Not much opportunity to upload images from the trail, so apologies. Here are a few images in the build up to the race. More to follow as and when possible.
Grand to Grand Ultra 2013
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Tag Archives: Ultra Running
Run Rabbit Run 2013 – Race Preview
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?)
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 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
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
Sierre-Zinal Race Preview 2013
It’s a birthday year for this iconic mountain race. 40 years! To celebrate, the race organisation have invited many a past winner.
Considered to be one of the finest mountain races in the world. It was once written that it is to mountain races what the New York Marathon is to marathons. It is the oldest mountain race found in its category in Europe’s mountains.
The location is incredible. Of all the races I attended in 2012, Sierre-Zinal left some incredible memories… you see, the Zinal basin is just an incredible place. Also called, ‘the Race of Five 4000m Peaks’ when you stand in Zinal, look to the Matterhorn, you fully appreciate why. It is quite stunning.
Sierre-Zinal, which takes place in the heart of Valais’ Alps, offers its participants a significant challenge: distance – 31 km, 2200m ascent and 800m descent. Incredible scenery, a warm atmosphere and exceptional organisation explain the success and longevity of this challenge.
As Jonathan Wyatt (record holder of both Sierre-Zinal and the Jungfrau Marathon, as well as a multiple world mountain racing champion) wrote, ‘As a mountain racer you must experience the tradition and history of this race.’
The course records are held by Jonathan Wyatt at 2:29:12 set in 2003 and Anna Pichrtova 2:54:26 set in 2008. If anyone fancies breaking a record in 2013, it would be a great pay day! A CR and a win this weekend, would earn the lucky person 3,000 Swiss Francs.
Legendary Pablo Vigil is a special guest this year. He participated and won the race years back and has become an ambassador for the race and has been instrumental in ensuring a strong American contingent at the race, for example, Stevie Kremer may very well have not participated in 2012 had it not been for Pablo.
This years race, as in any year will have names missing and I guess the big omission will be Marco De Gasperi. He is choosing to race in Italy. So, who will be lining up from the impressive 40-year history of the race?
MEN
Despite Kilian Jornet telling me he was having a rest post Trans D’Havet so that he could prepare for his Matterhorn Summits attempt and the ISF Skyrunning Matterhorn Ultraks later in August, it would appear the proximity to Zinal is just too much temptation for him. So, he will make the trip from Cervinia and line up in Sierre for what he says will be a ‘fun’ run. Read into that what you will. When I see Kilian’s name on a start sheet he always must be considered for the podium… however, he may just kick back and enjoy the day. Read my interview with Kilian HERE
Sage Canaday is travelling to the race after a strong victory at Speedgoat 50k and although he will be new to the course, I have to think it will suit him. He will need to ensure that he is near the front in the early stages for the long climb, but once up, the course flattens and he will be able to open up and let his natural speed do the work. If he has a good day and is pushed, we may well see a new course record.
Max King has raced at Sierre-Zinal before and from memory he didn’t have a great race. He was around 20th and I think the European style of racing was just too different from what he was used to. However, he is a very different person now. In actual fact, Max raced at the 2012 Zegama-Aizkorri, however, that race was as problematic as his 2011 Sierre-Zinal. It’s a tough call for Max. Definitely top 10 potential and of course he has all the ability to be on the podium. But will he get over the European demons?
Course record holder, Jonathan Wyatt is back at the race and although his pedigree and his history elevates him to a high-profile within the race, one has to wonder how he will perform against top-level competition who are some years younger than him. He still runs and races regularly, but as he told me in Chamonix, it is for fun. We will see ‘Jono’ figure for sure… his ability will set him apart from so many other runners but I think the podium is an option.
Tofol Castanyer is finding form after early season injury issues and recently placed 2nd at Giir di Mont. Like Kilian, he will also race at Matterhorn Ultraks. This race won’t tire or affect his Matterhorn performance so we can expect him to run hard and that can only really mean one thing, a podium place is without doubt in his grasp.
Rickey Gates also raced at Giir di Mont and placed just behind Tofol. He is obviously finding form after a slightly problematic Ice Trail Tarentaise. Sierre-Zinal will suit him and his speed.
Cesar Costa has finished 2nd at Sierre-Zinal three times, he knows the course like the back of his hand and in the 40th edition will most certainly want to move one place up the podium for the win. He will without doubt be a favourite. Local knowledge and being slightly under the radar to the American runners will play into his hands. He will push hard and for sure, top 3 is an expectation.
Vajin Armstrong from New Zealand has been in Europe for some time. Sage Canaday for sure will be well aware of what this man can do after racing each other at Tarawera in New Zealand earlier this year. Vajin has speed and considering he has had some great results recently: 2nd at Zugspitz behind Philipp Reiter, 2nd at the K78 Swiss Alpine Marathon, one can’t help but think that he will shake things up and turn some heads at the finish in Zinal.
LADIES
It all started 12 months ago and the progression has been incredible. Stevie Kremer lined up at Sierre-Zinal completely blown away by the competition and experience that surrounded. Cut to the finish of the race and she was 2nd on the podium. What has followed is a meteoric race in the sport and without doubt, Stevie comes to the 2013 Sierre-Zinal race as my outright favourite. Listen to my recent interview with Stevie HERE
Aline Camboulives won the race in 2012. She has experience and ability and for sure, I see her on the podium. But I think Stevie has moved on and has the all the potential to take the race to Aline and not only push her to the finish but to go past her.
Megan Lund is a name I am familiar with but in all honesty, I know little about her. Stevie Kremer has told me that she has great potential and is one to watch on this course. I am aware that she won the race in 2010 but her European performances are few and far between. She has had a baby and as Stevie said, don’t you come back stronger after a baby!?
Celine Lafaye has been up at the front of all the Skyrunning races and I don’t see Sierre being any different. She has all the ability and potential to win this race and if she has a good day, she will push Stevie at the front of the race.
Local lady, Maud Mathys finished 3rd last year and will come to the race knowing full well that Stevie is the one to watch. I anticipate she will keep as close to Stevie as possible and try to pull something out of the bag in the latter stages of the race. However, she was five minutes behind Stevie in 2012 and Stevie has moved on. Has Maud progressed at the same level?
Lizzy Hawker turned up and ran literally at the last minute in 2012. Once again she will toe the line in 2013. I anticipate a top 10 finish but not the podium. Like last year, she will use this as a prep race for her attempt at another UTMB title. Lizzy has also had injury issues and although UTMB is only weeks away, she is still on the road back!
Zhana Vokueva will also be looking to push at the front of the race. She recently raced in the Dolomites at the Skyrunning European Championships but it wasn’t a great weekend for her. She will be looking to get back into form and for sure, would like to repeat or go better than her 5th place in 2012.
Stephanie Howe has just won Speedgoat 50k and like Sage Canaday, that has got to be a great boost going into this race. If she has recovered well from Speedgoat, Stephanie may well be the person to push Stevie all the way to the finish. It will be interesting to see what unfolds.
Finally, 2001 Sierre-Zinal champ and GB mountain running legend, Angela Mudge will toe the line. She has recently raced at a very high level and with some impressive results. I see Angela being a dark horse to the new runners who will know her name but may well dismiss her due to her lack of high profile racing of late.
Without doubt it will be an exciting men’s and ladies race.
Links:
Sierre-Zinal website HERE
Episode 41 – Kremer, Clark, Mills, Whitehead
Episode 41 of Talk Ultra – We speak to Stevie Kremer 12 months on after she burst on the Skyrunning scene with a 2nd at Sierre-Zinal. We have 15 mins of fame with double leg amputee, Richard Whitehead. An interview with Lakeland 100 winner, Stuart Mills. A catch up with Nick Clark on the Grand Slam of ultra. Smiles and Miles with Emelie Forsberg. The news, a blog, up and coming races. Marc is back for Talk Training and of course, Speedgoat co hosts!
00:07:30 NEWS
Speedgoat 50k
- Sage Canaday 5:08:07
- Anton Krupicka 5:09:36
- Jason Schlarb 5:19:34
- Max King 5:29:02
- Justin Yates 5:42:24
- Luke Nelson 5:47:09
- Timothy Olson 5:47:10
- Jason Loutitt 5:49:35
- Michael Barlow 5:53:37
- Ryan Smith 5:53:51
- Stephanie Howe 6:17:02
- Jodee Adams-Moore 6:18:06
- Ruby Muir 6:25:54
- Emma Roca 6:41:21
- Krissy Moehl 6:43:54
- Becky Wheeler 6:48:43
- Silke Koester 6:52:16
- Erica Baron 6:55:46
- Anita Ortiz 7:02:18
- Francesca Canepa 7:05:14
Stockholm 100k
Steve Way 6:40:14, Linus Holmsater 7:24:18 and Frijof Fagerlund 7:29:01
Trans D’Havet
Men
- Kilian Jornet (Spain) 08:59:47
- Luis Alberto Hernando (Spain) 08:59:49
- Casaba Nemeth (Hungary) 09:43:25
Ladies:
- Emelie Forsberg (Sweden) 10:21:32
- Nuria Picas (Spain) 10:33:34
- Uxue Fraile (Spain) 10:34:20
Lakeland 100
- Stuart Mills 22:17:50
- Charlie Sharpe 23:02:45
- Ed Batty 23:07:40
- Lizzie Wraith 24:15:06 (smashed old CR)
- Debbie Martin Consani 26:02:00,
- Julie Gardner 28:16:47
Lakeland 50
- Ben Abdelnoor 7:39:26
- Riichard Ashton 8:20:58
- Robin Houghton 8:33:30
- Katherine Brougham 9:44:10
- Alice Briscoe 10:35:42
- Rachel Ball 10:43:43
WMRA – 10. WMRA World Long Distance Mountain Running
Mitjia Kosovelj won Andrew Davies from Wales 2nd and Ionut Zinca 3rd
Antonella Confortola won Omella Ferrara 2nd and Anna Celisnska 3rd. Have to give a shout out to Claire Gordon from Scotland who was 4th and Anna Lupton from England who was 5th
Hal Koerner and Wolfe – FKT on JMT –HERE
Ann Trason to run a 100 in September – Idaho Mountain Trail Ultra Festival – HERE
Now the iconic Sierre-Zinal is coming up this weekend. I remember being at this race last year… pre race I got chatting to this shy girl who just seemed a little uncomfortable being surrounded by some of the best in the world. Needless to say, this shy girl performed out of her skin and finished second on the podium. One year on, I catch up with Stevie Kremer and find out what the last 12 months have been like and what the future holds.
00:42:38 INTERVIEW Stevie Kremer
01:16:20 BLOG
We have given Stuart Mills, the Lakeland 100 winner plenty of coverage this week with a long interview, however, his interview does go very much hand-in-hand with his blog… so, this weeks blog is ultrastu.blogspot.co.uk
You can read his very unique and in-depth analysis of how he races. Word of warning… make yourself a coffee. It’s a long one!
Blog HERE
01:17:00 15 MIN OF FAME with Richard Whitehead – http://www.richardwhiteheadrunsbritain.com/
01:32:40 TALK TRAINING – Marc Laithwaite is back after a busy couple of months. Not only has he been training for an Ironman but also he is the RD for the Lakeland 50 and 100.
01:57:55 SMILESandMILES with Emelie Forsberg – smilesandmiles@yahoo.com
02:20:40 INTERVIEW
This week’s interview is with Brit, Stuart Mills. Stuart as you will hear has a very unusual approach to running… or should I say, training and racing. Without doubt it works! Just the other week, Stuart once again won the Lakeland 100 for a second time. In this in-depth interview we discuss everything. I am sure you will find it fascinating.
03:23:30 MELTZER MOMENT – It’s good, good, good this week
03:29:52 CLARKY’S CORNER – It’s two down and two to go for Clarky and the other ‘Slammers’. Leadville is just around the corner. We catch up with Nick, discuss how Vermont went and what lies ahead…
03:44:22 RACES
Belgium
Trail des Fantômes – 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
Canada
British Columbia
Arc’teryx Squamish 50 | 50 miles | August 10, 2013 | website
Arc’teryx Squamish 50K | 50 kilometers | August 10, 2013 | website
Ontario
Iroquoia Trail Test – 50K | 50 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
Quebec
XV de la Vallée- Trans Vallée | 66 kilometers | August 16, 2013 | website
Denmark
Hovedstaden
Ultra Marathon Bornholm | 100 kilometers | August 11, 2013 | website
France
Hautes-Pyrénées
Grand Raid des Pyrénées – l’Ultra | 160 kilometers | August 23, 2013 | website
Isère
Ultra Tour des 4 Massifs | 160 kilometers | August 23, 2013 | website
Ultra Tour des 4 Massifs – 90 km | 90 kilometers | August 23, 2013 | website
Savoie
Tour de la Grande Casse | 62 kilometers | August 18, 2013 | website
Trail du Galibier | 55 kilometers | August 18, 2013 | website
Germany
Bavaria
Allgäu Panorama Ultra Trail | 69 kilometers | August 18, 2013 | website
Berlin
100MeilenBerlin | 100 miles | August 17, 2013 | website
Ireland
Ulster
Quadrathon | 169 kilometers | August 15, 2013 | website
Kenya
Kenya Highlands Race | 75 kilometers | August 10, 2013 | website
Mongolia
Mongolia Sunrise to Sunset 100K | 100 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
Sweden
Björkliden Arctic Mountain Marathon 50 km | 50 kilometers | August 16, 2013 | website
Björkliden Arctic Mountain Marathon 70 km | 70 kilometers | August 16, 2013 | website
Trans Scania | 246 kilometers | August 10, 2013 | website
Switzerland
Grisons
Swiss Irontrail T141 | 136 kilometers | August 23, 2013 | website
Swiss Irontrail T201 | 201 kilometers | August 23, 2013 | website
Swiss Irontrail T71 | 66 kilometers | August 23, 2013 | website
Trail Marathon 70 KM | 70 kilometers | August 10, 2013 | website
Obwald
MOUNTAINMAN full | 80 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
Vaud
Ultra Trail du Barlatay | 81 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
United Kingdom
England
ashmei 33 Mile Trail Run | 33 miles | August 18, 2013 | website
North Downs Way 100 | 100 miles | August 10, 2013 | website
USA
Alaska
Resurrection Pass 100 Mile Ultra Trail | 100 miles | August 09, 2013 | website
Resurrection Pass 50 Mile Ultra Trail | 50 miles | August 10, 2013 | website
California
Rattlesnake 50K Ultramarathon | 50 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
Run-de-Vous 100M | 100 miles | August 17, 2013 | website
Run-de-Vous 50M | 50 miles | August 17, 2013 | website
Run on the Sly 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | August 18, 2013 | website
Colorado
GORE-TEX TransRockies Run – Run3 | 59 miles | August 13, 2013 | website
GORE-TEX TransRockies Run – TRR6 | 120 miles | August 13, 2013 | website
Leadville Trail 100 Run | 100 miles | August 17, 2013 | website
Michigan
Marquette Trail 50 Kilometer | 50 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
Marquette Trail 50 Mile | 50 miles | August 17, 2013 | website
Minnesota
Ragnar Relay Great River | 200 miles | August 16, 2013 | website
Nevada
Extraterrestrial Full Moon Midnight 51 km | 51 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
New Jersey
Wildcat Ridge Romp 100k | 100 kilometers | August 10, 2013 | website
Wildcat Ridge Romp 50k | 50 kilometers | August 10, 2013 | website
Wildcat Ridge Romp 50M | 50 miles | August 10, 2013 | website
New York
Beast of Burden Summer 100 Miler | 100 miles | August 17, 2013 | website
Oregon
Where’s Waldo 100k Ultra | 100 kilometers | August 17, 2013 | website
Utah
Kat’cina Mosa 100K Mountain Challenge Run | 100 kilometers | August 10, 2013 | website
Vermont
100on100 Heart of Vermont Relay | 100 miles | August 18, 2013 | website
Washington
Angels Staircase 50K | 50 kilometers | August 11, 2013 | website
Angels Staircase 60K | 60 kilometers | August 11, 2013 | website
Wyoming
El Vaquero Loco 50K | 50 kilometers | August 10, 2013 | website
03:46:44 CLOSE
03:51:01
LINKS
ITunes http://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-ultra/id497318073
Libsyn – feed://talkultra.libsyn.com/rss
Website – talkultra.com
Legends! what if… Ann Trason
I posted today on my Talk Ultra Facebook page, ‘Question? Who is excited to see how Scott Jurek does at Leadville 100 on the 17th August… I am for sure!’
Now, Scott is a legend of the sport, but for a while now he hasn’t raced in anger… to be honest, he has hardly raced! He has paced Anton Krupicka at Leadville and most recently he paced Seb Chaigneau at Hardrock 100, but, Scott has not toed a line for himself for some time. Probably the 24-hour was his last big race when he set an American record?
Now of course, he may be just turning up at Leadville to run for fun. I am sure all will become clear… to be honest, I am not too concerned. First or last, I for one am just going to be really happy to see him out on the trails.
With that in mind, I was thinking, who else would I love to see back in the mountains, back on the single track mixing it up with everyone else?
I laughed a little.
Of course, I would love to see Ann Trason back in a race again.
Then I thought to myself, my good buddy, Marcus Warner over at Ultra168 told me how Ann was pacing at Western States this year. In actual fact, Marcus spoke with her and ran with her. So, never say never!
Ping!
My email alerts me…
The contents are simple. Just a link. A link that says, click HERE
Now I know who this email is from, so my concerns about it being a problematic email are eased, however, I do wonder, is it a joke? If I click ‘here’ what will happen?
I press.
It’s a list of runners.
At the top it says, ‘2013 IMTUF 100 – Idaho Mountain Trail Ultra Festival – Registered Entrants’
I look down.
BINGO! all becomes clear.
RANK it says 99.5%
AGE RANK it says, 100%,
RESULTS it says, 51,
TARGET it says, 34:24:53,
F53 and the name…
ANN TRASON, Kensington, CA
Now, lets get one think clear. Ann Trason has been away from our sport for a long time. To see her name on a start sheet means just one thing.
She is back running.
For me, that is enough… I won’t discuss what can she do, why, what if or maybe.
All I want to say is, welcome back Ann.
This list below says it all.
LEGEND!
51 races, 49 wins.
Idaho Mountain Trail Ultra Festival website HERE
Ann Trason on Ultra Signup HERE
Speedgoat 50k Preview – The Ladies Field
My preview of the race and the men’s field can be viewed HERE, today, it’s the ladies!
The ladies field at Speedgoat doesn’t have the depth of the men’s field but a couple of names stand out. First and foremost is the name, Ruby Muir. Now our Southern Hemisphere followers will be smiling at the prospect at what this Vibram clad runner can do in Utah. She blazed a trail at Tarawera earlier this year and many of us think, me included, that several men will need to be looking over shoulders to ensure that this lady doesn’t come flying past. For me, she is the outright favourite for the win even though she has never raced in the US before. Having spoken to friends of mine who know her, they have all confirmed, she the most naturally gifted runner out on the trail.
Kerrie Bruxvoort placed second at Speedgoat last year and although she didn’t have a great day at Western States recently, I can’t help but think she will try to put that record straight in Utah
A win at UTMF in Japan does mean that Krissy Moehl has some great fitness. Nobody doubts the experience and caliber of this lady but she is more like Francesca Canepa, I see this race being a little too short and too fast. She will doubt figure up front but not top of the podium.
Francesca Canepa from Italy, also Vibram sponsored (and Montura) will becoming into this race tired, very tired. She must be… she won Ronda dels Cims, went to Wales for the World Trail Champs, she was second at Ice Trail Tarentaise and then just last weekend won the 100km Eiger Trail. Francesca is super talented on long, tough and technical terrain, I just can’t help but think that Speedgoat will be too short and not technical enough.
Jodee Adams Moore is a winner and loves the shorter distances. She will enjoy the 50km distance, the only question will come in regard to the altitude.
A real interesting name to toe the line is Danelle Ballengee. Think back to 2006, Danelle fell of a cliff had a near death experience. It makes for a fascinating read, Google it! She is an experienced Skyrunner and as Skyrunning President, Marino Giacometti says, ‘Danelle has raced in Skyrunning events for over a decade, she is quite a lady’. Danelle may not figure at the very front of the race but it’s great to see her mix it up.
Emma Roca adds to the European contingent. Third place at TNF UTMB in 2012 plus a list of results the length of my arm, does mean that Emma will mix it up with the ladies at the front.
Joelle Vaught dropped at Western States but she is a top quality runner. A great run at Speedgoat will al depend on what happened at Western States and if she has recovered.
Karine Sanson from France probably wont contest the podium but it’s great to have another European, along with Francesca taking part. Karineplaced top ten at Ice Trail recently and also figured in the top ten at Transvulcania. Without doubt she can make a similar placing here.
Finally, Anita Ortiz, Speedgoat winner from 2008 will return. She has quite a pedigree but it is almost impossible to say what her current form is like. She has been a US Mountain Running Champion several times, won Western States and she has also won Pikes Peak, so, she has a great mix of endurance, speed and altitude adaptation; she may be a surprise on the day!
Ones to watch: Alicia Shay, Julie Bryan and Bethany Lewis
Links:
Speedgoat 50k HERE
Skyrunning HERE
Episode 39 – Nikki Kimball, Nick Clark, Alex Nichols, Florian Reichert
Nick Clark returns for Clarky’s Corner with an update on his Western States and a look ahead to his next 100 in the Grand Slam. We have an interview with Ultra Running legend, Nikki Kimball about her running career and another podium finish at Western States. Alex Nichols talks Mont Blanc Marathon and in Talk Training we speak with Florian Reichert about the transition from road running to trail and mountains.
00:00:00
00:00:45 INTRO
00:09:21 NEWS
Western States
- Pam Smith (La Sportiva) – 18:37:21
- Nikki Kimball (The North Face) – 19:21:43
- Amy Sproston (Montrail) – 19:25:11
- Meghan Arbogast (SCOTT Sports) – 19:30:50
- Rory Bosio (The North Face) – 19:52:09
- Aliza Lapierre (Salomon) – 20:04:46
- Emily Harrison (AdiUltra) – 20:28:40
- Denise Bourassa (Patagonia) – 21:44:37
- Leila Degrave (Inov-8) – 21:59:26
- Abby McQueeney Penamonte – 22:36:29
- Timothy Olson (The North Face) – 15:17:27
- Rob Krar – 15:22:05
- Mike Morton (Allied Van Lines) – 15:45:21
- Ian Sharman (SCOTT Sports) – 16:20:25
- Dylan Bowman (Pearl Izumi) – 16:32:18
- Nick Clark (Pearl Izumi) – 16:56:23
- Jesse Haynes (INKnBURN) – 17:44:36
- Paul Terranova – 17:56:29
- Yassine Diboun (Inov-8) – 18:44:02
- Karl Meltzer (Hoka One One) – 18:51:55
00:21:27 CLARKEYS CORNER –Nick Clark ran the 2013 Western States and now lines up for his second 100 in the Grand Slam just a few weeks later.
Mont Blanc Marathon
Men
1° Kilian Jornet 3h30’41 NEW COURSE RECORD
2° Marco De Gasperi 3h31’42
3° Luis-Alberto Hernando-Alzaga 3h36’14
Ladies
1° Stevie Kremer 4h03’16 NEW COURSE RECORD
2° Emelie Forsberg 4h25’10
3° Céline Lafaye 4h35
00:40:37 INTERVIEW with Alex Nichols
Vetical Kilometer
Men
1. Saul Antonio Padua (COL) – 34’34”
2. Kilian Jornet (ESP) – Salomon – 34’53”
3. Erik-Dagssøn Haugsnes (NOR) – Il Pioner – 35’02”
4. Alexy Sevennec-Verdier (FRA) – Crazyonisag – 35’10”
5. Urban Zemmer (ITA) – La Sportiva – 35’40”
Women
1. Christel Dewalle (FRA) – Team Terre de Running – 41’33”
2. Laura Orgué (ESP) – Salomon Santiveri – 42’53”
3. Antonella Confortola (ITA) – Salomon – 42’55”
4. Emelie Forsberg (SWE) – Salomon – 44’55”
5. Tessa Hill (GBR) – Arc’teryx – 45’39”
Lavaredo Ultra Trail
Mens:
1. Spehler Sebastien 07:39:35
2. Wolfe Mike 08:13:47
3. Geronazzo Ivan 08:14:15
Ladies:
1. Cheryl Beatty 09.31.09
2. Federica Boifava 09.54.56
3. Lizzie Wraith 09.57.14
World Trail Championships
- Gold – Ricky Lightfoot (Great Britain and NI) 5:36:03
- Silver – Florian Neuschwander (Germany) 5:45:16
- Bronze – Julien Rancon (France) 5:54:21
- Gold – Nathalie Mauclair (France) 6:38:45
- Silver – Aurelia Truel (France) 6:55:51
- Bronze – Maria Chiara Parigi (Italy) 7:00:30
Dodo Trail 50k in Mauritius
- Rene Paul Vitry 5:39:30
- Vishal Ittoo 5:46:36
- Fabrice Armand 5:48:06
- Cecile Ciman 7:15:03
- Marie Noelle Bourgeois 7:23:46
- Helene Haegel 7:39:40
01:15:51 BLOGS – Dylan Bowman – Western States http://dylanbowman.com/2013/07/western-states-100/
‘My race was playing out perfectly. The early morning miles were appropriately subdued and I had the pleasure of sharing time with many men whom I idolize and consider to be good friends. Shortly after Red Star Ridge, Rob Krar and I fell into a similar pace and remained together for virtually all of the ensuing 45 miles. In my mind, we were executing things perfectly – sitting behind the lead pack early before methodically and intentionally moving through the field in the middle third of the race.’
01:17:00 TALK TRAINING –On this weeks talk training we speak with Arc’teryx and inov-8 athlete Florian Reichert about his transition from middle distance and road running to trail/ mountain running and his participation on the Skyrunning World Series
01:46:25 INTERVIEW –This week we speak to a legend of female ultra running, her Western States history alone sets her apart, she won the race in 2004, 2006 and 2007 and she was 4th in 2009, 3rd in 2010 and 2011, 5th in 2012 and just this year placed 2nd.– Nikki Kimball
02:34:10 MELTZER MOMENT with Speedgoat Karl
02:37:37 RACES – Up and coming races for the next two weeks worldwide
Australia
Queensland
Kokoda Challenge | 96 kilometers | July 13, 2013 | website
Costa Rica
Maratón Internacional Challenge IRAZU – 62 km | 62 kilometers | July 21, 2013 | website
France
Aveyron
Tripou-Trail – 50 km | 50 kilometers | July 20, 2013 | website
Bas-Rhin
Trail du Pays Welche | 50 kilometers | July 14, 2013 | website
Corrèze
L’EDFi du Lac | 100 kilometers | July 13, 2013 | website
Le Tour du Cardant | 65 kilometers | July 13, 2013 | website
Finistère
100 km de Cléder | 100 kilometers | July 21, 2013 | website
Haute-Loire
Grand trail Stevenson – Course Individuels | 165 kilometers | July 12, 2013 | website
Grand trail Stevenson – Relais | 167 kilometers | July 12, 2013 | website
La Loire Integrale | 1025 kilometers | July 17, 2013 | website
Savoie
Ice Trail Tarentaise Val d’Isère | 65 kilometers | July 14, 2013 | website
la 6D Treck | 100 kilometers | July 24, 2013 | website
Ultra Trail du Beaufortain | 103 kilometers | July 20, 2013 | website
Germany
Rhineland-Palatinate
Bärenfels Ultra Trail | 64 kilometers | July 13, 2013 | website
India
La Ultra – The High | 222 kilometers | July 23, 2013 | website
La Ultra – The High 111 | 111 kilometers | July 23, 2013 | website
ZENchallenge Ladakh – 100K | 100 kilometers | July 21, 2013 | website
Mongolia
Mongolia Action Asia 3 day ultra 100km | 100 kilometers | July 20, 2013 | website
Mongolia Action Asia 3 day ultra marathons 60k | 60 kilometers | July 20, 2013 | website
South Africa
Griffin 50 Mile | 50 miles | July 20, 2013 | website
Washie 100 | 100 miles | July 19, 2013 | website
Spain
Basque Country
Ehunmilak | 168 kilometers | July 12, 2013 | website
G2handiak | 82 kilometers | July 12, 2013 | website
Turkey
RunFire Cappadocia Ultra Marathon | 220 kilometers | July 20, 2013 | website
United Kingdom
England
Fairlands Valley Challenge – 50km | 50 kilometers | July 21, 2013 | website
Lyke Wake Race | 42 miles | July 13, 2013 | website
The 50 Mile Challenge | 52 miles | July 26, 2013 | website
The Montane Lakeland 100 | 100 miles | July 26, 2013 | website
Scotland
Clyde Stride Ultra Marathon | 40 miles | July 13, 2013 | website
USA
Arkansas
Midnight 50K | 50 kilometers | July 20, 2013 | website
California
Badwater Ultramarathon | 135 miles | July 15, 2013 | website
Cuyamaca 3 Peaks 50K | 50 kilometers | July 13, 2013 | website
Colorado
Hardrock 100 Endurance Run | 100 miles | July 12, 2013 | website
Leadville Silver Rush 50 | 50 miles | July 14, 2013 | website
Kansas
Psycho Psummer 50K | 50 kilometers | July 13, 2013 | website
Montana
Devil’s Backbone 50 Miles | 50 miles | July 13, 2013 | website
Nevada
Tahoe Rim Trail 100M | 100 miles | July 20, 2013 | website
Tahoe Rim Trail 50K | 50 kilometers | July 20, 2013 | website
Tahoe Rim Trail 50M | 50 miles | July 20, 2013 | website
Oregon
Mt Hood Pacific Crest Trail Ultramarathon | 50 miles | July 13, 2013 | website
Pennsylvania
Viaduct Trail 150 Mile Ultramarathon | 150 miles | July 26, 2013 | website
South Carolina
Cremator 50 Mile Endurance Run | 50 miles | July 20, 2013 | website
Texas
El Scorcho | 50 kilometers | July 21, 2013 | website
‘The Shoe’ at Muleshoe Bend LCRA Park – 60k | 60 kilometers | July 13, 2013 | website
Vermont
Vermont 100k Endurance Race | 100 kilometers | July 20, 2013 | website
Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Race | 100 miles | July 20, 2013 | website
Washington
Ragnar Relay Northwest Passage | 190 miles | July 19, 2013 | website
Wisconsin
DWD Devil’s Lake 50K | 50 kilometers | July 13, 2013 | website
DWD Devil’s Lake 50M | 50 miles | July 13, 2013 | website
Wyoming
Happy Jack Endurance Races 100 Mile | 100 miles | July 13, 2013 | website
02:39:35 SHOW CLOSE
02:46:20 END
LINKS and DOWNLOADS:
ITunes http://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-ultra/id497318073
Libsyn – feed://talkultra.libsyn.com/rss
Website – talkultra.com
inov-8 launch new apparel range
The British-born brand is renowned for its production of stripped back, high-gripping footwear for committed athletes wanting to run fast on all terrains. Now, as it celebrates its tenth anniversary, the company is set to explode onto the off-road apparel market with an ultra-lightweight, athletic-fitting range.
International mountain runners have tested all the new jackets, base layers, tees, tights and shorts on the UK and Europe’s most challenging trails, summits and ridges.
Team inov-8 members, a selected group of committed athletes operating at the top of their sport, are currently wearing the new clothing range at an inov-8 off road running retreat in the Alps.
Last weekend, as part of the Chamonix-based retreat, athletes competed in both the Mont Blanc Vertical Km and Mont Blanc Marathon races.
Alex Nichols, who finished seventh in a world-class marathon field, said: “The range is ultra-comfortable and lightweight.
“You can tell it has been designed with the hardcore runner in mind and features things other companies often forget – like elasticated hems and the small stuff sacks which many of the items can be packed into.
“It feels fast to run in and because it is athletic-fitting it never gets in the way of natural movement.
“It is also a really deep range so, as a runner, you are equipped with everything you need to deal with all weather conditions out on the trails and mountains.”
inov-8’s global team of athletes will continue to wear the range when competing at the head of ultra distance and sky running races across the world in 2013.
Australian inov-8 duo Shona Stephenson and Brendan Davies wore garments from the new range when finishing second woman and fifth male respectively in the 100-mile Ultra Trail Mt Fuji race in Japan.
Brendan said: “I love the new apparel range and have been wearing it at all altitudes, in all conditions and over all distances. It has stood up to all challenges.
“In keeping with the inov-8 ethos it is minimalist and lightweight, thus very fast to run in.
“The shorts are super-comfortable, while the Stormshell and Windshell jackets have tamed the weather conditions I’ve worn them in.”
Wayne Edy, inov-8 founder, added: “We are really excited about our first apparel range, which we have designed for athletes wanting to push boundaries, gain an edge and win races.
“Every fabric, seam and zip has been minutely scrutinized to ensure we deliver outstanding apparel that will allow runners to play at the extremes – and do so faster.”
Included in the range is the Race Elite Thermoshell.
The unique shell features Revershell technology, providing two insulation options. On one side there is a stitch-through design to offer body mapped breathability in key areas. On the reverse side, the stitch-through is removed, offering 10% more warmth.
Weighing in at just 260g for men and 220g for women, the Race Elite Thermoshell boasts air permeable Primaloft Sport technology on one side and a highly windproof Pertex Quantum outer fabric on the warmer reverse.
England international mountain runner and Transalpine-run stage winner Ben Abdelnoor has been part of the testing team for inov-8’s new apparel.
He said: “The clothing is super light and athletic fitting but still gives great freedom of movement.
“I’ve worked it to the extreme on gruelling mountain runs and it has stood up to all challenges.”
The lightest Race Elite Windshells in the range weigh just 70g for men and 60g for women, while there’s also a super-breathable, fully waterproof Race Elite Stormshell jacket at 150g for men and 140g for women.
Action images copyright iancorless.com
Apparel images copyright inov-8
All the Race Elite shorts, made using a four-way stretch material for ultimate comfort, boast a durable water repellent finish. Meanwhile, the base layers and short-sleeved race tops are Polygiene treated to stop odor-causing bacteria from settling into the material.
Lavaredo Ultra Trail – The North Face
Unpredictable conditions contribute to a memorable 7th edition of
The North Face® Lavaredo Ultra Trail
Impressive exploits for US athletes Mike Wolfe and Mike Foote at The North Face® Lavaredo Ultra Trail won by French athlete Sebastien Spehler.
The North Face® Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2013 course program had been changed and reduced due to wintry conditions. Thirty centimetres of snow on the high altitude paths and in particular along the Tre Cime Lavaredo, the Val Travenazes, the Cinque Torri and the Passo Giau, left the organisation with no choice but to postpone the departure of the race to Saturday 8am and to shorten it down from 118K to 85K. The unexpected last minute changes did not affect the enthusiasm of the 745 runners supported by an international crowd and welcomed on the day by perfect race weather, sun and mild temperatures.
From the start, The North Face® athletes Mike Wolfe and Mike Foote dictated the pace and reached the half way Misurina check point (42K) looking strong and ready to push for victory. Due to course changes, the two American athletes lost their way, and continued off course towards Tre Cime di Lavaredo instead of turning down to Val Rienza. They covered an additional 6 km and accumulated height gain of 500 meters reaching the Auronzo refuge planned in the original race program. The two athletes now found themselves 30 minutes behind the race leader, in 9th and 10th positions respectively. With such a hefty diversion, they had to come up with a new race plan.
Mike Wolfe accomplished an impressive second half of the race, overtaking seven runners including Italian athlete Ivan Geronazzo in the final descent from Lago Ghedina, and crossed the finish line in second place. Mike Wolfe explains: “Realizing that I followed the wrong race course for 45 minutes, I felt stunned but did not want to quit. I started racing again, giving everything that I had. I cannot believe that I reached the second spot on the podium and I am very proud of my team mate Mike Foote being 5th. We experienced such a special race in an amazing landscape.”
Fellow countryman, Mike Foote states: “We both lost a huge amount of time and energy but we stayed strong and we played as a team encouraging each other. Recovering from this adversity was challenging. I felt mentally down for a while and it was hard to catch up but I am really impressed with today’s results. The surroundings and the scenery are striking, I have never run in such a location in my life!”
Fantastic victory for 25-year-old Frenchman Sebastien Spehler who ran his first ultra trail ever and reached the 1st spot on the podium. Coming from a short distance race background his achievement is even more impressive.
Both Mike Wolfe and Foote will be back in Europe for the 2013 Edition of The North Face® Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc®, 26th August / 1st September, Chamonix, France.
The North Face® Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2013 – Men’s Category
- Sebastien Spehler (FRA) 07:39:35
- Mike Wolfe (USA) 08:13:47
- Ivan Geronazzo (ITA) 08:14:15
- Stefan Trisconi (ITA) 08:19:31
- Mike Foote (USA) 08:19:43
The North Face® Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2013 – Women’s Category
- Cheryl Beatty (CAN) 09.31.09
- Federica Boifava (ITA) 09.54.56
- Lizzy Wrailth (UK) 09.57.14
Web: www.thenorthface.com
Episode 38 – Cooper, Campbell, Draney, Canepa
Episode 38 of Talk Ultra is all about Ronda dels Cims. We discuss the race and have interviews ‘live’ from Andorra with 3rd place Matt Cooper, 7th place Jared Campbell, 8th place Ty Draney and the ladies winner Francesca Canepa. Speedgoat talks Western States, we have a special Talk Training with Jez Bragg and we have the up and coming races for the next two weeks.
Show Notes
02:56:18
00:00:00 Start
00:25:40 News
00:39:10 Talk Training with TNF athlete Jez Bragg – If one person knows how to pack a rucksack and what to put in it for a long training session or race in the mountains, it is Jez Bragg. On this weeks Talk Training we discuss mandatory kit and discuss some of the options that are available and what we should consider. Jez Bragg HERE
01:01:45 Interviews
01:02:30 Matt Cooper from Australia came to the 2013 edition of Ronda dels Cims and had a stunning race. Not many people could fall into a freezing river in the middle of the night, climb out and then continue the race in sub zero temperatures and finish on the podium. Website HERE
01:25:04 Jared Campbell is somewhat a legend in ultra running. He has achieved so much… one of the few runners to finish the infamous Barkley, he is considered a tough guy of ultra running. Listen to what he thinks of the Ronda dels Cims course. Website HERE
01:52:00 Ty Draney has been running ultras for well over ten years, he has run 100’s and completed Hardrock 100. Ty expected Ronda dels Cims to be his toughest ever challenge. Was it? HERE
02:25:00 Francesca Canepa turned peoples heads in 2012 when she placed 2nd behind Lizzy Hawker at the TNF UTMB. Incredibly, just seven days later she raced Tor des Deants and won… her win at the 2013 edition of the Ronda dels Cims certainly puts her high up on a pedestal for long distance races. Website HERE
02:40:50 Meltzer Moment
02:49:20 Up and Coming Races
02:52:30 Close
02:56:18
LINKS:
IAN CORLESS 