Do Ultra Runners get Better with Age

“There’s a grandma who’s beating you,”.

I was told this in the middle of the night by the race staff during my first 100 mile race. It was 2018 and I was 37 years old. At the time, I didn’t feel great about a 62 year old beating me in a race however I am now very much encouraged by this. I hit a significant benchmark earlier this week when I turned 40 years old. The start of a new decade has me reflecting on what life is going to be like in my 40s. As an avid runner, I was naturally curious if I would slow down with age.

The good news is that there is a large amount of evidence which cites that some of the fastest ultra runners in the world are near 40 years old. A 2013 study found that the fastest 100 mile runners in the world had a mean age of 39 for women and 37 for men. Another 2013 study found that in 24 hour running races, the fastest male runners were 42 years old and the fastest female runners were 40 years old. In addition to these statistics, there are some amazing examples of older athletes who are considered among the top ultra runners in the world.

At 48 years old, Jeff Browning is a force of nature in trail running. Browning’s ultrasignup page includes wins at the 2018 Hardrock 100, 2019 Tarawera 100 and a 5th place finish at the 2018 Western States 100.

At 44 years old, Rob Krar is continuing to post amazing results. Krar recently set the fastest known time for the iconic Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim route at the Grand Canyon. Krar and his friend Mike Foote completed the rugged 43 mile run in 11 h 32 m, taking almost 50 minutes off the record that was previously held by Jim Walmsley and his two friends. Walmsley, at 31 years old is considered by many as the fastest ultra runner in the world.

Encouraged by all of this supporting material, I don’t plan on slowing down my running as I venture into my 40’s. Having started running later in life, I believe that my fastest times are still ahead of me. The 62 year old grandma who beat me at my first 100 mile race gives me something to strive to. She shows me what is possible in this great sport.