USA - 102km

Courtney Dauwalter

3 Race Highlights:

• Western States 100 2018 – 1st place female
• Ultra Trail Mt. Fuji 100 2018 – 1st place female
• Moab 240 Mile Endurance Run 2017 – 1st place overall

What does trail running mean to you?

I love everything about trail running!  I love the remote places and the scenic views the trails can lead you to.  I love the people of the trail running community.  I love that the trails challenge you to keep putting in the work because you can always get better and there is always more to learn.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

Exploring New Zealand, meeting new people, pushing my limits on the 102k course

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Keep trying!  Be patient with yourself and persistent with your training.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

How could I pick just one!?  Too many to name.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I am really curious about the mental aspect of running.  Physically, it will always eventually hurt.  How can our brains help us overpower that physical pain?

USA - 160KM

Camille Herron

3 race highlights:

• 2017 Comrades Marathon Champion
• 2017 Tunnel Hill 100 Champion- 12:42:40, World Record and Trail 100 miles fastest known time
• 2017 Tarawera 102K Champion/CR

What does trail running mean to you?
The ability to see unique and beautiful places around the world with my two legs and push the limits of what’s possible

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?
Seeing how fast I can go for the 100 mile course, embracing the beauty, and all the friendships

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?
Believe in yourself

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?
Ron Daws, who wrote the book The Self Made Olympian. He was an average runner who used his brain to methodically elevate himself to making an Olympic Team in the marathon. I read his book while in grad school, and it made me believe I could use my brain too to reach the top.

What motivates you when running gets tough?
I think about everything I’ve overcome in my life and how I deserve to succeed, certain workouts and how hard I pushed myself, and I love to think about people that inspire me to transcend!

USA - 160km

Jeff Browning

3 Race Highlights:

• Pushing through and winning the inaugural Ultra Fiord 174K in Patagonia Chile in horrible conditions
• The Double record (2016 combined times of Western States 100 and Hardrock 100 19 days apart)
• The surprise win at Hardrock 100 in 2018.

What does trail running mean to you?

It’s my decompression time. My time to unplug and commune with wild places.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

My first time in New Zealand, so stoked for all of it!

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Be patient and run hills (I know, that’s two!)

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

I’ve always loved American middle distance runner Steve Prefontaine (who died in a 1975 car crash at age 24). He trained hard, always showed up, never missed practice and raced fearlessly.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

My family. I take a ton of time away to race, travel and train. I feel I owe it to them to race hard and not quit.

USA - 102km

Tim Freriks

Profile to come

USA - 102km

Cody Reed

3 Race Highlights:

Running Western States is definitely #1! Best highlight of running so far.

Winning Way Too Cool 50k is second, and running in college at NAU, it made me the runner I am today and I wouldn’t be here without that.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

Everything. The whole experience, being in New Zealand again, running the race through the beautiful landscapes, winning it this time, visiting the south island, relaxing after the race.

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Don’t let the distance scare you off. Jump in and test yourself. But make sure you have the right training first!

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

I really admire the people who are in the back of the race, who struggle to finish and take the entire time the race allows to finish. The middle and back-of-the-packers. They are what makes ultra running so special and keeps the sport alive, and they represent the soul of the race.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I know if I don’t finish, or don’t do well, the Coconino Cowboys will make endless fun of me. That is my motivation.

USA - 102km

Sally McRae

Profile to come.

USA - 102km

Meghan Laws

My 10th sub-24 Western States in 2016 for a 1000 Miles in 10 Days buckle

Finishing UTMB in 2013

Winning the Way Too Cool 50k in 2013

What does trail running mean to you?

Train running brings me such joy! I love connecting to the earth and the flora and fauna.

I often run without human companionship, but never feel alone.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

Seeing the full course. I came in 2014 and the race was shortened due to Cyclone Lusi.

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Take your time. Enjoy the process of slowly achieving longer distances. There is plenty of time to enjoy it all and better to go gradually than to risk injury or burnout.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

Tim Twietmeyer – he has run 25 sub-24 Western States. He is still very involved with the race and in the running community.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

Getting to the finish line is so rewarding, no matter how bad I’m feeling. I know I’ll get there, so just one foot in front of the other, and reminding myself that by tomorrow it will be just a memory.

USA - 102KM

Devon Yanko

3 Race Highlights:

• 2016 WS 100-3rd place
• 2017 Leadville 100-1st place
• 3x Comrades gold medal

What does trail running mean to you?

Freedom and joy

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

Good vibes, great race organization, awesome community and exploring a new place!

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Don’t put expectations on yourself when you first start racing. There is a lot to learn and so you should take the time to learn it, make mistakes and grow without judgement!

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

Kara Goucher. She has stood for the truth, being extremely real and authentic. She also blazed the trail for so many in distance running.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

Realizing that when things are tough during a run that it is just running. Remembering that I have been through way worse in life and that ultimately, running is just about joy, challenge and community. It is really not all that serious so when it feels hard, just lean in and say I chose this! This suffering is optional.

AUS - 102km

David Byrne

3 Race Highlights:

• 2nd 2016 Tarawera Ultra
• 4th 2017 Ultra-Trail Australia
• 4th 2017 Tarawera Ultra

What does trail running mean to you?

Trail running is an opportunity to escape the city and challenge myself in amazing, wild places. I’m always thankful for the experiences it provides, both the tough days and the good ones. Nothing beats the shared suffering of an ultra!

 What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

The hug from Paul at the finish!

 What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Embrace the suffering. You’ll be surprised just how dark a place you can go and then keep on chugging on.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

I’m a huge fan of Zach Miller. I love how he races. He goes hard from the gun and there’s no holding back. It’s pretty rad that he does this at every event and races without fear.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I always remind myself that I’m lucky to be able to do what I do and I owe a lot to my wife for supporting me in this somewhat selfish pursuit. So I figure, the least I can do is give it everything.

British - 102KM

Harry Jones

3 Race Highlights:

• CCC 2018 – 8th
• Ultra-Trail Australia 2018 – 3rd
• Hong Kong 100 2018 – 5th

What does trail running mean to you?

Trail running is an opportunity to have an adventure every single day; to get out into nature and to explore incredible landscapes, countries and cultures across the world.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

The natural beauty of the landscape, and running in a country I’ve wanted to visit for a very long time.

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Choose races that excite you: preparing for and completing an ultra takes a lot of time, dedication and motivation, but choosing a race that excites you will keep you on track and make it a much more positive experience.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

I admire the runner who laces up their shoes day after day and gets those miles in despite the many stresses and demands that can get in the way, and who is committed to giving their absolute all no matter whether they are at the front or back of the pack.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I remind myself that I choose to be there, I choose to be out in the mountains, and I choose for it to be tough as it forces me to explore my limits and learn from the experience. There is no better feeling than getting to the finishing line knowing that you were challenged not only by the course, conditions and other racers but by your determination to get the most out of yourself rather than giving in to the hardships of it.

NZ - 160km

Grant Guise

Profile to follow

USA - 102km

Charlie Ware

3 race highlights

1) Top ten at WSER was a dream come true.

 2) Finishing my first hundred (Javalina Jundred) was a huge milestone and broke down some big mental barriers.

3) Finishing my first ultra at the Old Pueblo 50 started the momentum into this mad sport, I’ll never forgot how hard that first one was.

What does trail running mean to you?

It’s all the great and wonderful things that everyone experiences out there, but what it really boils down to, is it makes me a better person.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

It’s my first international race.  I’m looking forward to everything from the scenery, to the food, to running hard and trying to take it all in.

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Don’t take it too seriously, it’s just running.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

Ann Trason.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I like to remind myself why I’m doing it in the first place – I love it.

Nepal -102km

Sange Sherpa

3 Race Highlights

• Winner of Montreux Trail Festival 165km (Switzerland) in 2017 and 2018.
• Winner of Shinetsu Five Mountain Trail 100km (Japan) 2017
• Winner of Tenerife Blutrail 100km (Spain) 2016

What does trail running mean to you?

For me the trail running is the perfect way to live very close to the nature. To feel real test of the effort and to overtake yourself physically as well as mentally.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

I would really love to meet the local people from Maori ethnie to enjoy ththeirulture and local specialities. And also to discover different landscapes of New Zéland..

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Most of the runners use to run one or two year the small diastances, then choise directly 100km or 100 miles. Its a great rist of injury or too much suffering. So go progressivelly to increase your distance. In this way you will find more fun in run.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

Honestly to say, I’m never impressed by sommeone taleted runners. I have great respect for theirs performance but rather i admire and most impressed by the runners who complete the race with double time than me. Mostly they chose the Ultra trails because Its the best way to loose their weight or to evacuet the negative emotion of their life.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

Usually I think about good moments of my life, my familles, friends. Sometimes i compare myself with someone who has less chances than me or i think about someone who has to fight themself everyday with cancer or other deasese. I realise that the suffering during Ultra trail is most eassier than the suffering by cancer !

USA - 102km

Amanda Basham

3 Race Highlights

• 1st place – 2018 TransAlpine Run
• 4th place – 2018 Western States 100
• 1st place – 2018 Ultra Race of Champions 100k
• 2nd place – 2018 Tarawera 100k

What does trail running mean to you?

Trail running is a way to explore the world and meet new people. That’s been the best part of this sport!

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

I’m excited to come back and run the trails again! It’s such a beautiful area and the course is my jam!

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Take a few minutes to save a few hours. My boyfriend told me this awhile ago and it has really helped. Anytime something starts to creep up you just have to focus on fixing the problem rather than pushing through it. So if you feel nauseas or light headed, stop and figure out why. It will cost you a few minutes but more than likely it will save you from a huge bonk later in the race.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

I have always admired my friend, Sally McRae. She juggles being a mom, wife, professional runner and all of the other things she squeezes in on a daily basis. She is always so positive and happy too. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her mad. She finds the good in everything and is very inspiring.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I often think of other times in life that have been tough and the fact that I got through them. It helps me realize that if I got through those times then I can get through this race.

Australia - 102km

Ash Watson

3 race highlights 

What does trail running mean to you?

The trails are a place where you can switch off and just run without the need to worry about traffic or anything else getting in your way. My home in Ballarat is right on the doorstep of some brilliant trails so it makes getting out and running easy. There’s also no better way to get fit than running the hilly trails.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

Being able to run in a new place and explore some awesome scenery. I’m also looking forward to testing myself against some of the best runners in the trail running world.

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Practice your race day nutrition strategy. If you can keep the food and fluids down it will go a long way in helping you run well.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

Steve Moneghetti – Now 56, still out there training day in day out with just as much passion as when he was 25.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

When things get tough, I know its only temporary and things will get better. Thinking of all the training that has gone into preparing and not wanting to let that go to waste.

France - 102km

Benoit Girondel

Profile to come.

AUS - 102km

Jess Carroll

3 Race Highlights:

I am not a professional runner so haven’t racked up a lot of ultramarathon race results but I have managed to snag a 2nd at UTA 100km this year and 1st at Northburn 100km 2017 and I think it was 2016 I came 2nd in the Tarawera 60km.

What does trail running mean to you?

I love racing in New Zealand it’s just like Australia only the animals, insects and people are friendlier!

Trail running for me is where I find my calm.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

I am most looking forward to the beautiful scenery on offer over the course. You guys really know how to put on a show!

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Advice for newcomers; control what you can,  and don’t stress about the stuff you can’t… also always carry something for chafe.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

At the moment it has to be Des Linden… years of work finally paying off in one of the toughest marathon conditions… what a brave, fiercely strong runner! and of course Courtney Dauwalter… smashing glass ceilings on a regular basis.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

When running gets tough I like to think that no one is 100%,  100% of the time! You will go through bad patches but chances are, so will everyone else… races aren’t lost off a bad patch.. they are lost when you give up.

AUS - 102km

Alana Vought

Race Highlights:

• Crossing the finish line of Blackall 100 with my son – I broke my hand a few weeks prior, my goal was to get to the start line, so that finish line felt pretty good
• Winning an amazing race, WECH50, in my own backyard, with some of my best mates on the course

What does trail running mean to you?

Trail running has given me so much.  It is my meditation, my sanity – it makes me a better me.  It keeps me in my lane.  The ultra-distances give me in one day what some people never experience in a life time……..the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

The course!  I have never visited the north island and I have been told by everyone who has been there how amazingly beautiful the course is.  No better way to see a place than exploring it on foot

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Enjoy the journey.  I have to remind myself that it isn’t ever about one race, or one event, it’s about the journey we get on the way to the start line.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

Jim Walmsley, I love his mental strength and self-belief

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I am a single mum of two amazing children, there’s so much motivation around me.  I love the example of discipline, resilience and strength running provides my kids.

Czech Republic - 102km

Marek Causidis

3 Race highlights

          3rd place – Scenic Trail 114/km/7400m SWS Ultra series

          9th place – European Championship Ultra sky High trail Vanoise

          4th place – SWS Ultra overall

What does trail running mean to you?

Joy and freedom of trail running

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

I look forward to Tarawera´s beauty of nature as well as wonderful country which I have never been to.

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

If people don’t like running ultra or can’t get any pleasure from it I think that they should not push themselves into it.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

For sure it’s Kilian Jornet and the Americans Zach Miller and Jim Walmsley.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

The thirst to reach the finish line and responsibility to my sponsors and all the people who believe me.

USA - 102km

Kat Schuller

3 Race Highlights

H9 50 mile Win/CR 2016

2018 Georgia Jewel 18miler overall win

Lake Sonoma 50 miler 11th place and 50m PR

What does trail running mean to you?

It’s a place where I meditate and practice mindfulness, where I zone out from the world and tune in, and where I have a sense of community and unconditional love

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

Traveling to New Zealand and seeing the trails!

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

Take it slow, listen to your body, and take care of things (like blisters, your stomach, something in your shoes,  etc.) as they come up – don’t wait until it’s too late and it’ll ruin your race.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

Magdalena Boulet – she is so humble, yet so hardworking and fast, and also so curious about all of the ways she can explore the world and use her body in different ways.

What motivates you when running gets tough? 

Teaching myself that I’m stronger than I think, recognizing I’m uncomfortable without letting it control me.

USA - 160km

Zac Marion

3 Race Highlights:

• 2018 TransAlpine Stage Races (1st Place)
• 2018 Tushars Trail Marathon (1st Place)
• 2018 Bryce Canyon 50 Mile (1st Place)

What does trail running mean to you?

Trail running is my anchor. No matter else is happening in the world, I know that I can always turn to trails and find myself and re-center my purpose. It also allows me to explore new places and connect with the land in an intimate way that is very sustaining to me.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

I’m excited to share the trail with other amazing athletes and compete for the podium together. There’s the amazing emotion that comes from miles 70-100 that can’t be explained but only experienced. I’m searching for those moments. I can’t wait to experience such a transcending event in one of the most beautiful courses in the world!

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

You are the sum of your actions. Nothing more and nothing less. All those days out on the trails and roads of pushing yourself define who you are on race day. So show up and be consistent every day. Even if you can’t get the workouts or the miles in that you want. Just show up and add at least a little to that fire every day!

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

I admire all those that toe the starting line. It takes guts. And I admire even more all the athletes that come in during that last hour. They’ve crushed themselves just as hard as I do, but they do it for so much longer. Watching those amazingly resilient and strong athletes complete their goals of crossing that finish line, it truly inspires me.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I’ve always been a grind-it-out type. That’s why I love ultra marathons! I know that at some point it’s going to be tough and hurt and I’m going to feel like crap. But I came here to push myself until I can confront that toughness. So when it comes, I’m not only prepared for them but I’m excited and relish in those moments.

NZ - 160km

Fiona Hayvice

3 Race Highlights:

• 1st female 2016 Tarawera Ultramarathon (100km)
• 5th female 2017 Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, USA
• 1st female (course record) 2017 Ultra-Trail Tai Mo Shan (YTF) 50 Km, Hong Kong

What does trail running mean to you?
Immersing myself in nature. Although not always possible, I’d ideally trail run on a daily basis. As it is during this time in the wilderness, that I’m able to fully switch off from technology, and find head-space to contemplate, rationalise and reconnect with training goals, family life and work.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?
Sharing some of Aotearoa’s best trails, with some of the best ultra-trail runners in the world.

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?
Stay steadfast to the power of mind over matter. Right from the time I ran my very first ultra distance (100km, solo, non-organised event), I’ve adopted the philosophy that if the mind is willing, then my body will follow. I always stand on the start-line (both training and racing) utterly convinced that I’m going to finish. And when the going gets tough, which it inevitably does, my mind is my most powerful tool.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?
Mal Law for his ability to use running to advocate and fundraise for the betterment of others. A selfless guy, who not only speaks candidly about mental health, raising awareness and close to a million dollars for the the NZ Mental Health Foundation. But a genuine guy who’s vision, consistent presence, and unwavering encouragement of others, has meant he’s been integral to fostering Aotearoa’s trail-running community.

What motivates you when running gets tough?
I think of, and often even talk to my mother. Her life was cut short by at least 30 years. I reflect on my current good health and fitness. And I look around me at that moment, typically alone and surrounded by nature. My gratitude for these things, and a few stern words from my mother, motivates me to shake off any negativity and to run with joy.

Australia - 102km

Reece Edwards

Italy/NZ - 102km

Cecilia Flori

3 Race Highlights:

Probably the race that stayed with me the most was  western states 100miles. It was my first miler and admittedly I was a bit scared of the distance. But I took it easy to start off with and managed to finish feeling strong. Another highlight race was tarawera 2017 where i battled for some time with Magda.  That was my first truly competitive race next to some of the best runners of the world.  One also learns a lot in races that do not go as planned. For me it was CCC. I was ill and I had to really put in all my strength to not DNF. That was a great learning curve for me.

What does trail running mean to you?

It has always given me a sense of freedom and peace.  I love being out there in the wild

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?

I love the competitiveness of the event. Brings out the best of you

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras?

I think many people are scared of the distance, but if you pace your self well and eat properly it is actually an awesome adventure.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

My number one Ideal is Camille Herron. She is an amazing runner and person. You can tell that she loves running and that is why she does it.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

I remind my self that I have a choice. I can control my feeling and direct it to more positive thoughts or I can let it control me.

AUS - 102km

Andrew Lee

3 Race Highlights:

A little while ago now, but winning TNF100 (now UTA100) for first time in 2009 , winning Six Foot Track Marathon in 2011 & finishing Leadville 100 miler in 2016. The first 2 here were totally unexpected  favourable results and I still have raw & vivid memories of them both. Whereas with the Leadville 100, whilst a bit of a lowlight at the time as I got nowhere near what I wanted to achieve, I now look upon this as a highlight for completely different reasons. Things went a little pear shaped upon reaching half way and I had to dig deep in the back half to get through to the finish.

What does trail running mean to you?

I’d feel naked without it, as it’s been a part of my life for a very long time! It’s a great de-stresser, provides for plenty of perspective & “headspace”, well being, a sense of freedom. Also a great to be out in nature and along the way meet amazing and like minded people.

What are you most looking forward to at Tarawera?  

Competing in a race that I’ve heard so many awesome stories about in a beautiful part of the world and embracing everything and everyone that’s associated with the event.

What’s the 1 piece of advice you would give to newcomers to running ultras? 

Start off easy & relaxed, well within your limitations, then work into it ever so surely.  It’s always best to slowly work up as opposed to starting from the up which is a high risk play that often leads to crashing down later.

In the running world tell us about someone you admire?

Rob Krar. He’s extremely humble and down to earth, whom just so happens to be one extraordinary athlete… All class.  I was very fortunate to meet him when he came over to Australia to compete at the UTA100 in 2017.

What motivates you when running gets tough?

That there’s many people around the world whom are unfortunately doing it somewhat tougher than yourself, brought about by things out of their control such as illness, natural disasters, war, poverty etc.  Also not wanting to let my wife & children down whom are very supportive of my running & have to put up with me!!