Has Trail Running Lost Its Soul? | EP 790
About this episode
The episode discusses the evolution of trail running and its impact on the sport's culture and community.
Trail running has grown from a small community of passionate runners into a global sport, bringing bigger races, better gear, international competition, and more opportunities than ever before. Gaël Dutigny shares a firsthand account of witnessing UTMB from its very first edition in 2003 and reflects on how its evolution mirrors the growth of trail running itself. The conversation explores both sides of that growth, from crowded lotteries and commercialization to innovations in equipment, race organization, and worldwide access to incredible events. Along the way, Gaël, Don, and Scott discuss what makes iconic races so special, why local races still matter, and how runners can stay connected to the welcoming culture that first drew so many to the trails. It's a thoughtful discussion about preserving the soul of trail running while embracing the sport's exciting future. Links: Gaël Dutigny's Substack UltraRunning Magazine EPISODE SPONSORS Tifosi Optics - CLARITY ON THE TRAIL: Post your Golden Nugget of wisdom that helps you recover after a huge effort on Instagram, tag @TifosiOptics, @TrailRunnerNation, and use the hashtag #ClarityOnTheTrail. OR try texting us (within the USA)…
Sponsors
Tifosi Optics, Stone Creek Coffee
More episodes of Trail Runner Nation
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- EP 788: The Hardest Part Wasn't the Race
- EP 787: Aging as an Athlete- What Climbers Know About Longevity That Runners Need
- EP 786: Everything You Need to Know Before Western States
- EP 785: Why Fitness isn't Enough
- EP 784: The Future of Trail Running Is Being Decided Right Now
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