WESTERN STATES 100 ENDURANCE RUN 2024: RACE PREVIEW. Our UTMB 2024 WORLD SERIES bring us today the latest inews about this race in its 51st edition.
The 51st edition of Western States™ 100 Endurance Run, the oldest and most iconic 100-mile trail run in the world, promises another unforgettable edition in Auburn, California on June 29-30.
Photo UTMB
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WESTERN STATES 100 ENDURANCE RUN 2024
RACE PREVIEW
The Western States Endurance Run, is gearing up for another thrilling edition. With 369 participants ready to tackle the grueling 100-mile course, the event will kick off at the iconic Olympic Valley in California, the historic site of the 1960 Winter Olympics.
This year’s race features a star-studded line-up, including some of the most elite ultrarunners in the world. Among the participants are ten-time finishers, a growing contingent of women athletes, and 30 Golden Ticket winners. These coveted Golden Tickets are awarded to top finishers in select qualifying races, granting them entry into the prestigious Western States event.
THE RETURN OF JIM WALMSLEY
One of the most exciting storylines of the 2024 race is the return of Jim Walmsley, the current course record holder. Walmsley, who also recently won the 2023 UTMB® at HOKA UTMB® Mont-Blanc, is a formidable contender. His presence adds a significant level of excitement to see if he can further cement his legacy in the ultrarunning world.
The Western States Endurance Run is not just about the competition; it’s a celebration of endurance, and the ultrarunning community. This year’s event highlights a notable increase in female participation, reflecting the growing inclusivity and diversity within the sport. The race’s challenging terrain, stunning scenery, and storied history continue to attract runners from around the globe, making it one of the most revered events in ultrarunning.
Humble Beginnings
The history of the WS Endurance Run dates back to 1974 when Gordy Ainsleigh, an experienced horseman, decided to complete the Tevis Cup trail on foot. The Tevis Cup, a 100-mile equestrian race, had been around since 1955 and was known for its difficulty and scenic beauty.
Ainsleigh completed the course in 23 hours and 42 minutes, proving that the feat was possible for runners. His success inspired others to follow in his footsteps, and in 1978, the first official Western States Endurance Run was held.
Evolution and Growth
Since its inception, the Western States Endurance Run has gained popularity and prestige. It has become one of the most coveted ultramarathon races in the world, attracting elite runners from around the globe. The original course of the race has undergone some modifications over the years, but it has always maintained its essence: a brutal challenge that tests the runners’ endurance, determination, and adaptability.
WESTERN STATES 2024 FAVOURITES
Men
In the Men’s Elite field, the anticipation is sky-high as two-time champion Jim Walmsley aims to defend his title and possibly break his own course record of 14:09:28, set in 2019. Walmsley will face fierce competition from a roster of seasoned runners, including Tyler Green, the 2023 runner-up and four-time finisher.
Adding to the thrilling line-up are several top finishers from the 2023 race, such as Jiasheg Shen from China, and Dakota Jones from the USA. Joining them are Ji Duo and Hayden Hawks, both of whom have accepted their Golden Ticket offers alongside Walmsley. ill also be hoping to battle it out at the front of the race in Northern California.
Women
One of the UTMB Legends, Katie Schide, is gearing up to better her second-place finish from 2023. She will be part of a Women’s Elite field that includes Eszter Csillag, who secured third place last year, and three-time finisher Emily Hawgood.
The excitement doesn’t stop there, as the first-time participants are also generating buzz. Noteworthy names like Emily Schmitz, Eleanor Davis, and Heather Jackson are set to make their mark in this year’s race. These talented runners are ready to challenge the veterans and add an extra layer of excitement to the competition.
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WESTERN STATES 100 ENDURANCE RUN
Beginning in Olympic Valley, site of the 1960 Winter Olympic Games, the trail ascends from the valley floor (elevation 6,200 feet) to Emigrant Pass (elevation 8,750 feet), a climb of 2,550 vertical feet in the first 4½ miles.
From the pass, following the original trails used by the gold and silver miners of the 1850’s, runners travel west, climbing another 15,540 feet and descending 22,970 feet before reaching Auburn, a small town in the heart of California’s historic gold country. Most of the trail passes through remote and rugged territory.
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