However, racing (and life) today is very different to say just 5-years ago. Social media has changed all that. Our lives are shared daily, hourly or by the minute in some cases.
Is racing about ‘the selfie?’
Mariepaule Pierson here takes a look at the ‘race report’ and provides an enlightening insight into why we run…. THE BLOG!
Dear friends and Facebook followers, I cannot thank you enough for the support you have provided me in my times of need, as this mostly faithful account will show.
As you know, I attempted the infamous Parish Walk on a remote Island of the Irish Sea, cut off from all civilisation for as much as 2 or 3 days a year when the weather is more adverse than an English summer. Their flag is a mess of three human legs, quartered and reassembled in a grotesque spurred star; at least I knew the score, should I fail to finish.
Bracing myself for the task ahead, involving a trip to Gatwick in the not-so-early hours of Friday morning, I just made it in time on the pavement outside my house, amazed by the sheer strength of human resilience so early into the day before a race event. Luckily, I still had Wi-Fi connection and hypothermia was only just a mere possibility on the scale of unlikely disasters ahead.
As soon as the car arrived, I felt a surge of gratitude. My lack of training had not been in vain. Here I was, stepping in the front passenger seat, treated like a VIP even before proving my worth over the coming days, while three brave athletes were narrowly confined on the backseat, feeble squashed morning thoracic cages sacrificing their airspace for my comfort. As you, my trusted FB friends, know it well, this kind of incredible support you can get from complete strangers is what life is all about, the likes and encouragement messages without which hardly any one save the hardest hardened survivor can even consider doing any sporting event at all.
In any case, we reached Gatwick, and thereupon, the Isle of Man. Digging very deep within myself, and in spite of the absence of blisters or joint pain, or even the dreaded dehydration which is so prevalent on low cost airlines, I made it to the luggage reclaim and we piled up in the car, this time using every bit of mental strength remaining to take my place in the rear seat. In such conditions, when team work is essential for survival, it is the unconditional support of one’s fellow compatriots, even though we were in effect not far from asylum seekers from three different countries, which sustains one.
The traversée of the Island was no mean feat. The 10 miles from the airport to Peel, with luggage in tow, as well as the necessary water, food and supplies for the Parish Walk the following day and night, were only achieved thanks to the clarity of mind and sharpness of spirit of our driver, who, well ensconced at the wheel, allowed us a little detour via Snaefell, the highest mountain and the (only) summit higher than 2,000 feet on the Isle of Man, at 2,034 feet above sea level. The summit is crowned by a railway station, cafe and several communications masts. And, let’s add for the sake of accuracy, by a statue of Joey Dunlop, motorcyclist icon who won the Isle of Man TT 26 times. My poor suffering knees will bear witness of the truth of this brutal ascent. Grass, sheep, even a cloud, nothing would stop us from reaching the café at the top, and we gave it our all, throwing caution to the air and risking everything for the foggy lack of breath-taking view, limbs screaming for relief, hands numb from the unforgiving dampness of the wind… this will be a loosening up stroll I will never forget.
I agree, I hadn’t trained enough. My fault entirely. Only on small occasions had I managed a whole day without internet, and had not done a multiday event in months. God knows where I found the inner strength to stay nearly a whole day and a half without social media, but sometimes the unsurmountable difficulty, the exhaustion, the grandiose scenery, make you forget all your misery for a last surge of raging resolve. The hotel didn’t have Wi-Fi and the island, although a financial tax haven, on a purely telecom basis, is inhospitable and social media averse. We decided on the sheer shock of the revelation, to gather our resources and share our remaining data. Eyes sore from straining on tiny screens, fingers swollen to twice their size and numb from typing digits and letters, neck and shoulders in need of deep tissue massage from the relentless effort of looking down on our devices, oh the pain and mental blistering. But it was all worth it. We were connected! We could all sit at the breakfast table the next morning, typing to each other via our mobiles, communication restored! I had felt so alone, but the memories of those dark times are fading in the light of the amazing connectedness we all felt. Thank you again, my FB friends, for your likes and oohs and aahs and wonders and words of encouragement and congratulations. This would not have been possible without your faithful and deep addiction to other people’s news feed.
The next day was the 85 miles’ parish walk, then we flew back to London without incident.
We would love your feedback. Let us know does this post ring true for you, are you the blogger, are you the reader, are you the participant….
A couple of weeks ago I took a look at the TNF Ultra TRII, I said then that TNF are really getting their act together with run shoes. The recent products from the brand have continued to impress and the addition of the ULTRA ENDURANCE adds another quality shoe that offers runners another option to tackle the trails. The current TNF line up is as follows:
In a review toward the end of 2015, when I compared many leading shoes against each other (not all shoes I must stress) the Ultra Cardiac very nearly took top honours, it was just pipped by the Scott Kinabalu Supertrac. (Read the review HERE).
If I did that review now, I strongly feel that the battle between the Scott Kinabalu Supertrac and the TNF Ultra Endurance may well be even closer but the Supertrac would still get the nod from me due to the outsole which is extreme and made from a superior wet traction rubber compound that works really well on a multitude of surfaces, overall comfort and flexibility.
To provide some clarification, we need to look at the current TNF line up and see how (in simple terms) the shoes are to be used so that you can decide which shoe is for you:
ULTRA TRII – Is a dry trail, light and fast shoe for a runner who like a more minimalist feel. Cushioning is 8mm/ 16mm and It has an 8mm drop.
ULTRA CARDIAC– Is a cushioned trail/ mountain shoe that feels plush, fits snugly and works well and on dry trail, wet rock and very moderate mud. Cushioning is 12mm/ 20mm and it has an 8mm drop.
ULTRA MT – Has an aggressive outsole and is designed for off-road use in mud, mountains and demanding terrain. Cushioning is 9mm/ 17mm and it has an 8mm drop.
Enter the ULTRA ENDURANCE – 9mm/17mm with 8mm drop.
This new shoe from the TNF brand sits somewhere between the CARDIAC and MT and as you would expect, has an 8mm drop. I like this! But then again I would… I am a real fan of 8mm drop shoes and as I have said many times before, this drop sits in the perfect middle ground that can work for most people. TNF have obviously thought about this and hence the continuity between the ‘ULTRA’ range. It’s also fair to say that as the name suggests, the ‘ULTRA’ shoes are designed for running longer and therefore 8mm will be more forgiving.
Slipping the shoe on, it does feel different to the CARDIAC but more similar to the MT. This primarily due to the gusseted tongue which is secured within the shoe – this holds the foot firmer and in addition reduces the chance of debris getting in the shoe. It’s a winning combination that I love.
The front (toe box) is wider than both the CARDIAC and MT and therefore allows the toes to splay a little more. Protection at the front is excellent with a very reinforced toe box bumper that will definitely protect against all those unplanned collisions with rocks, stones or other debris.
Heel box is plush, padded and holds the foot secure and has FlashDry technology.
Key features of many TNF shoes is ‘Snake Plate’ and the ‘Cradle,’ these two elements are present here in the Ultra Endurance and add to the overall benefits of the shoe.
Snake Plate adds protection to the forefoot of the shoe and protects against rocks/ impact and so on, TNF vary the plates from one shoe to the next depending on what they consider to be necessary. In other shoes this would be called a rock plate.
The cradle is designed to hold the rear of the foot more secure and stable.
The upper is breathable and most importantly seamless, therefore reducing the chance of rubbing, hot spots or the chance of blisters. The upper is welded TPU with suede overlays.
The outsole is Vibram Megagrip which is making an appearance on countless shoes in the trail world. I need to clarify here that Vibram don’t only make one Megagrip outsole (see here). They do many variations, so, please check! A classic example is the outsole on say the TNF ULTRA CARDIAC andTNF ULTRA ENDURANCE – they use Megagrip but they each have three different variations of the product. The Ultra Cardiac having a more subtle version, the Ultra Endurance a more aggressive outsole for mixed terrain and to draw comparisons, the Scott Kinabalu Supertrace (has a special Scott outsole) that is basically just aggressive, extreme and made from a superior wet traction rubber compound that works really well on a multitude of surfaces.
For example:
Ultra Cardiac outsole:
Ultra Endurance outsole:
Scott Kinabalu Supertrac outsole:
Cushioning in the Ultra Endurance is single-density compression folded EVA which does a great job of allowing you to feel the ground but provide enough cushioning for a long day out.
IN USE
The upper is seamless and snug and the gusseted tongue is a real pleasure which holds the foot firm. The toe box feels noticeably more roomy in comparison to say the Cardiac or MT. The shoe feels relatively light but not super light. You really feel as though you are wearing a shoe that will take a battering. This in many respects is reflected in the shoes name, Ultra Endurance.
8mm drop for me is perfect, it provides a drop that allows me to run longer and when I can’t keep my form, the extra height allows for some compensation. As I mentioned above, this is obviously something that TNF have really thought about and the whole ‘Ultra’ range of shoes has an 8mm drop. This is also great as it means I can seamlessly move from one who to the other shoe without having a shock. A clear example of this is that I have been doing road runs in the Ultra TRII and I have been out in the really muddy stuff in the MT.
The shoe works well in mud but it’s not an out-and-out shoe for muddy trails, better get the MT if that is what you need. The Ultra Endurance is a great trail/ mountain shoe that works well and transitions from a multitude of surfaces. As I mentioned above, I believe it would give the Scott Kinabalu Supertrac a run for it’s money as a potential best ‘all rounder!’
To emphasise a point, if you were looking to but just one shoe that could handle many terrains and provide you with happy and many days out on the trail, then the Ultra Endurance would be a good place to start. It’s not a great road shoe, but it will gladly provide a cushioned and responsive ride for road sections between trail. It’s not an excellent performer in very muddy conditions but it does provide some grip that will allow you to progress. Where the shoe excels is when all these elements combine, say on a long training run, long hike or a race when you may well be mixing from road to trail, to rocks, to mud, to scree and so on, here the Ultra Endurance works so well.
It’s a shoe that excels of dry trail, rocky trail (wet or dry) and some road. It has actually become a real favourite when travelling when space is limited and I need a ‘one shoe does all’ scenario. Feel for the ground is good and has improved the more I have run. The first few runs felt a little hard and flat but the shoe bedded in nicely. The Vibram® Megragrip sole is as mentioned, almost becoming a standard feature on trail shoes. the version applied to the Ultra Endurance compliments the shoe perfectly.
Grip in mud is compromised, it always is in a shoe that is designed for trail. That is not a criticism as the shoe is definitely designed to be an all rounder. If you need out-and-out grip and a shoe that will just be used for soft-ground, mud, fells or other messy terrain, you’d be better looking at the TNF Ultra MT or a fell shoe from say inov-8 – the Mudclaw 300 for example is a great off-road shoe.
The heel box holds the foot secure with no slipping. It’s snug and reassuring.
The relatively seamless upper and sewn in tongue really holds the foot secure and has given me no hot spots. It’s a real bonus and it’s great to see that TNF are incorporating this more. For anyone who has used a Salomon S-Lab shoe with ‘endofit,’ a gusseted tongue really is just so much more comfortable. Although the TNF version is different to the Salomon version, similarities can be drawn.
The shoe has a neutral fit as does all the TNF ‘Ultra’ range and so therefore you could add an insert or orthotic if required. Drop is 8mm. Sizing is true to size, I take a UK9.5 in most shoes and my Ultra Endurance is UK9.5. However, due to the wider toe box the shoe does feel different to the Cardiac or MT so you may want to just make sure by trying in-store.
This is not the lightest shoe on the market but I don’t think that is really an issue. It’s not trying to be the lightest. What it does, is offer cushioning, protection and longevity in an attractive package that will last for many days, weeks and months. The colour-way of blue and yellow also looks pretty swish.
Conclusion
This shoe is a great all-rounder and may well be a perfect ‘one shoe’ purchase for anyone who is looking for something that can do many things well. It excels on dry trails and loose surfaces such as scree, stones, sand etc. Grip from the Vibram sole is good on wet rocks and the shoes transition from trail to road well and the cushioning allows for plenty of happy miles.
The Ultra Endurance can handle mud as part of a mixed terrain trail run but if you wanted an out-and-out shoe for muddy trail, this is not it. It’s a really solid shoe with some serious toe protection, a plus for anyone heading out into mountainous terrain.
I have been working with and running myself in harsh, rocky, desert like terrain in Lanzarote, La Palma and so on and I think the Ultra Endurance would potentially make a great shoe for someone participating in a multi-day race like the Marathon des Sables. The combination of features sits well, the slightly wider toe box, protection, grip and cushioning all combine to make it a great shoe for such an adventure. I will feedback on this after the 2016 Marathon des Sables where I will test the shoe daily.
To draw a comparison, I think those runners who have enjoyed the inov-8 Race Ultra 290 will find the TNF Ultra Endurance very appealing. The plus side being the TNF who has more grip.
The TNF ULTRA ENDURANCE alternative colour-way
The inov-8 RACE ULTRA 290
The downsides are minimal for me. It’s a slightly heavier shoe and I have touched on the reasons why above. Longevity in TNF shoes has been an issue in the past so I will hold judgement on this and feedback. Currently after 100+ miles of mixed terrain, the shoes are holding up well with no issues.
The North Face say: With its Vibram® Megagrip outsole, Snake Plate™ forefoot protection and Ultra Protect™ CRADLE™ stability, the Ultra Endurance will keep you tearing up the trail without tearing up your feet. CRADLE™ technology provides extra heel stability on uneven terrain, a gusseted tongue keeps loose trail debris out, while the rigid-yet-flexible ESS Snake Plate™ delivers on lightweight, heavy duty forefoot protection.
▪Welded TPU and suede mid-foot support overlays
▪Molded-TPU toe cap for protection
▪Gusseted tongue for protection from trail debris
▪Ultra Protect™ CRADLE™ heel-stability technology
▪Single-density, compression-molded EVA midsole
▪Vibram® Megagrip outsole for durable sticky traction in all conditions
▪ESS Snake Plate™ forefoot protection
▪Cushioning 9mm front/ 17mm rear
▪8 mm offset
▪Weight per shoe 260g+/- for a UK8
▪Approximate Weight Pair: 510 g
TNF Technologies explained:
Snake Plate™
The patent-pending Snake Plate™ consists of a forefoot plate that winds back and forth between the medial and lateral sides of the foot. Because it is not one solid element, it is not as uncompromisingly rigid from side to side and front to back. The result is a forefoot plate that allows the foot to do what it is physiologically designed to do: flex, bend, and contort to changing terrain. At the same time, the Snake Plate™ delivers rigidity where and when it is still needed. The thickness, composition and size of the Snake Plate™ vary from style to style as appropriate. For example, a thicker, more rigid Snake Plate™ addresses the technical, ever-changing demands of a mountain run. A thinner, more flexible Snake Plate™ reconciles flexibility with a decreased demand for protection while on smoother dirt paths.
Vibram® Outsole Technologies
The North Face® collaborated with Vibram, long respected for quality and durability, to create various outsoles (Vibram® Humbolt Outsole, Vibram® Mikeno Outsole, Vibram® Walsh Outsole, and Vibram® Rubber Outsole Compound) with superior traction, stability and protection.
Ultra Protect™
A shank plate for torsional rigidity and consistent underfoot feel.
This is Episode 103 of Talk Ultra. A very happy new year! Talk Ultra is 4 years old and to signify this landmark we are bringing you 4 interviews from our back catalogue, one from 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. In addition, we may well bring you a few sounds, music and memories.
Niandi is back with me….
The La Palma story continues – watch our GoPro story of tackling the Transvulcania route (GR131) over 2 days HERE
La Palma, (Transvulcania) photo galleries can be viewed HERE (more to follow)
00:01:31 Show Start
00:26:45 NEWS
00:28:30Remember the 10 Commandments?
00:32:16Remember the Christmas Do’s and Dont’s from 2013? Don’t mention Mingling
Guess what, very little news… but hey David Laney and Magdalena Boulet were voted ultra runners of the year via UltraRunning Magazine.
The incredible Ed Ettinghausen aged 53 ran 481.86 miles at the Across the Years 6-day to beat David Johnson’s 450.37. Full results from the weekend are HERE
00:50:49 MUSIC The Comrades special is still maybe one of our most popular shows and I am pleased to say we have had countless messages about how we inspired so many to run this iconic race. Episode 8 way back in 2012. A magic show and too long to replay here but due to popular demand here is Shozolossa – I can’t listen to this without a tear in my eye and we interviewed the Comrades King –
00:53:01 INTERVIEW Bruce Fordyce
In episode 48, we featured Nepal and the Everest Trail Race, hiking down a mountain on the 2nd day I was joined by Nepalese children who sand for me… pure magic!
And in the last episode in the wee hours of a December morning I walked the streets of La Palma with Niandi listening to the amazing sounds of Divinos san Francisco.
01:24:19 INTERVIEWOkay our first interview comes from 2012 and it is from Episode 12 and the inspiring and mind blowing story of Timmy Olson.
02:16:44 INTERVIEWIt may come as no surprise but in 2013, episode 43 I interviewed Kilian Jornet just a day after his incredible Matterhorn Summit record.
02:52:21 INTERVIEWEpisode 57 in 2014 provided an inspiring interview with David Johnston about his incredible Iditarod Trail Invitational record breaking run.
03:42:24 INTERVIEWAnd finally, the Jureks from episode 95. Scott and Jenny nailed the AT and provided one of the most insightful and entertaining interviews ever.
Believe me, choosing 4 interviews from 4 years has been incredibly tough. I can’t tell you how many amazing memories and moments there are. It has been incredible to refresh my mind by looking back. Please go back to the archives and take a look – Ryan Sandes, Marshall Ullrich, Gordy Ainsleigh, Eliie Greenwood, Max King, Lizzy Hawker, Anna Frost and so on and so on…
05:01:35 INTERVIEWConsidering Niandi is co-hosting it only seems appropriate that we give you a bonuss interview from Episode 78 with legendary, Sir Ranulph Fiennes
Episode 79 of Talk Ultra is another packed show! We speak with HK100 2nd placed runner, Sondre Amdahl. We also speak to the female winner of the UK’s, The Spine, Beth Pascall. Nikki Kimball discusses her incredible 2014 season with victory at Marathon Des Sables, top-5 at Western States Endurance Run and winning Run Rabbit Run. The News, a Blog, Up & Coming Races and Speedgoat Karl Meltzer.
Pavel Paloncy 79:34 and Beth Pascall 90:59 – It is the longest non-stop foot race in the UK, set against the unforgiving British winter. 268 miles of ice, snow, cold and savage winds. You have 7 days to complete the race from Edale to Kirk Yetholm.
01:08:45 INTERVIEW
Beth Pascall
HURT 100
Michael Arnstein 21:29
Alex Nunn 21:47
Nick Hollon 22:42
Amy Sproston 26:22
Alicia Woodside 28:10
Kiyomi Kuroda 31:22
02:04:38 BLOG
Sondre Amdahl – Diagonale des Fous race report – HERE
Episode 70 of Talk Ultra and on this weeks show we speak with the winner of Superior Endurance Runs (Fall Races), Adam Schwarz-Lowe, Eirik Eirik D Haugsnes 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 Karl Meltzer is back as co host with an in-depth chat on his AT attempt.
NEWS
Run Rabbit Run
wow – KRAR!
Rob Krar 17:40:05
Josh Arthur 18:33:05
Jeff Browning 19:06:43
Ryan Gelfi 19:38:24
Nick Clark 19:50:15
Sage struggled with the technical second half favoured by Kilian, closed second in 5h20’27”. Kilian finished a fast 5h09’33”. Manuel Merillas (Mammut), a new young talent from Spain leading the Series, climbed from 4th position at 30 km to finish third in 5h29’20”. Britain’s Tom Owens (Salomon) was an excellent 4th and American Paul Hamilton (The North Face) last year’s race winner, took 5th
Emelie Forsberg was race winner in 6h32’42”. Kasie closed in 6h38’05” and Anna in 6h49’25”. Canadian Ellie Greenwood was 4th and American Hilary Allen, 5th. Series leader, Italian Alessandra Carlini, took 8th.
Ultra 168 had a round up of results for the Southern Hemisphere HERE
Surf Coast Century: Saw a fantastic new course record from Kellie Emmerson in the ladies 100kms, taking it out in 9:29. In the men’s race, it was a tie for 2nd place As Dave Eadie and Brendan Davies held hands over the line. We often joke about joint finishes, but there’s no malice there
Glasshouse 100km :Cameron Munro took out first place in a speedy 17:17, nearly two hours ahead of second place. While Deb Nicholl did the ladies proud finishing in 19:31.
GNW 100-mile :Clarke McClymont celebrated a big birthday by notching up a cracking win in the 100 miler in a time of 20:56. The ladies title was taken out by Sonia McDermott in an excellent time of 25:39.
INTERVIEW
We caught up with Eirik Haugsness to discuss Tromso Skyrace and his 2014 season
BLOG
For the first time in Talk Ultra history, I am actually going to put forward one of my own posts here – Minimal, Maximal or the curious question of Drop – HERE
INTERVIEW
Adam Schwartz-Lowe won the Superior 100 after placing 2nd twice before, we caught up for a chat about the race and his previous running.
TRAINING TALK
We follow up from our ‘Basic’ Navigation 101 with ‘Intermediate. Once again Charlie Sproson co-hosts this segment
UP & COMING RACES
Australia
Queensland
Spiny Cray Ultra – 58 km | 58 kilometers | September 21, 2014 | website
South Australia
Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra | 56 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website
Western Australia
Waterous Trail on Foot 50 | 50 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Austria
Wörthersee Trail-Maniac 114 K | 114 kilometers | September 19, 2014 | website
Wörthersee Trail-Maniac 57 K | 57 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Wörthersee Trail Maniak 114K Superior | 114 kilometers | September 19, 2014 | website
Wörthersee Trail Maniak 57K | 57 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Brazil
Jungle Marathon Brazil – 100 km | 100 kilometers | October 02, 2014 | website
Jungle Marathon Brazil – 240 km | 242 kilometers | October 02, 2014 | website
Canada
British Columbia
Frosty Mountain Ultra Trail Race | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Great Lake Walk and Ultramarathon | 56 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Ontario
Run Off the Grid 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Sears Great Canadian Run – Toronto | 141 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
That Dam Hill – 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Quebec
Tour du Massif – 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Chile
Patagonian International Marathon – 63K | 63 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
France
Aveyron
100 km de Millau | 100 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Côte-d’Or
Alésia Trail – La Vercingétorix | 51 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website
Haute-Loire
Le Grand Trail du Saint Jacques | 70 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Le Trail du Gévaudan | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Haute-Savoie
Trail des Aiguilles Rouges | 50 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website
Ille-et-Vilaine
100 km de la Vallée du Semnon | 100 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website
50 km de la Vallée du Semnon | 50 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website
Loir-et-Cher
Ultrail de Beauval | 65 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website
Lot
Espagnac – Conques : du 20 au 24 septembre 2013 | 208 kilometers | September 19, 2014 | website
Morbihan
Ultra des vagues – Le tour par les sentiers côtiers | 83 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Nord
La Contrebandière | 65 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website
Savoie
Ecotrail – trail long | 50 kilometers | September 21, 2014 | website
Seine-et-Marne
Impérial Trail – 64 km | 64 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Germany
Baden-Württemberg
KuSuH Trail 100 | 100 miles | September 26, 2014 | website
Bavaria
Churfranken Trailrun | 73 kilometers | September 21, 2014 | website
Mittelbayerische Landkreislauf | 61 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Lower Saxony
Volkslauf ” Gesund beginnt im Mund” – 52.8 km | 52 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
North Rhine-Westphalia
50 km von Hitdorf | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2014 | website
Rhineland-Palatinate
Dorint-RUN50 | 50 kilometers | September 19, 2014 | website
South Africa
100 Capital Classic – 100 Mile | 100 miles | September 19, 2014 | website
100 Capital Classic – 50 Mile | 50 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Cape Town Festival of Running 100K | 100 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Cape Town Festival of Running 100 Miler | 100 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Spain
Catalonia
Matagalls-Montserrat | 83 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
RialpMatxicots Extrem | 82 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Ultra Pirineu | 103 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Madrid
100 km Madrid-Segovia | 100 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
50 km Madrid Trail | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Sweden
Black River 100 Mile Endurance Run | 100 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Black River 50 Mile Endurance Run | 50 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Switzerland
Valais
Humani’Trail Les Diablerets | 55 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Trail des Dents-du-Midi – Super Trail | 57 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Trail des Dents-du-Midi – Trail découverte | 57 kilometers | September 19, 2014 | website
Vaud
Ultratour du Leman | 173 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
United Kingdom
Cornwall
Atlantic Coast 3-Day Challenge | 78 miles | October 03, 2014 | website
Derbyshire
High Peak 40 Mile Challenge | 40 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Glasgow City
Clyde Stride Ultra Marathon | 40 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Gloucestershire
Cotswold Way Century 100mi | 102 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Northern Ireland
Causeway Coast Ultra Marathon | 39 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Northumberland
Pennine Way 1 Ultra | 77 kilometers | September 21, 2014 | website
Redcar and Cleveland
Hardmoors 60 | 60 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Shropshire
Double or Nothing | 70 miles | September 19, 2014 | website
USA
Alabama
Autumn Equinox 32 Mile Ultra | 32 miles | September 21, 2014 | website
Birmingham Stage Race – 2 Days | 36 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Birmingham Stage Race – 3 Days | 53 miles | September 26, 2014 | website
Alaska
Equinox Ultra Marathon 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Arizona
Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Stagecoach Line 100 mile Ultra & Relay | 100 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Mogollon Monster 100 | 106 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
California
Berkeley Trail Adventure – 50K | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Coastal 50K | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Kodiak 100 Mile UltraMarathon | 100 miles | September 19, 2014 | website
Kodiak 50 Mile UltraMarathon | 50 miles | September 19, 2014 | website
Noble Canyon 50k | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Ragnar Relay Napa Valley | 186 miles | September 19, 2014 | website
Tahoe 72 | 72 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Tahoe Double Marathon | 52 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Colorado
The Bear Chase Race 50K Trail Race | 50 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website
The Bear Chase Race 50 Mile Trail Race | 50 miles | September 28, 2014 | website
Georgia
Georgia Jewel 100 Mile Run | 100 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Georgia Jewel 35 Mile Run | 35 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Georgia Jewel 50 Mile Run | 50 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Idaho
Priest Lake 50K Ultra Marathon | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Kansas
FlatRock 50K | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
FlatRock 50K Ultra Trail Race | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Maryland
Ragnar Relay Washington D.C. | 200 miles | October 03, 2014 | website
Massachusetts
Hancock Shaker Village 50 Mile Race | 50 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Michigan
DWD Hell 50K | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
DWD Hell 50M | 50 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Hungerford Games 50-Mile Ultra Marathon | 50 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Montana
Yellowstone-Teton 100-Mile Endurance Race | 100 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Yellowstone-Teton 50 Mile Endurance Race | 50 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
New Hampshire
Pisgah Mountain 50K Trail Race | 50 kilometers | September 21, 2014 | website
New Jersey
The Mountain Madness 50K | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
New York
Chautauqua Ultras 50K | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Chautauqua Ultras 50 Mi | 50 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Ragnar Relay Adirondacks | 210 miles | September 26, 2014 | website
Shawangunk Ridge 32-Mile Trail Run/Hike | 32 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Shawangunk Ridge 74-Mile Trail Run/Hike | 74 miles | September 19, 2014 | website
Virgil Crest 100 Mile Ultra | 100 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Virgil Crest 50 Mile Ultra | 50 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
North Carolina
Run for the Horses 50 Mile Ultra-Marathon | 50 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Ohio
100 Not Yo Momma’s – 100K | 100 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
100 Not Yo Momma’s – 100 Mile | 100 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
100 Not Yo Momma’s – 50K | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
100 Not Yo Momma’s – 75K | 75 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Hocking Hills Indian 60K Run | 60 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Oregon
Columbia River Power 50K | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Flagline 50k Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 21, 2014 | website
Mountain Lakes 100 | 100 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Pacific
Sac River Ultramarathon | 50 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
Pennsylvania
Trails 4 Tails Ultra Run | 40 miles | September 20, 2014 | website
Texas
Lighthouse Hill Ranch 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
Lost Loop 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Utah
Bear 100 | 100 miles | September 26, 2014 | website
Elk 50K | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Grand to Grand Ultra | 160 miles | September 21, 2014 | website
Vermont
Vermont 50 Ultra Run | 50 miles | September 28, 2014 | website
Virginia
Belmead Trail Fest 50K | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Belmead Trail Fest 50M | 50 miles | September 27, 2014 | website
GrindStone 100 | 101 miles | October 03, 2014 | website
Trail Runner Ultra Race of Champions 100K | 100 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Uber Rock 50K Trail Race | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Washington
Cle Elum Ridge 50K | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Wyoming
Sundance 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website
Vietnam
Mountain Marathon Vietnam – 70 km | 70 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website
The 2013 incarnation of the inov-8 Race Vest was a revelation. It was arguably the most simple and minimalist pack on the market that fit and functioned perfectly for the task at hand. It had a unique design, the ability to carry 2-bottles and/ or bladder and in addition it had a series of really useful and importantly, ‘usable’ pockets. No pack is perfect, however, I did say the Race Vest was close.
Many agreed. The pack sold incredibly well and it won awards.
However, it did have some restrictions. In reality, the pack was perfect for 1-day races when minimal mandatory kit was required. But if you where doing a longer event such as UTMB then the original pack had limited space. I actually was able to put all my mandatory kit in the pack but I had to be creative and yes, I had to have the smallest and lightest kit available.
I personally don’t think this is a fault of the pack! The original Race Vest had a use and if used in the scenario for which it was intended, then it was arguably one of the best packs available.
When the product became available to purchase (early 2014), a few tweaks had been made from the original prototype, which I was using. The key change was in the upper. My pack would allow the 2-bottles to fit low (near the rib cage) or high on the shoulder straps. After testing, many people commented that the shoulder straps rubbed around the neck, so, Matt Brown, the designer, reworked the design, narrowed the straps (which did provide a better fit) but unfortunately this meant you couldn’t fit the bottles in the upper position. A real shame in my opinion! More importantly, original retail samples had a couple of question marks on durability. Many runners complained of some less than perfect construction. This was soon nipped in the bud but as we all know, this is never a good thing.
Below, the original Race Ultra Vest with bottles:
Jump to the inov-8 athlete retreat in the English Lakes, spring 2014. A weekend of running: looking at new shoes, apparel and accessories for the coming year (2015). Needless to say, as a running aficionado, I love this. I love to see how a brand takes past and current ideas, develops them and comes up with something new. The new apparel looked incredible, new shoes were promising; particularly the new Ultra 290 shoe and then we saw the packs… the new Race Vest.
Similarities could be drawn to the original 2013/2014 model but boy oh boy. This was a complete overhaul taking all the features from the original, adding tweaks and then coming up with something new. inov-8, Matt Brown and the rest of the team had pimped their packs!
No longer was one pack available but three: 5ltr, 10ltr in this style and a larger 24ltr for mountain marathon or multi-day events. Using the ‘vest’ fitting system, these new packs in one word are awesome.
I said in my original Race Vest review back in 2013 that ‘This new product from UK company; inov-8 may very well be the next key moment in pack design stripping away complication and providing a pack that would almost make a perfect accessory for Batman.’
It was a bold statement and one that I still hold. However, that unique innovation has moved up a step and lessons have been learnt.
So, what is new?
Larger capacity (3 different sizes)
Pole fitting attachments
Redesigned vest
New soft flasks with extended drinking straws
Dump pockets
Zipper pockets
I have 2-packs for testing, the 5ltr and 10ltr. They are exactly the same, obviously the only difference being capacity. For the purpose of this review, I have tested and photographed the 10ltr as I feel this will be the most popular option. However, I will say that the 5ltr does have far more capacity than the original Race Vest despite them being arguably, on paper, the same size!
My test product is a prototype and I am aware of some tweaks that will be made based on my review and the feedback I provide. So please refer to this review and I will update with any key changes and revisions that may happen over the coming weeks/ months.
The vest fits like a glove. I never expected anything else. You put it on and immediately it is like adding another piece of well fitting clothing. Unlike the original Race Vest, this pack will not have adjustment straps on the side. Therefore, the pack will come in a variety of sizes so that you can get the product that fits you! I believe this will be S/M and M/L and fit has been tweaked under the arm to a better fit under the arm from my prototype.
Why no side straps?
Well, two large ‘dump pockets’ have been added to the pack. It made sense. This was an area not utilised in the original design and now you have 2-easy access pockets for food, clothing or any other item you may need.
For me though, these dump pockets make the ideal location for storing the new soft flasks. This wasn’t the original idea of designer, Matt Brown. However, after 1-week of testing, I contacted Matt and told him of the way I was using the pack. It made perfect sense to me. It had the bottles in an easy access and comfortable place, the new ‘extended straws’ meant that I could feed as and when I wanted without removing them and if I needed to refill, I could just pull them out, take off the top, fill and replace. In addition, you could still use the dump pockets for additional storage either under or over the soft flasks. I typically put my gloves, Buff or other essential items in this area. Being a photographer, I have often replaced one soft flask with a camera. Yes, they are that adaptable.
On the front of the pack, you have zip pocket on either side. These pockets are for the soft flasks, however on my prototype they were a little too small and tight. For me, they are perfect for valuable items such as phone/ money/ credit card or similar. Matt Brown has confirmed for me that the zipper pockets have been re-designed and made larger accommodating the flasks with ease and comfort, ‘I used the updated sample at CCC and kept the bottles in the zipper pockets, a lot easier to remove and get back in again,’ said Matt. So, the choice will be yours? I do recommend you try options and see what works for you.
Several other stretch pockets are available that work well for keys, food and or gels.
The front fastening system has also changed from the original. This pack no longer uses the quick release system that some found fiddly on the previous vest (I didn’t). Now it has 2-fixed straps, upper and lower and both use the classic male/ female quick release fastening system.
The rear of the pack has 2-zippers: one on the outside of the pack that allows access to an uncluttered open pocket.
On the reverse, the part of the pack that would sit against your back, has a zipper that would allow direct access to a bladder should you wish to use one.
Of course, this is perfect, especially in long events when you are carrying mandatory kit. You don’t want to be pulling kit out to get to a bladder. In addition, elastic cords have been added to the top and bottom to attach poles.
The large open pocket (10ltr version) held with ease:
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof pants
Buff
Gloves
Base layer
Compass
Gps
Phone
Arm warmers
Beanie
Gels/ bars
And I still had space to squeeze other items in. No question, it’s perfect for a UTMB style event or similar. Should you carry fewer items, the adjustable bungee drawstring on the pack will allow you to compress unwanted space.
The pack has an optional (purchase extra) 2ltr bladder that sits within a temperature control sleeve and this easily slides into the rear zipper pocket. The feed pipe is insulated and can be used on the left or right hand side of the vest. Ideal should you require the option to carry 3ltrs of liquid: 2ltrs in the rear and 1ltr at the front two soft flasks.
IN USE
It may come as no surprise that I find the pack perfect. I have yet to find an issue with any aspect of the design.
The soft flasks with extended straws are a revelation and make ‘on the go’ drinking a breeze. It also makes refilling very easy.
The vest fits like a glove, does not bounce and is extremely comfortable even when filled to capacity.
Fabrics are light and breathable as the original. Of course with any vest, you are going to get a hot spot on your back. You can’t avoid that with this style of product. Having said that, I have yet to find a pack that doesn’t do this…
The rear large zippered pocket requires some thinking when packing, as it is just an open space. You push things in and keep pushing. I recommend if using a bladder, add this first and then pack. Place the items you are likely to need less at the bottom and then work your way up leaving the most essential items at the top. It’s not rocket science but good to think ahead. Once the bladder is in place, you don’t need to remove it as it has a separate zipper access thus allowing refilling as and when required. It works really well. As mentioned previously, you can fit all mandatory kit (UTMB requirement) in the spacious pocket.
You can attach poles to the rear. I tried but didn’t find this to be a good option for me. More often than not, the new folding poles such as Black Diamond or Leki are shorter in length. This makes fastening more awkward and problematic. To resolve this, I attached two adjustable bungees to the shoulder straps and I store my poles folded across my chest; works for me and makes storing and access to the poles easier. It’s a personal thing.
The multiple front packets provide immediate access to anything I needed whilst running. I had a phone, camera, bars, gels, keys and money all at hand. Perfect. The front zipper pockets add extra security if not used for the soft flasks.
I used the two large dump pockets for my soft flasks and then placed gloves, buff and some snack items on top. This works great but you need to think when coming into an aid station… if you just pull out the soft flask, what is on top will hit the deck!
I raved about the original Race Vest (2013/14 model) and hailed it as arguably the ‘perfect’ pack. In refection, I was wrong. It was perfect to a point. The new range of packs (in 3-sizes) have addressed the issue of storage (or lack of) and with the addition of soft flasks with straws, these packs offer everyone the opportunity not only to get the right size to fit them but also the correct capacity for your needs. For me, if you were only going to purchase one pack, the 10ltr would be the most logical option.
Although we haven’t done a full test from a female perspective, initial feedback has been good. As I am sure you can imagine, this very much depends on the lady and the chest size.
We will update this review with a female viewpoint ASAP.
Finally, inov-8 has come up with another winner. I’d recommend this pack to anyone and everyone. The 10ltr does have some strong competition from many other key brands so ultimately it will all come down to personal taste. But if you are ordering online without seeing the product have confidence, you won’t be disappointed.
Availability? This pack is a 2015 model and as such will retail in early 2015. Pre orders and enquiries should be sent to inov-8
Price? 5L £110 / 10L £120 inc bottles
Note: I was asked on Facebook about a lack of negative comments. It’s simple really, I don’t have any. My comments re the zipper pockets being too small and tight was my big gripe which ironically made me look at storing the soft flasks in the dump pockets. Matt Brown, the designer has reworked these pockets and as he says, he personally used the pack for CCC with no issues. I do hope to get a couple of images from Matt to show this tweak to the design.
Are you a budding photographer? Do you want to learn from an expert? Then the Like the Wind Pop-Up has the answer – a masterclass and workshop with the one and only Ian Corless, the man behind many of the most inspiring and moving photos from the ultra and mountain running scene.
This will be a chance to learn from an expert about all the things it takes to create a great photo of a runner. Bring your camera and leave with information and inspiration. Details on how to book will be released in the next few days, but for now… who’d be interested in signing up for this?
Provisional date : Thursday October 30th – 1400 to 16/1700.
Like the Wind Pop-Up – what is it?
Like the Wind was conceived as a way for the running community to share each others stories – a magazine dedicated to collecting words, images and art that coveys what it is to be a runner. We want every piece to evoke something about running.
Happily, the running community, around the world, has embraced the magazine and enjoyed reading – and contributing – stories. Now, with two successful issues under our belts, we have decided to go beyond bringing runners together online and through the pages of the magazine. We are going to bring them together in a physical space.
The Like the Wind Pop-Up will be in the heart of the creative hub that is Shoreditch in east London. There will be space for brands who want to support the Pup-Up, there will be film nights, inspiring talks, guided runs and a launch party to rival the one that we held for the launch of the first issue of Like the Wind.
For one week, there will be a home for running stories in central London. Runners will be able to come and meet one another, interact with the magazine, buy limited edition artwork from the artists who have appeared on the pages, check out some of the finest running brands and generally have their running mojo given a boost.
We hope that as many runners as possible will join us and make this a special week for Like the Wind and everyone associated with it.
You can find out more about our Pop Up Gallery here.
Episode 68 of Talk Ultra – 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.
NEWS
6-Days in the Dome
Joe Fejes 580.30 miles new USA record
48-hours Traci Falbo 242.35 miles – new record
24-hour Andrew Snope 136.98 miles
Amazing run by Rob Krar @TheNorthFace 2014 Leadville 100 champ in 16:09:30! That is some double, Western States and Leadville. Michael Aish and Ian Sharman placed 2nd/3rd at Leadville 16:38 and 16:41.
Top-3 Ladies at Leadville Emma Roca, Liza Howard and Carrie stafford – 19:38:04, 20:01:13 and 23:56:50
Canada
Alberta
Lost Soul 100 Km Ultra | 100 kilometers | September 05, 2014 | website
Lost Soul 100 Mile Ultra | 100 miles | September 05, 2014 | website
British Columbia
50K Cody Claim Run | 50 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
Quebec
Chute du Diable 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
Chute du Diable 80 km | 80 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
France
Hautes-Pyrénées
Grand Raid des Pyrénées – le Grand Trail | 80 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Grand Raid des Pyrénées – l’Ultra | 160 kilometers | August 22, 2014 | website
Grand Raid des Pyrénées – Tour des Cirques | 117 kilometers | August 22, 2014 | website
Isère
L’Echappée Belle – 145 km | 145 kilometers | August 29, 2014 | website
L’Echappée Belle – 85km | 85 kilometers | August 29, 2014 | website
Ultra Tour des 4 Massifs | 160 kilometers | August 22, 2014 | website
Ultra Tour des 4 Massifs – 90 km | 90 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Loir-et-Cher
100km des Etangs de Sologne | 100 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
50km de la Sologne des Rivières | 50 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
Rhône
La Nuit des Carbones – 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2014 | website
Savoie
North Face Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc | 166 kilometers | August 29, 2014 | website
OCC (Orsières – Champex – Chamonix) | 53 kilometers | August 28, 2014 | website
Petite Trotte à Léon | 300 kilometers | August 25, 2014 | website
Sur les traces des Ducs de Savoie | 110 kilometers | August 27, 2014 | website
Tour de la Grande Casse | 62 kilometers | August 24, 2014 | website
Malaysia
Gunung 5 Nuang | 100 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
Star Light Ultra Ultimate Challenge | 84 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Netherlands
North Holland
Dutch Coast Ultra by Night (Summer Edition) | 75 kilometers | August 22, 2014 | website
Dutch Coast Ultra by Night (Summer Edition) – 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2014 | website
Zomer Editie Dutch Coast Ultra by Night 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 22, 2014 | website
Zomer Editie Dutch Coast Ultra by Night 75 km | 75 kilometers | August 22, 2014 | website
Norway
styrkeprøven True West | 50 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
United Kingdom
Anglesey
Ring o’ Fire | 131 miles | August 29, 2014 | website
Cumbria
Grand Tour of Skiddaw | 44 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Greater London
T184 | 184 miles | August 22, 2014 | website
Hertfordshire
Chiltern Way Ultra 100k | 100 kilometers | August 31, 2014 | website
Chiltern Way Ultra 200k | 200 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight Challenge | 106 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Isle of Wight Challenge – Half Island | 56 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Kent
Thames Gateway 100 | 103 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Thames Gateway 60 | 60 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Moray
Speyside Way Race | 36 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Wales
Survival Run: The Celts | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
The Celts 50k | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
USA
Alabama
Coldwater Mountain 50K | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Coldwater Mountain 50 Mile | 50 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Alaska
Klondike Trail of ’98 International Road Relay | 175 kilometers | September 05, 2014 | website
California
Bulldog 50K Ultra | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Headwaters Ultra – 50K | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Tahoe 200 | 200 miles | September 05, 2014 | website
Tamalpa Headlands 50K | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Colorado
D’Evelyn DASH 2K run/walk and carnival | 2000 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Devil Mountain 50K | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Devil Mountain 50 Mile Ultra | 50 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Ridgway 50 Mile Endurance Run | 50 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Silverton 1000 – 100 Miler | 100 miles | August 30, 2014 | website
Silverton Alpine 50K | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Florida
The Pinellas Trail Challenge | 46 miles | August 30, 2014 | website
Georgia
Yeti Snakebite 50K | 50 kilometers | August 31, 2014 | website
Yeti Snakebite 50M | 50 miles | August 31, 2014 | website
Idaho
IMTUF 100 | 100 miles | August 29, 2014 | website
Massachusetts
The Rock Run | 50 miles | August 30, 2014 | website
Michigan
Hallucination 100 Mile | 100 miles | September 05, 2014 | website
LSD 100K | 100 kilometers | September 05, 2014 | website
North Country Ultra Marathon | 50 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Minnesota
Superior Sawtooth 100 Mile | 100 miles | September 05, 2014 | website
Missouri
Go! KT82 Trail Relay | 82 miles | August 30, 2014 | website
Montana
Fool’s Gold 50M | 50 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Ghosts of Yellowstone 100M | 100 miles | August 22, 2014 | website
Nevada
Black Rock City 50km | 50 kilometers | August 27, 2014 | website
New York
Green Lakes 100 km Trail Race | 100 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Green Lakes 50 km Trail Race | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
North Carolina
Annihilator 50K | 50 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
Save the Trails 65K | 65 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Oregon
Hood to Coast Relay | 199 miles | August 22, 2014 | website
Pennsylvania
Baker Trail UltraChallenge | 50 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
South Dakota
Lean Horse 50 Km | 50 kilometers | August 23, 2014 | website
Lean Horse Half Hundred | 50 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Lean Horse Hundred | 100 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
Utah
Wasatch Front 100 Mile Endurance Run | 100 miles | September 05, 2014 | website
Vermont
Jay Peak 50K Ultra | 50 kilometers | August 31, 2014 | website
Virginia
Iron Mountain 50 mile Trail Run | 50 miles | August 30, 2014 | website
The Blude Ridge Relay | 208 miles | September 05, 2014 | website
The Ring – Massanutten Trail Circuit Run | 71 miles | August 30, 2014 | website
Washington
Cascade Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run | 100 miles | August 23, 2014 | website
PCT Bunker to Bonneville 50K | 50 kilometers | August 30, 2014 | website
Wisconsin
Lake Michigan Trail 50K | 50 kilometers | August 31, 2014 | website
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
Stephan Hugenschmidt 10:36:50
Cris Clemente 11:14:39
Dan Doherty 11:30:26
Anne-Marie Flammersfield 13:53:21
Helene Ogi 15:19:27
Elena Polyakova 15:51:22
South Downs Way 100 – Miles
Mark Perkins14:03:54
Richard La Cock 15:11:28
David Ross 15:58:54
INTERVIEW with race winner Mark Perkins
Sharon Law 18:51:03
Karen Hathaway 20:11:11
Emily Gelder 20:11:15
West Highland Way Race 95 – miles
Paul Giblin 14:20:11
Robbie Britton 14:47:48
Matt Williamson 16:05:07
Fiona Ross 18:54:04
Rosie Bell 19:02:19
Keziah Higgins
Bighorn 100
Luke Nelson 19:10:15
Patrick McGlade 19:39:03
Benjamin Bucklin 20:34:20
Missy Gosney 24:30:40
Gwen Scott 25:54:38
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!
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
Yes? Okay… I am going try a little experiment. Use the link provided HERE
What is important is sound quality, so, you MUST use either a headset with microphone or an external microphone connected to your computer. This will usually be through your USB port. Make sure you are in a quiet place and have decent to good acoustics.
And then…
Call in and record (within 60-seconds) what it is ‘you’ LOVE about Trail, Mountain and Ultra Running.
You must start by saying:
‘Hello’
Who you are
Where you are
and then your snippet of audio. NB – max 60-seconds
If this works, we will have a regular feature on the show with a selection of the best in every episode. Of course, we will theme this, so currently, the audio content could be about Comrades or the up and coming Skyrunning World Championships.
It’s an experiment. Good luck.
Please Note:
We have set this process up only to allow 20-mins of recording per two week period, so, in theory, the first 20 are the only ones who can record.
PLEASE no swearing or profanity. Your log in details and usage will be tracked and we take this seriously.
******
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A couple of weeks ago I took a look at the 
IAN CORLESS 