Records smashed at Texas ultra for a fantastic cause

Have you ever considered the Snowdrop ULTRA 55 Hour Race and Relay?

The 55-hour event takes place in Missouri City in Texas every year, and raises funds for the Snowdrop Foundation. This organisation supports research into paediatric cancer, and helps paediatric cancer survivors by providing college scholarships.

Event participants endure over two days of running and walking on a 0.69-mile loop, which is lined with motivational photos of the children they are fundraising for. For many runners, the race has turned into an annual tradition - although each edition also welcomes new runners keen to make their mark.

Now in its twelfth year, the most recent ULTRA 55 took place from December 30 through January 1 at Buffalo Run Park. It drew in runners from across the USA who were keen to combine a love of running with related fundraising efforts. They faced temperatures as high as the low 80s on the first day, although runners who paced themselves were relieved to experience cooler conditions thereafter.

Josh Jenkins was the first runner to reach 100 miles in the men’s race, achieving this feat in 21:44:44 - although it was Juan Acevedo who triumphed in the overall race, showing consistency to finish first at 200.92 miles. It was Acevedo’s fourth consecutive victory at the event.

In the women’s race, Dena Carr established herself as the first female to reach 100 miles, achieving 181.58 miles and claiming the women’s title and second place overall.

If this, or another ultramarathon appeals to you, contact expert ultra running coach Maximum Mileage Coaching today for ultra training tips and a bespoke plan.