel Doherty Kurt Decker Marco De Gasperi Kilian Jornet Adam Campbell David Johnston William Sichel Debbie Martin Consani Jo Meek Torill Fonn Rob Krar Kasie Enman Simon Forbes Renee McGregor Anton Krupicka Steve Birkinshaw Tom Owens Mark Perkins Ricardo Almeida Nicky Spinks Morgan Williams The African Attachment Greg Fell Richard Fluck Mike Wardian Nick Clark Holly Rush Rickey Gates Mike Foote Marcus Scotney Steve Spiers Robbie Britton Danny Kendall Bertie Portal Jamil Coury Jared Campbell Ryan Sandes Clare Walton Jennifer Steiman Scott Jurek Casey Morgan Fernanda Maciel Sebastien Chaigneau Rin Cobb Vlad Ixel Pavel Paloncy Johan Van De Merwe Joe Fejes Jon Steele Gemma Slaughter

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So, what are some of my highlights of 2014? Always a difficult one as every guest is special, but here are a few I really enjoyed for so many varied reasons.
Pavel Paloncy in Episode 53
David Johnston in Episode 57
Jared Campbell in Episode 59
Rickey Gates in Episode 61
Morgan Williams in Episode 63
Anton Krupicka and Steve Birkinshaw in Episode 65
Rob Krar in Episode 66
William Sichel in Episode 68
Kilian Jornet and Marco De Gasperi in Episode 69
Jason Schlarb in Episode 72
Luke Nelson in Episode 74
Tina Lewis and Timmy Olson in Episode 76
and finally,
Episode 77 was a super packed show.
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Please remember the show is available on STITCHER, iTUNES, RSS
Go to our Facebook page HERE and ‘Like’ us
please ‘Follow’ us on Twitter @talkultra
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Episode 77  It’s our Christmas Special. Ian and Karl discuss 2014 and some of our highlights. We have in depth interviews with Ellie Greenwood, Max King, Joe Grant and Grant Maughan. Importantly, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We thank you for your continued support and look forward to joining you on your ultra journies in 2015.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 76 has a catch up interview with Lisa Smith Batchen on her Badwater Quad. We speak with Iain Don Wauchope about his record breaking Salomon SkyRun and we have two inspiring  chats with Tina Lewis and Timmy Olson. The news, Up and Coming Races and Speedboat Karl.
Episode 75 is all about the Salomon Skyrun and South Africa. We bring an interview with the ladies winner Landie Greyling. We also talk with the ladies 2nd place, Julia Boettger. Gary Robbins placed 2nd overall and discusses in-depth his race and co hosts the show. We bring sounds from Moketsi Game Ranch, experiences from Cape Town and talk Skyrun with Adrian Saffy and Michael de Haast.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 74 has Mimi Anderson and Samantha Gash talking about their epic South African journey. Luke Nelson talk about his running career, recent 100-mile success and how going out hard can pay off! Emelie Forsberg is back for Smiles & Miles and Marc Laithwaite talks the long run in Talk Training. The News, a Blog, up & Coming races and Niandi Carmont co-hosts.
Episode 73 and on this weeks show we speak with Skyrunner World Series Champ and Mourne Skyline winner, Stevie Kremer. Kim Collison tells us all about his running and his great 2014 season. Landie Greyling discusses running in South Africa and the up and coming Salomon SkyRun. In Talk Training it is episode 3 of our navigation special with Charlie Sproson, the News, a Blog, Up & Coming races and Speedgoat Karl talks busting quads. 
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 72 has a full and in-depth interview with Jason Schlarb after his recent 4th place at the 2014 UTMB. Donnie Campbell talks about his running career and winning the recent 3×3 80km in the UK and Claus Rasmussen talk about running Spartathlon… in sandals. The News a Blog, UP & Coming Races and Speedgoat Karl.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 71 we speak to Frosty who not only ran her first 100-miler but won it with a new CR. Ty Draney talks about his career and we discuss running the Bear 100… twice! Caine Warburton discusses running in the Southern Hemisphere and the comparisons with Europe. Lizzy Hawker announces a race and Sam Robson tells us what it’s like being the first Brit at the iconic Spartathlon. The News, a Blog, Up and Coming races and Speedgoat.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 70 we speak with the winner of Superior 100, Adam Schwarz-Lowe, Eirik Haugsness talks Tromso Skyrace and Daniel Doherty tells us all about placing in the top-10 at Tor des Geants. Talk Training has part 2 of our Navigation 101 and we have the News, a Blog, Up & Coming Races and I am pleased to say… Speedgoat is back as co host with an in-depth chat on his AT attempt.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 69 is going to be a little different… we are recording live from a RV in the middle of Minneapolis. My co host is Kurt Decker from Twin Cities Running Co. This weeks interviews are quite special, we speak with Italian mountain running legend, Marco De Gaspreri and man of the moment, Kilian Jornet. The news a blog and the up and coming races.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 68 Adam Campbell talks about Hardrock 100 and that lightning strike. David Johnston discusses 6-days in the Dome. William Sichel tells us what it is like to run 3100-miles in 50-days and in Talk Training we discuss basic navigation. The News, a Blog, Up & Coming races and Niandi Carmont co-hosts.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 67 On this weeks show we speak with Lakeland 100 and Lakeland 50 winners, Debbie Martin Conasani and Jo Meek. We speak with Norwegian powerhouse, Torill Fonn about her recent world record for running 374.999km’s in 48-hours. Julia Böttger joins us for a catch up and tells us about her running journey in Turkey and winning Ronda dels Cims. We have the News, a Blog, Up & Coming Races, Emelie Forsberg for Smile and Miles and Niandi Carmont once again joins us as co host.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 66 on this weeks show e catch up with Rob Krar after his incredible Western States. Kasie Enman is on the comeback trail after her 2nd child and we chat after a stellar 2nd place at Speedgoat 50k. Simon Forbes just this last weekend won Race to the Stones in the UK… a great result but Simon has an incredible story. In Talk Training we talk nutrition with Renee McGregor. The News, a Blog, Smile and Miles with Emelie Forsberg, Up and Coming Races and Pocket Rocket is back… Stevie Kremer.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 65 On this weeks show we speak with Anton Krupicka about injury, Hardrock 100, Lavaredo Ultra Trail, future plans and the Bob Graham Round. Steve Birkinshaw recently set a new FKT for the Wainwrights. An epic journey in the Lakeland fells, Steve tells us all about it. Brit Tom Owens made the podium in the Skyrunning World Champs and we chat about the past 18-months and the future. Emelie talks smilesandmiles, a website, news, up and coming races.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 64 Lisa Smith-Btachen tells us all about her incredible career and the challenge of running Badwater 135 4-times back-to-back with 2 Mt Whitney ascents. Mark Perkins discusses his win and CR at SDW100. Ricardo Almeida gives us a minimalist viewpoint of Comrades. Claus Rasmussen discusses minimal running and tells us of an up and coming challnege and Marc Laithwaite is back in Talk Training. The News, a Blog, Up and Coming Races and of course, Speedgoat Karl.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 63 We have a great interview with Queen of the Fells, Nicky Spinks. An in-depth interview with Morgan Williams all about the Bob Graham Round and we speak to Greg Fell from The African Attachment about what it’s like producing iconic ‘trail’ films such as Travailen, Wandering Fever and the Salomon series of films. We also catch up with Jo Meek on that incredible 5th place at Comrades and in Talk Training, we speak with the UK’s expert, Richard Fluck on kidneys and the effects of NSAID’s. The News, a Blog, Up & Coming races and Speedgoat is back from the wilderness….
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 62 a Comrades Special show. We have a full and in-depth interview with Mike Wardian who is looking for a top-10 placing. Live from Durban, we speak to Jo Meek who is having her first experience of this race. Nick Clark joins us to discuss UTMF, WSER and the up and coming Salomon Skyrun South Africa. We have a ladies perspective on running with children in Talk Training. The News, a Blog and joining me as a special Comrades co-host we have 2013 7th placed lady, Holly Rush. Importantly, this show is dedicated to Manya Claassen – RIP
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 61 of Talk Ultra – Anna Frost tells us all about the incredible comeback at Transvulcania. Rickey Gates talks running in the UK with Scott Jurek and the Bob Graham Round. Eirik Haugsnes discusses his 2014 season and Emelie Forsberg is back in smilesandmiles with a sore hand. Michael de Haast, race director for the Salomon SkyRun in South Africa talks us through the course and tells us about a great opportunity. The News, a Blog, Up and Coming Races and our favourite, Pocket Rocket, Stevie Kremer co-hosts the show.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 60 of Talk Ultra – This weeks show has an interview with one of the best ‘closers’ in the ultra scene, Mike Foote. We have a series of interviews from the Iznik Ultra series of races, Marcus Scotney from the 130k, Jo Meek from the 80k and Robbie Britton from the marathon. We speak to British Bulldog, Steve Spiers. Marc Laithewaite is back for Talk Training. News, a Blog, Up and Coming Races and of course, Speedgoat Karl. 03:09:50
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 59 of 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.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 58 of Talk Ultra – Ryan Sandes discusses his record breaking FKT on the DrakTraverse with Ryno Griesel. Danny Kendall and Bertie Portal discuss Marathon des Sables in the days before the 29th edition starts and 2nd placed lady at Tarawera, Claire Walton talks about her running, Tarawera and what the future holds. Talk Training is a Comrades special with Holly Rush, a Blog, the News, Up & Coming Races and of course, Speedgoat.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 57 of Talk Ultra – David Jonston gives us a blow-by-blow account of his record breaking run at the ITI350 (Iditarod Trail Invitational), Ellie Greenwood talks about her comeback run and win at Chuckanut 50 and her plans for 2014. We speak with Jennifer Steiman, Director of the Desert Runners Movie and Samantha Gash who appeared in the film. Team inov-8 provide some chat from the 2014 athlete retreat and Emelie Forsberg brings us smilesandmiles, a Blog, the News, Up and Coming Races and of course Speedgoat! It’s a stacked show.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 56 of Talk Ultra is a Transgrancanaria special. We have am in-depth interview w/ race winner Ryan Sandes. Chat w/ Scott Jurek, Casey Morgan, Fernanda Maciel and Sebastien Chaigneau. In addition, we have Danny Kendall, top-10 Brit for the 2013 MDS talk about his preparation for this years race. The News, a Blog and Up & Coming Races.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 55 of Talk Ultra – We have a Coastal Challenge special with an interview with male overall winner, Mike Wardian. Jo Meek, ladies overall winner talks about her training and preparation for the TCC race and Nick Clark discusses how stage racing compares to 100-milers. We have an interview with the 2013 ITI350 winner and recent Susitna 100 winner and new course record holder, David Johnston before he embarks, once again on the ITI350 just one week after his impressive Susitna win! A special Talk Training on nutrition specific to Marathon des Sables with Rin Cobb (PND Consulting). Emelie Forsberg is back for smilesandmiles and of course we have the News, Up and Coming Races and Speedgoat Karl Meltzer.
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 54 of Talk Ultra – Gary Robbins once again returned to the tough and gnarly Hurt 100 and came away with another victory, in this weeks show he tells us all about it and his plans for 2014. HK100 took place just a couple of weeks ago and young Australian sensation, Vlad Ixel placed 3rd overall in a top quality field, we interviewed him about his running and what the future hold. Talk Training as ‘Hint’s n Tips for running from Speedgoat himsel, the News, a Blog, Up and Coming races.. another great show in store!
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 53 of Talk Ultra is once again a packed show… We have two interviews from the Montane Spine race, regarded as one of the toughest races out there. We speak with Pavel Paloncy who won the 268-mile event with a new course record and Marcus Scotney who won the 106-mile Challenger event. We also speak with South African long distance runner, Johan Van De Merwe about ultra running in South Africa and his new African 24-hour record. The News, a Blog, Talk Training, Up & Coming Races, Smiles and Miles and Speedgoat is back from the Love Boat!
Website – talkultra.com
Episode 52 – We have a full show with two in-depth interviews about running really long… Joe Fejes recently won the Aravaipa Running 6-day event, Across the Years by clocking up 555+ miles and beating running legend, Yiannis Kouros in the process. By contrast, we speak to UK runner Jon Steele who tackled ‘The Hill’ ultra; 160-miles of hill rips on a 2.9m course in under 48-hours. Gemma Slaughter, The Coastal Challenge winner from 2013 talks to us about her expectations as she prepares for the 2014 edition. Emelie Forsberg is back for smilesandmiles, Marc is with us for Talk Training and believe it or not, Speedgoat is on a cruise! That’s great for Talk Ultra as we have the lovely Stevie Kremer joining us as co host.
Website – talkultra.com
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THANK YOU FOR THE AMAZING SUPPORT
Ian & Speedgoat

SPEEDGOAT, GRANT, DON-WAUCHOPE : The Coastal Challenge 2015

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TCC Men 2015

In just 30-days, the 2015 multi-day The Coastal Challenge will get underway. It’s an exciting prospect! We recently announced the female top runners – ANNA FROST, NIKKI KIMBALL, SAMANTHA GASH and VERONICA BRAVO. Today we announce the men’s field:

 SPEEDGOAT KARL MELTZER

JOE GRANT

IAIN DON WAUCHOPE

Race director, Rodrigo Carazo and the TCC team have once again excelled in providing a top quality elite line up making The Coastal Challenge the ‘must-do’ multi-day stage race in the world.

The ‘TCC’ is a supported race. Each day base camp is moved ahead and awaits the runner’s arrival at the finish. Equipment is kept to a minimum allowing runners to travel light and fast.

Karl Meltzer

Karl Meltzer (Hoka One One/ Red Bull) affectionately known as Speedgoat needs to introduction to the ultra world. He is Mr Ultra Running. A professional runner since 1999, Speedgoat has won more 100-mile races than any other runner on the planet. Ironically, he says he has never run a multi-stage race but he has completed the Appalachian Trail and the Pony Express Trail.

In 2006, Speedgoat won 6 100-mile races and the award Ultra Runner of the Year! A strong and fierce competitor, Speedgoat is one of the most respected ultra athletes in the world and his presence at the 2015 The Coastal Challenge is a great honour.

©copyright .iancorless.com.iancorless.comP1060905cavallsdelvent

Joe Grant (Arc’teryx, inov-8, Buff) is a Brit who grew up in France who now lives in the USA. A passionate writer and photographer, he has gained a reputation as an adventurer. He has a passion for moving fast and light over long distances and although he has never run a multiple day race, he has experienced epic races such as the Iditarod and Tor des Geants.

Placing 2nd at the 2012 Hardrock 100 is almost certainly a highlight in his career, however, he is a man who is all about experiencing a race in it’s entirety. “I see my life as a continuum of experience, perpetually in motion, changing and becoming, a confluence of ideas, people and places. The happenings of the past feed into each other, shaping who I am today, not as static, separate events to check off a list or rungs on a ladder of accomplishments and failures, but rather as small parts of a whole that make for the totality of my experience.”

Joe is excited about travelling to Costa Rica and experiencing a new place and environment. He also relishes the opportunity to toe the line against some great competition.

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Iain Don Wauchope (The North Face SA) recently won the Salomon SkyRun in South Africa. He covered the 100km course in a blistering time of 12-hours and 8-minutes; a new course record. (Ryan Sandes set the old course record.)

Residing in South Africa, Iain has a history in adventure racing and therefore the TCC will be an exciting opportunity for him to test his multi-day skills over a new format and in a new location.

A multiple victor of the iconic OTTER race, Iain is considered to be one of the best ultra, trail and mountain runners in South Africa. “I am not getting any younger and the opportunity to race in Costa Rica against such a quality field is a dream come true.”

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 Interviews with all three men to follow – watch this space.

Read about the ladies field HERE

Enter the race in the UK HERE

Enter the race outside the UK HERE

Hardrock 100 2015 Lottery Results

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iancorless.com_IMG_5813

 Hardrock 100 once again created buzz and excitement with its draw on Saturday December 6th.

Two runners had guaranteed entry for 2015 – 2014 victors, Kilian Jornet and Darcy Piceau.

The 2014 edition was arguably one of the most anticipated races on the calendar with a quality line up and ultimately a world-class performance and display by Kilian Jornet not only winning the race but also smashing the old course record.

Hardrock 100 alternates its course each year and therefore Kilian confirmed that he would back in 2015.

So, the 2015 lottery was important. Who would be drawn that could potentially give Kilian a run for his money?

I had 4-5 names in mind that I would love to see toe the line and I am pleased to say three have been drawn.

  • Anton Krupicka
  • Iker Karrera
  • Mike Foote

The addition of Francois d’Haene would have made the race extremely exciting; unfortunately the luck of the draw did not go in the way of Francois.

Adam Campbell made the cut joining Troy Howard, Chris Price, Scott Jaime and a whole string of top-5 potential finishers. So, the 2015 Hardrock 100 may not be quite the field we had in 2014 but if Krupicka, Karrera, Foote and Campbell are all 100% then we are in for an exciting race.

The ladies race for years has played 2nd fiddle to the men’s race and it has had a very familiar format with Darcy Piceau coming from behind (usually 2nd place) to take overall victory. No disrespect to Darcy, she can only race who is in the race!

Anna Frost is drawn along with Meghan Hicks. I have to say, the ladies field potentially has a race on its hands and Frosty is going to relish this opportunity to race in the San Juan Mountains, it has been on the ‘bucket-list’ for some time and her recent victory at Bear 100 has set her up perfectly for the race. Meghan won MDS and recently battled demons at Tor des Geants for a finish proving she has all the mental strength needed for Hardrock podium place.

Darla Askew, Betsy Kahlmeyer, Suzanne Lewis and Leah Fein add depth to the ladies field.

Waitlisted runners with a chance of running:

  • Joe Grant
  • Karl Meltzer
  • Jason Schlarb
  • Diana Finkel
  • Bethany Lewis

Hardrock is as much about who didn’t get in as those that did… the list is endless but some notables are:

  • Nick Clark
  • Francois d’Haene
  • Nick Hollon
  • Travis Macy
  • Luke Nelson
  • Timothy Olson
  • Gary Robbins
  • Carlos Sa
  • Ian Sharman
  • Rory Bosio
  • Kerrie Bruxvoort
  • Francesca Canepa
  • Candice Burt
  • Jenn Shelton

The course ©hardrock100

The HARDROCK 100 is a mountain run that passes through some of the most beautiful and rugged mountains in the world.

The course is closed. That means that runners are required to follow the specified route.

Four legs, linking the Lake City, Ouray, Telluride, and Silverton areas. The finish is in Silverton, the same location as the start. The course is 100 miles long, has a cumulative vertical gain of 33,992 feet of climb and 33,992 feet of descent for a total elevation change of 67,984 feet, and takes place at an average elevation of about 11,000 feet. The high point is 14,048 feet.

This is a test of runners against the mountains. The course is on trails as much as possible. There are 13 aid stations; major aid stations will be located in the towns with less well-equipped aid stations in between. Runners are expected to be largely self-supporting between the towns.

The course will be adequately but minimally marked so the emphasis is on staying alert and using the map and course instructions. However, you should be capable of staying on course without markers, using map, compass, and the course instructions.

The run is a salute to the toughness and perseverance of the Hardrock miners who lived and worked in the area.

 

How the lottery works: ©hardrock100

Each year, we are faced with the difficult problem of how to choose our starters from 1000 applicants, while still respecting the values that make Hardrock Hardrock. The Board feels that our ideal mix of runners would be about 30% first-time Hardrockers, one-quarter or so veterans (i.e. >= 5-time finishers), and up to 50% everyone else. To preserve this rough and fair mix, we have replaced our single weighted lottery with three weighted lottery pools, each with its own wait list:

  • First-timers – 47 slots will be allocated to this lottery, which is for anyone who has never started a Hardrock. The intention is to increase the likelihood for applicants with many DNSs to get into the run. Modeling suggests that giving applicants 2^N tickets, where N is the number of previous DNSs, will ensure that those with the most DNSs will get in, while still giving first-time applicants a chance. “DNS” includes both those who were on the wait list and those who withdrew from either the wait list or start list. 
Additionally, service tickets (Aid Station Captain and/or 2 official Trail Work Days in the previous year’s event, or each 5 years’ of general volunteering for Hardrock) will each count as an additional DNS. This puts a high value on contributions made to Hardrock in your own personal time and labor. 
Examples: 
1) a never-started applicant who applied and did not get in for 2014 has one DNS and would have 2^1=2 tickets. 
2) a never-started applicant who applied and did not get in in 2013 and 2014 and was an aid station captain in 2014 has three DNSs and would have 2^3=8 tickets.
  • Veterans – 35 slots will be allocated to this lottery, which is for anyone who has five or more Hardrock finishes, with the following qualification: an applicant who DNFs in two consecutive attempts beginning in 2012 will be placed into the “Everyone else” pool until they complete the run in a subsequent year. Applicants will get one ticket for each previous Hardrock finish. The number in this pool is about the same as the number of 5-time finishers bypassing the lottery in each of the past few years, and so comes close to preserving this feature.
  • Everyone else – 70 slots will be allocated to this lottery, which is for anyone not in one of the previous two lotteries. The algorithm for ticket allocation will be unchanged from the current one (see below). Modeling suggests that the chances of being selected from this lottery will be better than under the current system.

Runners not selected in the first two lotteries WILL NOT be rolled over into the third lottery. If fewer than 35 “veterans” apply, the unused slots will be added to the “everyone else” pool.

A separate wait list will be maintained for each lottery. When a runner withdraws from the start list, a runner will be taken from the wait list for the lottery from which the withdrawn runner was chosen.

The previous year’s winners will continue to bypass the lottery, but they will count against the lottery pool they would have been in.

Ticket Allocation Practices For “Everyone Else” Lottery

The number of tickets an applicant has in the “everyone else” lottery will be determined as follows:

  • All qualified applicants get one ticket “just for applying”.
  • Applicants with 1-4 Hardrock finishes ever will get one additional ticket for each finish.
  • Top-5 male and top-5 female finishers of the previous year’s race get one additional ticket each (except the winners, who are already accepted).
  • Up to ONE additional ticket will be provided to any entrant from the past three years who did not start. This includes runners who were on the wait list or who withdrew from the wait list or accepted list for any reason.
  • Applicants who have performed special services for Hardrock may receive one or two additional tickets. We have generally set a high bar for awarding extra tickets (i.e., simply working an aid station isn’t enough), but those who worked at least two days of last year’s Trail Work Weekend will get an additional ticket. If you think you have performed a special service, please list it on the application for selection board review.
  • Aid Station Captains from the previous year (only) are awarded one additional ticket.
  • Long-time volunteers receive one additional ticket for each 5-year pin you have earned from the Volunteer Coordinator.

Important Changes upcoming for the 2015 Lottery

  • No longer does merely starting Hardrock, regardless the year, count as qualifying.
  • We will reduce the “finished any Hardrock within five years” qualification to three years.

Hardrock itself is and will be a qualifier like any other on the list, except that it counts for an extra year (three instead of two), beginning in 2015.

It is still the case that everyone in any of the lotteries has to have run a qualifier in the appropriate time period.

Episode 64 – Smith Batchen, Perkins, Almeida, Rasmussen

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Ep64

 

This is episode 64 of Talk Ultra and on this weeks show we speak with one of the Queens of ultra running, Lisa Smith Batchen. Mark Perkins talks about his win and course record at SDW100 and Ricardo Almeida gives us a minimalist perspective of running Comrades. We speak with Claus Rasmussen in about transitioning to minimalist and barefoot running. The News, a Blog, Talk Training, Up & Coming Races and Speedgoat.

NEWS
 
Zugspitz Ultratrail
 
  1. Stephan Hugenschmidt 10:36:50
  2. Cris Clemente 11:14:39
  3. Dan Doherty 11:30:26
  1. Anne-Marie Flammersfield 13:53:21
  2. Helene Ogi 15:19:27
  3. Elena Polyakova 15:51:22
 
South Downs Way 100 – Miles
 
  1. Mark Perkins14:03:54
  2. Richard La Cock 15:11:28
  3. David Ross 15:58:54
 
INTERVIEW with race winner Mark Perkins
 
  1. Sharon Law 18:51:03
  2. Karen Hathaway 20:11:11
  3. Emily Gelder 20:11:15
 
West Highland Way Race 95 – miles
 
  1. Paul Giblin 14:20:11
  2. Robbie Britton 14:47:48
  3. Matt Williamson 16:05:07
  1. Fiona Ross 18:54:04
  2. Rosie Bell 19:02:19
  3. Keziah Higgins
 
Bighorn 100
 
  1. Luke Nelson 19:10:15
  2. Patrick McGlade 19:39:03
  3. Benjamin Bucklin 20:34:20
  1. Missy Gosney 24:30:40
  2. Gwen Scott 25:54:38
  3. Jamie Fink 26:05:05
 
Race the Sun – Asics Team ran the the UTMB route from dawn and they had to compile the route before sunset. They did it 15:41:35. They raced in relay against a team called Team Enduro. Article in the Guardian HERE
 
Steve Birkinshaw completes the Wainrights – 511km with 214 peaks (36,000m of vertical) – 6 days and 13 hours. Information HERE
 
Western States – going to be exciting! Race preview HERE
 
Skyrunning World Championships – VK, SKY and ULTRA. Race preview HERE
 
Lavaredo to take place with Anton Krupicka and Rory Bosio
 
We have the first race on the Skyrunning UK calendar, the V3K over the Welsh 3000’s – good luck everyone!
 
Contribute to Talk Ultra – HERE
 
BLOG
 
New website and blog – http://www.antonkrupicka.com/blog/
INTERVIEW
Ricardo Almeida gives us a minimalist viewpoint on running Comrades
MELTZER MOMENT with Speedgoat 
 
 
INTERVIEW
 
Lisa Smith-Batchen is a queen of ultra running. An inspiring lady who has achieved so much to benefit others. On July 1st, Lisa will attempt Badwater 135 4-times, back-to-back with 2-ascents of Mt Whitney. HERE
TALK TRAINING with Marc Laithwaite
INTERVIEW
Claus Rasmussen gives us an insightful talk on barefoot/ minimalist running and how to transition, adapt and progress in a safe and manageable way if this is something you would like to try. In addition, he tells us about a future challenge… website HERE
 
UP & COMING RACES
 

Andorra

Ronda dels Cims | 170 kilometers | July 11, 2014 | website

Ultra iniciàtic | 103 kilometers | July 11, 2014 | website

Ultra mític | 112 kilometers | July 11, 2014 | website

Australia

Queensland

3 Marathons in 3 Days | 126 kilometers | July 11, 2014 | website

The Big Red Run | 250 kilometers | July 02, 2014 | website

Austria

Traunsee Bergmarathon | 70 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Veitscher Grenzstaffellauf | 54 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Belgium

Canada

Alberta

The Sinister 7 | 146 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

British Columbia

Scorched Sole Ultra 100 km | 100 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Scorched Sole Ultra 50 km | 50 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Scorched Sole Ultra 50 Miles | 50 miles | June 28, 2014 | website

Nunavut

Northwest Passage Ultramarathon | 50 kilometers | July 07, 2014 | website

Northwest Passage Ultra Marathon | 55 kilometers | July 09, 2014 | website

Ontario

Creemore Vertical Challenge 50K | 50 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Quebec

The Ultimatexc – 50 km | 50 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

France

Ardennes

Ardennes Méga Trail | 93 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Le Roc La Tour | 54 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Aube

Team Trail Intermarché | 180 kilometers | June 27, 2014 | website

Haute-Corse

Ultra Trail di Corsica | 105 kilometers | July 11, 2014 | website

Haute-Garonne

Trail du Crabère – L’Ours | 72 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Hautes-Alpes

Grand Raid du Queyras | 132 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Raid du Queyras | 58 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

UltraChampsaur | 72 kilometers | July 06, 2014 | website

Haute-Savoie

80km du Mont-Blanc | 80 kilometers | June 27, 2014 | website

La Montagn’hard 100 | 103 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

La Montagn’hard – 60 | 60 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Isère

Trail du Grand Duc | 86 kilometers | June 29, 2014 | website

Morbihan

Grand Raid 56 Golfe du Morbihan | 177 kilometers | June 27, 2014 | website

Raid 56 Golfe du Morbihan | 86 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Trail 56 Golfe du Morbihan | 56 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Nièvre

Morvan Oxygène Trail | 61 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Pyrénées-Orientales

Ultra trail du CANIGÓ | 84 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Savoie

L’Etoile Savoyarde | 352 kilometers | July 07, 2014 | website

Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise | 72 kilometers | July 06, 2014 | website

Seine-Maritime

Trail Nocturne du Raid Normand | 55 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Germany

Thuringia

Thüringen ULTRA | 100 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Greece

Olympus Mythical Trail | 104 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

India

The Himalayan Crossing | 360 kilometers | July 08, 2014 | website

The SPITI | 126 kilometers | July 11, 2014 | website

Italy

Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol

Südtirol Ultra Skyrace – 121 km | 121 kilometers | July 04, 2014 | website

Südtirol Ultra Skyrace – 66 km | 66 kilometers | July 04, 2014 | website

Tuscany

Pistoia-Abetone Ultramarathon | 50 kilometers | June 29, 2014 | website

Veneto

Lavaredo Ultra Trail | 118 kilometers | June 27, 2014 | website

Japan

Lake Saroma 100k Ultramarathon | 100 kilometers | June 29, 2014 | website

Lake Saroma 50k Ultramarathon | 50 kilometers | June 29, 2014 | website

Norway

Hornindal Rundt 75 km | 75 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Poland

Transjura Basic | 165 kilometers | July 04, 2014 | website

Transjura Hard | 195 kilometers | July 04, 2014 | website

Transjura Middle | 100 kilometers | July 04, 2014 | website

Portugal

Ultra Trail Serra da Freita | 70 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Réunion

Grand Raid 97.4 | 100 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Romania

Transylvania Trail Crossing 100K | 100 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Transylvania Trail Crossing 2-Day Stage Race | 100 kilometers | June 27, 2014 | website

Transylvania Trail Crossing 50K | 50 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

South Africa

Washie 100 | 100 miles | July 11, 2014 | website

Spain

Andalusia

Al Andalus Ultimate Trail | 230 kilometers | July 07, 2014 | website

Aragon

Ultra Trail Sobrarde “Peña Montañesa” | 65 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Basque Country

Ehunmilak | 168 kilometers | July 11, 2014 | website

G2handiak | 88 kilometers | July 11, 2014 | website

Castile and León

Ultramarathon Atapuerca Aranda de Duero | 160 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Madrid

Gran Trail Peñalara | 110 kilometers | June 27, 2014 | website

Gran Trail Peñalara 60km | 60 kilometers | June 27, 2014 | website

Gran Trail Peñalara 80km | 80 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Oxfam Intermón Spain – Madrid | 100 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Sweden

Lapland Ultra | 100 kilometers | June 27, 2014 | website

Swedish Alpine Ultra | 107 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Switzerland

Neuchâtel

Swiss Jura Nature Trail – 100 km | 175 kilometers | July 06, 2014 | website

Swiss Jura Nature Trail – 350 km | 350 kilometers | July 06, 2014 | website

United Kingdom

County Borough of Conwy

V3K Ultra Extreme | 89 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

V3K Ultra Marathon | 53 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Cumbria

10 Peaks The Lakes – Long Course | 73 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

10 Peaks The Lakes – Xtreme | 100 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Greater London

Grand Union Challenge 100K | 100 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Grand Union Challenge 50K | 50 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Highland

Great Glen Ultra | 72 miles | July 05, 2014 | website

Sefton

Tour of Merseyside | 52 miles | July 06, 2014 | website

USA

California

Ragnar Trail Tahoe | 136 miles | July 11, 2014 | website

Rancho Canada del Oro and Calero Park 50K | 50 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Western States Endurance Run | 100 miles | June 28, 2014 | website

Colorado

Hardrock 100 Endurance Run | 100 miles | July 11, 2014 | website

North Fork 50K Trail Race | 50 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

North Fork 50 Mile Trail Race | 50 miles | June 28, 2014 | website

Silverton Double Dirty 30 | 100 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Minnesota

Afton Trail Run 50K | 50 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

New York

Finger Lakes Fifties 50 K | 50 kilometers | July 05, 2014 | website

Finger Lakes Fifties 50 Miles | 50 miles | July 05, 2014 | website

North Carolina

Dusk to Dawn 50 Miler | 50 miles | June 28, 2014 | website

Ohio

Blue Blazes Ultra | 172 kilometers | July 10, 2014 | website

Oklahoma

Midnight Madness | 50 miles | July 04, 2014 | website

South Dakota

Black Hills 100 | 100 miles | June 28, 2014 | website

Black Hills 100k | 100 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Black Hills 50M | 50 miles | June 28, 2014 | website

Texas

Pedernales Falls – 60km | 60 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Utah

Moab’s Alpine to Slickrock | 50 miles | July 05, 2014 | website

Ragnar Relay Wasatch Back | 192 miles | June 27, 2014 | website

Washington

Taylor Mountain 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | June 28, 2014 | website

Wyoming

Happy Jack Endurance Races 100 Mile | 100 miles | June 28, 2014 | website

US Skyrunning Series Announced

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Cameron Clayton Transvulcania ©iancorless.com

Cameron Clayton Transvulcania ©iancorless.com

For the last two years, Skyrunning has incorporated U.S. races into its World Ultra Series, the Speedgoat 50k in 2012 and 2013, and the UROC 100k in 2013. And, just 10 days or so ago, Skyrunning announced its 2014 World Seriesand three U.S. races are included, the Speedgoat 50k and The Rut 50k in the Ultra World Series and the Lone Peak Vertical Kilometer in the Vertical World Series.

If you’re up on your social media, you’ve probably heard some rumblings about the onset of even more U.S. Skyrunning races. You might have even heard that Ian Sharman has been named the U.S. Skyrunning SeriesDirector. Today, U.S. Skyrunning announces multiple, national-level series for the U.S. which will be divided into the traditional Skyrunning disciplines: Vertical, Sky, and Ultra. What does this all actually mean? Generally speaking, it means that, if you’re from the U.S., you’ll be able to compete in Skyrunning-style races and series on your home turf. No international plane tickets needed. We’ll get to the specifics in a minute.

When asked about how and why Ian Sharman was charged with heading up the U.S. Skyrunning Series, the Executive Director and Vice President of the International Skyrunning Foundation (ISF) (Skyrunning’s governing body),Lauri van Houten, explains,

“Ian has been with us since 2012. He was at the ‘Less Cloud. More Sky’ seminar [after the 2012Transvulcania] where we presented skyrunning to a new generation and to ultrarunners who were new to the sport. He was really interested and since then was on the ISF Athletes Commission and is now also on our Management Committee as well. It was clear from the beginning that, apart from his status as a top athlete, he knows his stuff; he’s committed; he’s dynamic; he’s serious.“

 

 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE on iRunFar HERE

 

Run Rabbit Run 2013 – Race Preview

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runrabbitrun_logo2.41-250x300

 

Run rabbit, run rabbit

Run! Run! Run!

Run rabbit, run rabbit

Run! Run! Run!

Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

Goes the farmer’s gun

Run rabbit, run rabbit

Run! Run! Run!

 

The 2nd Annual Run Rabbit Run 100 Mile Endurance Run, held in the terrific little town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The race starts on Friday, September 13, 2013 at midday

I cant help but hear ‘Speedgoat’ Karl Meltzer in my head… jogging along allowing all the fast guys to shoot of in search of the $10,000 first prize and singing the song aloud. It happened last year (not singing the song, but allowing the others to shoot off) and look what happened. One-by-one they fell by the wayside and the old goat himself reeled them in and schooled them all on how to run a 100-miles. Karl should know; he has won enough.

Once again he is playing down his chances of winning the 2013 edition RRR. In last weeks Talk Ultra (Ep43) we discussed at length his form and reading between the lines, I know he is ready. He wasn’t ready at Western States early in 2012 due to niggles and still pulled out 10th, however just a few weeks later, just like Seb Chaigneau at TNFUTMB, the exertions of a tough 100 at WSER took its toll and he dropped from Hardrock 100.

Karl, with his own race done and dusted, the Speedgoat 50k, he finally found some down time and concentrated on getting fit and healthy for the RRR and for Karl, there’s nothing quite like a $10,000 purse to motivate him… ask his wife, she got a new bathroom out of the race last year! (Or was it a kitchen?)

©copyright .iancorless.com.P1010198

Joe Grant also had a troublesome Hardrock 100 and although he was super motivated to top the podium he just didn’t have the right day. It may very well have been his early season Iditarod still making demands on his body or ultimately, it may have just been a bad day! However, he seems to have got his head in a great place and certainly his recent trip to Europe as support and crew for Anton Krupicka has given him a new lease of life and all those mountain miles may well transfer to something special at RRR.

Ever present force over the 100k distance, Dave Mackey will hope to bring that speed to RRR and pull off a win at 100-miles. Although he has had some good 100 performances, notably 2nd at WSER, he has never quite hit the nail on the head like he has done over the shorter 100k-distance. He nearly rectified this at San Diego 100 earlier this year but unfortunately that went pear-shaped due to course errors. He is due a win!

Jason Schlarb I am pretty sure will be looking to put the record straight at RRR this year after a great start to the 2012 race that went completely problematic and frustrating due to going off course. For me, he is the dark horse of the favourites and don’t be surprised if he leads early on but manages to hold on!

Timothy Olson, TNFUTMB ©iancorless.com

Timothy Olson, TNFUTMB ©iancorless.com

Timothy Olson gets my final mention. Yes, I am mentioning Timothy last. Not because I don’t think he can win but you have to consider his season and because just the other week he placed 4th at TNFUTMB. I am pretty sure the $10,000 first prize is the attraction here and that has to be a motivating factor. However, he dug deep at TNFUTMB and used all his physical and mental reserves to reach the line. It could go either way for Timothy at RRR. Irrespective of what happens, he has had a great year with results at Tarawera, Transvulcania La Palma and of course, the defense of his WSER crown.

Behind this front five is a group of runners just waiting for the opportunity to steal the carrot from the other Rabbits. Keep an eye on Jeff Browning, Jason Loutitt, and if Dave James is in a good place, he may well push the others for the podium.

Nikki Kimball, La Palma ©iancorless.com

Nikki Kimball, La Palma ©iancorless.com

The ladies race is potentially a little more open than the men’s race however; it does have some key names that stick out. In particular a rejuvenated and in-form Nikki Kimball. I interviewed Nikki after her incredible 2nd place at the 2013 Western States and for sure, she has found a new balance. She is racing less and when she races, she wants to perform. Her lining up at RRR can only mean one thing!

Darcy Africa is another hot ‘fave’ for the RRR crown coming from another great win at Hardrock 100. She is consistent over the longer distances as her 2012 season shows. Without doubt she will be pushing the pace at the front here!

I predicted Cassie Scallon would have a great race at WSER based on her performances over shorter distances and her natural speed. However, the big dance didn’t go well and she is untested at 100-miles. I still think we will see her rectify the situation in Steamboat Springs and contend for a podium place at least.

One-to-watch goes to Jennifer Benna. She ran a great 100 earlier this year and then went to Transvulcania La Palma but pulled out early saying things just didn’t feel right. WSER didn’t go well either so redemption is required at RRR.

Finally, last years 2nd place at RRR, Rhonda Claridge returns and with another solid performance at Hardrock 100 she will be looking to move one place higher and take home the $10,000 pot.

Jeez, I missed Pam Smith. Thanks Speedgoat. For sure, Pam Smith coming from winning the 2013 Western States changes the dynamic of RRR and she will be gunning for the win. Of course Pam will be the one who all the ladies will be watching. Her main priority will be ‘chicking’ Speedgoat again though and of course taking the big bucks!

 Links

  • Race Line up is here if you’d like to point out any contenders for the podium.
  • Race website here
  • Course description here
  • Athlete tracking here