Ultra marathoner – a special breed of athlete who can run for hours on end, pushing their bodies to the limit. With more and more races popping up around the world, it’s no surprise that ultra marathon running have become increasingly popular.
The best Ultra Marathoner?
Who is the best ultra marathoner I hear you ask? It’s the impossible question, let’s take a look at some of the top contenders….in no particular order!
Courtney Dauwalter
Unbeaten over 5 events in 2022 (Grand Raid La Réunion, Hardrock, Madeira Island, Rough Canyon Trail & Runnng Up For Air) and having set course records, Courtney Dauwalter is an Ultra Marathoner who has had many incredible feats under her belt. Courtney’s amazing accomplishments shows how dedicated and determined she is to pushing herself further than the expectations.
Dean Karnazes
Dean Karnazes is an Ultra Marathoner who has achieved incredible feats! He ran 50 marathons in 50 states within a span of 50 consecutive days – earning him the moniker, Ultra Marathon Man. But that’s not all – he also ran two hundred miles without rest, and followed this up with a 135-mile run as a part of John Kelly’s Death Valley undertaking. This Ultra Marathoner truly challenges what’s physically possible with his astounding exploits!
John Kelly
Ultra Marathoner John Kelly can certainly claim to have some of the best endurance in the world. He has competed in a wide range of ultra marathon events, including the Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc, Ultra Camel Trail Ultra Marathons, and Vasaloppet. He is so passionate about his runs that he rivals athletes half his age while displaying incredible stamina that puts him at the top of his field. From challenging himself to face the toughest terrains across Europe and the USA, Ultra Marathoner John Kelly is an inspiration to us all.
Karl Meltzer
Karl Meltzer is a veteran Ultra Marathoner, having completed over 100 races over his impressive career. In 2016, he set a new record for running across America – completing 2,841 miles in 45 days! As if that weren’t impressive enough, he followed that up by breaking the Appalachian Trail record in 2017, completing it in 45 days 22 hours and 38 minutes. Now retired from racing, he serves as an inspiration to other runners and provides invaluable advice on race strategy and preparation.
Krissy Moehl
Ultra marathoner Krissy Moehl has been dominating women’s ultra-marathon circuits since 2002. This Ultra Marathoner holds several records, including first female finisher at Transvulcania Ultramarathon (2011), Cascade Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run (2015), and Grand Teton Ultras (2017). She also holds two course records for running across Scotland (2018) and across England (2019). Despite her impressive track record she continues to humble herself with her dedication towards helping other runners reach their goals.
Scott Jurek
Scott Jurek has been one of the most recognisable Ultra marathoner faces in long distance running since 1999 when he won his first Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run. He went on to win seven consecutive titles at this race and set the overall record time for it in 2005! In 2015 he completed a self-supported run along the entire length of the Appalachian Trail – 2,189 miles – in 46 days 8 hours 7 minutes! He now works as a professional coach and shares his experience through seminars around the world.
Kilian Jornet
Kilian Jornet is one of the world’s most celebrated endurance athletes, setting numerous records for speed ascents on all seven continents. Kilian was born in Catalonia, Spain and began running at a young age. Kilian is a mountaineer, ultra-runner, and ski mountaineer who has participated in many extreme sports events around the world. Kilian has been awarded several prestigious accolades such as the National Geographic Adventurer of the Year award for his remarkable achievements in mountaineering.
Killian has won countless ultra-trail races including an incredible 7 consecutive victories at the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc where he ran 2 hours faster than anyone before him. Kil also holds records on some of the toughest mountains in the world such as Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Elbrus, and Denali. Kilian is renowned for his incredible endurance and mental toughness—he completed his first Ironman triathlon in just 10 hours and 44 minutes!
The best Ultra Marathoner?
The ultra-marathon scene is ever evolving with new faces emerging every year, but these runners have consistently proven themselves to be among the best in this competitive sport. From setting course records to inspiring others to reach their goals, each one brings something unique to long distance running. Whether you’re just getting started or looking for some tips on how to improve your performance – these Athletes above are definitely worth taking note of!