About this episode

Ellaney Matarese shares her journey from a Harvard track athlete to a trail running enthusiast and her experiences leading up to the Western States 100.

Ellaney Matarese thought she was taking a gap year before medical school. Instead, she found herself falling in love with trail running and earning a Golden Ticket to the 2026 Western States 100 less than a year after running her first ultra. In this conversation, Ellaney shares her journey from Harvard track athlete and neuroscience graduate to one of the sport's most intriguing new talents. She reflects on embracing uncertainty, chasing new challenges, and why staying open to unexpected opportunities has shaped both her running and her life. We also talk about Black Canyon, Canyons, preparing for her first 100-miler, and the mindset that has helped her navigate a whirlwind first year in the sport. Topics Discussed Earning a Golden Ticket to the Western States 100 Transitioning from collegiate track to trail ultras Racing Black Canyon and Canyons 100K Training with David Roche Medical school, neuroscience, and life beyond running Learning through first-time experiences Preparing for a Western States debut Girls on the Run and her marathon fundraiser Finding confidence through curiosity and adventure This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network…

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