Are you a trail runner searching for your next big challenge? Look no further than the legendary Western States 100-mile Endurance Run – it’s a race like no other. This iconic event is one of the world's longest, most culturally rich, and most inspiring ultra marathons. The Western States trail is an iconic ultra running challenge that's consistently on runners’ bucket lists since its inception in 1974.
Participants have conquered rustic trails across California's Sierra Nevada mountain range for over four decades and experienced stunning landscapes, varying terrain, and remarkable wildlife like never before.
Now it could be your turn to take part in an epic journey. In this blog post, we'll cover what you need to know about the Western States 100 so you can get yourself fit and ready to tackle this extraordinary endurance test!
The Western States 100 was created in 1974 after a horse race was canceled due to an equine virus outbreak. A group of runners decided to take on the challenge, and the ultramarathon was born.
Now, it's a highly regarded event that draws top runners and weekend ones. To participate, runners must complete another ultramarathon in a certain amount of time to qualify.
The Western States 100 is widely regarded as the most difficult ultramarathon in the world. The course covers some of the most challenging terrain imaginable, and runners must battle with hot temperatures, extreme elevation changes, rocky trails, and deep canyons. On top of that, runners must complete the entire race within 30 hours, or they are disqualified!
Trail Runner Mag says, "What sets Western States apart from other 100-mile races is the extreme heat, which can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the canyons. Runners must be prepared for dehydration and heat stroke, which can quickly derail even the most experienced ultrarunners."
The Western States 100 was first held in 1974 and has since grown to become one of the ultimate endurance tests in the world.
The race starts in Olympic Valley, California, over historic reddish brown trails digging through several canyons, through the American River, and ends at Placer High School Track in Auburn, California. The course covers 100 miles of California gold country and passes through five counties.
The Western States Endurance Run is held annually on the last Saturday in June. The next race will be held on June 30th, 2023!
Runners must complete the entire 100-mile race within 30 hours, or they will be disqualified. The fastest runners typically finish in 20-24 hours.
Jim Walmsley currently holds the course record for the Western States Endurance Race, finishing in 14 hours and 30 minutes in 2018.
The Western States 100 usually has around 500 entrants each year. bringing trail runners from all around the world. In 2020, the Western States 100 had 519 entrants, with 472 finishers.
The Western States 100 is a highly competitive event and requires participants to qualify. To be eligible, runners must complete an ultramarathon in a certain amount of time. The fastest finishers qualify for the prestigious Western States 100.
For those looking for a more accessible way to get involved, there are often volunteer opportunities at the race and various fundraising events associated with the event.
No matter how you choose to participate, conquering the Western States 100 will surely be an adventure of a lifetime.
To enter the Western States 100 miler lottery, you need to run a qualifying race from the Western States qualifying list during the designated qualifying period for that year. You will not be considered for the lottery if you haven't run a qualifier. The qualifying period ends in early November of the year before the run.
To enter the annual WS Lottery, you must first qualify by running a qualifying race. However, if you were one of the top finishers in the previous year's race, you are considered an automatic and do not have to go through the qualifying process.
To apply, you must use UltraSignup.com and submit your application during the one-week lottery entry period in November.
The chances of getting accepted into the lottery after running a qualifying race are less than 5 percent.
You will only need to pay the entry fee of $410.00 if chosen in the lottery.
One of the most important traditions in this sport is receiving a silver belt buckle for finishing the Western States in under 24 hours or a bronze belt buckle for finishing in under 30 hours.
The most important aspect to consider when preparing for the Western States 100 is your training, which will be essential for success. Proven training methods include interval and hill work, consistent running, and building up your weekly mileage.
Since the Western States Endurance Run is known for its prestige and difficulty, many ultra runners opt to enlist the guidance of a running coach to train for the event specifically.
The Western States 100 is a unique and extraordinary race where endurance and efficiency are put to the test. With rolling hills and treacherous terrain, the course is definitely a difficult yet rewarding experience!
Every year, hundreds of athletes gather to tackle what some consider the crown jewel of ultra-marathoners—the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run. Many runners have dedicated countless hours and miles to training for this run, while others may be looking to step onto their first trail. Whatever your experience level, know that you can accomplish anything with hard work and dedication!
If you're interested in tackling your next trail event and need help developing specific strategies to meet your running goals, connect with me, and I'd love to help you crush those kilometers!