Just getting into trail running and don’t know where to start? I know how that feels. When I first started running I didn’t how to find a race, a coach, or even that there was a US Team! It wasn’t until I was able to talk to more people and learned about these resources that I was able to learn more about the sport. Here are some websites that I would love everyone to explore especially as the sport continues to grow.
The American Trail Running Association, ATRA, was formed in mid-1996 as a Colorado not for profit corporation to serve the mountain, ultra & trail (MUT) running community. Their mission is to represent and promote mountain, ultra & trail running. They offer individual, club, race and corporate memberships. One of their primary benefits is the ATRA quarterly newsletter, Trail Times. Their newsletter includes a national events calendar, thoughtful articles, and timely information about our sport. You can register to receive that newsletter by clicking here!
Trail Sisters is a women’s trail running community and online journal. In addition to the journal, they host women’s discussion panels, award the Trail Sisters Adventure Grants, host Women’s Run With Her Trail Running Retreats and more! One of my favorite things on their site is their depository of female running coaches. I know a handful of these women and honestly you can’t go wrong, they are all expects of their craft!
Wondering how to get on a USA Team? This is your number one resource. Check out past race results, and see what races you need to compete in to secure a spot. This year I will be competing on the USA World Trail Team and both the men’s and women’s teams are looking strong. You can see who made the team by clicking here.