What Just Happened at Trail Running’s Toughest Race — and How You Can Get Into the Sport

The Leadville 100 race came to a close this weekend with two surprising winners — and we’ve got plenty of tips and tricks for emulating them.

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One of trail running’s most intense races, the Leadville 100, took place this weekend. Anyone who loves trail running was likely watching to see who would come out on top. Proving they are not getting too old for this sh*t, Magdalena Boulet, 46, and Ryan Smith, 40, were the winners, logging times of 20:18:06 and 16:33:24 respectively.

If you’ve never heard of the Leadville 100, here’s what you need to know. The 100-mile race takes place in Leadville, Colorado, where the altitude starts at 10,151 feet, and the climbs on the course reach 15,600 feet. It’s a pretty intense race, whether you’re accustomed to the altitude or not. Participants have to finish in 30 hours, or they’re considered another DNF (did not finish) — along with about half the racers. Runners across the country love this race, and for a good reason: it’s tough but beautiful.

Feeling inspired? Here’s all you need to know to get started, whether you’re hitting the trail in your backyard or booking flights to Leadville for next year’s race.

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