Overview
Ultra running involves any race distance longer than a marathon (26.2 miles), typically 50K, 50-mile, 100K, or 100-mile distances. Participation grew 345% from 2010-2020 as endurance culture and social media amplified the sport’s appeal.
The Western States 100
The Western States Endurance Run (founded 1974) is ultra running’s most prestigious 100-miler. The California mountain race (Auburn to Olympic Valley) has a 30,000-foot elevation gain and sub-24-hour time limits. The lottery typically sees 10 applicants per entry slot.
UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc)
UTMB in Chamonix, France (founded 2003) became global ultra running’s crown jewel. The 106-mile course around Mont Blanc attracts 10,000+ applicants for 2,300 spots annually.
The Born to Run Effect
Christopher McDougall’s Born to Run (2009) popularized ultra running and barefoot/minimalist running. The book profiled Tarahumara runners and ultrarunner Scott Jurek, introducing millions to the sport.
Sources
- Participation growth: UltraRunning Magazine (2010-2020 data)
- Western States lottery statistics: wser.org
- Born to Run (2009), Christopher McDougall