1. Scott Jurek's Appalachian Trail Record: In 2015, ultrarunning legend Scott Jurek set a new speed record for the 2,189-mile Appalachian Trail, completing the grueling trek in just 46 days, 8 hours, and 7 minutes.
2. Badwater Ultramarathon: Known as the world's toughest footrace, the Badwater Ultramarathon covers 135 miles through California's Death Valley, with temperatures soaring above 120°F. This race attracts elite ultrarunners from around the globe.
3. Courtney Dauwalter's Moab 240 Win: In 2017, Courtney Dauwalter shocked the ultrarunning world by not only winning but dominating the Moab 240, a 238-mile race through the rugged terrain of Utah's Canyonlands.
4. Dean Karnazes' Endurance Feats: Dean Karnazes is famous for his incredible endurance feats, including running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 consecutive days and running 350 miles non-stop.
5. Pam Reed's Badwater Double: Pam Reed made history by being the first person to win the Badwater Ultramarathon outright and then turning around and completing the race again in the same year.
6. Jamil Coury's Barkley Marathons Finish: The Barkley Marathons is a notoriously difficult 100-mile race with only 15 finishers in its history. Jamil Coury's finish in 2019 was particularly impressive, given the race's brutal elevation changes and navigation challenges.
7. Kilian Jornet's Mount Everest Speed Record: Kilian Jornet, known for his remarkable mountain running prowess, set a new speed record for the ascent and descent of Mount Everest, completing the feat in just 26 hours.
8. Turia Pitt's Remarkable Comeback: Ultrarunner Turia Pitt suffered life-threatening burns during an ultramarathon in Australia but remarkably recovered to continue pursuing her passion for long-distance running.
9. The Last Annual Vol State Road Race: This 314-mile race across Tennessee is one of the oldest ultras in the U.S. Known for its extreme heat and challenging terrain, the race has attracted a devoted following of ultrarunners.
10. The Barkley Marathons Documentary: The Barkley Marathons gained widespread attention after the release of a documentary on the race, showcasing its eccentric creator and the intense physical and mental challenges faced by participants.
These are just a few of the many fascinating stories that have emerged from the world of ultra running, demonstrating the incredible endurance, tenacity, and spirit of its participants.