Celebrating those who ultra their way: the last-ish, but not least finishing the Brazos Bend 50, pausing to appreciate the wildflowers at the Ancient Lakes 55K, and a thumbs up from the oldest finisher of the Lake Sonoma 50.

Turns out, slowing down mid-race to soak in his natural surroundings is part of what makes Kilian a legend too.

Want more racing? Check out these upcoming events still open for registration: 

• Dunes 50k, April 23 (FL)
• Flower Moon, May 14 (OK)
• Coyote Trail Run, April 23 (TX)
• Rattler Trail Race, April 16 (CO)
• Western States Training Camp, May 28 (CA)

When Kilian Jornet announced his much anticipated new project, NNormal, we eagerly dove into the press release, but found ourselves wanting more. 

Partnering with running shoe expert Brian Metzler, UltraSignupNews reached out to Kilian’s team and were thrilled to gain an exclusive Q&A on behalf of the trail community.

Brian delivers a compelling look at how Kilian’s trajectory as an athlete and environmental activist led him to this moment, weaving in new insights directly from Kilian himself.

?Help and Be Happy: How to get that trail stoke without actually running? A new study shows that 83% of running event volunteers improved their sense of community, 85% met new people, and 54% saw a boost in mental health. A “runner’s high” with no chafing.

?HOKA Speedgoat 5: A "GOAT" for many trail fans ... will the latest version retain this status? Ultra Running Magazine reviews the 5.0 and confirms it “maintains its strength as a workhorse … while incorporating updates that result in improved comfort and performance.”

?Hidden Gem: A long trail waiting to be discovered, the Ozark Trail in Missouri is a 230-mile thru hike boasting hidden caves and inviting pools, minus the crowds.

?Performance Syrup: From “waffles to workouts,” Anderson’s Maple Syrup is making a bid to be your new endurance fuel with its single-serve packets of 100% organic maple syrup. Drizzle some on a Stroopwafel for a moving–if sticky–breakfast buffet.

Choosing the path that is most authentic lets me step into my power and be my best self. 

Devon Yanko has always done life her unique way, but even she fell subject to the “shoulds” when planning her next set of big running goals. A fortuitous fall helped her stay true to herself and create “The DY DIY Slam.” Devon makes the case for listening to your gut, figuring out what really excites you, and then running (fast) in that direction.

?Run Forrest Run: “I’m pretty tired. Think I'll go home now,” said @MarathonCostumechic upon recreating the classic Forrest Gump turn-a-round at the Yeti Seven Trails Ultra Festival finish line.

⛰️Win a Vacation in the Alps: A free trail running trip, including paid airfare, is up for grabs. Nominate a deserving community member and give them a running experience of a lifetime.

?‍♂️Super Dad: Some run for solitude, others strap the family chaos in for a ride. Chad Kempel learned to optimize the latter, setting a new world record with a 2:19 half marathon while pushing his four-year-old quintuplets. Don’t forget the snacks!

?100K Miles and a Steak: Congrats to Camille Herron for topping off 100,000 lifetime miles last week and celebrating with a trip to the Oklahoma City Cattleman’s Steakhouse for Coconut Cream Pie.