Every week, I look forward to my long run on trails. Rain or shine, hot or cold, solo or in a group, the trails are a place of joy and adventure. There are so many reasons to love the trails — more reasons than I can possibly list! — but here are nine benefits of trail running to get you started!
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Fastest Known Times (FKTs) have exploded in popularity in recent years. But what is an FKT? Who can submit one? Who are the people out there setting FKTs, and what more can we do to help support those people or what can we do to attempt one ourselves?
Between coaching the local Fleet Feet trails program and chatting up anyone with half an interest in talking about trails (hiiii!), I’ve kept a mental list of local races that seem popular, as well as other races that seem promising. This year I formalized the list, and I wanted to share it with you!
These are races that have come up in trail groups and conversations year after year, plus a few others that I’ve found via searching for local beginner-friendly trail options. This list is focused on the greater NC area (basically anything within a few hours’ drive from central NC), mostly trails, with options from 5K up through 100 milers, plus the World Majors and a few tried and true popular road races.
Plus a link to a gallery with free downloads of print and web resolution images from the race!
I was injured for the 2021 Richmond Marathon, so I went up with a couple friends to spectate, cheer, and take some pictures of so many of our friends and teammates racing that day in the half and full marathon! I noted a few highlights of the day, and I included a link to the full gallery where print and web resolution images are available for free download!
My First Hundred Miler!
100 miles. I’m not really sure what exactly compels a person to decide to run that far. I had originally planned and trained to run Umstead 100 in spring 2020 as my first 100 miler but, well, spring 2020 happened. In that aftermath I felt burned out from running, but once January 2021 rolled around that old restless itch reappeared and asked, “what if…” So I signed up for the Yeti 100 Mile Endurance Run lottery, thinking there was no way I’d actually get in. (Surprise!!)
Sometimes you run from your demons. And sometimes it's fun to turn the tables and chase those demons for a while 😈
From night running to fireflies to the stories we tell, the Night Train 50K was a memorable adventure!
Plus resources for local trail running groups and events in the Triangle!
Trail running has never been more popular. And I’m not exaggerating or making big declarative statements just because I love the sport! (Though I reserve the right to wax poetic and passionate about trail running!) But if you’re new to trail running or you’re looking for tips (and groups local to the Triangle!) check out my top six tips and bonus resources!
One year ago, Ahmaud Arbery was murdered.
This year the 2:23 Foundation, local running groups, the Running Industry Diversity Coalition, and other organizations are challenging runners to participate in a memorial run, fundraise for DEI non-profits, and engage in conversations.