Running News Daily

While some folks might navigate life with less of a plan, athletes, particularly runners with competitive ambition, need structure to their goals. Goal setting is as natural to you as accidentally clicking "Sign Up" on Ultrasignup; before you know it, your goals are on paper!

However, even for goal-oriented individuals like yourself, there's always room to refine your goal-setting approach to maximize your potential. And that starts with a proper perspective. A mentor once phrased it as follows: "It's not solely about achieving the goal,l but rather about the person you must become to attain it."

This perspective emphasizes the growth process, with the goal as a guiding target. It liberates us from negative thinking and self-blame if we miss our target. Many successes remain if we do the work and grow in our attempts. The only true failure occurs when we fail to put in the effort or set the wrong initial goal. Effective goal setting can help you avoid both.

As we immerse into the new year, lottery selections, and the process of finalizing race schedules and objectives for 2024, I aim to share my guide on effective goal setting that I apply myself, teach our coaches at CTS, and work with many of my athletes through. As a coach, imparting the skill of effective goal setting to my athletes is among the most invaluable contributions I can make. It is the foundation for a year or a lifelong pursuit, marked by personal growth and self-discovery.

Setting the Stage: Your Trail Running Vision

A good starting place for any goal is to reflect on your long-term vision as a person and athlete. What are your ultimate aspirations in the sport? This could include completing specific races, achieving certain performance milestones, or simply experiencing personal growth through running. Consider what truly motivates you. Is it the joy of running on scenic trails, the desire to push your physical and psychological limits, the thrill of competition, the sense of belonging in a community, the means of coping with life's pressures, or the person you're becoming in the process? Understanding the answers to these questions will help you set meaningful goals.

After gaining clarity, put your vision into writing and make it a habit to revisit it frequently. Keep this vision statement in front of you by putting it in places you will see on a regular basis, such as your bathroom mirror, phone screen saver, or calendar reminders that alert you throughout the day or week. Remember that your vision may evolve as you continue to grow and develop. Having a well-articulated statement of purpose is a powerful tool that can assist you in refocusing when necessary. We've all faced challenging seasons, and reconnecting with the motivations behind our involvement in the demands of trail and ultrarunning can help us maintain a positive outlook and a strong sense of direction. In fact, it's not uncommon for my athletes to revisit these purpose statements even during the midst of a challenging ultra event.

Types of Goals

Before we get to the how-to's, let's define some terms and build a good framework. There are various types of goals that trail and ultrarunners commonly pursue. One prevalent category of goals is outcome goals, which involve specific race-related achievements such as finishing a race within a designated time or securing a particular placement. Outcome goals provide a clear target and can be highly motivating, often presenting a binary pass-or-fail outcome. For instance, an outcome goal might be, "I want to complete a 100-mile race in under 24 hours."

Another common type of goal relevant to all endurance athletes is performance goals.  These goals revolve around quantifiable metrics that assess speed, skills, or endurance. Performance goals are frequently integrated into training programs aimed at achieving outcome goals. An example of a performance goal is, "I want to maintain a sub-10-minute mile pace during my endurance runs on my local trail."

Process goals, on the other hand, concentrate on the specific actions and steps required for success. A process goal should accompany every outcome or performance goal. For instance, if the outcome goal is to complete a 100-mile race in under 24 hours, a suitable process goal might be to maintain consistent daily training for a six-month period. While this process goal may lack detailed specifics, it is arguably an athlete's most crucial goal. It demands hard work, discipline, and a smart training approach to sustain consistency. Even if the athlete falls short of their target, the process can be a success if it has made them a better athlete and individual throughout the journey. Ultimately, progress and growth matter more than the final result. The result is typically a celebration of the process.

Intertwining Motivations

In addition to outcome, performance, and process goals, intrinsic and extrinsic motivations are intertwined. Intrinsic motivations are internal and revolve around the sheer joy and satisfaction derived from running. Many trail and ultrarunners find intrinsic motivation in "exploring new trails in the natural surroundings," reflecting their love for trail running.

External motivations are driven by outward factors like race medals, winning, Ultrasignup rankings, and recognition from others. While these external factors can motivate in the short term, they may lack long-term commitment. Balancing extrinsic and intrinsic motivations for a sustainable and fulfilling running experience is crucial.

Understanding the motivations behind our goals plays a critical role in enhancing and complementing our pursuit of these goals.

SMART Goal Framework

The SMART goal framework is a widely recognized and effective approach to goal setting that provides a structured and systematic way to define and achieve objectives. This framework is particularly valuable for trail and ultrarunners looking to set clear and attainable goals in their training and racing endeavors. Let's break down what SMART stands for and how it can be applied to running goals:

S - Specific: The first step in setting a SMART goal is to make it specific. A specific goal is well-defined and leaves no room for ambiguity. For trail and ultrarunners, specificity might involve clarifying the race distance, terrain type (e.g., mountainous trails), and location. Instead of a vague goal like "I want to run a trail race," a specific goal would be "I will complete the Silver Rush 50 Mile race in the Rocky Mountains."

M - Measurable: Goals should be measurable, allowing you to track your progress and determine when you've achieved them. In trail running, measurability can be related to time, distance, pace, or elevation gain. For example, "I plan to finish a 100K trail race in under 12 hours" is a measurable goal because it provides a clear benchmark for success.

A - Achievable: An achievable goal is realistic and attainable within your capabilities and resources. While aiming high is admirable, setting unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and inconsistent efforts in your pursuit. Assess your fitness level, available training time, support network, and other commitments to ensure your goal is achievable. For instance, "I will complete a 100-mile ultramarathon within one year, given my current training routine and available time" is achievable if it aligns with your abilities.

R - Relevant: Your goal should reflect your broader objectives and aspirations. It should align with your values, interests, and long-term plans. In trail running, a relevant goal might involve selecting races that match your passion for rugged terrain or adventure. For instance, "I want to compete in challenging mountain trail races because I'm passionate about conquering steep ascents and descents" is a relevant goal for a mountain-loving trail runner.

T - Time-Bound: Lastly, every goal should have a timeframe for completion. A time-bound goal creates urgency and helps you focus on your training and racing schedule. For example, "I intend to run a marathon-distance trail race within six months" sets a clear timeframe for your goal.

Trail and ultrarunners can transform vague aspirations into well-defined and achievable objectives by applying the SMART goal framework. This structured approach enhances motivation and improves the likelihood of success in training and racing pursuits. Whether you aim to complete a big race, achieve a personal best, or explore new trails, SMART goals can guide your process.

Define Your Goals

Now that you have a framework and clarity around your vision and motivation, you can outline your long-term goals. These should be ambitious and inspiring, representing your ultimate objectives in trail running, ultimately defining your future self. Long-term goals typically span several years. However, life moves fast, and so do your growth and interests! So, even if you take your long-term goals year by year, that's fine. The important thing is that you zoom out and look somewhat into the future, defining who you want to become.

Ensure your long-term goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, "Complete a 100-mile ultramarathon within the next three years" is a SMART long-term goal. While the goal should be achievable, it should also stretch you. The purpose of a goal is to direct and facilitate growth. Therefore, a long-term goal should be achievable in the future but out of reach today. This goal requires something of you. This goal requires work and growth.

Breaking It Down: Short-Term Goals

To work toward your long-term goals, break them down into short-term goals. This is the how-to process for making progress. Short-term goals should be achievable within weeks or months and contribute to your long-term vision.

Focus on areas that need improvement or skills you want to develop. For instance, if your long-term goal is to complete a 100-mile race, short-term goals might be to hire a coach and start building your support network while simultaneously building your running frequency and volume.

Short-term goals keep you focused and on the correct path toward your long-term goals. Remember the SMART goal approach as you set these short-term goals, being specific and measurable. Avoid vague goals here, such as "run more," as I did in the above paragraph. Instead, specify the skill, duration, or frequency required.

Remember that it's about achieving the goals and the person you become along the way. Your pursuit of goals is a testament to your growth and perseverance. The process of growth itself is the real destination.

Always keep your long-term vision in mind. Understand your intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, and find the perfect balance between the two. The SMART goal framework provides you a structured path to success.

Set your goals with ambition and precision, both in the long term and in the short term. Break them into manageable steps, ensuring each goal is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. These goals will be the stepping stones to achieving your ultimate aspirations. 

Happy trails to a SMART 2024 and beyond!

Ethiopia’s Fotyеn Tesfay Haylu delivered one of the most remarkable women’s half-marathon performances ever seen on American soil on Sunday, powering to a commanding victory at the 2026 Buenos Aires Half Marathon in Argentina in 1:03:57.

Running with exceptional confidence and strength, Tesfay took control of the race and produced a superb solo performance to rewrite the event record. Her breathtaking run also carried historic significance, as she became the first woman to break the 64-minute barrier for the half marathon in the Americas, producing what is being celebrated as the fastest women’s half-marathon performance ever recorded on the continent.

The Ethiopian star was in a class of her own, crossing the finish line more than a minute clear of Turkey’s Nevin Can, who finished second in 1:05:06. Another Turkish athlete, Selin Can, completed the podium in third place with 1:05:11, as the leading trio all produced strong performances on the fast streets of Buenos Aires.

Kenya also featured prominently in the top positions, with Irene Jepchumba Kimais taking fourth in 1:06:04, followed by Sheila Chepkirui in fifth with 1:06:13. Magaret Akidor Ngathike finished sixth in 1:06:46, while fellow Kenyan Deborah Samum claimed seventh place in 1:08:32.

Brazil’s Nubia de Oliveira Silva was eighth in 1:11:13, while Argentina’s Sofia Luna and Dahyana Juarez rounded out the top 10 with times of 1:11:21 and 1:11:28, respectively.

Top 10 Women – 2026 Buenos Aires Half Marathon

1. Fotyеn Tesfay Haylu (Ethiopia) – 1:03:57

2. Nevin Can (Turkey) – 1:05:06

3. Selin Can (Turkey) – 1:05:11

4. Irene Jepchumba Kimais (Kenya) – 1:06:04

5. Sheila Chepkirui (Kenya) – 1:06:13

6. Magaret Akidor Ngathike (Kenya) – 1:06:46

7. Deborah Samum (Kenya) – 1:08:32

8. Nubia de Oliveira Silva (Brazil) – 1:11:13

9. Sofia Luna (Argentina) – 1:11:21

10. Dahyana Juarez (Argentina) – 1:11:28

For Tesfay, it was far more than a race victory. Her 1:03:57 performance was a statement of extraordinary quality, combining speed, endurance and remarkable solo running to produce a landmark result in Buenos Aires. In a race that will be remembered for years to come, the Ethiopian did not simply win—she redefined what was thought possible for women’s half-marathon running in the Americas.

Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha produced one of the most extraordinary performances in road racing history on the streets of Buenos Aires, Argentina, reclaiming the half marathon world record with a sensational 56:51 performance at the 2026 Buenos Aires Half Marathon.

The former world record-holder delivered a breathtaking exhibition of speed and endurance to take 29 seconds off the previous pending mark of 57:20, set by Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo and takes a huge chunk from his own former official world record. Kejelcha's new performance is pending the standard ratification procedures, but if officially ratified, it will return the world record to the Ethiopian star and mark another remarkable chapter in the evolution of the event. 

Kejelcha's achievement is particularly significant because the 57-minute barrier had already been broken before. Jacob Kiplimo had previously run under 57 minutes, clocking 56:42 that was not ratified demonstrating that the once-unthinkable barrier was possible. Kejelcha, however, has become the second man to run under 57-minute barrier who now returns to the top of the all-time rankings with another historic performance in Buenos Aires.

The Ethiopian's race was remarkable not only for the final time but also for the way he built his performance. He covered the opening five kilometres in 13:44 before reaching 10km in 27:18. Rather than slowing, Kejelcha accelerated through the middle stages, passing 15km in 40:39 and 20km in 54:02 as he continued to push the limits of elite road racing.

By the time he reached the finish line, Kejelcha had completed the race at an extraordinary average pace of approximately 2:42 per kilometre, producing one of the most astonishing sustained efforts ever witnessed in distance running. His stunning run sent a powerful message to the athletics world and further strengthened his status as one of the most formidable distance runners of his generation.

Behind the record-breaking champion, Ethiopia completed a dominant clean sweep of the men's podium. Tadese Worku Gebresilase claimed second place in 59:18, while Bereket Nega Batebo secured third in 1:00:17, giving Ethiopia a memorable one-two-three finish in the Argentine capital.

Kenya’s Jonathan Kipkoech Kamosong finished fourth in 1:00:20, followed by compatriot Simon Maywa in fifth with 1:00:55. Argentina’s Ignacio Erario gave the home supporters plenty to celebrate with an impressive sixth-place finish in 1:00:57, breaking the one-hour barrier in front of an enthusiastic local crowd.

Dillon Kipyeko of Kenya finished seventh in 1:01:07, with Robert Kiprop Koech eighth in 1:02:01. Mexico’s Julio Ortiz Ponce took ninth place in 1:03:17, while Colombia’s Jimmy Gómez completed the top 10 in 1:03:34.

The Buenos Aires Half Marathon will now take its place in the history books as the scene of a truly extraordinary breakthrough. For Kejelcha, this was more than just another victory. It was a spectacular return to the top, reclaiming a world record he had previously held and once again rewriting the limits of the half marathon.

The 56:51 performance remains pending ratification, but Yomif Kejelcha's run has already delivered one of the defining moments in the history of road racing.

Kenya delivered another commanding display of distance-running excellence at the Antrim Coast Half Marathon, with Isaia Lasoi leading a memorable Kenyan clean sweep of the men's podium in a race packed with world-class performances.

Lasoi emerged victorious after a thrilling battle at the front, crossing the finish line in a superb 58:26 setting a new course record. His winning performance underlined his strength and speed over the half-marathon distance, but he was made to work all the way by fellow Kenyan Daniel Mateiko, who finished just three seconds behind in 58:29 after an electrifying duel for the title.

The contest between the two leaders produced one of the standout moments of the race, with both athletes pushing deep into elite territory as they fought for victory. In the end, Lasoi found just enough to secure the win, while Mateiko's narrow defeat highlighted the remarkable depth and quality of Kenya's leading distance runners.

Vincent Kipkorir completed the Kenyan sweep, taking third place in 1:00:38 to ensure that all three places on the podium belonged to Kenyan athletes. Samwel Chebolei added further Kenyan strength to the results, finishing fourth in 1:01:01, while Amos Langat was also among the leading finishers.

The international field featured several prominent names. Australia's Jimmy Whelan produced a strong run, while Ethiopia's Yismaw Dillu featured among the front group. American marathon star Galen Rupp also delivered a notable performance, clocking 1:01:29 in another competitive outing for the experienced distance runner. Former world-class track and road athlete Edward Cheserek was also among the top finishers.

Lasoi's 58:26 victory, however, was the defining performance of the day. Together with Mateiko and Kipkorir, he gave Kenya a perfect podium and another emphatic reminder of the country's extraordinary strength in elite road running.

The Antrim Coast Half Marathon once again provided a fast, competitive stage for some of the world's finest distance runners, but when the decisive moments arrived, it was Kenya that owned the podium.

One of the most iconic milestones in the history of ultramarathon running is drawing closer, with entries for the historic 100th edition of the Comrades Marathon set to open on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.

The Comrades Marathon Association has officially announced a detailed entry process for the 2027 race, which will unfold in three stages and give runners around the world the opportunity to secure their place in what promises to be one of the most significant editions ever held of The Ultimate Human Race.

The announcement followed the official launch of the 2027 Comrades Marathon on Wednesday, 19 August, when the centenary campaign, “The Greatest Story Ever Run,” was unveiled alongside a special logo created exclusively for the landmark 100th edition.

The launch also revealed several major highlights for the Centenary Race. The historic event will take place on Sunday, 13 June 2027, and will be a Down Run, with 28,000 places available. The entry process will include a ballot, while the race will offer a record R8.919 million in prize money. Organisers have also set an ambitious goal of raising R10 million for the Amabeadibeadi charities, adding an important charitable dimension to the centenary celebrations. One of the defining moments of the launch was the unveiling of the special Centenary mark, created to commemorate this extraordinary milestone in the history of the race.

The entry process begins on 25 August at 10:00 a.m. SAST, when entries open for Green Number runners, Yellow Number runners and Amabeadibeadi charity entrants.

The next phase follows on 2 September at 10:00 a.m. SAST, when entries open for Comrades Marathon Association members. This window will remain open for 72 hours or until the available entry allocation is filled, with places offered on a strictly first-come, first-served basis.

For general entrants, the process will move to a ballot system. General entries open on 9 September at 10:00 a.m. SAST, with runners able to enter the ballot until it closes on 22 September at 4:30 p.m. SAST. The ballot draw is then scheduled to take place on 23 September.

Several other crucial dates will shape the road to the historic race. The substitution period will run from 15 to 31 March 2027, while 3 May 2027 is the final deadline for runners to submit their qualifying performances, seeding information and other required entry details.

To qualify for the 2027 Comrades Marathon, runners must complete a 42.2km marathon in under five hours between 15 June 2026 and 3 May 2027.

The journey will finally culminate on Sunday, 13 June 2027, when thousands of runners are expected to line up for the historic 100th edition of the Comrades Marathon.

The 2027 race will represent a remarkable moment for the legendary South African ultramarathon. For more than a century, the Comrades Marathon has captured the imagination of runners and spectators with its extraordinary test of endurance, determination and human spirit. Its centenary edition will celebrate the generations of athletes who have faced its demanding roads, conquered its challenges and helped build one of the world's most respected endurance events.

For runners dreaming of becoming part of this historic occasion, the road to Comrades 2027 is now clearly marked. From the opening of entries in August 2026 to race day in June 2027, every deadline will matter.

The Greatest Story Ever Run is preparing for its most historic chapter yet.

American sprint standout Sam Blaskowski is taking steps toward an international future with Poland after uncovering a powerful connection to his family's ancestral homeland.

The 23-year-old sprinter, who has established himself as one of the fastest Americans of his generation with a personal best of 9.89 seconds in the 100 metres, has begun the process of obtaining Polish citizenship with the aim of eventually representing Poland in international competition.

Blaskowski's connection to the country traces back through his great-grandparents, Franciszek and Julian Błaszkowski, who emigrated from Poland to the United States in 1905. Their journey more than a century ago has now opened an unexpected new chapter for their descendant, whose athletic ambitions could soon carry the Błaszkowski name back onto the international stage under Polish colours.

The sprinter has already received support from the Polish Athletics Association as he works through the citizenship and eligibility process. Should his transfer of allegiance be completed, Blaskowski could become a significant addition to Poland's sprint programme.

His credentials certainly make the prospect an exciting one. In addition to his sub-10-second speed over 100 metres, Blaskowski owns a personal best of 19.93 seconds in the 200 metres, demonstrating the kind of versatility that could prove valuable both individually and in Poland's 4x100m relay squad.

For Blaskowski, however, the move is about more than simply changing national colours. It represents an opportunity to reconnect with his family's heritage while pursuing his ambitions at the highest level of the sport.

With his sights set on becoming part of Poland's international sprint team and competing for relay medals, Blaskowski's journey from discovering his Polish roots to potentially representing the country of his ancestors could become one of the most fascinating allegiance stories in world athletics.

A century after Franciszek and Julian Błaszkowski left Poland for America, their family's story may now be coming full circle—this time at full sprint.