Not sure just how far you can go? Try a timed ultra like North Carolina’s Black Mountain Monster 6-, 12-, or 24-Hour Race (May), where runners cover as much or as little ground as they want to attempt on a looped course. “ The Marin Ultra Challenge (March) in Sausalito, California, offers a 50-mile distance on many of the same trails as the North Face 50, but with a slightly cheaper entry fee and not all of the hype.” Black Mountain Monster

“I love hype-just not for my first ultra,” Gates says. Bonus: They’re usually a bargain compared to their big-name counterparts. A smaller race allows for more one-on-one attention from race directors and volunteers. Though ultrarunners tend to be a pretty chill bunch, large races can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially for a new runner with lots of questions. Ricky Gates, Professional Athlete, Transcontinental Finisherįor your first ultra, a laid-back vibe will go a long way toward keeping nerves at bay, says Gates. We asked experienced ultrarunners to share their favorite beginner-friendly races-the ones that will prevent you from never wanting to toe the start line again. But that doesn’t mean your first ultra-distance race has to be a total sufferfest. Even on flat courses with soft trails, the body and mind take a beating while running 50 kilometers or more. There are no two ways about it: Your first ultramarathon is going to be tough.

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